About Us

Founded in 2008, the Buses of Yellowstone Preservation Trust is a small, all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Red Lodge, Montana.  

   
Our mission, which guides our strategies and decisions, and represents the fundamental goals and objectives of our organization are:

• Historically preserve and/or restore to original operating condition a collection of all makes and models of motorized vehicles used by the National Parks prior to World War II;
• Preserve historical materials related to the presence and operation of these vehicles;
• Provide expertise and knowledge to other owners, museums, and interested parties; and, 
• Share with others the importance and experience of these vehicles in the National Parks.

Our core values that inspire and guide our choices in the way we operate and deal with people are:

• Integrity – We conduct business in a way that is honest, transparent and ethical.
• Respect for History – We believe communities can continue to grow and prosper without losing sight of their past.
• Stewardship – We responsibly care for the historic properties that have been entrusted to us, today and for future generations.
• Innovation - We continually seek ways to meet our mission of connecting people to history and sharing compelling stories. 
• Diversity– We believe in the power of diversity; in the people and communities we serve, in the programs and services we offer, and in the ideas and perspectives we represent. 

The historic garage in which we showcase our original operating Yellowstone Park vehicles was built in 1936 by AD Whitcomb and as such is recognized as one of the oldest continuous operating service stations in Montana.  It is listed in the National Register of Historic Places as it contributes to the Red Lodge Historic Commercial District.   

The vehicles have a historic attachment to Red Lodge and the completion of the Beartooth Highway with the Northern Pacific Railroad transporting tourists to Red Lodge for a trip to and from Yellowstone National Park in these vehicles. The vehicles are displayed in the garage where historical photographs and memorabilia of both tell their history and story. 

The garage is open to the public late spring through early fall, for special events and by appointment.   There is no charge for entry. 

We purchased the garage in late 2018 and consistent with our desire to preserve the historic past and ensure we have a structurally sound building in which to store and display our vehicles, we are in the process of restoring it to its former glory.  

Donations received from the public are a source of income for preserving the historic vehicles and garage, and for covering organizational operating expenses.  Bus trips in an original 1936/1937 Model 706 Yellowstone Park Bus on the scenic Beartooth Highway are another source of income.  Bus trips are provided by reservation only for families and groups. The reservation is for the “bus” that can accommodate up to 10 passengers: not for individual seats on the bus.  A second bus may be reserved for larger groups if available. The cost for each bus taken on the trip is $2,000.  Trips are primarily provided during the summer season when the Beartooth Highway is open for travel.  Interested individuals are encouraged to round-up 10 of their friends or family and make a reservation by calling 406-860-5910 or emailing don.mueller@boypt.org. 

• IRS 501(c)3 Tax Exempt Determination Letter and Annual Returns (Form 990) are available via the IRS Tax Exempt Organization website. 
• Articles of Incorporation and Annual Reports are available via the Montana Secretary of State Business Search website. 
• Additional information is also available via Candid.