View more places in Wyoming
Yellowstone National Park is a paradise for those who love the outdoors, offering breathtaking peaks and pristine lakes. The park boasts a stunning array of multicolored pools surrounding hot springs, lush forests that meander through vast meadows, and geysers that shoot streams of hot water high into the air. It’s hard to believe that when John Colter, a scout for Lewis and Clark, first described Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders in 1807, people thought he was exaggerating. Nowadays, there’s no denying the park’s extraordinary beauty. As you explore its expansive landscape of mountains, canyons, geysers, and waterfalls, don’t be surprised to encounter permanent residents like buffalo, elk, and occasionally even grizzly bears.
Yellowstone National Park is a popular destination, with over 4 million visitors each year. However, if you don’t spend your entire trip at Old Faithful, chances are you won’t come across many of them. Yellowstone spans 2.2 million acres, stretching from northwest Wyoming to parts of Idaho and Montana. This vast area provides ample untouched wilderness to explore. Make sure to dedicate a day or two to admire the scenic Yellowstone Lake and fascinating Mammoth Hot Springs. But don’t forget to set aside time for lesser-known areas, such as the West Thumb Geyser Basin with its hot springs, and the untamed wildlife along the Lewis River Channel and Dogshead Loop. With numerous trails and opportunities to observe wildlife, it might feel overwhelming at first, but remember: You can always return to experience more.
When planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park, consider visiting during late April to May or September through early October. These months, known as shoulder seasons, provide pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and minimal road closures. July and August are the busiest months due to school vacations and warm temperatures suitable for camping. However, it’s important to note that Yellowstone can experience cold temperatures even in summer, especially in higher elevation areas, with temperatures dropping into the 30s. Winter brings a wide temperature range from below freezing to the high 20s, but don’t be deterred! Witnessing steam rising from snowy landscapes is a magical sight to behold.
Here are some of our recommended things to do near Yellowstone National Park. Select what you would enjoy!
Firehole Canyon Drive is a unique attraction in Yellowstone National Park. It offers visitors a chance to enjoy a waterfall and a designated swimming hole that provides a safe and pleasant swimming experience during the summer months. This drive is …
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a remarkable natural wonder that has been shaped over thousands of years. It was formed through erosion caused by hydrothermal activity, water, and other forces of nature. Located in the Canyon Village area of …
The Grand Prismatic Spring in the Midway Geyser Basin is a remarkable hot spring. It holds the title of being the largest hot spring in Yellowstone National Park and is also one of the biggest in the world. The size of the spring is quite …
If you’re interested in learning about Yellowstone wildlife in a controlled environment, a great place to visit is the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center. This nonprofit organization is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and provides a …
Hayden Valley is an incredible spot in Yellowstone where you can observe its captivating wildlife. This grassy valley, located to the north of Yellowstone Lake, is a popular destination for animals like bison, elk, coyotes, and grizzly bears. It’s …
Lamar Valley, situated in the peaceful northeastern part of Yellowstone, is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Its location along the Lamar River has earned it the nickname “America’s Serengeti” due to the large number of animals found here. While …
Escape the crowds and discover a hidden gem in Yellowstone National Park: the Lone Star Geyser. Unlike other popular geothermal areas, this geyser stands alone, providing a more intimate experience. To reach this natural wonder, embark on a …
Mammoth Hot Springs, located just south of the park’s north entrance in Gardiner, Montana, is a fascinating attraction in the park. It boasts unique limestone terraces that have been formed over many years. These terraces are created by hot water …
The Midway Geyser Basin is a remarkable place that will leave you amazed. One of its main attractions is the Grand Prismatic Spring, which showcases stunning rainbow-colored pools and a powerful geyser. In addition to this, you’ll also find the …
Mount Washburn may not be the tallest peak in Yellowstone (that title goes to Eagle Peak at 11,350 feet), but it is a highly favored trail for those who want to witness an awe-inspiring view. Standing tall at an elevation of 10,243 feet above sea …
One of the most popular trails in Yellowstone National Park is Mystic Falls Trail, offering over 900 miles of trails to explore. This trail stands out for its beautiful scenery and moderate length. You have two options when hiking this trail: a …
The Norris Geyser Basin, located in Yellowstone National Park, is home to some remarkable thermal features. It holds the distinction of being the oldest geyser basin in the park, with thermal activity dating back over 115,000 years. The basin is …
When visiting Yellowstone, make sure to see the world-famous geyser known as Old Faithful. While it’s not the largest active geyser (that title goes to Steamboat Geyser in Norris Geyser Basin), the eruptions of Old Faithful are truly impressive. …
Steamboat, the tallest active geyser worldwide, is situated in the Norris Geyser Basin, not far from Old Faithful. It is famous for shooting water high into the air, reaching over 300 feet, and its impressive displays can last anywhere from three to …
If you’re in the Lamar Valley and want to go on a scenic lake hike, you should check out the Trout Lake Trail. Unlike the park’s geothermal areas, Trout Lake offers a peaceful and calm environment. The trail takes you through a forest and leads to …
With its star attraction, Old Faithful, the Upper Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit. It is not only home to the largest concentration of geysers in the park but also in the entire world. In fact, Yellowstone is responsible …
Yellowstone Lake is located in Yellowstone’s West Thumb area and holds the title of being both the park’s largest body of water and the largest high-elevation lake above 7,000 feet in North America. It stretches for 20 miles in length and 14 miles …