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Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, holds the distinction of being not only the first national park in the United States but also the first in the world. Spanning over 3,500 sq mi (9,065 sq km), the park stretches across the northeastern corner of Wyoming and extends into parts of Montana and Idaho. With approximately 4 million visitors annually, it remains one of the most iconic and frequently visited national parks in the country.
Yellowstone is known for its extraordinary geothermal features, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, and wolves. Its landscapes are remarkable, ranging from dramatic canyons and alpine rivers to thundering waterfalls and colorful geysers. These natural wonders make it a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
With so many scenic views and natural marvels, planning a trip can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate your trip and highlight the top attractions in Yellowstone, ensuring you make the most of your time at this unforgettable national treasure.
How to Get to Yellowstone
Although Yellowstone is located in a somewhat remote region of the USA, several airport options provide access to the park, depending on your travel preferences and itinerary. The closest airport is Yellowstone Airport (WYS), located just outside the town of West Yellowstone, Montana. It’s only a ten-minute drive from the West Entrance, making it the most convenient option for quick access to the park.
Additional airports near the West Entrance include Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) and Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA). Bozeman is approximately two hours away and offers more frequent flights and rental car availability, while Idaho Falls is about two and a half hours from the entrance. To the east, Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) in Cody, Wyoming, is approximately an hour from the East Entrance and provides easy access to scenic routes through the Shoshone National Forest.
On the southern end, Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), located inside Grand Teton National Park, is about an hour from Yellowstone’s South Entrance. This is an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore both national parks in one trip. However, be aware that flights into these smaller regional airports can be more expensive and limited in frequency.
If you’re planning a longer trip or looking to save on airfare, consider flying into a larger city and driving to the park. Major nearby hubs include Salt Lake City, Utah (just under 5 hours), Billings, Montana (about 3 hours), and Denver, Colorado (approximately 9 hours). These options allow for a scenic road trip and offer more flexibility.
Getting Around Yellowstone
The most convenient way to explore Yellowstone National Park is by car. Rental cars, readily available at all the airports mentioned above, allow you to travel at your own pace and access the more remote areas of the park. There is no public transportation system within Yellowstone, and while commercial tour buses are permitted, they generally operate only during the summer season. If you’re considering joining a guided tour, be sure to book well in advance, as spots fill up quickly, especially during peak travel months.
Navigating the park by car is relatively straightforward in good weather. Yellowstone features five entrances: North, Northeast, East, South, and West. The best one for your visit depends on your arrival airport and which attractions in Yellowstone you plan to prioritize. Once inside the park, you’ll use Grand Loop Road, a 142-mile scenic route shaped like a figure-eight. This well-maintained road connects all the major attractions in Yellowstone.
While it is technically possible to drive the entire loop in a single day, it’s not recommended. Each half of the loop typically takes three to four hours to complete without stops, and with so many viewpoints and scenic pullouts, you’ll want to slow down and fully experience the park. Designated parking areas throughout Yellowstone make it easy to stop, explore, or simply take in the landscape.
How Many Days in Yellowstone?
How much time you need in Yellowstone depends on the depth of experience you’re looking for. If your goal is to see the park’s most iconic landmarks, you can cover roughly half of the Grand Loop in a day by stopping briefly at major viewpoints along the way. However, this approach offers only a surface-level glimpse of what the park has to offer.
For a well-rounded visit, three days is an ideal minimum. This timeframe allows you to explore many of the top attractions in Yellowstone, such as Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. You’ll have time to stop at the geyser basins, take short hikes, and enjoy wildlife sightings without feeling rushed.
If you’re hoping to go beyond the main sights and explore lesser-visited areas like Lamar Valley, Mount Washburn, or some of the park’s backcountry trails, plan to spend five days. This extended stay gives you time to experience early morning wildlife viewing, sunrise or sunset photography, and peaceful moments away from the crowds.
Best Time to Visit Yellowstone
Due to its mountainous terrain and high elevation, Yellowstone National Park experiences highly unpredictable weather that varies significantly by season. Each season offers a unique experience, and there is no single “best” time to visit. Your ideal travel time will depend on your interests and the type of activities or attractions in Yellowstone you want to explore.
Summer (July to September) is the most popular time to visit. These months bring the warmest and driest weather, making the park fully accessible and ideal for hiking and sightseeing. However, this is also peak tourist season. Expect large crowds, particularly in easily accessible areas like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring.
For fewer crowds and still pleasant weather, consider visiting in early June or late September. These shoulder seasons offer mild conditions, colorful landscapes, and thinner crowds. They are perfect for those looking to enjoy the park’s highlights without the summer rush. Most roads and facilities remain open during these times, making it a great opportunity to experience Yellowstone in a more relaxed setting.
Winter (November to March) transforms Yellowstone into a snow-covered wilderness. Temperatures typically drop below freezing, and while many roads close, the park remains open for winter recreation. Visitors can enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even guided wildlife tours. Frozen waterfalls and steaming geysers set against a snowy backdrop create a magical atmosphere that’s completely different from summer visits. Keep in mind that park access is limited, so check current conditions and road closures on the National Park Service website in advance.
Spring (April to early June) remains chilly, with lingering snow in many areas and limited access to higher elevations. This is a fantastic time to observe wildlife, as animals begin to emerge from hibernation. Bears become more active, and you’re likely to see young bison and elk calves throughout the valleys.
Fall (late September through October) is another prime season for wildlife viewing. Bears are foraging before winter, and the golden foliage adds a special touch to the scenery. With fewer visitors, it’s a great time to enjoy the park.
Where to Stay in Yellowstone
There is no shortage of lodging options in and around Yellowstone National Park, but due to the park’s popularity, especially in the summer months, booking well in advance is a must. Whether you prefer camping, rustic lodges, or hotel comforts, there’s something to suit every travel style.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, camping in Yellowstone is a popular way to experience the park. Yellowstone offers 11 campgrounds with over 2,000 sites. All campsites must be reserved in advance through recreation.gov, except Mammoth Campground, which is on a first-come, first-served basis from October 15 to April 1. Camping provides convenient access to many of the top attractions in Yellowstone without the need for long daily drives.
If camping isn’t your thing, consider staying in one of the park’s historic lodges or modern hotels. Notable options include Old Faithful Inn, one of the most iconic lodges in the national park system, and Canyon Lodge, which offers a more contemporary experience in a central location near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. To make a reservation or explore lodging options, visit Yellowstone National Park Lodges.
That said, accommodations within the park often book out months in advance and can be expensive. Fortunately, there are excellent lodging options just outside the park’s entrances as well. The town of West Yellowstone, Montana, is one of the most convenient and popular locations outside the park. Located just minutes from the West Entrance, it’s a great base for daily park visits and offers a wide range of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals, along with restaurants, shops, and visitor services.
Here are some well-rated lodging options in West Yellowstone:
Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone
The Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone are a popular choice for visitors looking to stay close to the park without sacrificing comfort or charm. Conveniently located just half a mile from the West Entrance, these cozy cabins provide easy access to many of the top attractions in Yellowstone.
The property offers a welcoming, community-style atmosphere complete with outdoor fire pits, and guests are even treated to a complimentary s’mores kit upon arrival. Each cabin is designed with modern rustic décor and comes equipped with a kitchenette, ideal for preparing simple meals and saving on dining costs. The cabins are also pet-friendly.
The Adventure Inn
The Adventure Inn is located just five minutes from Yellowstone’s West Entrance, making it an excellent base for exploring the park. The inn blends upscale comfort with lodge-style charm and offers a variety of room types to suit different needs, including a spacious suite with a fully equipped kitchen. The suite is perfect for extended stays or guests who prefer to cook their meals. Families will appreciate the option of interconnecting rooms.
Kelly Inn West Yellowstone
Yellowstone also offers several budget-friendly lodging options. Kelly Inn is a great, affordable pick, located a short walk from the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center and just three minutes from the West Entrance. Rooms are clean, comfortable, and include perks like free breakfast and an indoor pool, making it a great value stay with quick access to major attractions in Yellowstone.
Top Attractions in Yellowstone:
With so much to see and do, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and create an itinerary. Mapping out your priorities will help you make the most of your time in the park. Below are some of the top attractions in Yellowstone National Park that you won’t want to miss:
1. Mammoth Hot Springs
Mammoth Hot Springs, located just south of the North Entrance, is one of only two areas in Yellowstone open to visitors year-round. Unlike the park’s other geothermal regions, Mammoth features unique travertine terraces, striking white and orange rock formations created by mineral-rich hot springs flowing over limestone.
Visitors can explore the area via a boardwalk trail that winds through both the Upper and Lower Terraces. The full loop is approximately 1.75 mi (2.8 km) and offers close-up views of the formations and active springs. The Albright Visitor Center, located nearby, provides information on the area’s geology, history, and wildlife, making this stop one of the more educational in Yellowstone.
2. Grand Prismatic Spring & Midway Geyser Basin
Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third-largest in the world. Located in the Midway Geyser Basin, about 25 mi (40 km) from the West Entrance, it’s one of the most iconic and frequently photographed attractions in Yellowstone.
What makes Grand Prismatic so captivating are its vivid, rainbow-colored rings. The deep blue center is surrounded by bands of bright yellow, orange, and red colors created by heat-loving bacteria that thrive in the varying temperatures of the spring’s mineral-rich water. The specific pigments and patterns shift with the seasons and temperature.
Due to its popularity, Grand Prismatic often draws large crowds, especially during midday. For the best experience and fewer tour buses, I recommend visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
3. Old Faithful & Upper Geyser Basin
Old Faithful, discovered in 1870, earned its name due to its frequent and relatively predictable eruptions, making it Yellowstone’s most famous geyser. It’s a must-see attraction in Yellowstone. Situated in the southwest section of the park within the Upper Geyser Basin, it consistently draws large crowds. Eruptions typically reach heights of about 130 ft (39 m), though they have been known to soar as high as 180 ft (55 m). Predictions for eruption times are posted at the nearby visitor center to help visitors plan their viewing.
While at Old Faithful, be sure to explore the Upper Geyser Basin, which contains the largest concentration of geysers in the world. A short walk will take you to the stunning Morning Glory Pool, a vividly colorful hot spring named for its bright blues and yellows. If you have some time before the next eruption, make the most of your visit by stopping by the historic Old Faithful Inn, a beautiful lodge and an excellent spot for lunch or a relaxing break.
4. Hayden Valley
Hayden Valley, located in central Yellowstone between Yellowstone Falls and Yellowstone Lake, is a vast, open landscape shaped by the nearby Yellowstone River. This valley is one of the park’s prime wildlife viewing areas and is especially famous for its large herds of bison. Visitors may also spot elk, coyotes, and the occasional bear.
I initially expected to see just a few bison, but was pleasantly surprised by the massive herds that roam the valley. It’s common for bison to cause slowdowns or even traffic jams along the road. The animals often come surprisingly close to vehicles, creating incredible photo opportunities. While there are plenty of designated pullouts to stop and observe, it’s important for your safety and the safety of the wildlife to remain inside your vehicle and never approach the bison.
5. Tower Fall
Tower Fall, named for the striking volcanic rock formations that rise above its crest, is located in the northeastern section of Yellowstone, approximately 20 mi (32 km) north of Canyon Village. At 132 ft tall (40 m), it is the park’s second most popular waterfall after the iconic Lower Falls of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Visitors can reach a scenic lookout point via a short, easy trail that starts behind the Tower General Store, offering stunning views of the waterfall.
In winter, Tower Fall remains accessible to cross-country skiers, providing a unique way to experience this beautiful attraction in Yellowstone during the quieter months. Whether visiting in summer or winter, the falls are a must-see highlight.
6. Norris Geyser Basin
Norris Geyser Basin is Yellowstone’s oldest and hottest geothermal area, boasting the park’s highest recorded temperature of 459°F (237°C). The basin is divided into two distinct sections: Porcelain Basin and Back Basin, each offering dramatically different landscapes.
Porcelain Basin is a stark, treeless stretch of land with steaming vents and boiling springs. In contrast, Back Basin is densely forested and home to Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser. When it erupts, water can shoot an impressive 300 ft (91 m) into the air. These major eruptions are unpredictable and rare, often years apart, with the most recent occurring in February 2020.
7. Lamar Valley
Lamar Valley, located in the remote northeast corner of Yellowstone, is often overlooked due to its distance from the park’s main sights. However, it stands out as the best place for wildlife viewing in the park. The valley is home to abundant herds of bison and elk. Visitors may also spot coyotes, bears, and the park’s famous wolves that draw wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.
Visiting Lamar Valley requires some planning. It can be combined with a drive to Mammoth Hot Springs, but setting aside at least half a day is recommended to fully appreciate both areas. The best wildlife viewing times are early morning or late afternoon, when animals are most active. I started my drive just before sunrise, which worked out well. Binoculars are recommended to catch glimpses of bears and wolves from a safe distance. Lamar Valley’s rich wildlife opportunities make it one of the most rewarding attractions in Yellowstone.
8. Yellowstone Lake
Yellowstone Lake covers 136 sq mi (352 sq km), making it the largest high-elevation lake in North America. Located in the southeast portion of the park, it’s accessible from multiple entrances. The lake freezes from December to May, and in summer, the water remains too cold for swimming. A scenic sunset drive around the lake offers stunning views and wildlife spotting. You will want to drive carefully as wildlife is prevalent here.
During the summer, you can explore the lake by boat or have a picnic near its shoreline. Nearby is the historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins, built in 1891 and the park’s oldest lodge. Lake Hotel Dining Room features upscale dining, while Wiley’s Canteen offers casual meals with lake views.
9. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Yes, Yellowstone has its own stunning Grand Canyon, about 20 mi (32 km) long and carved by the Yellowstone River. This canyon is a highlight of the Canyon Village area, featuring multiple trails and viewpoints along both the north and south rims. I recommend exploring both sides to fully appreciate its beauty.
Top spots include Artist Point, one of the most photographed and iconic viewpoints in the park, offering spectacular views of the canyon and the Lower Falls, Yellowstone’s tallest waterfall at 308 ft (94 m). The Brink of Lower Falls Trail on the north rim leads to a steep but rewarding viewpoint right above the falls.
For a closer look, Uncle Tom’s Trail features 300 steep steps descending into the canyon for an up-close view of Lower Falls. While not as large, Upper Falls is also worth a visit, accessible via trails from both rims.
10. West Thumb Basin
West Thumb Basin, located near the southern edge of Yellowstone along the shores of Yellowstone Lake, is one of the park’s most underrated geothermal areas. Despite being less visited, it’s well worth the trip and is my favorite basin after Grand Prismatic. Two must-see features here are Abyss Pool, with its stunning aquamarine waters, and Black Pool, known for its dark color and unusually low temperatures. A boardwalk winds through the springs and leads right to the lake’s scenic shore.
Just a few miles north of Yellowstone Lake is the Mud Volcano area, home to bubbling mud pots and steam vents. This site is less dramatic than others but is unique. It’s formed from a collapsed volcano and is Yellowstone’s most acidic geothermal area. The boardwalk trails offer easy access to sights like the Sulphur Caldron, the park’s most acidic spring.
These top ten attractions in Yellowstone are just a glimpse of what the park has to offer. Beyond the iconic sights, Yellowstone has endless backcountry to explore and miles of scenic hiking trails. It’s such a special park and gave me a renewed desire to explore more of our national parks.
Have you been to Yellowstone? What are some of your favorite attractions in Yellowstone? If you’ve enjoyed this post, please leave a comment or share using the social media buttons below. Interested in visiting other parks? Discover Badlands National Park, one of my personal favorites, in my post, “Top 10 Things to Do in Badlands National Park”.
Yes!! I wanna go to the parks toooooooo! This looks incredible ???
Your photos are so pretty!! My favorite part about Yellowstone are all the different animals!
Thank you! The animals are my fav too :)
Yellowstone is high on my bucket list and your article reminded me why. Very informative and I love your pictures.
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it :)
I camped in Yellowstone for 3 weeks in the winter so this post brought back fond memories. One of my favorite places in Yellowstone is Boiling River. Great photos.
Thanks! This was an older post that I just updated and I soooo want to go back now. I definitely didn’t stay long enough.
I would love to visit Yellowstone. Recently, a friend was telling me about his visit and how much him and his family enjoyed the park. We were discussing road trip options for the summer. Not sure if we are going to be able to road trip this summer since things have taken a different turn since we talked. But, hope to visit sooner than later.
It’s so gorgeous! I hope you can make it. I’m hoping to go back this year as well. This was actually an older post that I just updated and it really made me want to go again.
Yellowstone looks incredible! Thank you so much for putting together this guide. I will definitely be using it when we travel there!
I haven’t been to Yellowstone in so long! I’d love to take my kids there, and these are great ideas!
I just love Yellowstone! It is so diverse and stunning!
Me too. One of my favorite parks!
Looks a beautiful place to go!