yellowstone places to visit in montana

Yellowstone National Park

America's First National Park

150 Years of Yellowstone

America's first national park was set aside to preserve and protect the scenery, cultural heritage, wildlife, geologic and ecological systems and processes in their natural condition for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations. Yellowstone serves as the core of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the last and largest nearly intact natural ecosystems on the planet. Yellowstone has the most active, diverse, and intact collections of combined geothermal features with over 10,000 hydrothermal sites and half the world's active geysers. The park is also rich in cultural and historical resources with 25 sites, landmarks, and districts on the National Register of Historic Places.  

Within Montana

Visit Yellowstone and experience the world's first national park. Marvel at a volcano’s hidden power rising up in colorful hot springs, mudpots, and geysers. Explore mountains, forests, and lakes to watch wildlife and witness the drama of the natural world unfold. Discover the history that led to the conservation of our national treasures “for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.”

Top 10 Hikes in Yellowstone

The top 10 most loved hikes in Yellowstone National Park according to Jake Bramante, the first person to hike all 734 miles of trail in Glacier National Park in one summer.

West Yellowstone

As a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, West Yellowstone is an adventure seeker’s playground full of possibilities and exciting events and activities. The same trail system used for snowmobiling in the winter is available for ATV and UTV use in the summer. West Yellowstone makes for the perfect basecamp regardless of the season.

Considered the original entrance to Yellowstone, Gardiner is home to the historic Roosevelt Arch, which was dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903. Year-round access to the "American Serengeti"—Yellowstone's Northern Range—truly differentiates Gardiner from other Yellowstone gateway communities. 

Located on the banks of the Yellowstone River, Livingston has long served as a cultural hub in Montana. Offering an eclectic blend of shopping, arts and culture, dining, and world-class outfitting and guide services, Livingston has it all. 

Situated only a few miles from the Northeast Gate of Yellowstone National Park, Cooke City is surrounded by Yellowstone National Park, Custer Gallatin National Forest and two Scenic Byways: The Beartooth Highway and Chief Joseph Highway. In winter, Cooke City distinguishes itself with its access to vast, untouched acreage of ideal snowmobiling terrain, but there is no shortage of activities year-round in this gateway town. 

Best Things to See in Yellowstone National Park

A Local’s Guide to Must-See Yellowstone Sites

Dormant super volcanoes, sky-high geysers, rainbow-hued hot springs, herds of bison, and roaming bears…just some of the incredible things you can see in Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone is the United States’ first national park and it has amazed visitors for over a century. For those of us who call Montana home, it’s also a place to have some epic weekend adventures. And even locals still get astounded by the sheer power and beauty of the park’s top things to do.

So without further ado, here are the best things to see in Yellowstone National Park with tips for making the most of your time there. Best of all, you’ll find some lesser-known spots on this list, supplied by locals!

Important Summer 2022 Update: Please be aware that the towns of Gardiner (by Yellowstone’s North entrance) and Cooke City/Silver Gate (by the northeast entrance) have been massively impacted and damaged by unprecedented flooding. Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley are also heavily impacted and damaged. Expect road and entrance closures in this area throughout the summer.

Old Faithful

This is at the top of most people’s list when it comes to things to do in Yellowstone National Park. Old Faithful is a geyser that explosively shoots up into the air every 44 to 125 minutes, which is why it gets its name: you can have faith in the fact that Old Faithful will be erupting again soon.

Why You Have to See Old Faithful

It has a massive plume of geothermal water that shoots up to 180 feet in the air (the average is 130 to 140 feet) consistently throughout the day. This spectacle occurs for anywhere from 90 seconds to five minutes before Old Faithful takes a short break.

How to See Old Faithful

A predicted schedule is posted in the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center. If you want front-row seats on the bleachers surrounding Old Faithful, then expect to get there at least 30 minutes before this natural show is scheduled to begin. If you don’t want to sit around waiting for that long, don’t worry – you can still get a great view of Old Faithful farther back. After all, it’s shooting up sky-high!

Where to See Old Faithful

Old Faithful is located in the northwest part of the park, only about 30 miles from West Yellowstone.

Bonus Sights Near Old Faithful

It’s also worth visiting the Old Faithful Visitor and Education Center where you can learn more about the history of the geyser. The center will also help you better understand geothermal activity, which is actively and noticeably happening all over Yellowstone park. The nearby Old Faithful General Store is also a cute souvenir shop to browse through.

Another nearby attraction is the Old Faithful Inn, which is not only a great place to stay for a night or two, but is also a historic hotel that is beautifully built.

Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic Spring is another geothermal marvel in Yellowstone National Park, and it is definitely grand thanks to being the largest hot spring in the United States. On a worldwide scale, it is the third largest.

Before you think of donning a swimsuit and making the spring your personal hot tub for the day, remember that there is no swimming or bathing in Grand Prismatic Spring – for good reason. It is around 132 degrees Fahrenheit and reaches over 180 degrees at its center!

While the heat and size of the geyser is impressive, that’s not what makes this one of the best things to see in Yellowstone. The aspect that draws people to this natural phenomenon are the colors that shimmer around the lake in shades of bright blue and iridescent orange and yellow. Grand Prismatic Spring gets its colors from its unique geological makeup and due to the way the heat is dispersed, which makes it hard for bacteria or anything else to live in the center of the spring.

Why You Have to See Grand Prismatic Spring

Its rainbow colored water is one of the most unique sites to see in a national park.

Where is Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic Springs is located on the western side of the park, not too far north of Old Faithful.

Bonus Things to See Near Grand Prismatic Spring

Two more noteworthy hot springs are located in this area: Opal Pool and Turquoise Pool. Both of these can be walked to from Grand Prismatic Spring. Park your car in the designated Grand Prismatic parking lot off the main road and then use the walking trail to cross Firehole River and continue following the trail around the different hot spring.

Yellowstone Lake

If you want to cool off or get some swimming in during your time in Yellowstone National Park, head to the lovely Yellowsotne Lake.  You can wade in from the beach or jump off a public dock here – just be forewarned that it will b a bit chilly even in summertime! The lake is situated at a high elevation of 7,733 feet.

Even if you don’t jump in the clear blue water, Yellowstone Lake is worth seeing due to its serene beauty.

Yellowstone Lake is a great place for some photo snapping and a recreational adventure during your trip. There are hiking trails, boat rentals, kayak excursions, fishing expeditions, and tons more. A simple drive around the lake is also an idyllic way to spend time there.

Why You Have to See Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake is the largest body of water in Yellowstone National Park and it boasts gorgeous water and mountain views.

Where is Yellowstone Lake? 

It’s centrally located in the park, a short distance east of Old Faithful.

Bonus Things to See by Yellowstone Lake

Walk around the property and have an elegant meal in the onsite restaurant of the Lake Yellowstone Hotel, the oldest hotel in Yellowstone National Park.

Yellowstone Caldera

Want to see not just a volcano, but a super volcano? Then you’ll be going to the right place with a visit to Yellowstone National Park. The park is home to a massive volcano with the potential to have deadly consequences that could impact the entire country. Luckily, it is highly unlikely that this super volcano will erupt in our lifetime.

If you want to see what happened when it last erupted 640,000 years ago then a visit to the Yellowstone Caldera is a must-do.

Why You Have to See Yellowstone Caldera

The Yellowstone Caldera was created during that last eruption and is a 30-mile by 45-mile wide crater in the earth, right in the middle of Yellowstone National Park.

Where is Yellowstone Caldera?

Where is Yellowstone Caldera: It is located a short distance southeast of Old Faithful, still to the west of Yellowstone Lake, and just north of the smaller Shoshone Lake.

Mammoth Hot Springs

If cold weather isn’t your thing, head to Mammoth Hot Springs.

Though they’re too hot to go in, you will get a steam facial as you walk around the terraces lining the edge of the springs. In addition to being a flurry of gurgling and steam, the hot springs are physically appealing to see.

Why Must You See Mammoth Hot Springs?

Mammoth Hot Springs are just stunning to see. The water cascades over a myriad of steps and ledges within the side of the earth that produces an almost otherworldly atmosphere. The intricate designs made out of the travertine rock of the area add to the mystique of the hot springs.

Where is Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs are near the city of Mammoth, Wyoming, near the northeast corner of the park.

Bonus Things to Do

Mammoth, Wyoming is home to a few other interesting sights. You can visit the Albright Visitor Center, which has displays teaching travelers more about the history of what they’re seeing and info about the wildlife in the area.

Another historic thing to see is Fort Yellowstone, the first fort to be built in Yellowstone in an effort to keep a better handle on the vandals and crime that plagued the area back during the Wild West era.

The first photos taken of Tower Fall back in the late 19 th century is what spurred congress to designate the region a national park, thus making Yellowstone the United State’s first national park.

Today, you’ll no doubt want to take a photo of this iconic natural wonder while exploring Yellowstone.

Why You Have to See Tower Fall

This massive waterfall plunges from the mountaintop to the river below for an astonishing 132 feet drop, connecting the higher Tower Creek with the Yellowstone River below.  

In addition to the gleam of the water, Tower Fall is surrounded by jagged rock formations shaped like steeples and punctuated by green pine trees.

Where is Tower Fall

Tower Fall is located off of Grand Loop Road (note that this road is closed in winter) near the Tower Junction where Grand Loop Road meets with US-212. The best place to get a photo op of the waterfall is from the Tower Fall Overlook near the road.

Artist Point & Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Do the quick and easy hike along the Artist Point trail for an excellent view of Yellowstone Falls. There is an upper and lower waterfall making up Yellowstone Falls and both are striking to behold.

Yellowstone Falls is located within the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. This massive slice in the earth is an erosional feature, likely caused by volcanic activity hundreds of thousands of years ago.

One of the best places to get a photo op of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is from Artist Point, also located off of Grand Loop Road. I suppose if you have a sketchpad, this would also be a great place to draw the setting, too, hence the name, but…it’s much quicker to snap a picture (or two or twenty).

Wildlife in Yellowstone National Park

The wildlife in Yellowstone National Park is a huge draw for people. Fortunately, it’s hard not to see wildlife, particularly when it comes to bald eagles, bison, antelope, and elk. Other species take more luck, such as seeing a bear, moose, or pack of wolves.

You never know when an animal might amble across the road or peer outside of the forests near the road you’re traveling on, so keep your smartphone down and your eyes scanning for wildlife.

Lamar Valley

One of the best places to see an abundance of wildlife is in the Lamar Valley, nicknamed America’s Serengeti due to its wide expanses of visible land often roamed by herds of animals.

Lamar Valley is located near the central northern border of the park adjacent to the Lamar River. It is home to multiple wolf packs and a huge herd of bison. The Lamar Valley is also one of your best chances for seeing a grizzly bear. 

Don’t forget to bring binoculars! It makes it much easier to spot wildlife.

How to Get to Lamar Valley: Head to the western end of US-212 and you’ll soon be in the middle of the Lamar Valley.

Bonus Sights in Lamar Valley: In addition to all the animals you can see, the flora of Lamar Valley is beautiful in its own right, with sun-dappled plains, sprawling sunflower fields, and jagged mountain peaks outlined against the sky.

Other Helpful Tips for Making the Most of Your Time Seeing Yellowstone’s Top Sights

Parking can be a hassle in Yellowstone, particularly if you’re traveling during high season in the summer. Plan to get to places that have a deadline, such as Old Faithful if you want to catch a particular eruption, plenty early in case you have to circle a few times to find a parking spot.

The National Park Service has also put together this handy parking map that tells you what to expect at each lot in the park and also includes data on when parking lots are usually at their fullest.

If you want to avoid timing your visit with peak season, head to the best things to do in Yellowstone when it’s not peak season, which is the last half of June through the end of August. The first week of September also might be a bit busy since not all schools are back in session yet.

Just keep in mind if you hope to go in the spring or fall to not go too early or too late, respectively. If the snow hasn’t melted yet in the spring or if there is a sudden snowfall in autumn, roads leading to these main attractions in Yellowstone National Park may be closed indefinitely until the thaw of summer. 

If you are in Yellowstone in the summer, start your day early and be at the park gates as soon as they open to try to beat some of the crowds. You can also have an advantage for certain spots if you stay in the park to sleep, such as at the aforementioned Old Faithful Inn. These hotels in the park usually book up far in advance so plan your trip to Yellowstone early if you hope to stay at one.

From a sightseeing perspective, another thing to keep in mind is that these best things to see in Yellowstone National Park are favorites with visitors for a reason due to the awe-inspiring display of nature many of them offer; however, there is magic to be found all over the park.

I spent a day in Yellowstone with my husband, her sister, and her husband just driving around and stopping at seemingly random spots. But they were beautiful and they were devoid of other tourists. It’s hard not to find the magic in Yellowstone.

Wildlife Safety

Be safe around wildlife while you’re in Yellowstone National Park! If you’re planning to do some hikes – even on Uncle Tom’s trail and the other heavily trafficked, established trails — you’ll want to bring bear spray and bear bells with you. Grizzly bears can be a real, serious threat.

If you cross paths with one, slowly back away and get your bear spray ready. And if you see one in the distance, do not go closer to it! Immediately move away from the direction you see it. That should seem obvious, but news stories will tell you otherwise. Don’t be one of those people!

Other animals that you should keep a safe distance from include bison, moose, and wolves. Bison in particular can look pretty chill just standing there munching on grass, but they can quickly get territorial and charge at you.

If an animal comes near your car, keep your windows up. Also, under no circumstances should you feed any of the animals in the park. Adopt the leave no trace principles and don’t do it unintentionally either. If camping, be sure to elevate your food in the air with a rope around a tree branch where bears and other animals can’t easily access it.

So Many Amazing Things to Do in Yellowstone!

Whether you do and see all the things in Yellowstone on this list, or just some, you’re sure to have an incredible time in America’s first national park. You also might like reading our article on what you should know before you visit Yellowstone National Park so you can put together an unforgettable trip.

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17 Best Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park

Home » Blog » U.S.A. » 17 Best Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park

Planning a trip and looking for some of the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park? From can’t miss attractions to day hikes, we’re covering the best of Yellowstone so you can create the ultimate itinerary.

Written by Guest Author: Lauren Stuart

Yellowstone is the oldest National Park in the United States and is home to some of the most unique ecosystems in the world. As you drive along Yellowstone’s scenic loop road, you’ll pass by hydrothermal hot springs and geysers, encounter wildlife, and witness geologic sites like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. 

From geological wonders to epic day hikes, there are so many things to do in Yellowstone National Park. Oh, and did you know Yellowstone is home to more geysers and hot springs than any other place on earth? Pretty cool, right?!

The park is not only unique in its ecosystem, but also in its location. Yellowstone National Park straddles three U.S. states. Located primarily in Wyoming (96% of it) with small portions of the park reaching into Montana (3%) and the rest in Idaho (1%). 

Whichever state you decide to enter the National Park from, one thing is for sure, you’ll have plenty of things to see and do in one of the most popular National Parks in the US. In this article we’ll go over all the details you need to plan the ultimate Yellowstone National Park experience, from the logistics to the bucket list experiences. 

Yellowstone National Park Guide

• Yellowstone at a glance
• How to get to Yellowstone
• Park Entrances
• Best Time to Visit
• How much time to spend in Yellowstone?
• Best way to explore
• Yellowstone National Park Map
• Things to do in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park at a glance

• Open: All year round, but certain areas of the park are only accessible during certain times of the year.
• Entrance Fee: $35/vehicle, $30/motorcycle, $20/hiking & biking or free as part of an annual America the Beautiful Pass
• Wildlife: Bighorn sheep, bison, elk, moose, grizzly bears, mountain lions, and wolves
• Established: March 1, 1872
• Ancestral Lands: Given the vastness of Yellowstone, 27 tribes called this land home. Tribes like the Crow, Umatilla, Shoshone, Bannock, and Blackfeet used the area for hunting and gathering.
• Area: 2,221,766 acres

How to get to Yellowstone 

If you are not road tripping to Yellowstone, you’ll need to book flight arrangements. The closest airports to Yellowstone National Park are its two small regional airports:

• Yellowstone Airport (WYS) located in West Yellowstone
• Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) located in Cody, Wyoming
• Jackson Hole Airport: 70 miles, 1.5 hour
• Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport: 80 miles, 1.5 hours
• Idaho Falls Regional Airport: 110 miles, 2 hours
• Salt Lake City International Airport: 325 miles, 5 hours

Yellowstone park entrances

There are a total of five entrances to Yellowstone National Park. Three of which are in Montana and the other two are in Wyoming.

• North Entrance : Located 5 miles from Gardiner, Montana and is the closest entrance to Mammoth Hot Springs.
• Northeast Entrance : Located 10 minutes from Cooke City, MT and is the closest entrance to Lamar Valley.
• West Entrance : The most convenient entrance for those coming from Idaho or Missoula, MT. This entrance will put you in the heart of geyser country.
• East Entrance : Located 53 miles from Cody, Wyoming and is the closest entrance to Yellowstone Lake.
• South Entrance : Located 1 hour and 15 minutes from Jackson, Wyoming. To get to the south entrance of Yellowstone you’ll have to drive through certain sections of Grand Teton National Park!

For those looking to fly into larger airports, Jackson Hole and Bozeman Airport will be your two closest options.

Tip: If you plan to see nearby parks like Grand Teton and Glacier, plan to purchase an America the Beautiful Pass to help save on National Park entrance fees.

When is the best time to visit Yellowstone?

While Yellowstone National Park is open all year round, the best time to visit the park is from mid-May to the beginning of mid-September. During the summer months, the weather is nice and all the facilities in the park are open and accessible. However, the summer months are also considered peak season, which means lots of crowds, especially from June to August.

The shoulder seasons, like spring and fall, are options for those looking to avoid the crowds. If visiting during shoulder seasons, be prepared for inclement weather—maybe even snow! During our first visit to Yellowstone in October, we had a nice little snowfall welcoming us to the park.

Visiting Yellowstone during the winter months is also possible, you’ll just have to plan for limited access to facilities. The best way to explore the park during the winter months is to book a snowmobile or snow coach guided tour .

Psst! Did you know Yellowstone is one of the  best national parks to visit in winter ?

How many days do you need in Yellowstone? 

Can you see all of Yellowstone in one day? No way.

The Park is massive, like REALLY massive, and without skipping sites, seeing Yellowstone in one day is pretty much impossible. At the bare minimum, plan to spend at least two days in Yellowstone National Park.

Two days allows you to break up the park into two sections, the North Loop and the South Loop. By having two days, you’ll be able to see the park highlights at a nice pace. Our tip is to start early. The earlier you start, the fewer crowds there will be.

If you have the time, spending three days in Yellowstone is amazing. Not only will you have more time to see the lesser-known sites, but you’ll also have the time to take a day hike and experience the best things to do in Yellowstone at your leisure.

Best way to get around Yellowstone

Since the national park is so vast, the best way to explore Yellowstone is by car. Plan to rent a car from the airport you fly into, or you can book a tour with a reputable Yellowstone Tour company.

Biking through Yellowstone National Park is another option. If you plan to bike the park, please be sure you are in shape and are an experienced road biker. There are lots of vehicles in the park and with the elevation, it is highly recommended you are prepared, both with gear and in physical shape before exploring Yellowstone by bicycle. 

If you have a campervan, travel trailer, or RV, exploring Yellowstone is totally possible with these forms of transportation. The only warning is parking. Parking is already hard to come by during peak season, but if you have a larger/longer rig, you may find it difficult to navigate parking lots and to find room along the side of the park road to pull off. When planning an RV trip or Van trip through Yellowstone, the smaller your rig size, the better.

Wanna give vanlife a try while visiting Yellowstone? 

It’s no secret we’re obsessed with #vanlife. However, if you don’t have the time (or interest!) in  building your own conversion  but you still want to give vanlife a test drive, we’ve got options for you…

Check out our list of top companies for  USA Campervan Rentals  from budget to bougie, we’ve even included some exclusive discounts for our readers. 

One company we’d recommend looking into is  Escape Campervans . They have 12 different locations across North America and come fully loaded with all the gear you need for an epic road trip. Plus, their rates are fair and affordable.

BONUS:  We’ve partnered with them to give you a  10% off discount when you use our  link !

Yellowstone National Park map

This map shows all the best things to do in Yellowstone, plus logistical information like entrances. You’ll see it covers a fair bit of ground so it’s best to plan your trip in sections.

Best things to do in Yellowstone National Park

While it would take years to compile a list of everything there is to see and do in this park, we did our best to put together a list of the best things to do in Yellowstone including the must-see attractions and sites. We think this list will give you a good idea of where to start your itinerary planning.

1. Drive Yellowstone’s Scenic Loop Road, The Grand Loop 

First up is to drive Yellowstone’s Scenic Loop. The only way to circumnavigate the entire park is along the scenic loop. Sometimes also called the Grand Loop, Yellowstone Scenic Loop is 142 miles and takes visitors through the national park.

When planning your trip to Yellowstone, it’s best to break the Scenic Loop Road into two parts, the North Loop and the South Loop. 

The North Loop consists of popular sights like Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley. Whereas the South Loops has popular park sights like Old Faithful, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and Yellowstone Lake, just to name a few.

Tip: If you are short on time, or only have one day in Yellowstone, plan to explore the South Loop. The South Loop covers more of the best things to do in Yellowstone versus the North Loop.

2. Spot wildlife in Lamar Valley & Hayden Valley

No trip to Yellowstone is complete without spotting a field of bison or a moose wading through the river. From endless deer to the ever-sneaky black bear and pack of wolves, Yellowstone is home to a variety of birds, reptiles, and mammals. 

The best places to catch wildlife are at Lamar or Hayden Valley.

Tip: Plan to bring some binoculars. Really, the only animals that are close to (or on the road for that matter) are the bison. More than likely, any moose, bears, or wolves you’ll see will be far away and will require a pair of binoculars to get a better view.

Visitors to Yellowstone often skip Lamar Valley for Hayden Valley due to the fact that Lamar Valley isn’t located near many other Yellowstone attractions. However, if you are looking to spot moose or wolves, Lamar Valley is your best bet. 

We were VERY lucky to see both during our trip in October. As they say, the early bird gets the worm . So aim to get to Lamar Valley at sunrise to see what wildlife you can spot.

When exploring Hayden Valley, understand a traffic jam is always caused by bison. It’s just another normal day in the park!

3. Discover the rainbow colors of Grand Prismatic Spring at Midway Geyser Basin 

One of, if not the most popular geyser in all of Yellowstone is Grand Prismatic Spring which is located in Midway Geyser Basin. Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the iconic photographed landmarks of Yellowstone and rightfully so.

So, what makes Grand Prismatic Spring so, well, grand? 

It’s the largest geyser in the United States and the third-largest geyser in the world. It’s larger than a football field and packed with bold rainbow colors like orange, yellow, green, and blue. 

To say it’s beautiful and impressive is an understatement (in our opinion) and a must-see stop as it ranks among the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park.

4. Watch Old Faithful erupt

Seeing Old Faithful erupt as it sends steaming water 100-180 feet into the air is something to experience. First discovered in 1870 by the Washburn Expedition, Old Faithful was named for its timely eruption schedule. Erupting on average every 90 minutes (give or take 10 minutes), an Old Faithful eruption lasts around one minute to a minute and a half.

You have several options for where to watch the Old Faithful eruption:

• The Boardwalk: Great for those with accessibility needs, the boardwalk offers paved walkways and benches for views to watch the eruption.
• Observation Point: To get a bird’s eye view of Old Faithful, you’ll need to hike around 1.1 miles uphill (it’s a fairly strenuous hike up) to get to the Old Faithful’s Observation Point.
• Old Faithful Inn: The Old Faithful Inn has a viewing deck for visitors to use. Grab a drink and wait for the next eruption to take place.

The boardwalk is the most popular option for visitors, so if you are looking to avoid crowds, you should try to avoid peak viewing times. The earlier you get to Old Faithful, the better. Once tour buses start to arrive, it can be hard to find a decent place with a good view to watch the eruption. 

Tip: To get a better idea of when Old Faithful’s next eruption is estimated to be, you can check the posted prediction at the Old Faithful Visitor Center, follow @GeyserNPS on Twitter, or view the Old Faithful eruption schedule online .

5. Explore Upper Geyser Basin & Morning Glory Pool

If you arrive at Old Faithful a little too early and have some time to kill before the next eruption, no worries at all. There is plenty to do in the area. Old Faithful sits on what is called the Upper Geyser Basin.

Home to other geysers, like the famous Morning Glory Pool, Castle Geyser, and Black Sand Basin, Upper Geyser Basin is not only the largest basin in Yellowstone but has the highest concentration of geysers in the world. Spanning between the Old Faithful area and the Grand Loop Road, the Upper Geyser Basin has more than 150 geysers for visitors to see.

It’s easy to spend a half day exploring the Upper Geyser Basin. The entire Upper Geyser Basin loop is a 4.5-mile paved boardwalk with Morning Glory Pool being the furthest away at 1.5 miles from Old Faithful.

6. Experience the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

If you only have one day in the park, be sure the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone makes your list of things to do. It really is one of the best places in Yellowstone National Park and should be included in anyone’s itinerary.

So, why is the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone so special? Let me explain…

Yellowstone Canyon is 4,000 ft wide, over 1,000 ft deep in some sections, 24 miles long, and home to two Yellowstone waterfalls, the Upper and Lower waterfalls of the Yellowstone.

With observation viewing points like Artist Point and Inspiration Point, visitors can get expectational views of the waterfalls and canyon below. In addition, both the North Rim and South Rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone are accessible to those looking to get a little hike in with Uncle Tom’s Trail being among the most popular trails in the area.

Note: We’ve since discovered that as of February 2021, the stairs leading down to Uncle Tom’s Trail have been closed indefinitely. Check back on Alltrails for the latest updates. 

7. Walk around Mammoth Hot Springs

If you are coming from Gardiner, Montana, one of the first things to do when you enter the park is to explore Mammoth Hot Springs, a unique geothermal area unlike any other in Yellowstone.

Mammoth Hot Springs is a set of terraced limestone hot spring formations making up some 3,472 square miles. Broken into two sections, you can walk the upper and lower terrace boardwalks to get expansive views of not only the park but of the hot springs themselves.

8. Hit the trails

From stunning summits and meandering riverside trails to tranquil lakes and boardwalks that get you up-close and personal to the park’s geysers and springs, there are some pretty incredible hikes in Yellowstone to discover. Many of the best trails lie well away from its star attractions.

See our round up of the best hikes in Yellowstone National Park on our sister site to get some inspiration and help you prepare to hit the trails!

9. Take in the view at Yellowstone Lake

Located in the southern end of the park, Yellowstone Lake is the largest high elevation lake in North America. Sitting at 7,730 ft above sea level, Yellowstone Lake is best explored and enjoyed by boat. Even during the summer months, the lake water temperature sits at around 41°F making it a little too cold to swim.

With its blue waters and mountain peaks in the distance, Yellowstone Lake is perfect for a quick pitstop if you are short on time. If you have more time to spare, you can hike to Storm Point or pack a lunch and have a meal along the lake shore.

Storm Point Hike

• Distance: 2.5-mile loop
• Elevation: 98 ft 
• Difficulty Rating: Easy
• View the trail notes

A moderately trafficked wooded loop trail that passes by Indian Pond and Yellowstone Lake. With varied scenery, spectacular views and the chance to encounter wildlife on the trail, it is recommended you carry bear spray if you attempt this hike. 

10. Explore the beautiful West Thumb Geyser Basin 

Even though West Thumb Geyser Basin is the smallest geothermal area in Yellowstone, it happens to be one of our favorites. We’re not sure if it’s the beautiful backdrop of Yellowstone Lake and mountain peaks, but this small geyser basin is one not to miss.

Visiting the West Thumb Geyser Basin is easy. The boardwalk is a 1.1 mile paved path and can take around 30 minutes to one hour to complete. Home to the Abyss Pool, Yellowstone’s deepest hot spring, West Thumb is just gorgeous and well worth the stop!

11. Wander around Norris Geyser Basin

Of all the geyser basins in Yellowstone, Norris Geyser Basin is the one that is rapidly changing the most. Norris is broken up into two sections: Black Basin and Porcelain Basin.

Back Basin is the larger of the two and home to popular thermal pools like Steamboat Geyser. 

Porcelain Basin, while smaller, offers much more to look at when compared to Back Basin. From bubbling thermal pools to turquoise hot springs, if you must choose between the two, we’d suggest spending your time at Porcelain Basin. 

Psst! Want to combine your trip to Yellowstone with another of America’s greatest national parks, check out our 4 day Grand Teton to Yellowstone itinerary on our sister site to help you plan an epic road trip!

12. Visit the Fountain Paint Pots

A quick stop at Fountain Paint Pots is nice as it highlights all of Yellowstone’s geothermal features in one stop: hot springs, geysers, mud pots, and fumaroles. 

However, in relation to other hot springs and geysers you’ll visit, the Fountain Paint Pots are a little lackluster in comparison. Nevertheless, the half mile long boardwalk loop makes visiting quick and easy.

13. Chase a Yellowstone waterfall… or five

Scattered through Yellowstone National Park is a series of around 300 waterfalls. Some are found along the side of the road, others requiring a bit of a hike to get to. 

Regardless of whether you want to chase as many as you can find or just a few, be sure to at least see one waterfall during your visit to Yellowstone. 

Below are a handful of the most popular waterfalls to see in Yellowstone:

• Udine Falls : Located about 10 minutes south of Mammoth Hot Springs and can be viewed from the road.
• Fairy Falls: Requiring a 4.8-mile hike, you can access the trailhead near Grand Prismatic Spring.
• Tower Fall: Located about a half-hour away from Udine Falls, lies Tower Fall, a 132ft waterfall that requires a 0.8-mile hike.
• Gibbon Falls: Dropping 84-ft into the Gibbon River is the Gibbon Falls. This waterfall requires a short walk along a paved path to get your sights on it.
• Firehole Falls: Located along scenic drive in Firehole Canyon lies Firehole Falls. You can witness this 40ft fall easily from the road.

14. Relax in Yellowstone’s Boiling River Hot Spring

If you are near Mammoth Hot Springs and want to rest for a bit, consider resting and soaking in the boiling river! 

We know, not the most welcoming name, is it?

You can find the boiling river parking lot along the road between the North Entrance and Mammoth Hot Springs. Once parked, a half-mile walk along the Gardiner River will take you to the designated swimming area of the Boiling River.

Tip: Please use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect Yellowstone’s waterways from harmful chemicals sunscreens can place in our environment.

15. Trek the Mount Washburn Trail

• Distance: 6.8 miles, out and back
• Elevation: 1,394 ft 
• Difficulty Rating: Moderate

If you are looking for one epic day hike in Yellowstone with expansive views of the park, hiking the Mount Washburn Trail is for you! The most popular place to start this hike is from Dunraven Pass.

From Dunraven Pass, the trail is a nearly 7-mile out and back trail that may take you anywhere from 3-6 hours to complete depending on your physical fitness. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot bighorn sheep and wildflowers.

Tip: Plan to pack some bear spray . It’s better to be safe than sorry!

16. Drive through the Roosevelt Arch

If you are coming from or exiting through the North Entrance of the park, you’ll notice a giant stone archway. In 1903, the Roosevelt Arch was constructed with the cornerstone laid by President Theodore Roosevelt. 

As you drive through the arch, you’ll notice the inscription on the top sets the tone for your trip into the park, “For The Benefit and Enjoyment of the People.”

17. Take a scenic drive along Blacktail Plateau Drive

Looking to experience an additional scenic drive in Yellowstone National Park? Blacktail Plateau Drive should be added to your list.

Blacktail Plateau Drive is a 7-mile lightly trafficked dirt road which takes around 20-30 minutes to drive. However, if you plan to stop to take in the view along the way (which you should) the drive will take much longer. 

Ranking among the best places to spot wildlife in the park, Blacktail Plateau Drive is in the northern loop section of the park, about 25 minutes from Mammoth Hot Springs.

Psst! Want to combine your trip to Yellowstone with another incredible U.S. National Park? Check out our  5-Day Glacier National Park to Yellowstone on our sister site to help you plan an epic road trip!

Things to Know Before Visiting Yellowstone National Park

• Road closures: For information on current or upcoming road closures in Yellowstone National Park, check out the latest updates on road conditions here .
• Accommodations & tours: Whether you’re staying in the park or nearby, camping or looking for a hotel, you should book accommodations and any tours well in advance as things book up quickly!
• Cell phone reception: Limited to nonexistent in the park, so download offline Google maps to help you navigate before you go.
• Park restaurants: For a full list of Yellowstone restaurants, check out the NPS site here .
• Be bear aware & respect the wildlife: Do not leave food out and do not feed the wildlife, keep your distance from all animals, and please pick up after yourself.
• Bathrooms: Bathrooms can be found at Visitor Centers and entrances to popular geyser basins and sites
• Gas stations: Old Faithful Service Station, Grant Village Service Station, Fishing Bridge Service Station, Tower/Roosevelt Junction Service Station and Mammoth Hot Springs Service Station

Where to stay in & nearby Yellowstone

Within Yellowstone National Park, you have 9 accommodation options to choose from. For any reservations at the below in-park accommodations, visit the Yellowstone National Park website to reserve your stay.

• Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins
• Mammoth Hot Spring Hotel and Cabin
• Old Faithful Inn
• Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins
• Canyon Lodge and Cabins
• Old Faithful Lodge Cabins
• Roosevelt Lodge Cabins
• Grant Village
• Lake Lodge Cabins

If you want to stay outside the park, the closest accommodation options to Yellowstone will be in Gardiner, Montana (North Park Entrance) or West Yellowstone, Montana (West Park Entrance).

Gardiner, Montana Accommodations

The Roosevelt Hotel :

Clean, comfortable, and quaint. If you are looking for friendly staff and a great location to not only Gardiner but Yellowstone, The Roosevelt Hotel is a great option to consider.

Yellowstone Riverside Cottages :

Overlooking the Yellowstone River, these charming cottages are a perfect place to cozy up and take in the views after a day of exploring Yellowstone Park.

Yellowstone Gateway Inn :

Located next to a National Forest and 2 miles from the park entrance, the Gateway Inn offers private cabins to those looking for a quiet and comfortable stay.

West Yellowstone, Montana Accommodations

Golden Stone Inn :

Friendly staff, excellent location with a modern log cabin twist, it’s no wonder why Golden Stone Inn ranks among the top accommodation choices for West Yellowstone.

Under Canvas Yellowstone :

If you’re looking for a unique accommodation experience, consider glamping just outside of Yellowstone! Cozy and welcoming luxury canvas tents with comfortable beds and fireplaces await you. 

Faithful Street Inn :

Clean and comfortable cabins located in West Yellowstone and close to Yellowstone is what you can expect from Faithful Street Inn. They are a little rustic, but cozy, nonetheless.

Tip: As soon as you know the dates of your Yellowstone visit, BOOK YOUR HOTEL room. Places within and near the park book up fast. To secure your desired accommodation type and location, book well ahead of your planned visit.

Camping in Yellowstone National Park 

If you are looking to pitch a tent or park your campervan or RV, Yellowstone has 12 in-park campgrounds with over 2,000 sites for you to choose from. 

Fair warning: these sell out fast! Like, really fast. 

Of the 12 campgrounds, five require reservations. The rest are first-come, first-serve. The five that require reservations are listed just below.

• Bridge Bay Campground
• Canyon Campground
• Fishing Bridge RV Park
• Grant Village Campground
• Madison Campground Yellowstone

For more information on Yellowstone Camping, reference the NPS site for the latest information on site availability and pricing. If sites are all booked up, try using the popular camping app The Dyrt to find additional camping sites near Yellowstone National Park.

The Dyrt App

If you’re traveling in a campervan or simply hoping to save money on your visit to Yellowstone National Park by camping along the way, we have a deal for you!

The Dyrt is our favorite campsite locating app with the largest database of campgrounds (44,000+ campsites and counting!) and over 1 million user-submitted reviews. Plus, it’s super user-friendly, and has some pretty cool features, like outdoor gear contests and forums to connect and seek advice from fellow campers, that you won’t find on any other camping app.

Try their Pro Membership for FREE for 30 days and gain access to the offline version of the app, utilize their trip planning feature AND get exclusive discounts on campsites and gear!

What to pack for Yellowstone National Park 

• Snacks: You’ll be in your car a lot and your days will be busy so having snacks is key. You’ll be spending long days in Yellowstone, and no one wants to be hangry.
• Sunscreen: You’re at a higher elevation and spending loads of time outside.  Lather up and protect that skin of yours. If you can, go the eco-friendly route to protect our lovely little planet of ours.
• Reusable water bottle: Avoid plastic bottles. Do your part to limit waste and opt for a reusable water bottle instead.
• First aid kit: For any blisters or accidental cuts. It’ll save you the hassle (and pain) of trying to track band aids/medicine down from strangers or park rangers.
• Layers: In the mornings and evenings, the temperatures are chilly. Plan to have a jacket or fleece with you. Something you can take off as the day heats up.
• Comfortable footwear: Comfortable sandals like Chacos or Tevas are great options, especially for summer! If you’re going on any trails or looking for a closed-toe shoe, sneakers with tread or a hiking boot is a great option.
• Bug spray: The mosquitoes are alive, well and THRIVING in Yellowstone.
• Binoculars: We can’t tell you how many times we used our binoculars to see and spot wildlife. You’ll be able to see wildlife much better if you have a pair of binoculars with you.
• Portable charger: Whether it’s a portable charger you can take with you or a USB you can plug into your car, you’ll want to have something with you to keep your phones charged up.
• Offline Maps: Cell phone reception is practically non-existent in the park so if you require GPS, make sure to download offline Google maps or Maps.Me to help you navigate the park when reception is not available.

If you plan to have lunch on the go, plan to pack a cooler in your vehicle. However, if you are driving a truck, just make sure to keep the cooler out of your truck bed as it could attract bears.

About the author s

Lauren & Jesse from the Wandering Stus are a free-spirited travel couple whose appetite for adventure and faraway places fuel their wanderlusting souls. They give you travel tips, epic itineraries & overall travel inspiration to help you plan your next adventure! Follow along on @Wanderingstus on Instagram as they tell their stories of the places they’ve been and furthermore, where they are going next.

Are you planning travel around the U.S.A.?

We have TONS of resources on travel in the US and how to make the most out of your trip. Check out our  Ultimate USA Travel Guide  for everything you need to know, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• America the Beautiful Park Pass: Is it Worthwhile?
• Fun Things to do in Grand Teton National Park
• Amazing Things to Do in Glacier National Park
• Money-Saving Tips for a Cheap Road Trip Across the USA

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We want to hear from you!

Have you been to Yellowstone National Park? What was your favorite part? Still have questions about the best things to do in Yellowstone? We’ll do our best to get back to them in the comments below.

Comments (1) on “ 17 Best Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park ”

Thanks for discussing about things my family and I can do in Yellowstone such as relaxing and swimming in the river hot spring. We have been cooped up here for a year so I think this might be a good time to go out. I wonder if there are private tours services that can cater to a big family like ours.

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13 Top-Rated Things to Do in West Yellowstone, MT

Written by Brad Lane Updated Mar 24, 2023

In Southwest Montana, near the Wyoming and Idaho border, West Yellowstone is the most popular gateway town to Yellowstone National Park . The city abuts park boundaries, with the West Entrance less than a mile away. This proximity to Yellowstone's staggering 2.2 million acres is reason enough to visit.

But West Yellowstone's appeal extends well beyond its proximity to the park. Thousands of additional acres of national forest surround the community, and this Greater Yellowstone region entices adventure seekers throughout the year. Trails of all types extend from the city's edge into this incredible wide-open Montana landscape.

West Yellowstone isn't a new vacation destination in Montana. The town has hosted tourists for decades, bolstering a local economy that blossoms with local restaurants, theaters, and a giant movie screen. And whether on the sidewalks or at the local rodeo, expect to encounter plenty of smiling faces any time of year.

Plan your next Montana experience with our list of the top things to do in West Yellowstone.

1. Explore Yellowstone National Park

2. see the residents of the grizzly and wolf discovery center, 3. cross-country ski the rendezvous trail system, 4. catch the sunset at hebgen lake, 5. go fly fishing in blue ribbon waterways, 6. giddy up at the wild west yellowstone rodeo, 7. bundle up for a snowmobile adventure, 8. mountain bike the lionhead, 9. stop at the earthquake lake visitor center, 10. educate the whole family at the museum of the yellowstone, 11. satisfy an appetite in west yellowstone, 12. sing along at the playmill theatre, 13. zip on over to yellowstone zipline adventure park, map of things to do in west yellowstone, mt, west yellowstone, mt - climate chart.

West Yellowstone is the closest community to Yellowstone National Park. The West Entrance is less than a mile's drive from the heart of town. This proximity makes West Yellowstone one of the most popular basecamps to explore the park.

Yellowstone, the nation's first national park, encompasses a staggering 2.2-million acres and its own ecosystem. Visitors coming in from the West Entrance first encounter Madison Junction and Firehole Canyon. Automobile tourists can take Firehole Canyon Drive for spectacular views of lava flows and a fun place to swim (no lifeguards on duty).

South of Madison Junction, other big Yellowstone attractions like Grand Prismatic , Old Faithful , and the Upper Geyser Basin are a short drive away. To the north, steaming landscapes like Steamboat Geyser and Artists' Paintpots surround the Norris Geyser Basin . All these incredible landscapes host many of Yellowstone's best hiking trails .

Adventures in Yellowstone are endless. On top of the many places to visit, there's a wide range of things to do. Outfitters in West Yellowstone are happy to help craft a memorable adventure. Yellowstone Alpen Guides and Yellowstone Adventures both offer guided sightseeing trips based out of West Yellowstone.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/yell/index.htm

The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone, on the national park border, is a not-for-profit wildlife park. This AZA-accredited facility houses grizzly bears and wolves that are unfit to survive in the wild. The animals are housed in large outdoor habitats that the public can view. This setup provides a unique opportunity to see grizzlies and wolves in a controlled environment.

The on-site Naturalist Cabin is a great place to check out the three different wolf packs at the Discovery Center. This indoor, heated facility features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the wolf habitat. The Discovery Center also features a new river otter exhibit . These furry mammals are fun to watch as they swim through massive aquariums filled with Yellowstone cutthroat trout.

The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is open 365 days of the year, and all admission tickets are good for two-day entry. The center puts on various shows throughout the year, including a Birds of Prey demonstration with some resident raptors. A "Keeper Kids" 30-minute program is also offered twice daily during the summer for children ages 5-12.

Official site: https://www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org/

The Rendezvous Trail System is one of the most significant outdoor community assets in West Yellowstone. The trailhead is on the southern edge of city limits, within walking distance from almost anywhere in town. From its notable Trailhead Archway , over 35 kilometers of trails meander through the adjacent Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Trail passes are required to use the Rendezvous Trail System, with daily, season, and family passes available. The trail system caters to all skill levels, from old pros to first-time beginners. And at a base elevation of 6,800 feet, the trails are consistently snowy between January and March. Several local gear shops in West Yellowstone offer daily ski rentals.

The Rendezvous Trails are also home to a few significant events throughout the winter. The Yellowstone Ski Festival in November kicks off the season, while the Yellowstone Rendezvous Race provides an exciting finish in March. During the summer, the trail system is popular for hiking, running, and mountain biking.

Official site: www.skirunbikemt.com

Exceptional outdoor environments surround West Yellowstone outside of the park. And Hebgen Lake is a prime example of the immense landscapes nearby. Situated less than 20 minutes northwest, this massive reservoir on the Madison River is a hot spot for summer recreation.

The U.S. Forest Service maintains several facilities on the lakeshore, including boat ramps, campgrounds, and hiking trails. Fishing is one of the most sought-after activities, as the lake is one of the best stillwater fishing spots in the region. And even without a successful bite, Hebgen Lake is an excellent location to watch the setting sun paint the sky with evening colors.

Hebgen has been one of Montana's best lakes for a long time. It was a popular destination in 1959, when an infamous earthquake rocked the Madison River Canyon below the Hebgen Dam. The resulting debris blocked the river and quickly created the adjacent Earthquake Lake . Today, this still-standing body of water is also known as Quake Lake and offers another popular place to visit.

West Yellowstone is the epitome of fly fishing in Montana. Several blue-ribbon fisheries are within a short drive, including trout-filled waters within Yellowstone National Park. Among the many iconic waterways to come out of the park, including the Yellowstone River and Gallatin River , the Madison River passes closest to West Yellowstone.

The Madison forms at the confluence of the Gibbon and Firehole Rivers within Yellowstone, which are two formidable fish hatcheries on their own. The Madison exits park boundaries and winds next to city limits. The river then connects to Hegben Lake - yet another popular stillwater fishing spot nearby.

With so many options to cast a line and different conditions throughout the season, it pays to visit local fishing shops in West Yellowstone. Places like Jacklin's Fly Shop provide gear, suggestions, and guided services. Other spots like Arrick's Fly Shop and Madison River Outfitters offer similar services.

Read More: Best Places for Fly Fishing in Montana

It's not a western vacation without witnessing a rodeo. And one of the region's most famous rodeos takes place four miles west in a large outdoor arena. The Wild West Yellowstone Rodeo takes place Wednesdays through Saturdays between June and August.

Signature events at each nightly rodeo include bareback riding, bull riding, and roping contests. The rodeo is built on western traditions, and each event showcases fervent crowds and sold-out shows. A special Rodeo Ride Package , offered by Creekside Trail Rides, gives patrons the chance to arrive at the rodeo on horseback.

Official site: http://creeksidetrailrides.com/

West Yellowstone is a snowmobile mecca come winter. Alongside easy access to snowmobile-friendly routes in Yellowstone National Park, hundreds of miles of groomed trails span the national forests surrounding the town. And several outfitters and rental shops in the community ensure all abilities enjoy the winter rush.

The West Entrance of Yellowstone closes to vehicle traffic in the winter. Snowmobiles, however, are encouraged to explore at their pleasure. Riders can take an enchanting tour of Yellowstone attractions, like Old Faithful and Norris Geyser Basin, covered in snow. Local places like Yellowstone Vacations offer guided snowmobiling expeditions of these areas.

Visitors don't have to step a snowboot in the park to find excellent trails, however. The national forests surrounding West Yellowstone host hundreds of miles of trails accessible from the city. Some popular routes include the Two Mountain Top Trail , the Big Sky Trail , and the Madison Arm Loop .

Surrounded by thousands of national forest acres, West Yellowstone has no shortage of mountain bike trails to ride. The skier-friendly Rendezvous Trail System thaws during the summer to provide a popular network of mountain biking trails. Another popular place to ride is in the Lionhead area in the Custer Gallatin National Forest.

South of Hebgen Lake and the Madison River, the Lionhead area is known for its miles of high-altitude trails. And a combination of user access rights and dedicated maintenance has made the area a mecca for mountain biking. Nearly all routes require some climbing, but outstanding views reward the uphill efforts.

Freeheel and Wheel is one of the best bike rental shops in West Yellowstone and offers mountain bike rentals by the hour or by the day. The friendly associates at the bike shop can also point you in the direction of some solid trails. Freeheel and Wheel also has a selection of road bikes for those interested in hitting the pavement.

In the middle of the night in 1959, a 7.3-magnitude earthquake triggered a landslide into the Madison River near Hebgen Lake. The area was already a popular vacation destination, and the resulting havoc took the lives of 28 people. In an instant, the landslide also created a new natural impoundment still known today as Earthquake Lake, or Quake Lake.

The Earthquake Lake Visitor Center offers valuable insight into the 1959 event and surrounding geological landscape. The visitor center encompasses 2,400 square feet of indoor exhibits. Items on display include a working seismograph and several interpretive displays concerning the 1959 earthquake.

The building itself lends an excellent view of Earthquake Lake and the backdropping mountain landscape. However, the best views come from the short trails outside on the grounds of the visitor center. These easy hiking paths include commemorative plaques for the 28 victims of the earthquake.

To add a little context to any visit, the Museum of the Yellowstone details the cultural history of the national park and surrounding region. Also on display are the different transportation methods used over the years to travel through the park.

Other exhibits include information on the 1959 Hebgen Lake Earthquake and 1988 fires in Yellowstone. The museum also offers guided walking tours of the adjacent Union Pacific Railroad Historic District . All these insights and more at the museum add a deeper appreciation to the already inspiring landscape.

A great add-on adventure to the museum is the neighboring Yellowstone Giant Screen Theatre . This six-story-tall movie screen is one of a kind in the region. The theater's signature production is an educational movie about the park with gorgeous landscape shots. The theater also screens other documentary movies and recent Hollywood blockbusters.

Official site: https://museumoftheyellowstone.org/

West Yellowstone's local economy thrives on the thousands of tourists that visit each year. This economic driver has spurred a surplus of high-quality restaurants along the streets of the relatively small town. When visiting, be sure to indulge in some local businesses that pack a lot of flavors.

Mountain Mama's Coffeehouse and Bakery offers a caffeinated way to start the day. And just a few blocks west, Running Bear Pancake House offers a complete breakfast menu. Ernie's Bakery and Deli is also a local-favorite for convenient breakfast and lunch entrees. Dinner options are also nothing short of abundant, with places like Wild West Pizzeria and Saloon topping the list for pizza joints.

The Playmill Theatre has provided cherished family memories for over 55 years. This time-honored theater company is a few blocks from the West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center and puts on approximately three productions a year. Shows span between May and September. With an emphasis on family values and fun, it's one show not to miss if traveling with children.

Alongside the theatrical performance, engaging moments between acts offer other ways to enjoy the show. Tacked onto every primary stage production are activities like sing-alongs and variety shows. For young aspiring thespians, the theater also hosts a five-day summer camp in June for students aged 14 to 18.

Official site: https://www.playmill.com/

The Yellowstone Zipline Adventure Park provides high-flying family fun. This popular tourist attraction is a few blocks west of the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, near many of the area's top hotels. Within the facility, over 1,000 feet of ziplines and a raised ropes course offer all-day entertainment.

Yellowstone Zipline Adventure Park is open every day throughout the summer, with more limited hours in the shoulder seasons. This outdoor attraction shutters between October and April. The facility offers special packages to combine with other Yellowstone adventures. Current zipline packages include add-on white water rafting trips or guided horseback rides.

Official site: https://www.yellowstoneparkzipline.com/

More on Montana

10 things you should know before visiting Yellowstone National Park

Jan 30, 2023 • 6 min read

Most people see Yellowstone's Grand Prismatic Spring from the busy boardwalks of Midway Geyser Basin © Jonathan Percy / Shutterstock

After 15 years living in Yellowstone County, Montana , and authoring four editions of Lonely Planet’s guidebook to Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks , I’ve learned a trick or two about visiting Yellowstone. 

From avoiding the summer crowds to staying safe in grizzly country, here’s what I wish I had known on my first visit to Yellowstone National Park .

1. Visit in shoulder season 

More than 4 million people visit Yellowstone National Park every year, with almost 70% of visitors arriving in the three summer months of June, July and August. Campgrounds, trailheads, restaurants and roads are stuffed to capacity. 

If your vacation dates allow, visit the park at the very beginning or end of the summer instead. September is a fabulous month for both good weather and lower crowds, especially after Labor Day, and this continues until mid-October. May is also good, especially in the northern half of the park and at lower elevations (high passes and some roads are still snow-covered in May). 

Also remember that, unlike Yellowstone’s other entrances, the northern section of the park is accessible year-round via the Mammoth to Cooke City road, so you can explore it any time you want.

2. Book accommodation well in advance (even campsites) 

If you do decide to visit during the mad months of July and August, you will need to book your park accommodation months in advance, even campsites. Since 2022 all of Yellowstone’s campgrounds are now reservable, whether they be the seven National Park Service (NPS) sites (bookable through Recreation.gov ) or the five sites run by Yellowstone National Park Lodges (YNPL). NPS-run sites take bookings six months in advance, whereas YNPL accepts them 13 months in advance.

A few NPS campsites are released just two weeks in advance, so all is not lost if you are gambling on a last-minute trip, though you will need to be flexible. A tip: Indian Creek campsite, south of Mammoth Junction, is normally the last of the park’s campsites to fill up. Without a reservation, you’ll have to camp outside the park, which will add to your daily driving time.

One important note is that flooding in June 2022 damaged Mammoth, Pebble Creek, Slough Creek, Tower Fall and Norris campgrounds, which were closed throughout 2022, so check with the park service for 2023 opening dates.

For hotels inside the park, you need to book up to a year in advance. The reception desk at any of the park’s accommodations can advise you of any last-minute room cancellations at any lodge inside the park.

3. Check that the roads are open

If you are visiting in April or May, be sure to check the road-opening schedule on the NPS website, as roads and accommodations in the southern half of the park open on a staggered schedule, ending with the road between Tower and Canyon junctions by Memorial Day. A couple of campgrounds here (Lewis Lake and Grant Village) don’t open until early June. Travel a park road that has only just opened and you’ll largely have that section of the park to yourself.

Road construction dates are also posted online, so check in advance to see if you need to budget some extra driving time. For example, the Yellowstone River bridge between Tower Junction and the Lamar Valley is under reconstruction from 2023, meaning traffic delays and the closure of the Yellowstone River picnic area.

4. Keep your distance!

Yellowstone is an elemental, untamed place, not a petting zoo, and its wild nature demands respect . Every year tourists die in the park, due to everything from being attacked by a grizzly bear to falling into a boiling hot spring.

Your natural instinct for self-preservation should keep you the requisite 100 yards away from bears and wolves, but it’s also important to keep at least 25 yards from bison, elk and moose, especially if there are young around. Bison injure more park visitors than any other animal.

5. Carry bear spray

If you are hiking off the boardwalks into Yellowstone’s wild backcountry (something we strongly recommend), be sure to invest in a can of bear spray and know how to use it. Outdoor stores at regional and gateway towns (and inside the park, at a premium) sell spray and you can even rent it inside the park, so there’s no excuse not to take one. It could save your life, and the bear’s. And no, bear spray is not like mosquito repellent – you don’t spray it on yourself, but rather at an advancing bear.

6. Practice your Western pronunciation

To blend in with the locals, be sure to hone your best Montana/Wyoming pronunciation, particularly for words like creek (pronounced crick ) and coyote (normally KAI-ote,  not kai-O-tee ). Pronounce Slough Creek as Slew Creek  to gain kudos with the local fly fishers. Brits should be aware that geyser is pronounced guy-zer , not gee-zer (which is an elderly dude). And while we are on the subject, those are bison, not buffalo, grazing the Lamar Valley.  

7. Be prepared for limited cell phone reception

Teenagers and digital junkies should be warned that Yellowstone has limited cell-phone service, mostly focused around the junction hubs of Mammoth, Canyon, Grant Village, Old Faithful and Lake Village. Wi-Fi is even patchier, with free Wi-Fi only available at Mammoth’s Albright Visitor Center. Don’t panic, you’ll survive.

If you simply can’t live without connectivity, you’ll have to drive to gateway towns, such as Gardiner and West Yellowstone, outside the park.

8. See the most popular sights from a different perspective

Many of Yellowstone’s most dramatic sights naturally attract big crowds and full parking lots, but you can often dodge these and snag your own private viewpoint by doing a bit of legwork.

Calcite Springs Overlook in the Tower-Roosevelt area, for example, is most commonly accessed via an often-full roadside parking lot, but it’s possible to hike an hour from the Yellowstone River Picnic Area, on the other side of the Yellowstone River, to enjoy the same views in RV-free serenity.

Grand Prismatic Spring is another spectacular sight, one which most people see from the busy boardwalks of Midway Geyser Basin. But you can score a much better view over the pool’s rainbow-colored rings by walking 0.6 miles south from the Fairy Falls trailhead to a magical, semi-secret overlook.

9. Make use of park intel to maximize your time

Inside the park, visitor information centers can be a mine of useful information for your trip. The Old Faithful visitor center , for one, lists the predicted eruption times for the basin’s most impressive geysers, which allows you to plan your time there to witness as many as possible.

Mammoth’s Albright Visitor Center in the north of the park details the locations of the latest wildlife sightings, which is particularly useful if you want to spot a bear or wolf pack. It’s all about maximizing your chances.

10. Read up on the park

The more you know about Yellowstone’s incredible geology and wildlife, the more astonishing it becomes. The park’s most popular hike , for example, leads to the top of Mt Washburn for epic views over the park, but it’s only when you realize that you're standing on the lip of a 30-mile wide super-volcano caldera (collapsed crater) that the true mind-blowing significance of what you're seeing sinks in. The more you learn about Yellowstone, the more you’ll want to return.

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Yellowstone National Park: The Complete Guide

Things to Do

• Best Hikes & Trails

Thermal Basins

Where to camp, where to stay nearby, how to get there, accessibility, tips for your visit, yellowstone national park.

Established in 1872, Yellowstone National Park, located mostly in Wyoming and partly in Montana and Idaho, is America’s very first national park. Sitting on top of an active volcano, this park is home to thousands of hydrothermal features, hundreds of geysers and waterfalls, deep rust-colored canyons, and wildlife that often spills out of the pine forests and verdant grasslands and onto the road—bison often cause traffic jams to the delight of millions of annual visitors.

Natural wonders and oddities, alpine lakes, numerous hiking trails for every ability, and wildlife viewing opportunities bring more than 4 million visitors to the park each year. Stopping in at one of the 10 visitor centers is a good place to start to learn about the day’s weather at Yellowstone , which trails you should hike, and if there are any bears in the area. You can also sign up for ranger-led walks or talks, which truly make the experience memorable.

Yellowstone has the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states, so every season is a good time to view wildlife in the park. Seeing bison navigate the snow in the winter is just as magical as seeing them roam past a bursting geyser in the summer months. You also might be able to spot bighorn sheep, elk, moose, mountain goats, pronghorn, deer, bears, mountain lions, wolves, and more during your visit.

Best Hikes & Trails

The park is vast in size, comprising more than 2 million acres to explore. With over a thousand miles of hiking trails, you’re sure to find a picture-perfect, on-foot nature experience to your liking. No permits are required for day hiking, so you can feel free to roam.

Be aware of the elevation at which you're starting and ascending, as many of the park’s trails are at 7,000 feet above sea level and higher. Bring more water than you think you’ll need to avoid dehydration, even when it's not hot. Snow and river crossings are concerns, especially in the spring when they'll be more saturated from the melted snow runoff, so be sure to talk to a ranger before you head out.

• North Rim Trail: Yellowstone is home to its very own Grand Canyon, and the 6.8-mile North Rim Trail offers views of the Yellowstone River winding through this impressive gorge. It's an easy hike, and there's a road that runs parallel to it in case you want to park and hike just a section of it.
• Ribbon Lake Trail: This 6.1-mile jaunt through meadows and forests runs along the South Rim of Yellowstone's Grand Canyon, peaking at Clear Lake and continuing on to Ribbon Lake. This is a geothermal area, so be sure to stay on the marked paths.
• Fairy Falls: One of Yellowstone's most impressive waterfalls roars over a 200-foot drop, and the hike to reach it is especially scenic through a young pine forest. There are two different trailheads you can start at to reach Fairy Falls, and both of them are about 6 miles roundtrip.
• Avalanche Peak: A 6.1-mile hike to the summit of Avalanche Peak isn't for novice hikers, but this strenuous trek is well worth the effort. Pack accordingly since snow can linger on the summit as late as July, and consider bringing a can of bear spray since grizzlies frequent this area.

For even more hiking ideas, check out some of the best hiking trails in Yellowstone .

Most people immediately associate Yellowstone with geysers, but these giant eruptions of hot water are just one type of geothermal feature in the park—you can also see mud pots, hot springs, and fumaroles. Located all over the park, these geologic features are easily accessible via boardwalks and well-maintained trails.

Stay on the boardwalk and the marked trails at all times, as it's never safe to veer off the path. Children especially need to be close by and shouldn’t run. The hot springs, thermal features, and runoff are unpredictable and can cause severe or fatal burns.

• Old Faithful: Old Faithful is perhaps the most famous geyser in the world for its highly predictable eruptions (it shoots boiling water out about once every 90 minutes). Located on the Continental Divide, be sure to check out the other nearby geysers like Aurum Geyser, Castle Geyser, and Grotto Geyser.
• Norris Geyser Basin: Old Faithful is the most predictable, but Steamboat Geyser in the Norris Geyser Basin is the world's biggest geyser, with eruptions that shoot up to 300 feet in the air. Unfortunately, it's not easy to predict when it's going to explode, and the time between eruptions can range from a couple of days to decades. Also in the Norris Geyser Basin area are Yellowstone's most famous fumaroles, or steam vents. Black Growler has been releasing steam for over a century, and the hillside known as Roaring Mountain is dotted with steam vents for a dramatic display.
• Mammoth Hot Springs: These impressive structures look like a waterfall that's been frozen in time, but they're actually made up of ancient limestone. Visitors can't bathe in the hot springs, but hiking trails all around provide excellent views of one of Yellowstone's most dramatic features.

Yellowstone National Park has 12 campgrounds that provide over 2,000 campsites. Most of them are open from June to September, but the exact dates vary by year and by campground. Seven of them are managed by the National Park Service (NPS), while the other five are run by Yellowstone National Park Lodges.

Backcountry camping is also available for those who want to truly escape from civilization, but you'll need to get a backcountry permit when you enter the park if you want to sleep outside of a campground.

• Canyon Campground: This campground is run by the Lodge and campsites can be reserved in advance. Its convenient location in the heart of the park means it's not too far away from any of the attractions. It's also located right on the North Rim of the Grand Canyon and has easy access to some of the area's best hiking trails.
• Mammoth Campground: The only year-round campground at Yellowstone, Mammoth is run by the NPS and sites can be reserved in advance. It's close to the Mammoth Hot Springs, hiking trails, and spots for fishing, conveniently located near the park's North Entrance.
• Grant Village: This is one of the largest campgrounds in the park and sits on the southern shore of Yellowstone Lake. Not only can you enjoy the lake water on warm summer days, but Grant Village also has all kinds of amenities like a store, restaurant, gas station, and visitor center. The campground is managed by the Lodge and sites can be reserved in advance.

If you're bringing an RV into Yellowstone, check out the best campsites for RV camping .

Camping isn't the only way to enjoy the majesty of Yellowstone National Park, and there are plenty of options both within the park and in the neighboring towns that range from rustic cabins to five-star resorts. Outside of the park around Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, you can connect with nature at any one of a number of cabin rental options that are within easy driving distance to the national park. If you prefer to stay in a place that has the conveniences of a city, then your closest options are Jackson, Wyoming, and Bozeman, Montana .

• Old Faithful Inn : For those who want the closest option to the famous geyser, this historic inn offers deluxe hotel rooms and cabin options. There are no TVs, radios, or air conditioning in the rooms, so you'll have no distractions from connecting with nature.
• Explorer Cabins : Ideal for families, these cabins all have two private bedrooms plus a sleeper sofa in the living room. They're located just a couple of minutes away from the West Entrance of the park.
• Gardiner Guest House : This homey bed and breakfast is located in Gardiner, Montana, right next to the North Entrance of the park. The Victorian architecture and incomparable hospitality add an extra special touch to your national park visit.

For even more lodging options around the park, read up on the best places to stay around Yellowstone.

Yellowstone has five entrance stations: North, Northeast, East, South, and West—it takes many hours to make it from one entrance location to the others, so be sure to plan out your route in advance. While the park is open year-round, most park roads are closed to regular traffic from November to April because they're covered in snow. The only entrance that is continually open is the North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana, where the famous arch dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt is located. Be sure to check the road conditions, construction, and closures on the road map prior to arriving.

If you're flying into the area, the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport in Montana is closest to the North Entrance, but there are smaller airports in Jackson, Wyoming, and Idaho Falls, Idaho. The nearest major airport, however, is in Salt Lake City , which is about five hours away.

Many parts of Yellowstone are accessible to all visitors, including most parking lots, restaurants, overlooks, and trails to the most popular attractions. Detailed maps of each area in the park show which trails are best suited for visitors with mobility challenges, and wheelchairs are available to borrow at all of the visitor centers and lodging facilities except Roosevelt Lodge. Except for Fishing Bridge Park, all of the campgrounds have at least one site that is ADA-compliant and reserved for campers who need it.

Ranger-led programs can be requested with an ASL interpreter with advance notice, and most videos shown at the visitor centers have closed captioning or assistive listening devices available.

Visitors with permanent disabilities can apply for and obtain an Access Pass which provides free admission to recreation areas all across the U.S., including all of the national parks.

• Save time at the entrance by buying your pass online in advance, which is good for seven consecutive days in the park.
• If you're entering Yellowstone through the South Entrance, you'll have to pass through Grand Teton National Park first. It's worth seeing both parks, but be aware that you'll need to pay separate admission fees for each one.
• If you do plan to visit both parks, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful annual pass . For nearly the same price as visiting the two parks, the annual pass gives the holder and guests free entry into over 2,000 recreation areas around the U.S., including all of the national parks.
• Mid-June to mid-September are by far the busiest months of the year to visit Yellowstone. Spring and fall see a lot smaller crowds, but fewer services are also available. Winter visits can be magical , but many parts of the park are only accessible by snow vehicles, so make sure you plan out your winter trip and know what you're getting into.
• Campgrounds that can be booked online often fill up months in advance, while the first-come, first-serve campgrounds may be completely taken by early morning.

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16 Absolute Best Things to Do in Yellowstone (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 15, 2024

Are you planning your first trip to Yellowstone National Park and wondering what are the absolute best things to see and do in Yellowstone ? You came to the right place!

In this post we cover all the main attractions and landmarks of Yellowstone National Park.  Places that are not to be missed in America’s oldest National Park. In addition, we also share a beautiful less known place that you have probably never heard about. It became one of our absolute favorite places in Yellowstone, so I think it deserves to be included on this best of Yellowstone list as well. You can read all about it all the way at the end of this post.

This is not a complete list of things to do in Yellowstone – it would be impossible to make one. But if you are looking for the best of the best, must-see places in Yellowstone , then this is it. Find out!

Good to know: In order to help you to make the most of your trip, we also included some practical tips for your visit, tips for where to stay , and a map indicating all the main Yellowstone attractions mentioned in this article. You can find them at the bottom of this article.

TIP: If you just want to see the main highlights of Yellowstone without having to plan anything, check out these highly-rated small-group day tours – they cover all the main landmarks of Yellowstone in 1-4 days. If you wonder how to plan your own trip, please check our Yellowstone itinerary suggestions for any trip from 1 to 5 days .

READ ALSO: Best Hotels Near Yellowstone National Park

These are the very best places to see and things to do in Yellowstone National Park:

1. Grand Prismatic Spring

If there is one place that you really have to see in Yellowstone, it is the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring , the star of the Midway Geyser Basin . It is not only the largest hot spring in the United States (and the third largest in the world), but also one of the most unique natural wonders on the planet. It is also the best recognized and most photographed landmark of Yellowstone.

No matter how many times you saw the Grand Prismatic on pictures, it’s only when you stand there that you realize how large it actually is. It’s bigger than a football field and deeper than a 10-story building. 

Chances are big that your trip to Yellowstone has been inspired by all those incredibly beautiful images of the Grand Prismatic Spring photographed directly from above that you see in so many travel guides and TV documentaries…

If you come here with such high expectations, then seeing this famous landmark in real life might disappoint you a bit. No matter how much you try, you can never get the same view of the Grand Prismatic as in those famous photographs. However, Grand Prismatic Spring is still absolutely incredible and it is also just as colorful in reality as it is in the pictures. If you come here on a sunny day, the rainbow of colors will take your breath away!

Just in case you wonder, the Grand Prismatic hot spring gets its multi-color layers from different species of heat-loving bacteria that live around it. The deep center is blue, then you have green and yellow tints, followed by lots of orange on the cooler outskirts.

Needless to say that Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the most popular attractions of Yellowstone . It’s one of the few places in the park where we saw big tour buses, so no matter when you visit, expect it to be busy. 

Probably the best way to avoid the crowds is to come very early in the morning or late in the evening. However, I read that the colors of the Spring are at their brightest on a sunny warm day, so we decided to go in the middle of the day.

On cooler days, but also early in the mornings and in the evening, steam can cover the spring, making it more difficult to see how colorful it really is. Colors will also be duller if you visit on a cloudy day. Still, no matter the weather or the conditions, seeing the Grand Prismatic is a must, one of the absolute best things to do in Yellowstone!

Practical information:   Plan 1-2 hours for the visit. Park your car at the Grand Prismatic Spring parking lot at Midway Geyser Basin. Expect the parking lot to be very busy, especially if you come in the middle of the day in summer as we did. Some people just park next to the road, but I’m not sure if it’s allowed. We didn’t want to park next to the road and waited for around 20 minutes before we could enter the parking (so not too bad, considering this is the busiest area in the park).

TIP: These organized tours also visit Grand Prismatic (and other main landmarks of Yellowstone). Coming with a tour, you can visit all these places much faster because you don’t have to waste time finding a parking spot. The driver will take care of the car/minibus while you’re enjoying the scenery.

Accessibility: Midway Geyser Basin is wheelchair-accessible – it’s all boardwalks, from where you can see the Grand Prismatic Spring up close. These boardwalks will also take you past the other main features of Midway Geyser Basin including Excelsior Geyser, Opal Pool, and Turquoise Pool. 

Interesting to know.  Note that this area has no shade and it’s also very windy. In summer you may want to take sun protection, just please hold on to your hats. We saw so many sun hats in the hot spring, which is really sad because most of them can never be retrieved and therefore pollute this unique geothermal area.

TIP:  The best way to truly appreciate the size and the uniqueness of the Grand Prismatic Spring is to see it from above. Please note that drones are forbidden in Yellowstone (more info here ). For the best aerial view, you can visit the recently opened Grand Prismatic Viewing Platform  which is accessible via the Fairy Falls trail that opens in late May. The view from here is unparalleled.

It’s really worth making an extra effort to see the Grand Prismatic from above! This is one of those places that you just have to see when in Yellowstone! 

The hike up to the overlook isn’t very long or hard (1.2 miles (1.9 km) round trip) and the entire hike takes about 45-60 minutes (round trip). The last section is a little steep and uneven, so you probably want to wear hiking shoes and definitely take some water with you.

MORE INFO : Complete Guide to Visiting the Grand Prismatic Spring

2. Old Faithful Geyser

One of Yellowstone’s most remarkable landmarks – Old Faithful Geyser – is another absolute must in the park. Most famous and the most predictable out of nearly 500 Yellowstone geysers, Old Faithful was the first one to receive a name. It was named during the 1870 Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition, which also led to the establishment of the Yellowstone National Park in 1872.

The Old Faithful geyser is still as faithful today as it was 150 years ago. It erupts in more or less regular intervals of around 90 minutes and is, therefore, one of the geysers that are easy to see in action.

Every time we were waiting for the OF, it erupted 10-15 minutes later than expected, so you need to be patient. The good news is that the eruption usually takes long enough to admire the geyser and take plenty of photos.

Together with the Grand Prismatic Spring, Old Faithful is one of the most popular attractions of Yellowstone. No matter what time you come, it will always be busy. On the other hand, the Upper Geyser Basin area is very big, so there is plenty of parking available and the crowds spread out. 

Interesting to know: If you want the best spot at the front row on one of the benches surrounding the Old Faithful, you may want to come at least 20-30 minutes before the predicted eruption time. However, it’s not really necessary – you can see the geyser quite well from a distance as well.

Practical information:  If you are lucky to see the OF erupt just as you arrive, you can visit in just half an hour. However, I suggest that you plan at least 2-3 hours for a visit to this area (see the Upper Geyser Basin section below for more information). The Old Faithful area is huge and has all the facilities that you may need: a visitor center, bathrooms, a petrol station, but also shops and restaurants.

TIP: Check the predicted eruption time for Old Faithful immediately when you arrive. If it’s a long wait, explore the Upper Geyser Basin first. Otherwise, explore it after you see Old Faithful in action. In any case, don’t miss it.

MORE INFO : Complete Guide to Visiting the Old Faithful

3. Upper Geyser Basin & Morning Glory Pool

Upper Geyser Basin , home to the above-mentioned Old Faithful geyser, contains around 25% of the world’s geysers. This is a beautiful area with lots of walking paths passing many geysers and thermal features.

Make sure you take some time to explore the Upper Geyser Basin beyond the Old Faithful!

While there are always lots of people at the OF, the rest of this area is so much quieter. Un-understandable, as the Upper Geyser Basin is definitely one of the best places to see in Yellowstone!

There are too many features in this area to even mention them all; at the same time, some geysers might not be noteworthy when they are dormant.

I suggest you just take a walk through the Upper Geyser Basin all the way to the Morning Glory Pool. We were lucky to be there at the time when several geysers were predicted to go and saw a few of them in action. 

Our favorite spots of the Upper Geyser Basin were the Castle Geyser , Daisy Geyser , Grotto Geyser , and of course the colorful Morning Glory Pool . 

The best thing? We had all these places practically to ourselves. And this was in July, which is the peak season in Yellowstone. So take all those stories about how crowded Yellowstone is with a grain of salt. 20 minutes walk from the Old Faithful and there is hardly anyone around. Walk for 30-40 minutes and you are completely alone…

Interesting to know:  Please respect nature, park rules, and don’t throw any kind of objects into the geothermal features of Yellowstone. The Morning Glory Pool is sometimes referred to as ‘The Fading Glory’, because it’s losing its beautiful colors because of all kinds of objects people have been throwing in it for years. 

Back in the ’50s, the water level was lowered by siphoning, which induced the pool to erupt. Park officials removed 112 different objects from Morning Glory, including socks, bath towels, and 76 handkerchiefs, plus thousands of coins* ( *source YellowstoneNP ). 

Practical information: The entire Upper Geyser Basin Loop is about 4.5 miles (7.2 km). It is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. You don’t have to walk the entire trail and can just do parts of it. The furthest point – Morning Glory Pool – is just 1.5 miles from the Old Faithful.

TIP: At the Old Faithful Visitor Centre you can find predicted eruption times for all the (predictable) geysers of the Upper Geyser Basin. Check it out before you set on the walk – you might be lucky to catch a couple of geysers in action! 

It’s actually not as easy as it sounds, because most other geysers aren’t as easy to predict as the OF. But at least you know in which direction to look if a particular geyser is expected to go soon. Also, once they start going, some of them last several hours. That gives you enough time to get somewhat closer to the erupting geyser.

MORE INFO: Upper Geyser Basin (with Printable Map & Tips)

4. Lamar Valley

One of the absolute best things to do in Yellowstone is to watch wildlife.  Lamar Valley  is one of the best places to see bison and other wildlife in Yellowstone. Yet it is overlooked by most tourists due to its remote location. However, if you make an effort to drive there, you will be rewarded with the most spectacular landscapes and – indeed – lots of wildlife.

Lamar Valley is loved by wild bison and it’s very likely you’ll see hundreds if not thousands of them roaming freely around the huge plains of Lamar Valley, sometimes called the Serengeti of North America. Some parts of it indeed reminded us of African landscapes…

If you are lucky, you might also spot some elk, deer, bears, coyotes, and maybe even wolves.

TIP:  If you have enough time, drive all the way through the Lamar Valley and to the Northeast Entrance of Yellowstone. As you drive further, the African-looking savanna gives way to the stunning mountain landscape. Spectacular scenery!

Practical information: Lamar Valley is located about 70 miles (100km) from the Old Faithful area. It will take you at least 2 hours just to get there (bison jams and other stops not included), so you really need to count at least half a day. We visited Lamar Valley in combination with Tower-Roosevelt and Mammoth Hot Springs area and it took us the whole day.

TIP: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for best chance to see wildlife. Don’t come here if you are short on time or in a hurry – it’s really much too far for it and delays due to wildlife on the roads are very common.

Good to know: Lamar Valley can also be visited on organized multi-day trips . The advantage is that you don’t have to drive so can devote all your attention to wildlife viewing. This 2-day trip and this 4-day trip are very popular on GetYourGuide and both visit Lamar Valley. Both tours also visit Mammoth Hot Springs, Norris Geyser Basin, Grand Prismatic Spring, Old Faithful, Yellowstone Canyon, so you are sure to see all the main landmarks of Yellowstone making the best use of your time.

5. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Rated as the number one place to see in Yellowstone on Trip Advisor, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River is definitely a must-see in America’s oldest National Park. The reason I only put it as number 5 of things to see in Yellowstone is because I find that the other places listed above are  even more special. 

Nevertheless, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River is one of the main landmarks of Yellowstone , one that you really shouldn’t miss. In fact, it’s one of the best places of Yellowstone that I think should be included in any Yellowstone itinerary. So even if you have just one day in Yellowstone, you should make an effort to see the canyon.

Yellowstone Canyon is over 24 miles (39 km) long, up to 4,000-feet (1,2 km) wide, and some parts are 1,200-feet (365 m) deep. There are many lookouts and walking trails along both rims of the canyon.

Depending on what you want to see and how much time you have, you can spend just one hour or the whole day here. As you can imagine, most tourists only visit the main viewpoints. So – once again – it’s really easy to escape the crowds if you are willing to walk.

The main place that everyone comes to see at the Yellowstone Canyon is the Artist Point . It’s a lookout along the South Rim offering an exceptional view over the canyon and its most famous feature, the Lower Falls . Other main points of interest easily reachable by car include Inspiration Point, the Brink of the Upper Falls, and also the Lower Falls.

One of our favorite things to do in Yellowstone was to hike the Uncle Tom’s Trail . It’s a steep stairway descent into the canyon. More than 300 steps bring you very close to the Lower Falls.

This is a spectacular trail and great for families with active kids who like climbing stairs. However, while it’s a short hike, please note that it’s really steep and requires a serious climb. So it’s not suitable for people who have problems with their knees or a weaker heart. 

Interesting to know: There are many hiking trails along the canyon. You can hike along both sides of the canyon – the North Rim and the South Rim – for magnificent views that are inaccessible otherwise. One of the nicest stretches is the 2,7 mile (4,3 km) Point Sublime trail. Make sure to check the  official NPS website for information on which trails and viewpoints are open at the time of your visit (there have been lots of construction works in the area in recent years).

TIP:   Yellowstone Canyon is another extremely popular attraction in Yellowstone. So you can expect big crowds and tour buses at all the main viewpoints. I suggest going there early in the morning and starting with the most popular lookouts first.

We started our visit with Uncle Tom’s Trail, followed by Artist Point. We wanted to be at the Artist Point around 9.45-10 AM, as we had read that there is a good chance to see a rainbow over the waterfall at that time in summer. And so it was! In fact, we caught rainbows at both locations. Also, it was still very quiet around 10 o’clock with hardly any people around. As we made our way to the North Rim around 11 AM, it got noticeably busier.

Practical information:  Plan at least an hour for one or two lookouts. I suggest allocating half a day for Yellowstone Canyon and exploring it a bit more. Keep in mind that every stop will take you longer if you come in the middle of the day when it’s really busy. Please consult the map at the end of this post for more information on where exactly all the lookouts are located.

Hiking tip: If you want to see some of the best views of Yellowstone Canyon, there’s a very nice guided hiking tour that takes you to some of the best places. It’s also nice to go off the beaten path with a group and a local guide since this is bear territory.

MORE INFO: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

6. Hayden Valley

Probably the most popular place to see wildlife in Yellowstone, Hayden Valley attracts lots of tourists. It can get really busy here. And if bison decide to hang around on the only road that leads through the valley, chances are big that you’ll get stuck in the bison-jam for a very long time.

It seems that bison really love showing tourists who is in charge of the place. So every time you need to pass Hayden Valley, you should be prepared for bison jams that can easily delay you by an hour.

The good news is that, despite all the traffic, bison usually still outnumber the number of people and that most of them stay next to the roads and not on them.

Hayden Valley was our first encounter with the bison in Yellowstone and we just couldn’t believe our eyes. There were bison everywhere! Actually, before our trip to Yellowstone, I wasn’t even sure if we’d get to see any bison at all. Never could I have imagined that we’d see so many of them.

TIP: The same rule counts   in Hayden Valley: come early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as the animals are more active around that time. Also, keep a safe distance from bison and stay in the car if they are nearby. This is definitely the case if you see bears; you really should stay inside the car. Remember, these are all wild animals!

7. Mammoth Hot Springs

Another truly unique area of Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs is completely different than any other place in the park. When researching the best things to do in Yellowstone for our trip, I found two completely opposite opinions of whether it’s worth visiting the Mammoth Hot Springs area. We decided to give it a try and are sure glad we did.

Our experience was very positive and we really enjoyed the visit to Mammoth Springs. I find that area is so unique and so fascinating that it would be a loss not to see it when in Yellowstone. You’ll find a big variety of thermal features here, but they are very different than the ones at the Upper or the Midway Geyser Basins. 

The main highlights of Mammoth Hot Springs are Minerva Terrace , Palette Spring , Liberty Cap , and also  Canary Spring .

Interesting to know:  Mammoth Hot Springs area consists of two parts – Mammoth Lower Terraces area at the bottom and Mammoth Upper Terraces area on the hill. The two areas are connected by boardwalks and stairs and there is also a road, Terrace Drive, that allows you to drive past it all.

Theoretically, you could just drive, make several quick stops and see it all, but in reality, it’s not feasible since the small car parking areas are congested. It’s not really necessary either, because it’s not an overly big place and it doesn’t take that long to see it all on foot.

I hiked the whole area and it took me a bit less than an hour one way. Due to the heat, my husband and kids only walked the lower trails. They then took the car up the Terrace Drive, where they picked me up. 

TIP: If you are visiting this area in summer, prepare that it can get really hot. The Mammoth Hot Springs area has no shade at all.

Practical information:  Plan about 1- 2 hours for the visit. Mammoth Springs area has all facilities including restaurants, shops, and a petrol station. It’s just a very short drive from the sightseeing area.

MORE INFO: Mammoth Hot Springs

8. Old Faithful Inn

Built in 1903-1904, Old Faithful Inn is one of the oldest lodges in Yellowstone and it’s also a national historic landmark. Considered the largest log structure in the world, the interior of the OF Inn is truly impressive.

You don’t have to be a guest of the hotel in order to visit this fascinating building. Just pop inside and explore the main building.

If you are interested in the history of this unique accommodation and Yellowstone, you could even join an organized tour of the lodge. Tours are free of charge and run several times a day; you can simply reserve/join a tour upon arrival.

Interesting to know:  If you are looking for a place to eat, check the Bear Pit Lounge – it’s a bit of a hidden gem of Yellowstone that not many people seem to know about. Reasonably priced food and no waiting lines (which can be huge in the main restaurant at the OF Inn).

TIP:   Don’t miss the outside terrace with an adjacent bar and views over the Old Faithful geyser. It’s located on the 1st floor, just above the main entrance.

Practical information: If you want to stay at the OF Inn and are traveling in high season, you’ll have to book your stay 12-18 months in advance.

MORE INFO: Guide to Yellowstone Accommodations

9. Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation (7,000 ft+) lake in North America. It freezes over completely every winter and even in summer the water temperature is too low to swim in it. 

Therefore, the lake is best explored by boat: you can join a guided scenic boat tour, rent a boat, go fishing, or kayaking. Here you can book a kayak tour on Yellowstone Lake and here you can book a private fishing tour .

There are also many hiking trails that lead to the shores of the lake; we hiked to Storm Point and it was so beautiful! 

Yellowstone Lake is one of the best places you have to see in Yellowstone, but if you’re short on time, you can just make a quick stop here.

Interesting to know:  The historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel built in 1891 is the oldest lodge in Yellowstone. You don’t have to stay here in order to visit it, but if you want to stay here in high season, you’ll have to book more than a year in advance.

TIP: The hotel has a nice upscale restaurant, but if you just want lake views and good food at reasonable prices, you better check the Lake Lodge Cafeteria. 

Practical information:  It’s difficult to say how much time you need to see the Yellowstone Lake area. You can spend just an hour or half a day, but you can also stay here the whole day or even longer. If you are short on time,  take a scenic boat trip  (1 hour) and spend some time at the Lake Hotel.

Make sure to also visit the West Thumb Geyser Basin (see below). It really depends on your interests and on how much time you have in Yellowstone.

10. West Thumb Geyser Basin

One of the smallest geothermal areas of Yellowstone, West Thumb Geyser Basin , is not to be missed!

Located on the western side of Yellowstone Lake, West Thumb Geyser Basin offers a good view of the lake and has some interesting thermal features, including some that are in the lake itself.

The West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail is an easy wheelchair-accessible short walk (0,6 miles – 1,1 km) that takes about half an hour. It follows the lakeshore and passes several thermal features, including Abyss Pool, Yellowstone’s deepest hydrothermal pool. If you feel like walking just a bit more, there are two hiking trails nearby – Duck Lake and Lake Overlook.

Interesting to know:  Bison, elk, and bears are frequently seen in this area as well. But it’s unlikely to run into them during the day – for that you should come early in the morning or around sunset.

TIP: If you arrive in Yellowstone through the South Entrance, it’s likely that West Thumb Geyser Basin will be your first introduction to Yellowstone. I can’t imagine a better way to start your trip in Yellowstone – it will take your breath away! However, if you come here after you have seen the more impressive Upper and the Midway Geyser Basins, you might be a bit disappointed.

Practical  information: Count 30 minutes to an hour for the West Thumb Geyser Basin trail loop with stops at its major features.

11. Norris Geyser Basin

Of all the best things you can do in Yellowstone, I wouldn’t put Norris Geyser Basin as the first priority. However, it’s still one of the best places of Yellowstone. So if you have enough time to also cover all the other Yellowstone attractions mentioned above, don’t miss it.

Ideally, you come here before you have seen the Upper and the Midway Geyser Basins. Norris Geyser Basin isn’t as impressive as the other two, so if you see it first, you’ll appreciate it more. But if you first visit the other places, you might be somewhat disappointed.

The hottest geyser basin of Yellowstone, Norris Geyser Basin is comprised of two sections – Porcelain Basin and the Back Basin.

Porcelain Basin has a very barren landscape with lots of steaming vents, spouting geysers (small ones), bubbling and boiling geothermal features, and quite a few turquoise blue hot springs. You can explore the whole area on boardwalks: the main loop is about half a mile (800 m) long, the whole Porcelain Basin trail is 1,1 miles (1,7 km) long. Please note that this area has no shade and can get really warm in summer.

Back Basin  couldn’t be more different from the adjacent Porcelain Basin! It’s located in a pine forest with plenty of shade and also some amazing hydrothermal features. The star of this area is the largest active geyser in the world, Steamboat Geyser . Its last major eruption dates from 1991, but you can usually see it in action spitting water up to 40ft.

The entire Back Basin trail is 1,75 miles (2,8 km) and is therefore much less visited by tourists than the Porcelain Basin which doesn’t require that much walking.

Interesting to know:  Norris Geyser Basin is one of those areas of Yellowstone that are constantly changing, so you never know what you’ll find. 

TIP: Be prepared to walk – this area is huge, but it’s really interesting! In summer, make sure you take plenty of water and sun protection.

Practical  information: Count at least 1-2 hours for a short visit. If you want to see it all, it will take you half a day. This area is also a popular stop for the tour busses and the car parking can get full really quickly, so prepare to wait or try to arrive at the less popular times.

12. Yellowstone Grand Loop Road

Grand Loop is the main road of Yellowstone National Park. Driving this scenic road is one of the best things to do in Yellowstone.

If you look at the map of Yellowstone, you’ll see that its main roads form an 8-shape that connects all the must see places of Yellowstone.

If you take the time to drive the entire scenic loop, you’ll pass all of the main Yellowstone attractions, except the Lamar Valley. 

The Grand Loop is about 142 miles long (230 km) and, depending on the traffic, takes anywhere from 4 to 8 hours to complete. However, I would never advise driving the whole scenic loop of Yellowstone in just a day. There is so much to see along the way!

If you visit all the best places of Yellowstone mentioned in this article, then you’ll automatically cover the entire Grand Loop Road and more. However, to do it properly, you’ll need 3-4 days.

TIP: If you are short on time and have just one day, I suggest you drive the Lower Loop and stop at the main landmarks. If you have at least two days in Yellowstone , you could attempt the entire Grand Loop with just a few stops at the major Yellowstone attractions. Please see our Yellowstone itinerary suggestions for more information. 

READ ALSO: Best Places to See on Yellowstone’s South Loop

*** Now that we covered all the main things to do in Yellowstone, I also want to mention a few other places that you should also try to see in Yellowstone. These are not the main attractions of Yellowstone National Park, but they are each well worth visiting, especially if you have more time and want to explore Yellowstone a bit deeper. Read on! ***

13. Mount Washburn

Hiking to the top of Mount Washburn is considered one of the best things to do in Yellowstone. The views from the 10,243 feet (3,1 km) top are incredible and if you are lucky you might run into some bighorn sheep or even bears (make sure you carry a bear spray if hiking in more remote areas of Yellowstone!). Visiting Mount Washburn requires a strenuous hike that takes about 2-3 hours one way, so it is definitely not for everyone.

Interesting to know:   If you are up for this hike, you should know that there are two trails leading to the top . (1) The main hiking trail starts at Dunraven Pass. It’s about 3,2 miles  (5,2 km)one way and offers better views along the entire route, but it is also more challenging. (2) The second option is the Chittenden Road Trail which follows a wide service road to the top of Mount Washburn. It’s 2,5 miles (4 km) one way and is easier to hike, but the views along this route aren’t that impressive.

TIP:  Carry lots of water and a picnic. Make sure you also have a jacket as it can get really windy and cold on top. Arrive early as car parking areas at both trailheads are not very big. Also, afternoon storms are common in summer, and you don’t want to be on top in the storm.

Practical information:  The trail is only open from June to September and even in summer can have some snow on it.

14. Tower Fall

One of the most beautiful waterfalls of Yellowstone National Park, Tower Fall is worth a short stop. While the Yellowstone National Park website says it’s one of the best places to see in Yellowstone, they forget to mention that you cannot see the waterfall in all its glory anymore.

Interesting to know:   Due to severe erosion, the path leading to the bottom of the waterfall has been closed for years. So you can no longer hike to the waterfall and can only see it from the Tower Fall overlook. Which is definitely nice to see, I won’t argue that, but I wouldn’t go out of my way to come here. You can still walk a part of the trail to see Tower Creek flow into the Yellowstone River, but it’s not the most impressive place of Yellowstone. Furthermore, the climb back up is quite steep, so it’s up to you to decide if it’s worth it. We found this short hike somewhat disappointing.

TIP: You can best visit Tower Fall on your way to Lamar Valley or in combination with Mount Washburn, which is also in the same area. Walking to the lookout will only take a few minutes of your time.

Practical  information:  Tower Fall viewpoint is just 100 yards (100 m) from the car parking area. Count 10-15 minutes for a visit.

15. Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center

Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center  is a great place to see grizzly bears and wolfs in a safe environment. Some animals come from Yellowstone and others – from as far as Alaska. All the animals who live here are unable to survive in the wild. This center gives them a second chance, while at the same time providing an educational experience to Yellowstone visitors.

At the moment of writing, there are seven bears and five wolves in the Center, as well as some birds of prey and a Karelian bear dog. You can see the animals all year round. The bears at the Centre do not hibernate.

Interesting to know:  Admission tickets are valid for two consecutive days. So if you are staying in West Yellowstone, you could certainly visit two times.

Practical information:  Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is located in West Yellowstone, just outside the West Entrance of the park. It’s open 365 days a year. Check their website for more practical info. Count 1.5-2 hours for a visit.

16. Boiling River

Important update: Due to the severe damage caused by the floods in summer 2022, Boiling River is closed. At the time of the last update, it’s not even certain if it will reopen at all.

Boiling River is a real hidden gem of Yellowstone and one of our absolute favorite places in the park. It’s a natural hot tub, created at a place where a large hot spring enters the river. The hot and the cold water mix turning this mountain river into the best natural hot tub experience ever!

Boiling River is a wonderful place to relax after a long day exploring Yellowstone’s main attractions. Don’t miss it if you are in the northern part of Yellowstone and have an hour to spare.

Interesting to know:  Boiling River trail is often closed in spring due to melting snow and mud. You should check the latest information on the official website to see if it’s open.

TIP:  At the car parking there are bathroom facilities where you can also change your clothes. 

Practical information: Count at least an hour for a visit, but you can easily spend half a day here as well.

MORE INFO: Guide to Visiting Boiling River

Best Things to Do in Yellowstone on the Map

In order to help you plan your trip, I created this map indicating all the main Yellowstone attractions mentioned in this post.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is the ultimate list of all  the main places to see in Yellowstone . In this post, I only focused on the best of Yellowstone, because I know that everyone visiting the park for the first time wants to make sure that they cover all the musts. This list does exactly that.

If you are wondering how to best plan your time, please check our suggested Yellowstone itinerary for any trip from 1 to 5 days . If you rather let someone else do the planning, please check our guide to the best Yellowstone tours .

TIP: If you want to see all the main landmarks of Yellowstone, but don’t feel like planning it all, I recommend this highly-rated 4 days/3 nights tour . It covers all the musts in Yellowstone! If you don’t have that much time, then consider this popular 2-day tour instead.

With just a day in Yellowstone, it’s best to take this 1-day tour – it covers as much as humanly possible in a day. It will save you a lot of time not having to worry about parking, etc. so you’ll be able to make the most of your time.

Hiking: If you are looking for more great things to do in Yellowstone, I suggest you go hiking. There are so many nice short trails that will bring you to less-known places in Yellowstone. I can highly recommend this  Ranger’s Guide to Yellowstone Day Hikes . It features 29 hikes of all levels of difficulty, each with a detailed map and a short description.

READ ALSO: Yellowstone – Grand Teton National Parks Trip Itinerary

Where to Stay

We have a very comprehensive guide on the best places to stay in and near Yellowstone and also the best hotels & cabins NEAR Yellowstone , so check it out for more information.

Alternatively, if you are simply looking for the best price-quality-location option, check out lodging in West Yellowstone . It’s a small town just near the West Entrance of Yellowstone NP and it has a big range of hotels and cabins for all budgets.

TIP: Using the map below, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in West Yellowstone and beyond. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see what’s still available for your stay. Check it out!

Are you interested in a FREE printable .pdf with Yellowstone Travel Tips?

Sign up for Full Suitcase newsletter and we will send it to you right away. You’ll get a .pdf file containing our top tips for visiting Yellowstone.

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More information for your trip to Yellowstone:

• Overview: Plan a Perfect Yellowstone Trip
• What to know: Yellowstone Travel Tips
• When to go: Best Time to Visit Yellowstone & What It’s Really Like to Visit Yellowstone in Summer
• Where to stay:  Guide to Yellowstone Accommodation
• Short visit: Best of Yellowstone in One Day
• For families:   Yellowstone with Kids
• Must-see:   Grand Prismatic Spring & The Old Faithful
• Fun to do:   Boiling River
• Nearby:  One Day in Grand Teton & What to See In and Near Jackson, Wyoming
• What to pack:  What to Wear and What to Pack for Yellowstone in Summer

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

More travel inspiration for USA National Parks:

• Best Things to Do in Arches National Park
• Best Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park
• Best Things to Do in Death Valley National Park
• Best of Grand Canyon in 1 Day
• Best Hikes in Zion National Park
• Yosemite Travel Tips
• Glacier National Park Itinerary
• Rocky Mountain National Park Itinerary
• Olympic National Park Itinerary
• Acadia National Park Itinerary

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Makara Chan

Saturday 30th of September 2023

Thank you so much for this!! Helped with last minute planning big time.

Monday 2nd of October 2023

Glad to help. Enjoy your trip!

Sunday 17th of September 2023

Wow!! This was definitely insightful for our first and upcoming trip this coming week! We are so excited and happy to have 5 nights 6 full days to experience and explore this beautiful national forest. Thank you for all of your advice on highlights and places not to miss out on.

Glad to help, Tiffany. Have a great time in Yellowstone!

Tuesday 4th of July 2023

Hey You may want to take off the boiling river since it washout in 2022.

Thursday 6th of July 2023

@Jurga, You are amazing! Thank you for taking time and replying on time for my planning. I really appreciate your efforts. 😊

Wednesday 5th of July 2023

@Jurga, This website is so wonderful. Thank you so much for putting together such a detailed info. I need a help, after 2022 flood. Which points on the above list should i ignore? Just learned about boiling river. TIA

Hi Robert, we already have this information in our article about Boiling River to which we link from all the other articles related to it. However, it's practically impossible for us to update each and every guide on our website every time something like that changes, especially in the situations like this where the official site doesn't clearly state if they will be able to restore/reopen this area or not. All they say is that swimming is not possible there at the moment. That's why we also always encourage people to check the current conditions page on the official site for the latest updates. But yes, we're keeping an eye on the official site and if they announce that the area is definitely not going to reopen, then we'll do our best to update every article.

Friday 30th of June 2023

Just found your wonderful website. Since we are planning our third trip to Yellowstone in September 2023 I want to say thank you. Through you website I have found new places to visit and you've given me more information on places to revisit. What a fantastic website!

Glad to help, Becky, and thanks for your kind feedback. Have a great time in Yellowstone!

Wednesday 7th of June 2023

Great info! We used this to plan our trip last week and it was wonderful. Thank you so much for all the work you have put into this!

@Linda, Any info you want to pass on after your recent trip?

Thursday 8th of June 2023

Glad to hear that, Linda. Yellowstone is amazing, isn't it! Happy travels.

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9 Tips to Visit Yellowstone on a Budget

Wondering whether to fly or drive where to stay to save money here’s everything you need to know to plan an affordable vacation to yellowstone without sacrificing fun..

Planning a budget friendly Yellowstone vacation isn’t as easy as it might seem. Tucked in the northwest corner of Wyoming and southern edges of Montana, Yellowstone’s remote location has, no doubt, helped preserve its natural wonders. But being so far from a metropolitan area can drive up lodging, flights, gas and food costs. After years of visiting Yellowstone, we’ve learned how to enjoy the park and not break the bank. Here are nine insider tips to save money on your next Yellowstone vacation.

Weigh Whether Driving or Flying to Yellowstone Is More Affordable

Everyone planning a Yellowstone vacation has to decide whether they will drive or fly. If you’re a family of five traveling from Chicago to Yellowstone , it may be most cost-effective to drive. You won’t spend money on airline tickets or a rental car. And while you’ll need to pay for hotels, food and gas along the way, those costs are manageable. To save on food costs, stay at inexpensive hotels where breakfast is included, pack snacks and stock your cooler with lunch foods. Better yet, if you’re a camper, pack your tent and camp stove and stay at campgrounds along the way.

If you have airline miles or limited time, it may be cheaper to fly and rent a car at the airport. Yellowstone visitors fly into a mix of regional and international airports, all with pros and cons.

Know the Cheapest Places to Fly into Yellowstone

To be clear, there’s no airport right next to the park. Regional airports within an hour’s drive of the park include Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody, Wyoming, and Jackson Hole Airport , which sits in Grand Teton National Park in Jackson, Wyoming. Just under a two-hour drive are Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport and Idaho Falls Regional Airport . It’s worth checking flight prices to all four airports on various airlines using a tool like Google Flights. If you really want to hone in on deals, Airfarewatchdog.com can alert you when prices drop.

While farther from Yellowstone, Salt Lake City International Airport in Salt Lake City, Utah , and Denver International Airport in Denver, Colorado, offer what the small airports don’t: choice. With more flights and airlines to choose from, you may find cheaper prices. It’s a five-hour drive to Yellowstone from Salt Lake City and an 8.5-hour drive from Denver . While flying into these airports eats up time you could be spending in the park, it may also save you a lot of money.

When you’re pricing your flights, be sure to price rental cars, too. Rental car prices can vary wildly, and an overpriced vehicle can erase all the savings you got for your flights. Wherever you fly into, reserve your rental car way in advance.

Be Aware that the Cheapest Gas in Yellowstone Is Outside the Park

Whether you fly or drive there, you need a car to tour Yellowstone. The park’s vastness and its lack of a public transportation system force visitors to be completely dependent on their vehicles to explore any of the park’s gems.

While there are seven gas stations in Yellowstone, the gas in the park is more expensive than outside the park. Save money by fueling up in West Yellowstone , Gardiner and Cooke City in Montana. Because the park is larger than Delaware and Rhode Island combined, be strategic and scout out your fuel stops in advance. If you’re going to visit Mammoth Hot Springs, fuel up in the town of Gardiner, which is several minutes away. If you’re staying in West Yellowstone, fuel up there before venturing to Old Faithful. No matter where you explore, keep your eyes on your gas tank. Running out of gas in Yellowstone is no picnic, especially with all those grizzly bears roaming around.

Use These Hacks to Find the Best Hotel Deals in Yellowstone

If you have your heart set on staying in the park, there are some essentials you need to know. First, you’re battling with literally thousands of others to stay in the park, so to get the cheapest rates, book your rooms as early as possible. Yellowstone National Park Lodges, the company that runs the park’s hotels, releases rooms 13 months in advance, so be ready to book the instant rooms are released for your dates.

Second, seek out the more affordable properties. Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Old Faithful Inn are two of Yellowstone’s finest hotels, but both properties have cabins a stone’s throw away that are much cheaper. Instead of staying at Lake Yellowstone Hotel, stay at Lake Lodge Cabins . Pass on the Old Faithful Inn, and opt for Old Faithful Lodge Cabins . If you book a cabin with a communal bathroom, the price drops more.

Roosevelt Lodge Cabins are another affordable option with shared or private bathrooms. Like many things in life, as the price drops, amenities tend to disappear. If you book a Rough Rider cabin, you won’t find a bathroom, TV, internet or a coffee maker in your room. But you’ll have a cozy bed in the heart of the park.

For the best hotel rates, sign up for the park’s hotel newsletter as it often offers special promotions and book directly through Yellowstone National Park Lodges.

If you like to camp, the cheapest way to stay in Yellowstone is in your tent or RV at one of the park’s 12 campgrounds . All but Mammoth Campground in Gardiner requires advanced reservations. Book as early as possible for a night stay that could cost you the equivalent of three trips to Starbucks. Remember, camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds inside the park.

Stay in the Most Affordable Places Outside of Yellowstone

Lodging outside of Yellowstone is often more affordable. The farther you have to drive, the cheaper the prices. For instance, for the price of a no-frills cabin in Yellowstone, you may be able to reserve an amenity-filled hotel room outside the park. But pricing often depends on where and when you book. In Montana, West Yellowstone and Gardiner both sit right on the park’s boundary and Silver Gate/Cooke City are just minutes from the boundary. These towns have a mix of affordable lodging and restaurants, which means you can save money and access the park quickly. Thirty minutes from the West Entrance, you may find more bargains in Island Park, Idaho .

Even farther, Cody, Wyoming , is 55 miles east of the park’s East Entrance and Jackson, Wyoming is 57 miles from the park’s South Entrance. Both towns offer world-class museums and restaurants, and lodging for a variety of budgets. However, you’ll spend more time in the car and more money on gas driving to and from the park. While Cody offers affordable lodging, Jackson tends to offer higher-end prices in the summer. If you stay outside the park, choose a town that puts you closest to the attractions you want to see. For the cheapest options outside the park consider camping. There’s a variety of national forest and BLM campgrounds as well as privately run campgrounds and RV parks nearby that offer affordable ways to spend the night.

Make Reservations for Yellowstone’s Cheapest Time of Year

Yellowstone’s high season is June through August, but even September has become a popular time to visit, so finding good deals in summer means looking way in advance. You’ll find the highest hotel rates during peak season.

Almost all park roads close in the winter, leaving only Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Old Faithful Snow Lodge open, so adventurous travelers have to take a snowcoach to get to Old Faithful. While you’ll discover a snowy, uncrowded Yellowstone, it’s not the cheapest season because you have limited lodging and dining options and need to arrange tours into the heart of the park.

Hotel rates fall most during spring and fall in and out of the park. The park roads open in late April, and between then and early June, you’ll find some hotel rates will be between 30-50% lower than high season. The same goes for the fall season from late September to late October before park roads close for the season.

If you have flexibility with your dates, find the best deals by visiting Yellowstone National Park Lodges’ website. Select the flexible calendar option to see the lowest rates for any Yellowstone hotel on any day.

Save Money in Yellowstone by Preparing Your Own Food

Yellowstone has a variety of eateries from delis to sit-down service. While they vary in price, eating every meal in the park will empty your wallet quickly. Even Yellowstone’s convenience stores are expensive and lack a large selection of food.

For the really budget conscious, pack dishes, a camp stove, pans and a picnic blanket before you leave home. Preparing your own meals at Yellowstone’s designated picnic areas will save you a ton of money. You’ll save even more by buying your food at a grocery store outside of the park. If you’re coming from the south, Jackson has both a large Albertson’s and a Smith’s grocery store. Heading west toward the park, Cody, has an Albertson’s and a Walmart Supercenter. Heading east into the park, West Yellowstone is home to Food Roundup Supermarket and Market Place.

Whether you prepare all your meals or just some, scout out the park’s designated picnic areas to plan where to dine. Each picnic area has tables and vaulted toilets.

Dine at Yellowstone’s Budget Friendly Restaurants

If you’re an avid restaurant-goer, consider dining outside the park for lower prices and more variety . Or check out Yellowstone’s dining establishments to see what might fit your budget. Similar to lodging, there are less expensive grab-and-go options alongside pricier sit-down locales. For instance, Old Faithful Inn Bear Paw Deli offers counter service with deli style items whereas Old Faithful Inn Dining Room requires dinner reservations and offers a pricier experience with waitstaff.

The silver lining of preparing some of your own meals is you may free up some money to splurge on a special meal like dinner at Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Hall where large windows showcase stunning views of Yellowstone Lake. There’s also the Old West Dinner Cookout where you ride in a covered wagon to a cookout replete with steaks, cornbread muffins, coleslaw and cowboys singing by the campfire.

Cut Costs in Yellowstone by Buying an All-Parks Pass

Everyone has to pay a fee at the park’s entrance station. Yellowstone park passes are good for seven days and cost $35. But if you plan on visiting other federal recreation sites within the year, buy the America the Beautiful Pass. It costs $80 but gives you access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites for 12 months. It’s especially handy if you’re headed to Grand Teton National Park or Glacier National Park right after Yellowstone.

While planning a budget-friendly Yellowstone vacation requires some effort, you’ll find it was all worth it as you watch a wolf loping through the Lamar Valley, bison grazing along the road to Tower Fall and the iconic Old Faithful shooting up toward the clear blue sky.

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The 6 Best Views in Yellowstone, Montana

By Mark Barnett

Whether thinking in general terms of the Yellowstone region or particularly of Yellowstone National Park , you can bet you’ll find some of the most impressive scenery on the planet in this spot of Montana.

The scenic Yellowstone Country spans at least 500 miles and crosses borders, encompassing the kind of scenery that brings in visitors from far and wide.

Within the designated national park area there are over 300 miles of paved, winding roads. This is good news for anyone choosing to do a spot of scenic driving along these highways they will definitely be privy to some of the best views in Yellowstone.

That said, a large proportion of the visitors heading out to the Yellowstone regions are usually hoping to catch some of the wilder-looking local inhabitants.

And they’ll find they’ve hit the right spot when they encounter the 2-plus-million-acres of natural features that include plenty of wildlife and the odd geological wonder or two amidst the mountains and valleys.

One thing about the best views in Yellowstone is that they are generally easy to access. They are typically grand and rugged yet picturesque.

Different tastes will appreciate the various aspects of Yellowstone and there are many but anyone with a hint of a taste for the outdoors will find plenty of views to suit them in and around the region.

Six of the Best Views in Yellowstone

• Madison River Scenic Drive
• Lamar Valley
• Artist Point
• Minerva Terrace
• Upper Geyser Basin
• Tower Falls Overlook

1. Madison River Scenic Drive

If you are approaching the region of Yellowstone by road and you don’t mind your views coming by way of four wheels here’s just the thing for you.

The 14-mile stretch of road along the Madison River in Yellowstone is a unique and scenic drive with plentiful pull-ins and picnic areas from which to enjoy some of the best views in Yellowstone.

The scenic route follows the Madison River and it runs through diverse and amazing scenery covering everything from grassy meadows to high mountains with populations of various types of wildlife.

This is a good stretch to bring a picnic to while you take your pick of the various stop-offs along the way.

With this in mind, you may find it best to forget being in a rush altogether as many other travelers are likely to be checking out the Bison and other wildlife especially when they decide to cross the road, or even just stand in the middle.

There is an off-shoot road that is more of a riverside drive, but this is also worth a look. It helps keep you close to the river where the odds of glimpsing some of the less-seen denizens of the natural locale are better.

2. Lamar Valley

Up and across to the National Park’s north-eastern shoulder is the ever-so-scenic and wild Lamar Valley.

Set along the Lamar River, this stretch of Yellowstone has earned the tag ‘America’s Serengeti’ due to the large wildlife populations that are very easy to spot most of the time. This includes the Lamar Canyon wolf packs, a draw for wolf enthusiasts from all over.

Aside from wolf enthusiasts, there are hordes of others who swear that this is the best place in Yellowstone to get views of wildlife. Especially if you are prepared to be there at either dawn or dusk. Maybe both it depends on how badly you want those Instagram shots .

Some of the other wildlife species roaming the Lamar region include large herds of bison , grizzly bears, deer, coyotes, and smaller animals like badgers with flying predators like osprey and bald eagles.

There are many pull-outs along the stretch of the road from which to take in some of the best wildlife scenario views in Yellowstone.

A Scenic Lookout Point of the Lamar Valley can be found between the northeast entrance of the park near Cooke City and Tower Junction.

There are no real specific viewing points though as the wildlife tends to move around, neither photographic nor outdoor enthusiasts will be disappointed.

3. Artist Point

From the heights of the 700-foot rock walls of the cliff over the Yellowstone River you’ll see some amazing views. For starters, there’s a steamy canyon and a huge waterfall at the center of your vision.

This is Artist Point on the South Rim of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, along Lower Falls, its grand-looking waterfall.

Anyone who does ‘must-see’ views and attractions undoubtedly needs to see this one. It does tend to serve as the backdrop for many a perfect vacation snapshot.

It’s also only a short walk along a paved trail from the South Rim Drive, and climbing the stone stairs takes you to the upper level.

From the upper vantage point, you’ll get views of the North Rim and its bleached-looking wall along with some impressively-panoramic, open terrain that takes your breath away.

This spot is also between two other well-known viewing points in Yellowstone, both of which are reachable from here Inspiration Point and Grand View Point .

4. Minerva Terrace

Welcome to the other-worldly terrain of the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces, a natural limestone scenario that may come with icy cascades depending on the time of year.

The Minerva Terrace is the primary feature of the hot springs area and it goes through various cycles of activity, but it always provides some unique views.

In line with this and to help ensure the best views, the park installed a moveable boardwalk just in case. Wandering the Lower Terraces boardwalk is definitely the way to get the best views, and you can also gain access this way. The alternative is a drive up to the Upper Terraces Overlook.

You could always opt to snowshoe this boardwalk in the winter if you fancy and if the weather permits. This is a time when the views are something else altogether.

5. The Upper Geyser Basin

If it’s astounding views featuring natural geological wonders that interest you then check out the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop in Yellowstone National Park.

Anyone who is unfamiliar with geysers or this region, in general, will soon find these views feature on many first-timers ‘must-see” lists. In fact, the Upper Geyser Basin probably features at some point on the list of most outdoor enthusiasts.

It’s no secret that the Yellowstone National Park Upper Geyser Basin is largely considered a crown jewel among bucket list views. The geysers and pools are visually spectacular to see, from a trail and overlook that isn’t steep coming down.

Visitors love the many beautiful views of the geysers along the entire stretch of this loop. Definitely stop and enjoy each one to make the most of this route, and you’ll find the area takes on different hues and vibes at different times, with the real magic occurring early morning and sunset.

Imagine glimpsing early-morning streaks of the sun’s rays piercing through steam. This is possible from around 20 designated viewing spaces accessible from the paved parking lot off of Geyser Avenue.

If you fancy a wander while taking in these astounding scenarios, the Observation Point Loop stretches for about 1.8 miles before it turns to more natural terrain with steps, rocks, and some reasonably steep sections.

There are benches dotted along the way for resting and taking it all in. The most accessible portion of the trail is the Upper Geyser Basin trail.

6. Tower Falls Overlook

It’s worth checking out one of Yellowstone’s views that apparently inspired the creation of the first national park.

The impressive 130-foot waterfall scenario is classic Yellowstone and was famously painted by artist Thomas Moran during the 1871 Hayden Survey which ultimately led to the creation of the park.

The falls cascade down through eroded volcanic rock that joins the Yellowstone River. The good news is that here you’ll find the dramatic beauty that can also be seen from the Tower Falls Overlook in the northeastern part of the park.

The bad news depending on how you look at it is that the viewpoint is a further 10-mile hike from the parking lot.

The also-scenic Calcite Springs just north of Tower Falls is the end of the downstream bottom end of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

If you want the best views with the fewest people you’ll have the best chance before 9 or 10 a.m. and then again after around 5 p.m.

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About The Author

Mark Barnett

Mark Philip is a writer and lifestyle enthusiast from the Midlands in the U.K. With a background in martial arts and fitness, Mark headed out to Bangkok, Thailand where he now lives and works. Mark has authored e-books, articles, and blogs across a wide range of topics for commercial, educational, factual, lifestyle and leisure-based purposes.

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Marvelous Montana: The Best Places To Visit In The Treasure State

Posted: November 21, 2023 | Last updated: November 21, 2023

Top spots in the Treasure State

Big Sky Country. The Treasure State. The Last Best Place. Whichever of these nicknames you use for Montana, you won’t be wrong. America’s fourth largest state by area – which has just been named in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2024 as one of the world’s top regions for travelers – is a real Western wonder. With endless beautiful and intriguing places to explore, from national parks and other natural attractions to small towns, slick cities, and historic landmarks, what are you waiting for?

Click through to discover the very best spots to see in Montana right now...

Swaddled by the spectacular landscapes of the Beartooth Mountains and Custer Gallatin National Forest, this charming enclave calls itself a town and has the quaint, community feel of one, but it’s actually a small city. A Native American trading post frequented by cowboys and outlaws back in the 19th century, Red Lodge has since retained its Western-style architecture and reputation for warm hospitality.

Head downtown to sample the fruits of its locally-owned independent stores and farm-to-table restaurants, or visit Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary to support animals from the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem who are unable to live in the wild. 

Yellowstone National Park

While Wyoming is the state most synonymous with Yellowstone, Montana has two gateways into America’s oldest national park. The little tourist town of West Yellowstone is just a short drive from the West Entrance and will steer you right into the heart of this geothermal marvel.

West Yellowstone is fun to visit in its own right, with the must-see Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center promising close encounters with Greater Yellowstone animals who can’t live in the wild. Yellowstone’s North Entrance – the original way into the park – can be found in Gardiner and leads into the so-called ‘American Serengeti’ year-round, via the iconic Roosevelt Arch.

Beartooth Highway

Beginning just south of Red Lodge, the Beartooth Highway is a 68-mile All-American Road snaking through Montana’s highest mountain peaks and into the state of Wyoming. After crossing the border via Montana's Cooke City, the road climbs to reach Beartooth Pass (elevation: 10,947 feet) and enters Shoshone National Forest before arriving at the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park.

The scenic route, with its hairpin bends and sharp switchbacks, is typically open between May and October. Allow at least three hours for the total drive (not including photo stops).

Gallatin River

Known to the Shoshone Tribe as Cut-tuh-o-gwa (swift water), the Gallatin River was renamed after the Lewis and Clark Expedition arrived in Montana during the early 1800s. Around a quarter of the river falls within the northern tip of Yellowstone National Park, attracting hikers, fly fisherfolk, and watersports nuts with its astonishing beauty, as well as local bears, deer, and moose.

Downstream, the river rushes through the Gallatin Canyon and the Gallatin Valley, where the scenery effortlessly shifts from pine forests to cottonwoods and hay fields.

Medicine Rocks State Park

Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, Medicine Rocks State Park is filled with unusual sandstone formations that look like lumps and shards of dusty honeycomb. Shaped by the elements over millions of years, these unique rocks were deemed sacred by some Native American groups (such as the Crow, Northern Cheyenne, and Sioux peoples), who convened in their shadows for ceremonial and religious gatherings.

Called “as fantastically beautiful a place as I have ever seen” by Theodore Roosevelt when he visited as a boy, Medicine Rocks is still a captivating haven for nature lovers.

Bannack State Park

Bannack, a former boomtown near the border with Idaho, was Montana’s first territorial capital and the site of its first major gold strike in 1862. Within a year, the settlement’s population had ballooned to over 3,000, which was then followed by a gradual decline as gold became less valuable.

Now labeled the best preserved of all the state’s ghost towns, Bannack is something of an open-air museum, showcasing more than 50 original Old West buildings seemingly frozen in time. There are 28 campsites (including a tipi to rent) open for year-round overnight stays in the park too.

Fort Peck Lake

Soaking a swathe of Montana’s Missouri River Country, Fort Peck Lake (really a reservoir) is the state’s largest body of water. Its 1,520 miles of shoreline outnumbers the length of the Californian coast and is home to the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge, populated by herds of mule deer, red foxes, mountain bluebirds, coyotes and so much more.

The lake was founded with a practical use in mind – to alleviate flooding, as well as post-Depression poverty by creating jobs – but has evolved into a hub of outdoor recreation.

Wrapped in blankets of trees on all sides, it’s no mystery how Missoula won its nickname. The ‘Garden City’ is uniquely situated within driving distance of five of Montana’s seven national forests; Lolo National Forest surrounds it entirely.

Within Lolo, visitors will find myriad walking and cycling trails sewn throughout the picturesque Rattlesnake and Blue Mountain National Recreation Areas – but there’s plenty to do indoors too. Missoula is a burgeoning university city; its downtown neighborhood and the so-called ‘Hip Strip’ are awash with music venues, cool art galleries, and coffee houses.

We can’t round up the most gorgeous places in Big Sky Country without mentioning Big Sky itself. Dramatic peaks crest all around this small town like rearing waves and wear whimsical names like Sphinx Mountain, Cinnamon Mountain, and Lone Mountain (pictured). Adrenaline-inducing winter sports and whitewater thrills are the main draws here, with the Big Sky Resort boasting some of the biggest skiing in the US.

While a sense of adventure is encouraged, it’s not mandatory to enjoy your time in Big Sky – just hit the Historic Crail Ranch Museum or the stores instead of the slopes.

Makoshika State Park

The name of Montana’s largest state park derives from the Lakota phrase meaning ‘bad earth’ or ‘bad spirit,’ relating to the harsh and inhospitable conditions of Montana’s eastern badlands. But life has been known to thrive in what is now Makoshika State Park; aside from the juniper and pine scrub that peppers its rocky landscape today, dinosaurs once roamed here.

At the park’s visitor center, you’ll find the fossilized remains of tyrannosaurus rex, triceratops, and even more prehistoric creatures. As well as archaeological wonders, Makoshika is laced with nature trails, scenic driving routes, and campsites. An open-air theater hosts an annual Shakespeare festival too.

Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild

This sculpture park in Lincoln features large-scale installations by Montana natives and international artists that celebrate Blackfoot Valley’s precious cultural, environmental, and industrial heritage. Carving through the western corner of the state, the Blackfoot Valley cradles a free-flowing river of the same name and has been inhabited by Native American peoples for at least 10,000 years.

One of the most striking pieces you can see at Blackfoot Pathways: Sculpture in the Wild is “Tree Circus” by Patrick Dougherty (pictured), created out of willow and alder wood.

Glacier National Park

Forming part of the Crown of the Continent – a Venn diagram of vast temperate ecosystems shared by Montana and the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Alberta – Glacier National Park is a wilderness of alpine meadows, gleaming lakes, majestic valleys, and vanishing glaciers. It is vast, but we think hiking in the Many Glacier area is a particularly jaw-dropping introduction to exploring this national park.

Tripping the Going-to-the-Sun Road can’t be missed either; take an interpretive tour with Blackfeet-owned tribal business Sun Tours to fully understand the national park’s complex history.

First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park

Set within the High Plains, First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park is where Indigenous hunters used to kill herds of buffalo and bison by driving them over a sheer cliff. Believed to be the largest such jump in North America, this site was used for at least two thousand years and features a mile-long sandstone ledge where compacted bovid remains lie entombed beneath.

While this all might make you shudder, a single jump could feed, clothe and shelter the hunters’ people for a whole year, so they were necessary for survival.

Butte was once called the Richest Hill on Earth, owing to the abundant copper lodes that transformed it from a humble mining town on the slopes of the Continental Divide into Montana’s first major city. At the turn of the 20th century, Butte was the largest city west of the Mississippi and was also the biggest between San Francisco and Chicago for a considerable stretch of time.

Nowadays, while the copper boom has long since dwindled, the city remains a monument to its past – it contains one of the USA’s largest National Historic Landmark Districts and some fascinating museums that document its 1800s prime.

Bozeman is Montana’s other university city, which has been called “the most liveable place.” Combining ample opportunities for backcountry exploring and adventure sports with diverse festivals, farmers’ markets, theaters, cafes, and craft breweries, the growing town is keen to show off its experimental and eclectic vibe.

Spare some time for the Museum of the Rockies, an affiliate of the illustrious Smithsonian Institution and home to one of the country’s largest dinosaur collections, as well as exhibits on regional Native American culture and Western art. If that wasn’t enough, the planetarium and outdoor living-history sections will leave you equally entertained and educated.

Paradise Valley

If you’re visiting Bozeman, supplement your trip with a gorgeous 90-minute drive through the heart of Paradise Valley to the North Entrance of Yellowstone – the only way into the national park during the winter months. With the Absaroka mountain range to its eastern flank and the Gallatin range to the west, Paradise Valley offers some amazing outdoor experiences, including cross-country skiing, dude ranches, dog-sledding, ziplining, and river rafting.

Head to Chico Hot Springs, a spa resort that’s been in operation for over a century, to toast yourself up.

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

With one foot in Wyoming and the other in Montana, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area boasts 17 miles of designated trails and spans over 120,000 acres in its entirety. The park has been touted as the state’s best-kept secret; pontoon boats can be rented and steered between the rugged canyon walls, while the visitor center at Fort Smith overlooks Yellowtail Dam and tells its origin story.

Named after Robert Yellowtail, leader of the Crow Nation, the dam siphoned the once-volatile Bighorn River into a serene lake that now forms the centerpiece of the park.

Kootenai Falls

The largest undammed falls in Montana (and one of the largest free-flowing falls in the American northwest), Kootenai Falls is certainly impressive. The rushing cascade sits on the sacred lands of the Kootenai Tribe, to whom the falls represent the center of the world.

Community members come here for spiritual guidance and direction from their ancestors. For visitors, this is a place to feel grounded and close to nature. Follow the forest trail from the parking lot down to the Swinging Bridge, which promises a great perspective of the falls if you’ve got a head for heights (and aren’t put off by the wobble).

Ross Creek Cedars

Ross Creek Cedars Scenic Area is a 100-acre grove of giant red cedar trees. Many tower above Kootenai National Forest as they have for the past thousand years, their striped trunks sentinels of the past.

Thriving in the shadows of the damp understory are mosses, mushrooms, hemlocks, and lichens, delighting nature lovers with their earthy perfume. For a gentle day hike through a closed canopy of ancient western cedars, follow the Ross Creek Trail 142; a shorter circular trail, lined with information boards and picnic benches, is ideal for families.

Swan Lake might be small in size compared to its neighbor Flathead Lake, but don't let that fool you – it belongs to a big-hearted community, softened and shaped by their connection to nature. The lake lends its name to a nearby town, established in the early 20th century to accommodate lumberjacks felling timber to build the Great Northern Railroad.

It has since grown around the lake, building a modest reputation for its sought-after fish stocks. Nestled among blue peaks and cozy forests, Swan Lake spawns a host of hiking trails and also holds its signature huckleberry festival annually, which has been going for over 40 years.

Whitefish Mountain Resort

Also borne out of the railway, Whitefish (adjacent to Glacier National Park) in northwest Montana was incorporated in 1905 and frequented by loggers, miners, and railroad workers in its early days. Now, there’s one main reason that people come in their droves to this compact city.

Whitefish Mountain Resort is renowned as one of the biggest and best ski spots in North America, featuring over 3,000 skiable acres. But contrary to what you might expect, it’s something of an all-seasons destination – when the powder melts, zipline tours, downhill mountain biking, and treetop walkways become the signs of summer.

Gates of the Mountains

Just north of Helena, Montana’s capital city, you’ll find the magical Gates of the Mountains. Split by the Missouri River, this bewildering limestone canyon has more than 28,000 acres of designated wilderness area named after it, where airy forests, high-altitude meadows, and slender gorges give a different flavor in every season.

It caught mainstream attention after Meriwether Lewis and William Clark passed through on their 8,000-mile journey across what was (in the early 19th century) an uncharted corner of the United States; those following the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail today will find this landmark a highlight of the route.

Humbug Spires

The wilderness study area of Humbug Spires relates to a swathe of peculiar rock formations that form part of the Boulder Batholith, where quartz monzonite shards have pushed up from beneath the surface of the Earth and calved jagged, shark-tooth-like peaks. Pristine and car-free, you’ll seldom see another soul on the trail here, which runs for three miles along Moose Creek and meanders through an old-growth forest.

A boon for rock climbers, the views of Big Sky Country from the spires are top tier.

Terry Badlands

The town of Terry in Montana’s Prairie County is your gateway to the Terry Badlands Wilderness Study Area and the stunning Big Sky Back Country Byway, which ends at Wolf Point on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. Its stark badlands are a striking departure from the snow-capped mountains and glacial lakes that most would associate with the Treasure State, comprising weathered escarpments of neatly banded sedimentary rock, fairy chimneys, and sandstone buttes.

The Terry Badlands are remote, but definitely worth the adventure – follow the Natural Bridges Trail for a punchy introduction to the park’s unique geology.

Located on the shores of Flathead Lake, in the midst of Montana’s Glacier Country, Bigfork has been called one of the best small art towns in America. This idyllic enclave may seem sleepy to those just passing through, but stay a while and you’ll discover a thriving community with creativity and curiosity at its core.

From outstanding art galleries to artisanal stores, coffee stops, and markets, Bigfork has a lot to offer within its tiny footprint. Annual celebrations like Bigfork Whitewater Festival and Bigfork Brewfest give the town even more excuses to demonstrate its gregarious spirit.

Flathead Lake

With water so clear in summer that you can see 20 feet into its depths, Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River in the contiguous US and one of Montana’s best places for aquatic activities. Look out for the mysterious Flathead Lake Monster though, which has reportedly been sighted several times in the past 130 years. Note that the southern half of Flathead Lake rests on tribal land, so you’ll need to secure a recreation permit from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai peoples if you’re planning to spend time here.

Now discover the most mysterious place in every US state

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'Yellowstone' Has Created A Tourism Boom In Missoula, Montana

Ruby’s Café in Missoula, Montana, is no stranger to busy mornings.

“Ruby’s itself, I think, has been here for about close to 50 years, close to 50 years long before there was any of this out here," owner Brenda Hallas said.

But recently, it’s been branded for something beyond its comfort food.

“We came to Missoula strictly to kind of see 'Yellowstone'" a bypasser said. "We're big 'Yellowstone' fans.” 

They’re not talking about the park, 270 miles away from Missoula. They’re talking about the show on Paramount.

The runaway hit starring Kevin Costner set new ratings records with its season four finale, and it seems many fans can’t get enough of the show — or its setting.  

"A lot of things that happen in the show, like there are in any fictional products, that aren't exactly Montana and all the Montanans know that, but nonetheless, it is Montana," Hallas said. "I mean, it's the background, and then the cities, and then the landscapes are us, and it certainly is a high profile."

Ruby’s Café is cooking more than normal because a now-famous scene was shot there. It featured a shooting that killed off a sheriff.

Now, the café's owner, Brenda Hallas, says not a day goes by that someone doesn't ask her about it.

"There's a lot of people that they're always asking," Hallas said. "They're always questioning, taking pictures."

At first, the café just saw an influx of selfie-takers and not such a boost in actual business. But now, that’s changed.

It’s not just the café. Season five just started shooting in western Montana, and the cast was just shooting in downtown Missoula.  

Another draw: The home of the Dutton Ranch — in reality called Chief Joseph Ranch, about 60 miles south of Missoula. Fans can even stay in one of two cabins used in the show, but it will cost you anywhere from $1,200 to $1,500 a night.

A report by the University of Montana’s Bureau of Business and Economic Research found "Yellowstone" brought more than $85 million in additional spending to Montana, with nearly $100,000 alone spent on parking.

The report, funded in part by Paramount, also found season four of the show meant a collective $25 million in income for some Montana residents. 

Tourism spending wasn’t included in the study, but economists say it’s big.  

“It's tangible, whether people like it or not," said Patrick Barkey, with the Bureau of Business and Economic Research. "There's a lot more people that know about Montana, at least from an imagery point of view, than did before this series really took off.”

On top of tourism, the University of Montana report found 233 people moved to Big Sky Country to work on the show, but there’s more: Fans are also calling real estate agents. 

"It is like being on spin cycle all the time right now," said Bill McDavid, a partner at Hall and Hall real estate agency. "I mean, I used to think I knew what busy meant."

McDavid specializes in high-end ranch properties.

"'Yellowstone' is certainly brought up by everybody who comes through the door, but I would place a lot more weight on the pandemic," McDavid said. "There were a lot of people that thought about owning a ranch for years, and they never executed on it."

That goes up when you add a hit TV show showcasing Montana’s sweeping vistas and craggy mountain ranges.

"Every buyer talks about it," McDavid said. "I'm not gonna say that's what got them here, but it's it's a very popular show."

Some locals aren’t thrilled with the extra attention on top of soaring real estate prices and demand from the pandemic.  

"It's a hard time to be a buyer right now," McDavid said.

The median price of a single family home in Missoula went from $350,000 in 2020 to more than $500,000 in 2022. In Bozeman, Montana, jumped from nearly $660,000 in April of 2021 to more than $811,000 this April. But if you want to live on a ranch like the Duttons, it’s going to cost you a lot more.

"I think our average deal right now is probably 8 to 10 million, so if that tells you anything, I mean... there's plenty of deals that we're doing that are less than that, but it's been a while since I've done a deal that was under 2 million," McDavid said.

The irony isn’t lost on many — a show about land rights and development conflict contributing to the state’s very own real property woes.

"If we're not doing a very good job already, in some of these areas, growth will underscore, will make bold, those kinds of problems," Barkey said. "But is the problem with growth? Or is the problem how we're managing growth? And I would argue it's the latter."

It’s not just real estate. The Bitterroot Valley Ranch overlooks a site used for filming, and the owner says it’s common for excited "Yellowstone" fans to ignore multiple no trespassing signs, just to try to get a glimpse of the set. They spent more than $1,000 on security features like a gate to try to keep their privacy intact. They told Newsy, "I live where I live because I want to be left alone and have my privacy... “

Back at Ruby’s Café, Brenda is the first to say that not all of her diners are there for "Yellowstone;" some are just old-fashioned Montana tourists. 

"Do I think 'Yellowstone' has made a difference?" Hallas said. "Of course it has, but frosting on the cake."

So if you’re in the market for biscuits and gravy, a 'Yellowstone' photo op or a multi-million-dollar ranch, you’re in the right place. With multiple spinoffs and bigger real estate problems, it's not slowing down.

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Yellowstone’s Wolves: A Debate Over Their Role in the Park’s Ecosystem

New research questions the long-held theory that reintroduction of such a predator caused a trophic cascade, spawning renewal of vegetation and spurring biodiversity.

Yellowstone’s ecological transformation through the reintroduction of wolves has become a case study for how to correct out-of-balance ecosystems. But new research challenges that notion. Credit... Elizabeth Boehm/Danita Delimont, via Alamy

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By Jim Robbins

• April 23, 2024

In 1995, 14 wolves were delivered by truck and sled to the heart of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, where the animal had long been absent. Others followed.

Since then, a story has grown up, based on early research, that as the wolves increased in number, they hunted the park’s elk herds, significantly reducing them by about half from 17,000.

The wolves’ return and predatory dominance was believed to have had a widespread effect known as a trophic cascade, by decreasing grazing and restoring and expanding forests, grasses and other wildlife. It supposedly even changed the course of rivers as streamside vegetation returned.

Yellowstone’s dramatic transformation through the reintroduction of wolves has become a global parable for how to correct out-of-balance ecosystems.

In recent years, however, new research has walked that story back. Yes, stands of aspen and willows are thriving again — in some places. But decades of damage from elk herds’ grazing and trampling so thoroughly changed the landscape that large areas remain scarred and may not recover for a long time, if ever.

Wolf packs, in other words, are not magic bullets for restoring ecosystems.

“I would say it’s exaggerated, greatly exaggerated,” said Thomas Hobbs, a professor of natural resource ecology at Colorado State University and the lead author of a long-term study that adds new fuel to the debate over whether Yellowstone experienced a trophic cascade.

“You could argue a trophic trickle maybe,” said Daniel Stahler, the park’s lead wolf biologist who has studied the phenomenon. “Not a trophic cascade.”

Not only is the park’s recovery far less robust than first thought, but the story as it has been told is more complex, Dr. Hobbs said.

But the legend of the wolves’ influence on the park persists.

“How in the world does this lovely story — and it is a beautiful story — come to be seen as fact?” Dr. Hobbs wondered. A chapter of a book tried to answer that, concluding that a video called “ How Wolves Change Rivers ,” which has received tens of millions of views, contributed mightily to the tale.

The ecological record is complicated by the fact that, as elk declined, the number of bison increased substantially, continuing some of the same patterns, like heavy grazing in some places. Moreover, Yellowstone is growing warmer and drier with climate change.

Large numbers of elk in the north of the park had caused significant ecological changes — vegetation disappeared, trampled streams led to extensive erosion, and invasive plant species took hold. Riparian vegetation, or the grasses, the trees and the shrubs along riverbanks and streams, provides a critical habitat for birds, insects and other species to flourish and to maintain biodiversity in the park.

Once elk numbers dwindled, willows and aspens returned along rivers and streams and flourished. The beaver, an engineer of ecosystems, reappeared, using the dense new growth of willows for both food and construction materials. Colonies built new dams, creating ponds that enhanced stream habitats for birds, fish, grizzlies and other bears as well as promoting the growth of more willows and spring vegetation.

But wolves were only one piece of a larger picture, argue Dr. Hobbs and other skeptics of a full-blown trophic cascade at Yellowstone. Grizzly bears and humans played a role, too. For eight years after wolves re-entered the park, hunters killed more elk than the wolves did.

“The other members of the predator guild increased, and human harvest outside of the park has been clearly shown to be responsible for the decline in elk numbers the first 10 years after the wolves were introduced,” Dr. Hobbs said.

The changes attributed to the presence of stalking wolves, some research showed, weren’t only the result of fewer elk, but of a change in elk behavior called “the ecology of fear.” Scientists suggested that the big ungulates could no longer safely hang out along river or stream banks and eat everything in sight. They became extremely cautious, hiding in places where they could be vigilant. That allowed a return of vegetation in those places.

Dr. Hobbs and others contend that subsequent research has not borne that theory out.

Another overlooked factor is that around the same time wolves were returning, 129 beavers were reintroduced by the U.S. Forest Service onto streams north of the park. So it wasn’t just wolf predation on elk and the subsequent return of wolves that enabled an increase in beavers, experts say.

Some researchers say the so-called trophic cascade and rebirth of streamside ecosystems would have been far more robust if it weren’t for the park’s growing bison herd. The bison population is at an all-time high — the most recent count last summer found nearly 5,000 animals. Much larger than elk, bison are less likely to be vulnerable to wolves, which numbered 124 this winter.

The park’s bison, some researchers say, are overgrazing and otherwise seriously damaging the ecosystems — allowing the spread of invasive species and trampling and destroying native plants.

The heavily grazed landscape is why, critics say, some 4,000 bison, also a record, left Yellowstone for Montana in the winter of 2023-24, when an unusually heavy snow buried forage. Because some bison harbor a disease, called brucellosis, that state officials say could infect cattle, they are not welcome outside the park’s borders. (There are no documented cases of transmission between bison and cattle.)

Montana officials say killing animals that may carry disease as they leave the park is the only way to stem the flow. During a hunt that began in the winter of 2023, Native Americans from tribes around the region took part. All told, hunters killed about 1,085 bison; 88 more were shipped to slaughter and 282 were transferred to tribes. This year, just a few animals have left the park.

The Park Service is expected to release a bison management plan in the coming months. It is considering three options: to allow for 3,500 to 5,000 animals, 3,500 to 6,000, or a more natural population that could reach 7,000.

Richard Keigley, who was a research ecologist for the federal Geological Survey in the 1990s, has become an outspoken critic of the park’s bison management.

“They have created this juggernaut where we’ve got thousands of bison and the public believes this is the way things always were,” he said. “The bison that are there now have destroyed and degraded their primary ranges. People have to realize there’s something wrong in Yellowstone.”

Dr. Keigley said the bison population in the park fluctuated in the early years of the park, with about 229 animals in 1967. It has grown steadily since and peaked last year at 5,900.

“There is a hyperabundant bison population in our first national park,” said Robert Beschta, a professor emeritus of forest ecosystems at Oregon State University who has studied Yellowstone riparian areas for 20 years. He pointed to deteriorating conditions along the Lamar River from bison overgrazing.

“They are hammering it,” Mr. Beschta said. “The Lamar ranks right up there with the worst cattle allotments I’ve seen in the American West. Willows can’t grow. Cottonwoods can’t grow.”

A warmer and drier climate, he said, is making matters worse.

Such opinions, however, are not settled science. Some park experts believe that the presence of thousands of bison enhances park habitats because of something called the Green Wave Hypothesis.

Chris Geremia, a park biologist, is an author of a paper that makes the case that a large numbers of bison can stimulate plant growth by grazing grasses to the length of a suburban lawn. “By creating these grazing lawns bison and other herbivores — grasshoppers, elk — these lawns are sustaining more nutritious food for these animals,” he said.

Dr. Geremia contends that a tiny portion — perhaps one-tenth of one percent — of the park may be devoid of some plants. “The other 99.9 percent of those habitats exists in all different levels of willow, aspen and cottonwood,” he said.

The Greater Yellowstone Coalition, a conservation organization, favors a bison population of 4,000 to 6,000 animals. Shana Drimal, who heads the group’s bison conservation program, said that park officials needed to monitor closely changing conditions like climate, drought and bison movement to ensure the ecosystems wouldn’t become further degraded.

Several scientists propose allowing the bison to migrate to the buffer zones beyond the park’s borders, where they are naturally inclined to travel. But it remains controversial because of the threat of disease.

“The only solution is to provide suitable winter range outside the park where they should be tolerated,” said Robert Crabtree, a chief scientist for the Yellowstone Ecological Research Center, a nonprofit. “When they migrate outside the park now it’s to habitat they evolved to prefer — and instead we kill them and ship them away.”

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