Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a vast and awe-inspiring wilderness that has captured the imagination of travelers and nature enthusiasts for centuries. Situated primarily in the northwestern corner of Wyoming, Yellowstone is the first and oldest national park in the United States, established in 1872. This extraordinary landscape is home to an abundance of natural wonders, from towering mountains and pristine lakes to steaming geothermal features and a diverse array of wildlife.

Yellowstone National Park Overview

Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in America, offers exceptional experiences such as breathtaking hiking trails, stunning views, the iconic Old Faithful geyser, and geysers that shoot water up to 100 feet high. Plan your trip using resources provided by the National Park Foundation.

Established in 1872 and mainly located in Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park holds the distinction of being the inaugural national park in the United States. It continues to be one of the most visited national parks in the country, attracting millions of visitors annually. Covering nearly 3,500 square miles, Yellowstone also extends into parts of Montana and Idaho, making it one of the largest national parks in the US.

Sitting atop a dormant volcano, Yellowstone National Park boasts more geysers and hot springs than any other place on the planet. The park is filled with wonders, from attractions like the Yellowstone Grand Canyon to diverse wildlife including the largest buffalo herd in America, grizzly bears, and wolves. About half of the world’s hydrothermal features can be found at Yellowstone, creating a unique spectacle where the ground appears to be ablaze. Among its famous geysers, Old Faithful stands out as one of the most renowned natural marvels in the United States.

Things to do in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy: Boating, Hiking, Lodging, Camping, Biking, Fishing,… Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, or simply a chance to connect with nature, Yellowstone has something for everyone.

Ski & Snowshoe

Yellowstone offers extensive trails for skiers and snowshoers looking for adventure. While some trails have set tracks, all unplowed roads and trails are available for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Whether you stick to groomed trails in developed areas or explore the backcountry, keep in mind that you are in a wild environment with various risks like unpredictable wildlife, changing weather, hydrothermal areas, deep snow, open streams, and avalanches. Your safety cannot be assured, so it’s crucial to be prepared for any scenario and understand your own capabilities.dging

Ride a Snowmobile or Snowcoach

Every November, most park roads close to regular traffic in preparation for winter. The road between Mammoth Hot Springs and the northeast entrance remains open all year. Once enough snow accumulates around mid-December, roads open for “oversnow” travel only. This means visitors can only reach popular destinations like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone by guided snowmobile, snow coach, or noncommercially guided snowmobile program. Winter travel hours are from 7 am to 9 pm.

Hike a Trail

Yellowstone National Park Hiking is a top wilderness destination in the United States. The park covers over 22 million acres, with more than 900 miles (1,449 km) of hiking trails. It is mainly managed as a wilderness area, and day hiking does not need a permit.

When planning a hike in Yellowstone, keep in mind that many trails are above 7,000 feet in elevation. Snow can still be present until late May or early June, and some high passes may remain snow-covered until late July. Additionally, some routes may require crossing rivers that are up to 25 feet wide, 3 to 6 feet deep, very cold, and fast-flowing during the late spring runoff period.

Bike in the Park

During the summer, mountain bikes, road bikes, and bikes are allowed on specified public roads, parking areas, and designated routes in Yellowstone National Park. In the spring and fall, they can also be used on roads close to regular vehicles as long as weather conditions permit. However, they are never allowed on backcountry trails, boardwalks, or oversnow routes.

Ride a Horse

Horseback riding is a beloved activity in Yellowstone, allowing visitors to experience the park’s natural beauty from a unique perspective. Yellowstone offers numerous guided horseback riding tours, led by experienced wranglers who can share insights into the park’s history, wildlife, and geology.

For a more immersive experience, visitors can embark on multi-day pack trips, exploring remote areas of the park while camping under the stars.

Camp in a Campground

Yellowstone National Park Camping has 12 campgrounds with more than 2,000 designated campsites. Reservations are required for all campsites, except for Mammoth Campground which has first-come, first-served sites available from October 15 to April 1. Due to high demand, it is advisable to make reservations well in advance.

Have a Picnic

Yellowstone’s stunning landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a picnic. Visitors can enjoy a meal while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the park. Yellowstone features numerous designated picnic areas, often located near major attractions or scenic viewpoints, providing tables, grills, and access to restrooms.

Visitors are also welcome to enjoy an impromptu picnic in various areas of the park, as long as they follow Leave No Trace principles and properly dispose of their waste.

Attend Indigenous Cultural Events

Before Yellowstone became a national park, Native Americans lived there for over 10,000 years. They hunted, fished, gathered plants, mined obsidian, and used hot springs for religious and medicinal reasons. Today, 27 tribes have historical and current ties to the park’s lands and resources. As a result, the park frequently organizes events and activities to highlight the area’s rich cultural heritage.

Joining a Guided Tour

For visitors seeking a deeper understanding of Yellowstone’s natural and cultural history, guided tours offer a wealth of information and insights. Yellowstone’s park rangers lead a variety of guided walks and talks, covering topics such as geology, wildlife, and the park’s rich cultural heritage.

Boat

Boating is permitted on most lakes in Yellowstone National Park during the boating season, as long as you have a valid boat inspection and permit. To ensure your safety and protect the park’s resources, make sure to understand all regulations before launching your watercraft.

Exploring Yellowstone’s lakes by boat provides a unique way to experience the park. However, boating in the Northern Rockies comes with significant risks. The water temperatures in park lakes are very cold, ranging from the 40s Fahrenheit in June to possibly reaching the 60s by late summer. Additionally, sudden strong winds can create waves of three to five feet high, making open water crossings extremely hazardous.

Catch a Fish

Approximately 50,000 out of the park’s four million annual visitors engage in fishing. Fishing has been a beloved pastime for over a century at Yellowstone, with many visitors specifically coming to fish. While fishing may seem out of place in a park focused on preserving natural habitats and native species, it can actually aid in supporting the conservation of these species.

Places to stay in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park offers a variety of accommodation options, catering to a range of budgets and preferences.

Camping

The park has 12 campgrounds with over 2,000 sites. Some are first-come, first-served, while others require reservations. Each campground offers a unique setting, from forested areas to riverside spots.

Hotel and Resort

Yellowstone also offers a range of hotel and resort accommodations, providing a more comfortable and convenient option for visitors.

Old Faithful Inn (2-star)

Old Faithful Inn, a national historic landmark, is the most popular accommodation in the park. Constructed between 1903 and 1904 using local logs and stone, it is renowned as the largest log structure globally. The grand lobby boasts a huge stone fireplace and a unique handcrafted clock made of copper, wood, and wrought iron, drawing attention. The inn offers 327 rooms and operates from early May to mid-October, providing a full-service restaurant, lounge, snack bar, gift shop, and daily tours for guests.

Address: 3200 Old Faithful Inn Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Price Range: From $276 – $681/night depending on the season and demand

Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins (3-star)

The Snow Lodge completed in 1999, is the most recent full-service hotel in the park. It has received the Cody Award for Western Design and has been named Travel and Leisure’s Inn of the Month. The lodge offers a full-service dining room, a quick-service “Geyser Grill,” and the delightful Bear Den Gift Store.

Address: 725 Old Faithful Lodge Rd Yellowstone National Park Lodges, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Price Range: From $270 – $601/night depending on the season and demand

Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cottages (3-star)

In June 2014, the Lake Yellowstone Hotel finished significant interior renovations to bring back its Colonial Revival style. The hotel received the Green Seal Lodging Certification for its eco-friendly practices and was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 2015. The extensive renovation project, costing millions of dollars, covered guest rooms, a dining area, a bar, public spaces, and a revamped deli.

Address: 235 Yellowstone Lake Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Price Range: From $298 – $559/night depending on the season and demand

What you'll get to eat at Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone National Park offers a diverse array of dining options, from casual eateries to fine-dining establishments.

Mammoth Hotel Dining Room

The Mammoth Hotel Dining Room received certification from the Green Restaurant Association in August 2011. This makes it Xanterra’s initial green restaurant to be certified. It has achieved a 4-star rating, which is the highest possible rating. This accomplishment marks it as the first 4-star certified restaurant in Wyoming and the National Park System, and one of just 25 in the entire country.

Address: 305A Albright Ave, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

Open time:

6:30 AM – 10:00 AM
11:00 AM – 2:30 PM
5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Prices range: $25 – $30

The space for serving guests is spacious

Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room

The Lake Yellowstone Hotel is located beautifully on the edge of Yellowstone Lake. The dining room at Lake Yellowstone Hotel offers a sophisticated menu featuring innovative and high-quality dishes such as fresh fish, wild game, and other unique options.

Address: 235 Yellowstone Lake Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

Open time:

6:30 AM – 10:00 AM
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Prices range: $5 – $40

The Lake Yellowstone Hotel is located beautifully on the edge of Yellowstone Lake

Obsidian Dining Room

If you enjoy adventurous dining, the Obsidian Dining Room is the perfect spot for you. Unwind with loved ones at the Firehole Lounge, adjacent to the Obsidian Dining Room. If you’re fortunate, you might snag a cozy chair by the big fireplace.

Address: 2051 Snow Lodge Ave, Yellowstone National Park, WY
Open time: 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Prices range: $20 – $30

Planning Your Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Visiting Yellowstone National Park requires careful planning and consideration to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Visiting Time

Yellowstone is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer offers warm weather and full access to park amenities, but it can be crowded. Spring and fall provide cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. Winter is perfect for those who love snow activities and want to see a quieter side of the park.

New Blue Spring "Springs" Back to Life in Yellowstone — New Blue Spring “Springs” Back to Life in Yellowstone

Visit Yellowstone National Park in Autumn

Transportation

Accessing Yellowstone National Park can be done through various modes of transportation, each with its own advantages and considerations.

Driving is a popular option for accessing Yellowstone, as it allows visitors to explore the park at their own pace and make stops along the way. Visitors can also fly into one of the airports near Yellowstone and then utilize shuttle services or rental cars to get around the park.

Yellowstone also offers limited public transportation options, such as the Yellowstone Park Lodges Shuttle, which can be a convenient choice for some visitors.

Map for Yellowstone National Park

Conclusion

Yellowstone National Park is a truly remarkable and awe-inspiring destination, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the power and beauty of the natural world. Whether you’re seeking a serene wilderness experience, a thrilling outdoor adventure, or a deeper connection with the land and its indigenous peoples, Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination that will leave a lasting impression.

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Q&A of Yellowstone National Park

What are the must-see attractions in Yellowstone National Park?

Some of the must-see attractions in Yellowstone include the Old Faithful geyser, the Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Yellowstone Lake. Visitors should also keep an eye out for the park’s abundant wildlife, such as bison, elk, and grizzly bears.

What is the best time of year to visit Yellowstone National Park?

The best time to visit Yellowstone depends on your interests and preferences. Summer (June to August) is the peak season, offering warm weather and a wide range of activities. However, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to November) can also be excellent times to visit, with smaller crowds and milder weather. Winter (December to March) offers a unique opportunity to experience the park’s snow-covered landscapes and engage in winter activities.

How much time do I need to explore Yellowstone National Park?

The amount of time needed to explore Yellowstone National Park can vary greatly depending on your interests and the pace of your visit. Most visitors recommend a minimum of three to five days to see the park’s major attractions and engage in a variety of activities. However, those with more time can delve deeper into the park’s remote backcountry areas and enjoy a more immersive experience.

What are the best hiking trails in Yellowstone National Park?

Some of the best hiking trails in Yellowstone National Park include the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook Trail, the Fairy Falls Trail, the Elephant Back Loop Trail, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For more experienced hikers, the Cascade Lake Trail and the Avalanche Peak Trail offer challenging and rewarding experiences.

Can I see wildlife in Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone is home to an incredibly diverse array of wildlife, including bison, elk, grizzly bears, wolves, and more. While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, visitors have excellent chances of spotting various animals, especially during the dawn and dusk hours. It’s important to remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance and follow all park regulations and guidelines.