Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park: 11 Attractions Must Try

My passport is a testament to a life spent chasing adventure, exploring hidden corners of the world, and soaking in the beauty of diverse landscapes. But even with all my travels, Yellowstone National Park holds a special place in my heart. There’s something truly magical about this place, a sense of raw, untamed energy that resonates deep within. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious first-timer, Yellowstone offers an experience like no other.

Get ready to uncover the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park with this guide to 11 attractions that will make your visit truly unforgettable. This is a guide based on my own experience, my personal opinion. However, I think it might help you if you have never been here. Ready, let’s explore with me and nationalparkshops.com!

Explore the Geyser Basins

Yellowstone National Park is renowned for its geothermal wonders, and exploring the geyser basins is a must for any visitor. The park boasts an array of geysers, hot springs, and mud pots, each offering a unique glimpse into the earth’s geothermal activity. If you skip these geysers, I think you’d be missing out. So it should be at the top of your list of things to do in Yellowstone National Park.

Old Faithful

When the name “Yellowstone” is mentioned, many individuals immediately think of Old Faithful.

Old Faithful is renowned as the most famous geyser globally. For many years, it has been known for its consistent eruption schedule. It’s so dependable that you can find predicted eruption times online to help plan your visit.

The Old Faithful geyser erupts approximately every 90 minutes, with a variation of about 10 minutes (though occasionally, the wait can extend up to 2 hours for the next burst). Each eruption usually lasts between 3 to 4 minutes. You can check the next expected eruption time here.

There are three main ways to witness an Old Faithful eruption:

• Find a spot on the boardwalk that encircles the geyser. Arriving 20 to 30 minutes early is advisable since the boardwalk tends to become crowded with tourists.
• Hike to Observation Point for an elevated view of Old Faithful. This area is less populated and offers a beautiful perspective of the eruption. The hike is a 1.1-mile round trip, requiring a short but challenging uphill walk to reach the viewpoint.
• Sit at the viewing deck of the Old Faithful Inn. You can order a drink at the bar, take a seat, and soak in the scenery.

West Thumb Geyser Basin

I thoroughly enjoyed this geyser basin. This is one of the things to do in Yellowstone National Park where you can observe not only Yellowstone Lake but also some stunningly blue hot springs.

Abyss Pool stands out as the main attraction, and it’s fascinating to witness geothermal activity right next to Yellowstone Lake.

Norris Geyser Basin

Located just south of Norris Geyser Basin is Artist Paintpots, a compact region featuring multiple hot springs and mud pots. Although the trek from the parking area to the geyser basin seems lengthy (approximately half a mile one-way), it is definitely rewarding to add to the list of things to do in Yellowstone National Park. We enjoyed the scenery from the upper boardwalk trail and the active mud pots.

Upper Geyser Basin & Geyser Hill

Home to the largest concentration of geysers in the world, the Upper Geyser Basin is where you’ll find Old Faithful, along with many other spectacular geysers – One of the must-have things to do in Yellowstone National Park. The boardwalk trails connect various geysers, allowing you to experience the beauty of this unique ecosystem up close. Geyser Hill, located within this basin, offers a less crowded experience where you can enjoy the serenity of nature while waiting for the next geyser eruption.

Wildlife Viewing in Natural Habitat

Yellowstone National Park hosts more wildlife than nearly any other location in the U.S., yet it is not a zoo. Visitors can expect to encounter various animals in Yellowstone as they roam freely in their natural environment. Some of the animals you may spot include grizzly bears, gray wolves, the largest wild bison herd in the world, bald and golden eagles, trumpeter swans, moose, and others. Although wild animals are present throughout the park, Lamar Valley is an excellent spot to pull over and use binoculars to observe wolves, bears, and more.

Additionally, herds of wild horses can be seen to the south and northeast of the park. These are things to do in Yellowstone National Park that I want to introduce to you.

Hike to the Peak of Mt. Washburn

For stunning vistas of Yellowstone National Park, trek to the summit of Mt. Washburn. This hike is among the most favored day hikes in the park. You definitely have to add it to your list of things to do in Yellowstone National Park.

There are two routes to reach the summit. The more picturesque trail begins at the Dunraven Pass Trailhead on Grand Loop Road and covers a distance of 6.2 miles round trip.

Alternatively, you can access the top of Mt. Washburn via Chittendon Road. This road is a narrow dirt path that concludes at a parking area, and from there, it’s a 5-mile round trip hike.

It’s advisable to undertake this hike on a clear day. When we attempted it, a storm was approaching, leaving the peak of Mt. Washburn shrouded in clouds.

>> Read More: 10 Best Hikes and Trails in Yellowstone National Park

Visit Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs is a unique geothermal area characterized by its stunning travertine terraces. The vibrant colors and intricate formations created by mineral deposits are a sight to behold. Walking along the boardwalks, you’ll experience the soothing sounds of bubbling hot springs and the beauty of nature at its finest.

The area is also rich in history, with the historic Fort Yellowstone nearby. This former military post provides insight into the park’s early management and preservation efforts. A visit to Mammoth Hot Springs is both a visual delight and a historical journey must try to list of things to do in Yellowstone National Park.

Relax at Boiling River Hot Springs

After a day of exploration, unwind at the Boiling River Hot Springs, a natural hot spring where you can soak in warm waters while listening to the sounds of the river. This unique spot is located near the North Entrance of the park and is a favorite among visitors looking to relax and rejuvenate.

The combination of hot spring water and the cool river creates a perfect bathing experience. Remember to arrive early, as this hidden gem can get crowded, especially during peak seasons.

Fishing

Fishing in Yellowstone is one of the popular things to do in Yellowstone National Park, with numerous rivers and lakes teeming with trout. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, the park offers diverse fishing opportunities. The Yellowstone River, Lake Yellowstone, and the Lamar River are some of the best spots to cast your line.

Before you go, make sure to check the fishing regulations and obtain a valid fishing permit. Fishing in the park is not just about catching fish; it’s about enjoying the serene beauty of nature and the thrill of the chase.

Camping

One of the great things to do in Yellowstone National Park is by camping overnight or for several nights beneath the sky. You have the option to camp at various sites within the park, at a nearby campground outside the park, or in the backcountry. I have a guide to Yellowstone camping and the lodges in Yellowstone for you to explore.

Take a Scenic Drive

Yellowstone’s scenic drives offer breathtaking views and access to many of the park’s highlights. Here are some of the most popular routes:

>> Read More: What State Is Yellowstone National Park In: Located on Map

Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley is considered the premier location for wildlife observation in Yellowstone. What can be spotted here? Bison, elk, pronghorns, bears, coyotes, and wolves frequently appear. This is definitely one of the things to do in Yellowstone National Park that you should not miss.

The optimal times for observing wildlife are during the morning and evening hours. I explored Lamar Valley one evening and encountered herds of bison. It was an amazing experience. We also saw bears and deer.

Be ready to drive at a slow pace and potentially get caught in “animal traffic jams.” Bison often halt right in the center of the road, obstructing traffic in both directions and causing delays.

Lamar Valley is situated in the northern part of Yellowstone. It’s a lengthy journey to reach it (about one hour from Mammoth Hot Springs and one hour from the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone), but it’s worthwhile for the best chance to see wildlife in the park.

Hayden Valley

Hayden Valley is a highly visited area for bison viewing. Its location between the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Yellowstone Lake makes it more accessible, but this also means it tends to be busier.

On our latest trip to Yellowstone, we passed through Hayden Valley twice. On the first day, we spotted two bison and a distant small herd far from the road. However, on the second day, we were lucky to find a large herd right by the roadside. We spent at least an hour observing them from our vehicle.

It’s important not to exit your car for a closer look at the bison. Although they may seem slow, they can actually move quickly and have been known to charge at people. It’s best to pull into a turnout and watch the bison safely from inside your car. This ensures your safety and prevents traffic congestion.

Roosevelt Arch

When Yellowstone was initially opened, the north entrance served as the primary point of access to the park. In 1903, a stone arch was constructed. Visitors would arrive in Gardiner by train and then continue into the park via horse-drawn carriages.

President Theodore Roosevelt laid the foundation stone for the arch. The inscription on the top of the arch states, “For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People.”

A visit to this site is brief, allowing you to either walk or drive through the arch. Just around the corner is Gardiner, which is an excellent spot for a meal or as a base for exploring the park. It has quite a beautiful setting so I added it to my list of things to do in Yellowstone National Park that you should not miss.

Blacktail Plateau Drive

Blacktail Plateau Drive is a lightly traveled scenic route. This one-way dirt road stretches 7 miles alongside the Grand Loop Road between Mammoth and Tower. If you’re fortunate, you may see bison, elk, and bears (we were not that fortunate). Nevertheless, it’s a delightful drive with stunning views. This is one of the things to do in Yellowstone National Park that I would like to suggest to you.

The drive takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. While a 4×4 vehicle isn’t required, it does make the journey easier. We noticed minivans and sedans on this road. I drove a Jeep Compass. RVs, buses, and trailers are not allowed on this road.

Blacktail Plateau Drive is accessible from June to September.

Winter wonderland

Visiting Yellowstone in winter and early spring requires preparation for the cold. If you take the right precautions, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking snow-covered landscapes that are a pleasure to explore. The snow-covered roads and paths are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, but ensure you have wider skis and high-ankle boots if you plan to navigate deep snowdrifts. Higher elevations increase the likelihood of finding suitable ski slopes, so if you’re seeking things to do in Yellowstone National Park in winter, consider Mammoth, Northeast Yellowstone, and West Yellowstone for the best skiing experiences.

Horseback Riding

Experience Yellowstone from a different perspective by taking a horseback riding tour – One of the things to do in Yellowstone National Park. Several outfitters offer guided rides through the park, allowing you to explore remote areas that are less accessible by foot. Riding through the stunning landscapes while surrounded by nature creates a memorable adventure.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, there are options available to suit your skill level. Horseback riding is not just about the ride; it’s about connecting with the beauty of Yellowstone in a unique way.

Stay or Dine at a Historic Hotel

Along the routes to Yellowstone and within the park, there are distinct hotels near Yellowstone rich in history, featuring unique decor and art, as well as often homemade breakfasts. Additionally, guests have the opportunity to interact and exchange stories in the hotels’ lobbies, bars, and outdoor areas.

Notable historic hotels in Yellowstone comprise the traditional Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, the charming yet refined Old Faithful Inn, and the lakeside Lake Yellowstone Hotel. These establishments boast elegant dining spaces that offer a range of dishes from steaks to vegetarian options. I found it quite interesting. So I put it on my list of things to do in Yellowstone National Park that I would like to suggest to you.

How Many Days Do You Need in Yellowstone?

How many days do you need in Yellowstone?

The ideal length of stay in Yellowstone depends on your interests and the activities you want to experience. Generally, a visit of 3 to 5 days allows you to explore the major attractions, enjoy some hikes, and take part in various things to do in Yellowstone National Park.

If you plan to engage in more extensive hiking or wildlife watching, consider extending your stay to fully immerse yourself in the park’s beauty. Each season offers a different experience, so plan accordingly!

>> Yellowstone National Park Weather Forecast: Month-by-Month

What is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park?

The best time to visit Yellowstone is during the summer months, from late June to early September, when the weather is mild and most park facilities are open. However, each season has its own charm.

Spring offers blooming wildflowers and active wildlife, while fall showcases stunning foliage and fewer crowds. Winter transforms the park into a snow-covered paradise, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. Choose the season that aligns with your interests for a memorable visit.

Map of Yellowstone National Park

Conclusion

Visiting Yellowstone National Park is truly an unforgettable experience, brimming with awe-inspiring landscapes and thrilling adventures. From the mesmerizing geysers and vibrant hot springs to the serene lakes and abundant wildlife, there’s something for every type of traveler to explore and enjoy.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or someone simply seeking a peaceful escape, the wonders of Yellowstone offer countless opportunities to create cherished memories. So pack your bags, set your sights on this natural marvel, and get ready to discover all the amazing things to do in Yellowstone National Park. Your next great adventure awaits!