Welcome to the land of bison jams, erupting geysers, and some of the most awe inspiring natural beauty on the planet! You guessed it, we’re talking about Yellowstone National Park, the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts, wildlife watchers, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned park veteran, there’s always something to discover in this land of geothermal wonders, scenic drives, and breathtaking vistas. So buckle up, grab your camera, and get ready for your unforgettable journey through Yellowstone National Park!
Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is a refuge for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone who needs a break from the digital chaos of everyday life. From hiking to wildlife watching, geothermal features to scenic drives, there’s no shortage of things to do in Yellowstone.
One of the most popular activities in Yellowstone is hiking. With over 1,000 miles of trails to explore, there’s a hike for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or just looking for a leisurely stroll. Some of the most popular hikes in the park include the Upper Geyser Basin, which offers a glimpse of some of Yellowstone’s most famous geysers, including Old Faithful, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where you can marvel at stunning waterfalls and colorful rock formations.
If hiking isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to explore Yellowstone. Wildlife watching is on the agenda for most visitors, and for good reason. The park is home to some of the most impressive megafauna in North America, including bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves. You can take a guided wildlife tour, or simply explore the park’s many scenic drives and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings along the way.
No trip to Yellowstone would be complete without a visit to its famous geothermal features. From geysers to hot springs, mud pots to fumaroles, the park is home to some of the most unique and awe-inspiring geothermal features in the world. Old Faithful, the park’s most famous geyser, erupts every 90 minutes or so, and watching it spew steam and water into the air is a truly unforgettable experience.
Other popular activities in Yellowstone include fishing, horseback riding, and even skiing and snowmobiling in the winter. No matter what time of year you visit, there’s always something to do in this incredible national park.
Yellowstone National Park is a jewel of the notional park system, offering endless opportunities for adventure, exploration, and relaxation. Read on for details that will help you plan your visit to Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone Lodging Options
Yellowstone National Park is a stunning destination that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the American West. When it comes to lodging, the park offers a variety of options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Let’s explore some of the best lodging options in Yellowstone National Park.
Yellowstone Camping
Camping is a popular way to experience the park’s natural beauty up close and personal. Yellowstone has 12 campgrounds, with over 2,000 campsites available. Some of the campgrounds offer basic amenities such as restrooms, running water, and dump stations, while others offer RV hookups, fire pits, and picnic tables. The campgrounds are open from late spring to fall, and some are first-come, first-served, while others require reservations.
Bridge Bay Campground
Located on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, Bridge Bay Campground offers 432 campsites, including some with electric hookups for RVs. The campground also has a dump station, restrooms, and showers. Reservations are recommended, and the campground is open from late May to late September.
Canyon Campground
Located near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Canyon Campground offers 273 campsites, including some with electric hookups for RVs. The campground also has restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Reservations are recommended, and the campground is open from late May to late September.
Fishing Bridge RV Park
Located near the Yellowstone River, Fishing Bridge RV Park offers 340 sites with full hookups for RVs. The campground also has restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Reservations are recommended, and the campground is open from late May to mid-September.
Grant Village Campground
Located near Yellowstone Lake, Grant Village Campground offers 430 campsites, including some with electric hookups for RVs. The campground also has restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Reservations are recommended, and the campground is open from early June to late September.
Madison Campground
Located near the Madison River, Madison Campground offers 278 campsites, including some with electric hookups for RVs. The campground also has restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Reservations are recommended, and the campground is open from late May to late September.
Mammoth Campground
Located near the park’s north entrance, Mammoth Campground offers 85 campsites, including some with electric hookups for RVs. The campground also has restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Reservations are recommended, and the campground is open year-round.
Norris Campground
Located near the Norris Geyser Basin, Norris Campground offers 111 campsites, including some with electric hookups for RVs. The campground also has restrooms, showers, and a dump station. Reservations are recommended, and the campground is open from late May to late September.
Pebble Creek Campground
Located near the Lamar Valley, Pebble Creek Campground offers 27 campsites for tents and small RVs. The campground also has restrooms and a dump station. Reservations are not accepted, and the campground is open from early June to mid-September.
Slough Creek Campground
Located near the Lamar Valley, Slough Creek Campground offers 29 campsites for tents and small RVs. The campground also has restrooms and a dump station. Reservations are not accepted, and the campground is open from early June to late October.
Tower Fall Campground
Located near the Tower-Roosevelt area, Tower Fall Campground offers 31 campsites for tents and small RVs. The campground also has restrooms and a dump station. Reservations are not accepted, and the campground is open from early June to mid-September.
It’s important to note that all campgrounds in Yellowstone have strict regulations regarding food storage and wildlife interaction. Be sure to review the park’s guidelines before your trip to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience.
Yellowstone Lodges
Yellowstone’s lodges offer visitors a chance to enjoy the park’s natural beauty while also enjoying comfortable accommodations. The lodges range from historic properties like the Old Faithful Inn, which dates back to 1904, to modern hotels like the Canyon Lodge and Cabins. The lodges offer a variety of amenities, such as fine dining restaurants, gift shops, swimming pools, and hot tubs.
Old Faithful Inn
Located near the famous Old Faithful geyser, the Old Faithful Inn is a historic lodge featuring rustic decor and a large lobby with a massive stone fireplace. The lodge offers 327 rooms, including cabins and suites, as well as a restaurant, lounge, and gift shop.
Lake Yellowstone Hotel
Located on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, the Lake Yellowstone Hotel is a historic hotel featuring elegant decor and stunning views. The hotel offers 153 rooms, including suites, as well as a restaurant, lounge, and gift shop.
Canyon Lodge and Cabins
Located near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Canyon Lodge and Cabins offers a variety of lodging options, including lodge rooms, cabins, and suites. The lodge also features several restaurants, a general store, and a gift shop.
Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins
Located near the park’s north entrance, the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins is a historic hotel featuring Victorian-style decor and a prime location for wildlife viewing. The hotel offers 212 rooms, including cabins and suites, as well as a restaurant and gift shop.
Roosevelt Lodge and Cabins
Located near the Lamar Valley, Roosevelt Lodge and Cabins offers a rustic lodging experience with cabins and lodge rooms. The lodge also features a restaurant, general store, and horseback riding.
Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabin
Located near Old Faithful geyser, the Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins offers modern accommodations with a lodge and cabins. The lodge features a restaurant and gift shop, and the cabins offer a range of amenities from basic to premium.
Grant Village Lodge and Cabins
Located near Yellowstone Lake, Grant Village Lodge and Cabins offers a variety of lodging options, including lodge rooms, cabins, and suites. The lodge also features several restaurants, a gift shop, and marina services.
Lake Lodge Cabins
Located near Yellowstone Lake, Lake Lodge Cabins offers a rustic lodging experience with cabins and a main lodge featuring a restaurant and gift shop.
Bridge Bay Campground and Lodge
Located on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, Bridge Bay Campground and Lodge offers a variety of lodging options, including motel rooms and cabins. The lodge also features a restaurant and gift shop.
Madison Campground and Hotel
Located near the Madison River, Madison Campground and Hotel offers motel-style rooms and cabins, as well as a restaurant and gift shop.
It’s important to note that lodging in Yellowstone can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Be sure to make reservations well in advance of your trip to ensure availability.
Private Lodges and Hotels Near Yellowstone National Park
For those looking for a more luxurious lodging experience, Yellowstone has several private lodges and resorts located just outside of the park. These properties offer high-end amenities such as spa services, gourmet dining, and private tours of the park.
Yellowstone National Park offers a variety of lodging options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Whether you’re looking to camp under the stars, stay in a historic lodge, or indulge in a luxury resort, Yellowstone has something for everyone. It’s important to book your lodging well in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure that you get the accommodations you want. No matter which lodging option you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in this breathtaking national park.
Best Western by Mammoth Hot Springs
Located just a few miles from the park’s north entrance, the Best Western by Mammoth Hot Springs offers modern and comfortable accommodations, with amenities such as free breakfast, an indoor pool, and a hot tub.
Yellowstone Basin Inn
Located just outside the park’s west entrance, the Yellowstone Basin Inn offers rustic and cozy accommodations with a bed and breakfast-style atmosphere, as well as on-site dining options and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Three Bear Lodge
Located just a few miles from the park’s west entrance, Three Bear Lodge offers a variety of accommodations including cabins, hotel rooms, and suites, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar, a gift shop, and guided tours of the park.
Yellowstone Gateway Inn
Located just outside the park’s north entrance, the Yellowstone Gateway Inn offers modern and spacious accommodations, with amenities such as free breakfast, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.
Absaroka Lodge
Located just a few miles from the park’s east entrance, Absaroka Lodge offers cozy and comfortable accommodations, with amenities such as free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a gift shop.
Brandin’ Iron Inn
Located just outside the park’s west entrance, the Brandin’ Iron Inn offers a variety of accommodations including cabins, hotel rooms, and suites, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar, a gift shop, and guided tours of the park.
Gray Wolf Inn & Suites
Located just outside the park’s west entrance, the Gray Wolf Inn & Suites offers modern and spacious accommodations, with amenities such as free breakfast, an indoor pool, and a hot tub.
Stage Coach Inn
Located just a few miles from the park’s west entrance, the Stage Coach Inn offers a variety of accommodations including hotel rooms and suites, as well as an on-site restaurant, gift shop, and guided tours of the park.
Yellowstone Lodge
Located just outside the park’s east entrance, the Yellowstone Lodge offers comfortable and affordable accommodations, with amenities such as free breakfast and an on-site restaurant.
Kelly Inn Yellowstone
Located just outside the park’s west entrance, the Kelly Inn Yellowstone offers modern and comfortable accommodations, with amenities such as free breakfast, an indoor pool, and a hot tub.
It’s important to note that while these hotels are just outside the park, they can still book up quickly during peak season. Be sure to make reservations well in advance of your trip to ensure availability.
Best Time to Visit Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park is a unique and stunning destination that attracts millions of visitors every year. However, the park’s weather and seasonal changes can have a significant impact on the quality of your visit. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park.
Summer (June-August)
The summer months are the peak season for Yellowstone National Park. The weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-40s to the mid-70s. During this time, all of the park’s facilities are open, and the park is alive with activity. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
Fall (September-November)
The fall season in Yellowstone is a magical time of year. The park’s foliage begins to change, painting the landscape with vibrant colors. Temperatures can vary widely during this time of year, with highs in the 50s and lows in the teens. Many of the park’s facilities begin to close down in mid-September, but visitors can still enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities. This is a great time to visit for those who want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the park’s beauty at a slower pace.
Winter (December-March)
Yellowstone in winter is a completely different experience. The park is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow covering the landscape and creating stunning natural sculptures. The park’s roads are closed to most traffic, but visitors can still enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Temperatures can drop well below freezing, so visitors need to be prepared for the cold. This is a great time to visit for those who want to experience Yellowstone’s unique beauty in a serene and peaceful setting.
Spring (April-May)
The spring season in Yellowstone is a time of renewal. The park’s wildlife begins to emerge from hibernation, and the snow begins to melt, revealing the vibrant greens of the park’s vegetation. The weather can be unpredictable during this time of year, with temperatures ranging from the 20s to the 60s. Many of the park’s facilities begin to open up in late April, and visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities. This is a great time to visit for those who want to experience the park’s beauty at a time of year when it is just beginning to awaken from its winter slumber.
In conclusion, the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park depends on your personal preferences and interests. Each season offers a unique experience, from the bustling energy of summer to the peaceful beauty of winter. Be sure to plan your visit accordingly and be prepared for the weather conditions you’ll encounter. With a little planning and preparation, you can enjoy all that Yellowstone has to offer, no matter the season
Yellowstone Hikes
Yellowstone National Park is a hiker’s paradise! With over 900 miles of trails to explore, you could hike a different trail every day of your visit and still not see everything the park has to offer. But with so many options, how do you choose which hike to take on? Here is a list of some of the best hikes in Yellowstone National Park and what makes them so special.
Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook Trail: This 1.6-mile hike offers stunning views of the park’s famous Grand Prismatic Spring and surrounding geothermal features. However it can be crowded during peak season.
Fairy Falls Trail: This 5.4-mile hike leads to a picturesque waterfall and offers views of the Grand Prismatic Spring and the park’s famous hydrothermal features.
Uncle Tom’s Trail: This steep 0.4-mile hike descends over 300 stairs to offer breathtaking views of the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River.
Mount Washburn Trail: This 6.4-mile hike takes you to the summit of Mount Washburn, which offers panoramic views of the park and its surrounding landscapes.
Mystic Falls Trail: This 2.4-mile hike leads to a beautiful waterfall and offers views of the park’s famous hydrothermal features.
Observation Point Trail: This 1.1-mile hike offers stunning views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River and the park’s famous Upper Falls.
Lone Star Geyser Trail: This 4.8-mile hike leads to the park’s famous Lone Star Geyser and offers views of the surrounding forests and landscapes.
Storm Point Trail: This 2.3-mile hike leads to a scenic viewpoint overlooking Yellowstone Lake and offers views of the park’s diverse wildlife and landscapes.
Bunsen Peak Trail: This 4.6-mile hike takes you to the summit of Bunsen Peak, which offers panoramic views of the park and its surrounding landscapes.
Elephant Back Mountain Trail: This 3.5-mile hike leads to the summit of Elephant Back Mountain, which offers stunning views of Yellowstone Lake and the surrounding forests and mountains.
These are just a few of the many hiking trails available in Yellowstone National Park. Be sure to research the difficulty level and distance of each trail before embarking on your hike and always follow proper hiking and safety protocols.
Yellowstone Wildlife
Yellowstone National Park is renowned for its diverse and abundant wildlife. The park is home to grizzly bears, black bears, antelope, wolves, bison, elk and more. Here is an overview of popular wildlife in Yellowstone and some tips for observing the animals safely and responsibly.
Of all the species in Yellowstone, bison are the most iconic. These massive animals weigh up to 2,000 pounds and roam freely throughout the park. They are a common sight on the park’s grasslands and can often be seen grazing in large herds. Visitors should keep a safe distance from bison, as they can be unpredictable. Remember, these are WILD animals. There is no guarantee of safety just because you are in a national park. Be smart, bring binoculars and observe the wildlife from a safe distance.
Elk are another common sight in Yellowstone. These majestic animals are the largest living members of the deer family and can weigh up to 700 pounds. During the fall mating season, or “rut”, male elk can be heard bugling throughout the park. Visitors should keep a safe distance from elk, especially during the rut when males can be aggressive.
Grizzly bears and black bears also call Yellowstone home. These large predators are a highlight for many visitors, but it’s important to observe them from a safe distance. If you encounter a bear on the trail, make noise, carry bear spray, and give the bear plenty of space to retreat.
Wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone in 1995 and have since become a symbol of the park’s successful conservation efforts. These elusive predators are often seen in the Lamar Valley, where visitors can watch them hunt and interact with each other.
Other species that call Yellowstone home include mountain lions, coyotes, bighorn sheep, and moose. Visitors should always respect the animals and their habitat, and never approach or feed them.
Yellowstone National Park is a haven for wildlife. The park’s diverse and abundant species offer a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with nature and learn about conservation. By observing wildlife responsibly and respecting their habitat, we can help ensure that future generations will be able to enjoy these magnificent creatures in the wild.
Yellowstone’s Geothermal Attractions
Yellowstone National Park is home to some of the world’s most impressive geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at these unique natural wonders and offer a list of the most notable features in the park.
Old Faithful: Perhaps the most famous geyser in the world, Old Faithful erupts approximately every 90 minutes, shooting water up to 185 feet in the air. Visitors can watch this impressive display from a safe distance on the boardwalk surrounding the geyser.
Grand Prismatic Spring: This hot spring is the largest in the United States and is famous for its vibrant colors, caused by pigmented bacteria that thrive in the mineral-rich water. Visitors can view the spring from a nearby overlook or hike the Fairy Falls trail for a closer look.
Norris Geyser Basin: This area is home to some of the park’s most dynamic geothermal features, including Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser. Visitors can explore the basin on a boardwalk trail that winds through the steamy landscape.
Mud Volcano: This area features bubbling mud pots and hissing fumaroles, including Dragon’s Mouth Spring, which emits steam and loud growling sounds. Visitors can explore the area on a short boardwalk trail.
Mammoth Hot Springs: This area is known for its terraced hot springs, formed by the deposition of calcium carbonate over thousands of years. Visitors can explore the area on a boardwalk trail and learn about the unique geology of the area.
Fountain Paint Pot: This area features colorful hot springs and bubbling mud pots, including the namesake Fountain Paint Pot, which contains a mixture of water and mud that resembles paint. Visitors can explore the area on a boardwalk trail.
West Thumb Geyser Basin: This area is located on the shore of Yellowstone Lake and features hot springs and geysers, including Fishing Cone, a hot spring that was historically used by fishermen to cook their catch. Visitors can explore the area on a boardwalk trail.
Upper Geyser Basin: This area is home to dozens of geysers and hot springs, including the famous Beehive Geyser, which shoots water up to 200 feet in the air. Visitors can explore the area on a boardwalk trail and witness the power of these geothermal features up close.
Yellowstone National Park is a true wonderland of geothermal features, with each area offering a unique and fascinating glimpse into the power of nature. Visitors should always respect these features and stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the fragile ecosystem. By taking the time to explore these unique natural wonders, visitors can gain a greater appreciation for the complexity and beauty of our planet.
Yellowstone Weather
Yellowstone National Park is a unique destination that is unlike anywhere else on earth. One of the most important factors to consider when planning a trip to the park is the weather. Yellowstone’s weather can be unpredictable and visitors should always be prepared for a range of conditions.
Yellowstone is located at high elevation, with an average elevation of 8,000 feet above sea level. This can lead to cooler temperatures, especially at night. During the summer months, temperatures can range from the 30s at night to the 70s during the day. It is important to bring warm clothing, such as jackets and hats, even during the summer months.
In the fall and spring, temperatures can drop significantly, and snow is not uncommon. It is important to pack warm layers, including hats and gloves, and to be prepared for sudden changes in weather. During the winter, the park is covered in snow, and temperatures can drop to well below freezing. It is important to bring warm clothing, including insulated boots, gloves, and hats, and to be prepared for snow and icy conditions.
Visitors to Yellowstone should also be aware of the park’s high elevation and the potential for altitude sickness. It is important to drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activity for the first few days, and be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, dizziness, and nausea.
In addition to temperature and altitude, visitors to Yellowstone should also be aware of the potential for thunderstorms and other severe weather events. Lightning strikes are common in the park and can be dangerous. Visitors should seek shelter during thunderstorms and avoid hiking or being out in the open during lightning storms.
The weather in Yellowstone National Park can be unpredictable and visitors should always be prepared for a range of conditions. It is important to bring warm clothing, including hats and gloves, even during the summer months, and to be aware of the potential for altitude sickness and severe weather. By being prepared and informed, visitors can safely and comfortably enjoy all that this unique and beautiful park has to offer.
Fishing in Yellowstone National Park
Fly Fishing
Yellowstone National Park is home to some of the best fly fishing in the world. With over 2,000 miles of streams and rivers, and 290 lakes and ponds, the park offers endless opportunities for anglers of all skill levels.
One of the most popular fishing destinations in the park is the Yellowstone River. It flows through the park for over 70 miles, offering plenty of opportunities to catch a variety of fish including trout, whitefish, and grayling. The river can be fished from shore, or by wading in the water. Be sure to check the fishing regulations and obtain the necessary permits before you start fishing.
Another great fishing spot in Yellowstone is the Lamar River. This river is a tributary of the Yellowstone River and offers excellent fishing for cutthroat trout. The Lamar Valley, where the river flows, is also a prime location for wildlife watching. Keep your eyes peeled for bison, elk, and even grizzly bears while you fish.
If you are looking for a more secluded fishing experience, head to the park’s backcountry. There are over 1,000 miles of trails in the park, leading to remote lakes and streams where you can fish in solitude. Just remember to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all of your trash.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing is also popular on Yellowstone Lake during the winter months. The lake typically freezes over from December to April, and during this time, anglers can drill holes in the ice and fish for a variety of species, including cutthroat trout, lake trout, and Arctic grayling.
Anglers use a variety of methods for ice fishing on Yellowstone Lake, including jigging and using tip-ups. Jigging involves using a small, weighted lure or jig to entice fish to bite. Anglers can move the lure up and down to create movement and attract fish. Tip-ups are another common method for ice fishing on Yellowstone Lake. A tip-up is a device that suspends a baited hook beneath the surface of the water. When a fish takes the bait, a flag attached to the tip-up is triggered, alerting the angler to the catch.
Ice fishing on Yellowstone Lake requires a few key pieces of equipment, including an ice auger to drill holes in the ice, a fishing rod and reel, and warm clothing to stay comfortable in the cold temperatures. It is also important to check the ice thickness before venturing onto the lake to ensure that it is safe for fishing.
Anglers should always consult the fishing regulations and ensure they have the necessary permits before heading out onto the ice.
Whether you are a seasoned angler or a just learning, Yellowstone offers fishing opportunities for everyone, so grab a rod and start planning your Yellowstone fishing adventure today!
