Yellowstone National Park is one of the world's most iconic natural destinations, established as the first national park in the United States and celebrated for its dynamic geothermal features and diverse wildlife. Spanning parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone is a vast natural reserve where visitors encounter bubbling hot springs, spouting geysers, dramatic canyons, pristine rivers, and rugged mountain landscapes. Its rich ecosystem draws nature lovers, photographers, families, and adventure seekers seeking a memorable outdoor experience.
The park's major attractions include the world-famous Old Faithful geyser, the kaleidoscopic Grand Prismatic Spring, and the thundering Upper and Lower Yellowstone Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Wildlife enthusiasts will relish opportunities to spot bison, elk, grizzly bears, wolves, and countless birds roaming across meadows and valleys such as Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley. Endless hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails thread through its forests, while crystal-clear lakes and rivers invite fishing, kayaking, and scenic picnics.
Yellowstone has a relaxed, outdoorsy vibe which is punctuated by rustic lodges and historic visitor centers. While summer brings crowds eager to drive the park’s Grand Loop, quieter months like late spring and early fall offer peaceful moments and changing scenery. If you’re keen to unplug from city life and connect with the wilderness, this is an ideal place to soak up raw nature and wide-open spaces.
Lodging options range from classic park hotels like Old Faithful Inn to family-friendly cabins and campgrounds. Dining is mostly casual, with park eateries offering simple fare and a few local specialties. Bringing your own snacks and picnic supplies is always a good idea, as some areas are quite remote.
The prime season is June through September, when most roads and facilities are open and the weather is mild. For wildlife watching and fewer crowds, visit in May or late September. Gloves, layers, and rain gear are essential no matter the season, as weather here is famously unpredictable. Start your days early to beat the traffic and glimpse more animals.
The park's major attractions include the world-famous Old Faithful geyser, the kaleidoscopic Grand Prismatic Spring, and the thundering Upper and Lower Yellowstone Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Wildlife enthusiasts will relish opportunities to spot bison, elk, grizzly bears, wolves, and countless birds roaming across meadows and valleys such as Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley. Endless hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails thread through its forests, while crystal-clear lakes and rivers invite fishing, kayaking, and scenic picnics.
Yellowstone has a relaxed, outdoorsy vibe which is punctuated by rustic lodges and historic visitor centers. While summer brings crowds eager to drive the park’s Grand Loop, quieter months like late spring and early fall offer peaceful moments and changing scenery. If you’re keen to unplug from city life and connect with the wilderness, this is an ideal place to soak up raw nature and wide-open spaces.
Lodging options range from classic park hotels like Old Faithful Inn to family-friendly cabins and campgrounds. Dining is mostly casual, with park eateries offering simple fare and a few local specialties. Bringing your own snacks and picnic supplies is always a good idea, as some areas are quite remote.
The prime season is June through September, when most roads and facilities are open and the weather is mild. For wildlife watching and fewer crowds, visit in May or late September. Gloves, layers, and rain gear are essential no matter the season, as weather here is famously unpredictable. Start your days early to beat the traffic and glimpse more animals.
Expected Weekly Budget
$800–$1200 USD (per person, excluding flights)
Known For
Things to Do
- Watch Old Faithful erupt
- Visit Grand Prismatic Spring
- Hike in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- Drive through Lamar Valley for wildlife spotting
- Stroll the boardwalks around Norris Geyser Basin
- Enjoy a picnic by Yellowstone Lake
- Explore Mammoth Hot Springs terraces
- Go ranger-led programs and wildlife tours
Notable Sites
- Old Faithful
- Grand Prismatic Spring
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- Yellowstone Lake
- Lamar Valley
- Mammoth Hot Springs
- Norris Geyser Basin
- Hayden Valley
General Advice
Plan your route ahead of time, as Yellowstone is huge and cell service is limited in most areas. Arrive early at popular sites to avoid crowds and get better chances to see wildlife. Carry plenty of water, snacks, and layered clothing for shifting weather. Be prepared for long drives between areas, and allow plenty of time for each region. Always check current conditions for road closures and park alerts before your visit.
Security & Safety
Maintain a safe distance from all wildlife—park rules require at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from bison and other animals. Never approach or feed wildlife, no matter how docile they seem. Keep valuables hidden and locked in your vehicle when parking at trailheads or scenic spots. Follow posted signs, stay on designated paths, and be cautious near geothermal features, as water temps can be dangerous. Carry bear spray and know how to use it if hiking in bear country.
Travel Tips
- Book accommodations inside or near the park months in advance for summer stays.
- Renting a car is essential; park shuttles are not available.
- Pack layers and waterproof gear, as Yellowstone’s weather can change quickly.
- Bring binoculars or a camera with a good zoom for wildlife viewing.
- Stock up on gas and groceries before entering the park, since options inside are costly and limited.
- Download offline maps, as cellular coverage is spotty.
- Carry cash or cards—a few facilities may not take all payment types.
- Start your day early to avoid traffic and crowds at major sights.
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Traveler Comments
Visited in June 2024
Absolutely unforgettable trip! We saw bison herds wandering just feet from our car and caught Old Faithful right on schedule. The kids were amazed by the rainbow colors at Grand Prismatic. Yellowstone is huge, so plan on lots of driving but it’s worth every mile.
Traveled here in August 2023
The park felt magical, especially at sunrise when the valleys were misty and quiet. Lamar Valley was a wildlife paradise — we spotted wolves in the distance. The crowds around the big geysers got a bit overwhelming midday, but there are plenty of quieter trails if you look for them.
Stayed in September 2023
Hiking the Canyon area was my highlight. We were a bit unlucky with weather — two days of rain, so pack lots of layers. Súper organized park and friendly rangers helped us find less busy boardwalks. Would love to return in spring.
Visited in July 2023
I was totally blown away by the geothermal features. Mammoth Hot Springs was like something from another planet. Parking was tricky at major stops, but once you’re on the boardwalks it feels peaceful and wild.
Visited in October 2023
We got a last-minute cabin in West Yellowstone and it made visiting different areas super easy. Wildlife fans will be thrilled — I got some incredible shots of elk and a black bear (from a safe distance!). It is chilly at night in autumn, so bring plenty of warm clothes.
Traveled here in May 2024
Yellowstone Lake in the early morning was so calm and gorgeous. Saw lots of photographers setting up for sunrise. A few road closures meant we had to replan our route, but the updates on the park’s app were really helpful.
Visited in July 2024
Our family spent a week driving and exploring different sections each day. The sheer variety from geysers to waterfalls to vast valleys is amazing. The kids loved seeing bison everywhere. If you don’t mind getting up early, you'll have trails practically to yourself.
Visited in September 2023
Yellowstone totally lived up to its reputation for me. We hiked several moderate trails and the Grand Prismatic Spring boardwalk is a must. Traffic jams from bison crossings are real—kind of funny, unless you’re in a rush!
Traveled here in August 2023
Saw my first grizzly bear in Hayden Valley – safely from our car! Geysers were fascinating, though the sulfur smell got intense in some spots. Lots of picnic spots and clean restrooms, which helped since we had our two young kids with us.
Visited in May 2023
I camped here solo and loved waking up to silence except for the birds. Mosquitoes were fierce in the early evenings, so bring spray. The park feels untouched despite the number of visitors. Highly recommend the smaller geyser basins away from Old Faithful.
Stayed in June 2023
Yellowstone in the summer is alive with everything! Waterfalls, wildflowers, animals everywhere. Bring snacks, as dining options were limited and expensive in the park, but having picnics in a mountain meadow was unforgettable.
Traveled here in July 2024
Scenery is top-notch, but it felt very busy near the main attractions. We spent a lot of time waiting or looking for parking. Totally worth it for the Grand Canyon views, but I wish we had come in the shoulder season.
Visited in September 2023
Best part of my US road trip. The air is crisp and fresh, and you can see for miles from some hilltops. Loved chatting with a friendly ranger about bison behavior. So many natural wonders packed into one place!
Visited in October 2023
We came for the geysers, but the waterfalls were my favorite surprise. Cooler weather meant fewer crowds and the autumn colors were gorgeous. Make sure to download the map as phone service vanishes quickly.
Traveled here in June 2024
I couldn't stop taking photos everywhere we went. Our guided tour made it easy to learn about the park's geology and history. Even the teens stayed interested! Bring a comfortable backpack, there's so much to see.
Stayed in September 2023
The geysers were exactly what I hoped for, but I didn't expect the wildlife to be such a highlight. Saw a herd of elk right outside Mammoth Hot Springs one morning. Lodging books up fast, so plan ahead!
Visited in July 2023
We explored from sunrise to sunset every day and still couldn't see everything. Norris Geyser Basin was fantastic, fewer people and really active geysers. Would recommend packing both sunblock and rain gear, as the weather changed fast.
Visited in May 2023
Scenery is unmatched but honestly, the food options inside the park were pretty basic. As a vegetarian, options were slim. Still, hiking the quieter trails was a peaceful escape from the crowds.
Traveled here in August 2023
Such a special place, especially for families who want kids to connect with nature. The rangers’ talks were actually awesome. Next time we’ll try camping instead of staying in town.
Visited in June 2024
The geysers are incredible, but we also enjoyed fishing and relaxing by Yellowstone Lake. Early mornings are magic—quiet, misty, and wild animals everywhere. Would recommend bear spray and solid hiking boots.
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