Yellowstone National Park: Everything You Need to Know

Yellowstone National Park, situated atop a volcanic hot spot, is predominantly in Wyoming and showcases canyons, rivers, forests, hot springs, and nearly half of the world’s active geysers. Established as the first National Park in the United States in 1872, it draws millions of visitors annually who marvel at its unique hydrothermal pools and geological wonders.

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Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park sits atop an active volcano, evidenced by its numerous hydrothermal features. The Yellowstone caldera formed about 631,000 years ago following a colossal volcanic eruption. Although another eruption could theoretically happen, it is unlikely to occur for thousands of years.

Despite being situated on an active supervolcano, Yellowstone National Park still attracts over three million visitors each year. With its geothermal features, erupting geysers, vast canyons, impressive waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, it’s no surprise that people from around the globe are drawn to visit.

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Entrances to Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone features five entrances, with three being seasonal and two that are open year-round. Most of the park’s roads are seasonally accessible. Typically, these roads close on November 1st, depending on the weather, and remain closed until they begin to reopen in April. Vehicle reservations and are not required in Yellowstone, but a park entrance pass is needed to enter the park. It is beneficial to obtain these in advance to expedite your entry process.

North Entrance:

The North Entrance, situated in Gardiner, MT, remains open throughout the year. It is advisable to drive cautiously from this entrance to Mammoth Hot Springs due to steep grades, sharp curves, and the frequent presence of wildlife.

Northeast Entrance:

The Northeast entrance, which remains open throughout the year, is situated just west of Cooke City, Montana. In winter, the sole accessible route is the road connecting the North and Northeast Entrances.

West Entrance:

The West Entrance to Yellowstone, located in West Yellowstone, MT, typically opens around the end of April. Upon opening, it provides access to the roads linking the North Entrance and Canyon Village to the east, as well as Old Faithful to the south.

East Entrance:

Typically, the East Entrance opens in the first week of May. Situated roughly an hour’s drive west of Cody, Wyoming, this route provides a connection to Canyon Village.

South Entrance:

The South Entrance is the least utilized as it directly connects to Grand Teton National Park. To enter from this gate, one must drive through Grand Teton from Jackson, WY. This entrance is convenient for those planning to visit both parks, as it provides quick access to both. Additionally, the road from the South Entrance leads to Old Faithful and the Fishing Bridge.

Dunraven Pass, the final road to open in the last week of May, winds through the mountains, linking Canyon Village with Tower-Roosevelt. This scenic route offers stunning views and is an excellent place for wildlife sightings.

Visitor Centers

Spread over its 2.2 million acres, there are ten visitor centers, with nine inside the park and one in West Yellowstone.

Albright Visitor Center:

The Albright Visitor Center, situated at Mammoth Hot Springs and just five miles south of the North Entrance, occupies one of Fort Yellowstone’s historic stone buildings. Visitors can collect park information, purchase souvenirs, delve into exhibits about Yellowstone’s wildlife and history, participate in ranger-led programs, acquire a fishing permit, and use the restrooms. Additionally, the center offers complimentary Wi-Fi access.

Canyon Visitor Center:

Located in the Canyon Village complex, the Canyon Visitor Education Center offers insights into the geologic narrative of the region, including the Yellowstone volcano. Visitors can explore a room-sized relief map of Yellowstone, obtain orientation details, acquire a fishing permit, purchase souvenirs, learn about available ranger programs, view a 20-minute film, and access restrooms, which are open around the clock.

Fishing Bridge Visitor Center:

The Fishing Bridge Museum, located near the north shore of Yellowstone Lake on the East Entrance Road, features a visitor center and museum. Visitors can also engage with a ranger to learn about scheduled programs, purchase a fishing permit, or enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Yellowstone Lake and the adjacent mountains.

Grant Visitor Center:

The Grant Visitor Center, situated on the western shore of Yellowstone Lake and just south of the West Thumb Geyser Basin, offers a variety of services. Visitors can explore the exhibit hall to learn about the 1988 fires, collect park information and trip suggestions, purchase souvenirs, participate in ranger-led programs, acquire permits for fishing, boating, or backcountry camping, and access restrooms.

Madison Visitor Center:

Situated just south of Madison Junction, roughly midway between Old Faithful and West Yellowstone, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the park store, participate in ranger programs, buy a fishing permit, or access the restrooms.

Museum of the National Park Ranger:

Situated at the Norris Campground entrance, the visitor center was initially a US Army outpost founded in 1908. Today, it showcases exhibits that pay tribute to the heritage of park rangers. The center is staffed by volunteer retired rangers to enhance the story of the ranger’s evolution.

Norris Geyser Basin Museum:

Located a quarter-mile west of Norris Junction, just off the Grand Loop Road, the Norris Geyser Basin Museum sits on a ridge with a view of the Norris Geyser Basin. This historic site is manned by rangers in the summer, offering park information and conducting ranger-led programs. Since its establishment in 1930 as a trailside museum, it has been a source of information for visitors traveling by car without a guide. Restroom facilities are available in the parking area.

Old Faithful Visitor Education Center:

Located in proximity to the Old Faithful Geyser, the visitor center boasts a tall, windowed façade that provides spectacular views of the geyser’s eruptions. Visitors can also collect park information, engage with a park ranger at the front desk, purchase souvenirs at the park store, explore the natural wonders of Yellowstone in the exhibit hall, participate in a ranger-led program, or access the restrooms.

West Thumb Information Station:

Just a few miles north of Grant Village, on the western shore of Yellowstone Lake, lies a quaint facility. It marks the beginning of the West Thumb Geyser Basin boardwalks, offering an opportunity to meet with a park ranger, obtain park information, browse the park store for souvenirs, or participate in a ranger-led program.

West Yellowstone Visitor Infor Center:

The West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce houses a facility that is open throughout the year. A second service desk, operated by the Chamber, provides assistance. Visitors can stop by to acquire backcountry and fishing permits (payment accepted via debit or credit card), gather park information, or access the restrooms.

Best Ways to Get Around the Park

Personal Vehicle: Yellowstone National Park spans more than two million acres, an area greater than the state of Rhode Island. Measuring 63 miles from north to south and 54 miles from west to east, traveling by motor vehicle is the most efficient way to explore the park.

Yellowstone Taxi: Yellowstone Taxi provides taxi, shuttle, and tour services to Yellowstone National Park, covering areas including West Yellowstone, Jackson, Bozeman, Grand Teton National Park, Rexburg, Idaho Falls, and regions across east Idaho, southwest Montana, and southwest Wyoming. Additionally, Yellowstone Taxi offers hiking shuttle services connecting various popular trailheads. They facilitate transfers throughout Yellowstone National Park from West Yellowstone. For those interested in hiking or cycling between different points, Yellowstone Taxi is ready to accommodate drop-offs and pick-ups, adhering to the guidelines set by the National Park Service.

Lodge Packages: Maximize your Yellowstone National Park adventure by discovering the array of seasonal vacation packages available. These packages offer lodging, transportation, guides, and more, simplifying the process of organizing a Yellowstone vacation.

Must-See Attractions

Yellowstone National Park, hosting over half of the world’s geysers, boasts more than 500 active geysers. Beyond this abundance, the park features over 290 waterfalls, extensive hiking trails, a vast array of wildlife, a large lake, and even its own Grand Canyon. With such a variety of sights, choosing which spots to visit can be overwhelming. Below is a detailed list of the most visited attractions. For an extensive guide, you can download my Complete Guide to Yellowstone Attractions PDF for FREE.

Old Faithful

Old Faithful stands as the most renowned geyser in Yellowstone National Park, erupting roughly every 90 minutes. It is one of only six geysers whose eruptions park rangers can predict. Predicting geyser activity with such regularity is rare, and the interval between eruptions has increased by approximately 30 minutes over the past three decades. As thermal features are ever-changing, there is a possibility that Old Faithful could cease its eruptions in the future.

Grand Prismatic Spring

The Grand Prismatic Spring is Yellowstone’s largest hot spring, spanning 200-330 feet in diameter and exceeding 121 feet in depth. It is the largest in the United States and the third-largest in the world. Hot springs are Yellowstone National Park’s most prevalent hydrothermal features. The superheated water cools upon reaching the surface, descends, and is then replaced by hotter water from beneath. These hydrothermal features also serve as ecosystems for microscopic organisms. Trillions of thermophiles, which are visible as vibrant color masses, thrive here, drawing nourishment from energy and chemical building blocks. The hottest waters foster the growth of colorless and yellow thermophiles, while cooler waters support orange, brown, and green thermophiles.

Tip: For an aerial perspective of the Grand Prismatic Spring, embark on the Fairy Falls Trail. Roughly 0.6 miles into the hike, with an elevation gain of about 100 feet, the Grand Prismatic Spring Observation Deck awaits. Be advised, this trail is known for its abundance of mosquitoes.

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is the site of the renowned Upper and Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River. Visitors have the opportunity to view the canyon and waterfalls from numerous overlooks.

Tip: My personal favorite location to take photos of the lower falls is from Lookout Point.

Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake holds the title of the largest high-elevation lake in North America, sitting above 7,000 feet. Spanning approximately 20 miles in length and 14 miles in width, its waters stay cold throughout the year, averaging a temperature of 41°F, and it freezes over each winter. Due to the frigid water temperatures, swimming is not recommended. Notable underwater features such as geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles are visible at West Thumb, Mary Bay, and Sedge Bay.

Norris Geyser Basin

The Norris Geyser Basin stands as the hottest and most dynamic of Yellowstone’s thermal regions. Few thermal features at Norris fall below the boiling point. The Steamboat Geyser, located within the Norris Geyser Basin, is the world’s tallest active geyser. Its major eruptions can propel water over 300 feet into the air, lasting from 3 to 40 minutes. The Steamboat Geyser’s eruptions are unpredictable, occurring days, months, or even years apart.

Get your Complete Guide to Yellowstone National Park Attractions.

Activities in Yellowstone National Park

Camping:

Reservations are mandatory for all campsites from May through autumn. At Bridge Bay, Canyon, Fishing Bridge, Grant Village, and Madison, you can book up to 13 months ahead; at Indian Creek, Lewis Lake, Mammoth, and Slough Creek, bookings are available up to 6 months in advance. Securing a spot early is essential. Fishing Bridge RV Park provides each site with electrical hookups, water, sewer, and access to a dump station. It is the sole campsite in Yellowstone with electrical provisions. However, due to its location near the Yellowstone River and regular bear encounters, only hard-sided vehicles such as RVs are allowed; tents and pop-up campers are prohibited.

Backcountry Camping:

A permit is required for overnight backcountry camping, and it’s only allowed in designated areas. You can find more information and make advanced reservations at: go.nps.gov/YELLbackcountry

Horseback Riding:

Permits are mandatory for both day hikes and overnight excursions. Trails designated for stock animals generally open on July 1st, although certain trails may become accessible sooner, based on conditions. A negative Coggins test must be presented. The use of hay is not allowed in the backcountry. For additional details and permit acquisition: go.nps.gov/YELLhorseride

Fishing:

Fishing season usually begins at the end of May, although certain areas might not open until July 1. While fishing in the park, you must have a park-issued permit, as state permits are not accepted. Children under 16 years old are exempt from this requirement. Permits are available for purchase within the park or online at: www.recreation.gov

Swimming:

For those interested in swimming at Yellowstone National Park, the Firehole Swim Area can be found on the Firehole River, two miles south of Madison Junction via Firehole Canyon Drive. The river typically remains closed for swimming until mid-summer due to high waters and strong currents. In years with considerable snowpack and runoff, the area may be closed for the entire season. Water wings are permitted, and the use of life jackets is advised. However, rafts, tubes, noodles, pool floats, and similar water toys are not allowed.

Swimming is only allowed during designated hours, and the Firehole Swim Area is not open at night. Swimmers must wear bathing suits. Food, drinks, and alcohol are not permitted, and cans, bottles, and plastic containers are banned from the swim area. The use of soap, shampoo, conditioner, or any other substances is forbidden, even if they are biodegradable. Additionally, climbing, diving, or jumping from cliffs or trees in the area is strictly prohibited.

The park’s rivers are swift and cold, and swimming in hot springs or their runoff is prohibited. It is advised to swim only in designated areas. Swimming in Yellowstone Lake is also not recommended because of its consistent icy temperatures.

Boating:

The boating season begins at the end of May and lasts until the end of October. Prior to launching any motorized or non-motorized watercraft, such as kayaks and paddleboards, an inspection and permit from Yellowstone are mandatory. Watercraft showing signs of quagga or zebra mussels will be denied entry. For more information: go.nps.gov/YELLboating

Hiking:

Yellowstone National Park boasts over 1,000 miles of hiking trails. To ensure safety during wildlife encounters, it’s advised to hike in groups of three or more and to carry bear spray. For more information on hiking trails in Yellowstone: go.nps.gov/YELLdayhikes

Bicycling:

Bicycles and e-bikes are allowed on public roads and designated routes. However, they are not permitted on trails and boardwalks. Bicyclists are required to comply with all traffic regulations. For more information: go.nps.gov/YELLbicycling

Programs

Junior Ranger/ Young Scientist: Children aged 4 and up can visit any visitor center to pick up a complimentary Junior Ranger activity book. Yellowstone also provides a Young Scientist program, allowing kids aged 5 and up to check out a Young Scientist Toolkit at the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center. Additionally, children aged 10 and up have the option of a self-guided booklet available at both the Old Faithful and Canyon Visitor Education Centers.

Ranger-led Programs: Yellowstone National Park provides a variety of daily activities and spontaneous programs throughout the summer. While some are designed for children, many cater to all age groups. For detailed information on Yellowstone’s marvels, its history, and wildlife from a park ranger, check the park’s Ranger Program for schedules and timings.

Yellowstone Forever Institute: Yellowstone Forever offers educational programs that enable people to enjoy the park’s wildlife, geology, and history. By connecting visitors with educational experiences, Yellowstone Forever provides a variety of programs such as field studies, accommodations and tours, day hikes, and private tours.

Food and Lodging in Yellowstone National Park

Canyon Village and Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

• Lodging
  • Canyon Lodge and Cabins
• Campground
  • Canyon Campground
• Food and Dining
  • Canyon Lodge
  • Eatery
  • Falls Cafe
  • Ice Creamery
  • M66 Lounge
  • General Store Soda Fountain

Lake Village, Fishing Bridge, and Bridge Bay

• Lodging
  • Lake Yellowstone Hotel Cottages
  • Lake Loge Cabins
• Campground
  • Bridge Bay Campground
  • Fishing Bridge RV Park
  • Lewis Lake Campground
• Food and Dining
  • Lake Yellowstone Hotel
  • Lake Hotel Deli
  • Lake Hotel Dining Room
  • Lake Lodge Cabins
  • Wylie’s Canteen
  • Fishing Bridge General Store
  • Lake General Store Fountain

Mammoth Hot Spring

• Lodging
  • Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins
• Campground
  • Mammoth Campground
  • Indian Creek Campground
  • Norris Campground
• Food and Dining
  • Mammoth Dining Room
  • Mammoth Hotel Map Room and Bar
  • Mammoth General Store Fountain
  • Terrance Grill

Tower-Roosevelt

• Lodging
  • Roosevelt Lodge and Cabins
• Campgrounds
  • Tower Fall Campground
  • Pebble Creek Campground
  • Slough Creek Campground
• Food and Dining
  • Old Wast Dinner Cookout
  • Roosevelt Lodge
    • Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room
  • Tower Fall General Store Fountain

Madison

• Campground
  • Madison Campground

Grant Village

• Lodging
  • Grant Village Lodge
• Campground
  • Grant Village Campground
• Food and Dining
  • Grant General Store Fountain
    • Grant Village Dining Room
  • Lake House at Grant

Old Faithful

• Lodging
  • Old Faithful Inn
  • Old Faithful Lodge Cabins
  • Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins
• Food and Dinning
  • Old Faithful Inn
    • Old Faithful Inn Dining Room
  • Bear Paw Deli
  • Lodge Cafeteria
  • Old Faithful Snow Lodge
    • Geyser Grill
    • Obsidian Dining Room
    • Old Faithful General Store Grill

Dangers in Yellowstone National Park

Hot Springs: Hot springs are responsible for more injuries and fatalities in Yellowstone than any other natural feature. The scalding water beneath the crust, which is frequently thin and fragile, can cause severe and life-threatening burns. Therefore, it is crucial to stay on the boardwalks and designated trails at all times. Pets are prohibited in thermal areas.

Wildlife: Yellowstone National Park is a habitat for diverse wildlife, such as bears, bison, elk, and wolves. It’s crucial to keep a safe distance from these animals to avoid potential injuries or fatalities. Additionally, it’s recommended to have bear spray with you within the park, which is available for purchase at Yellowstone.

Environmental Conditions: The environment, while beautiful, can also pose dangers. Hazards such as falling trees, drownings, and volcanic activities can be detrimental, highlighting the importance of being vigilant about one’s surroundings. In Yellowstone, for instance, hydrothermal explosions are a particular risk. These events are unpredictable and can occur without warning. For example, a hydrothermal explosion took place just a week after our visit to Yellowstone National Park, resulting in damage to the boardwalk.

Important Information and Regulations

Pets: Pets are prohibited on trails, boardwalks, in the backcountry, and in hydrothermal areas. This prohibition includes carrying pets in bags or backpacks. In permitted areas, pets must be kept on a leash at all times. Owners should not leave pets unattended and must responsibly dispose of all pet waste.

Hot Springs and Geysers: Discarding coins or other objects into thermal pools is harmful and prohibited by law. Similarly, straying from the marked paths and boardwalks is illegal and may lead to substantial fines, jail time, and prohibition from the park.

Firearms: Firearms may be carried in the park, yet are forbidden in visitor centers, government buildings, and certain concession facilities. The discharge of firearms is not permitted. Additionally, the possession and use of weapons like air guns, slingshots, and archery gear is prohibited.

Drones: The operation of unmanned aircraft on land or over waters within the park is not permitted.

Crossing into the Grand Tetons

Entering Yellowstone through the south gate leads directly from Grand Teton National Park, which requires a separate entrance fee. If you plan to visit both parks, prepare accordingly. Along the way to the south gate, be sure to visit Moose Falls, a hidden gem just 1.2 miles from the entrance. The hike to the falls is brief, and the waterfall itself is breathtaking. Due to its location, Moose Falls often goes unnoticed by most visitors to Yellowstone, as few make the journey to the south gate.

Yellowstone National Park

Despite its location atop an active supervolcano, Yellowstone National Park continues to draw over three million visitors annually. Its geothermal wonders, spouting geysers, expansive canyons, stunning waterfalls, and rich wildlife are a magnet for global visitors. The park’s allure is enhanced by a variety of activities, including ranger-led events, guided tours, and the opportunity for visitors to independently explore the park’s splendors. Yellowstone, established as the world’s first National Park following President Ulysses S. Grant’s signing of the Yellowstone National Protection Act, was designated “a public park or pleasuring-ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.”

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