NATURE'S WONDERLAND: TOP THINGS TO KNOW WHEN VISITING YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
As America’s First National Park, Yellowstone offers a unique combination of natural beauty and geological wonders. Having visited this incredible park multiple times, I’ve gathered invaluable insights into making the most of the trip. Whether driving through or hiking the trails, here are some practical tips to know when visiting Yellowstone National Park that may save you time and money.
Why Yellowstone is a Must-Visit
Yellowstone National Park is not just another stop on your travel map; it’s an irresistible destination that offers something for everyone. Here’s why:
- Geological Marvels: The colorful hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles are unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
- Wildlife Encounters: From bison herds to elusive wolves, the park is teeming with animal life.
- Expansive Landscapes: With over 2.2 million acres, there’s always something new to explore.
Fun Fact: Yellowstone National Park is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Understanding Yellowstone’s Layout
Yellowstone is enormous, spanning three states—Idaho (1%), Montana (3%), and Wyoming (96%). Covering everything in one visit is almost impossible, so planning is essential. The park’s layout features a main loop that can take 7-8 hours to drive with moderate traffic. This loop provides access to most of the park’s iconic landmarks and scenic views.
Driving Through or Hiking? Your Choice
Whether you prefer the comfort of your car or the thrill of hiking, Yellowstone caters to all types of adventurers. If you choose to drive, the park offers over 466 miles of roads, making it relatively easy to navigate. Just be prepared for heavy traffic during peak seasons.
For those who love to hike, Yellowstone has more than 900 miles of trails catering to all skill levels. Popular trails include the Fairy Falls Trail, Mount Washburn, and Uncle Tom’s Trail. Always stay on marked paths and inform someone about your hiking plans.
Wildlife Etiquette: Respect and Admiration
Yellowstone is a sanctuary for wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk. The Lamar and Hayden Valleys are prime spots for wildlife viewing.
It’s hard to contain your excitement when you spot a beautiful bison herd or encounter a pronghorn traffic jam. But remember, Yellowstone is their home, and respecting their space is crucial.
- Stay 25 yards away from animals; 100 yards from bears and wolves.
- Do not stop or block the road.
- Never feed or approach wildlife.
- Keep food and trash in bear-proof containers.
- Never run from a bear.
Fun Fact: Yellowstone is the only place in the country where bison (the National Mammal of the US) have lived continuously since prehistoric times.
Navigating Park Entrances
Yellowstone has five entrances: North, Northeast, South, East, and West. Montana has three entrances, and Wyoming has two. The South Gate, which enters through Grand Teton National Park, is often considered the easiest.
Before you go, always confirm the gate status, as they can close unexpectedly. I had to call the park for updates, so here are some helpful numbers: General Information (307-344-7381) and West Yellowstone (307-344-2876). You can also tune in at 1610 AM on your radio.
If you need to fly into the Yellowstone National Park area, the closest airports are Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) in Wyoming, Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) in Montana, and Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) in Cody, Wyoming.
Each offers rental car services, making reaching the park from these locations easy.
Admission and Reservations
Admission to Yellowstone National Park is $35 per car. Alternatively, for frequent park visitors, the America the Beautiful annual pass for $80 grants access to all national parks for a year.
Reservations are strongly encouraged for lodging. Whether you opt for hotels, campgrounds, or glamping at Under Canvas, plan ahead to secure your preferred accommodations.
Best Lodging Options
The choice of lodging will depend on the entrance gate you use. Here are some recommendations:
Hotels
- West Entrance: Best Western Desert Inn, Kelly Inn West Yellowstone.
- Rexburg, Idaho: Super 8 by Wyndham Rexburg offers affordable accommodations with free parking, Wi-Fi, and breakfast.
Glamping
For a luxurious experience, consider glamping at Under Canvas, just 10 minutes from Yellowstone’s West Entrance. Enjoy daily housekeeping, camp activities, a fire pit, and West Elm furnishings.
I also stayed at Jenny Lake Lodge once in the Grand Tetons, which was just a short drive away and super luxurious.
The Norris Geyser Basin: A Must-Visit
One of my favorite spots in Yellowstone is the Norris Geyser Basin. This area has hydrothermal activity, including fumaroles, mud pots, geysers, and hot springs. The boardwalks and easy trails make it accessible for everyone.
Don’t miss Steamboat Geyser and Excelsior Geyser at the Midway Geyser Basin, along with the stunning Grand Prismatic Pool.
Exploring Mammoth Hot Springs and Yellowstone Lake
Mammoth Hot Springs is a geothermal zone shaped by water and ground slope, featuring stunning travertine terraces. Yellowstone Lake offers 286 miles of shoreline at a high elevation, though it may be iced over from December through early summer.
Capturing the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
For breathtaking photos, head to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. The best views are from Inspiration Point, where you can see the water cascading between the North and South Rim toward Lower Falls, a dramatic 308-foot drop.
The Iconic Old Faithful
No visit to Yellowstone is complete without seeing Old Faithful. This predictable geyser erupts every 54-114 minutes, and with an average interval of 94 minutes between eruptions, it’s a sight to behold. Located in the Upper Geyser Basin, you’ll find plenty of amenities nearby, including the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center, inns, lodges, and eateries.
Have your cameras ready; the water and steam show is quite spectacular.
Dining in the Park
Several lodges and general stores within the park offer dining options, from casual cafes to full-service restaurants. Popular choices include the Old Faithful Inn and the Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room. Pack snacks and water for day trips, as some areas have limited dining options.
Yellowstone has numerous picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Pack a picnic basket with your favorite foods, and store food securely to avoid attracting wildlife. PB&J gets my vote; it is easy to pull the car over and whip up a tasty snack.
Planning Your Visit: When to Go
Choosing the right time to visit can significantly enhance your Yellowstone National Park experience. Each season offers its own unique charm and activities.
Spring: Nature’s Awakening
Spring (March to May) brings new life to Yellowstone as animals emerge from hibernation and wildflowers bloom. While some roads and facilities may still be closed, the lack of crowds and the beauty of the park coming to life make it a worthwhile time to visit.
Summer: The Peak Season
Summer (June to August) is the most popular time to visit, thanks to the pleasant weather and fully accessible roads and trails. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to explore popular sites with fewer people around.
Fall: A Spellbinding Spectacle
Fall (September to November) is a fantastic time to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. The fall foliage adds a touch of magic to the landscape, and it’s also an excellent time for wildlife spotting, as many animals are more active in the cooler weather.
Winter: A Quiet Wonderland
Winter (December to February) offers a serene and less crowded experience. While some areas of the park are closed due to snow, you can enjoy unique activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and guided snowmobile tours. It’s a magical time to see the park’s geothermal features surrounded by snow.
Gear and Gadgets
Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing, a camera to capture the stunning scenery, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. A reliable flashlight or headlamp is essential for evening activities, and a daypack can help carry all your essentials during hikes.
Be sure to include sunscreen and insect repellent. Bear spray will be necessary if you are hiking in Bear Country.
Activities Within Yellowstone
Yellowstone’s rivers and lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities. A Yellowstone National Park fishing permit is required, and catch-and-release regulations apply to certain species. Boating is allowed on Yellowstone Lake and Lewis Lake. Motorized boats require a permit, while non-motorized boats need an inspection for aquatic invasive species.
Rentals are available at certain locations within the park.
Embrace the Adventure
Yellowstone National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and awe-inspiring sights. Whether you’re drawn to the geothermal wonders, the abundant wildlife, or the scenic landscapes, your visit will surely be a memorable adventure.
Follow these tips to make the most of your trip, and always be prepared for the unexpected.
Read more about National Parks in these posts:
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