Guide and Tips for Visiting Yellowstone National Park

Jump to each section for detailed information:

• Best Time to Visit
• Getting to Yellowstone
• Must-See Attractions
• Wildlife Viewing Tips
• Top Activities for Visitors
• Where to Stay
• Essential Tips for Visiting
• FAQ

Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park, is a place of dramatic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and stunning geothermal features. With nearly 2.2 million acres to explore, planning a trip here can feel overwhelming. This guide offers practical tips and insights to help you make the most of your visit, including when to go, where to stay, and how to explore this incredible park.

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park

Panoramic view of Yellowstone National Park, featuring mountains and geysers

Yellowstone is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to experience. Summer (June through August) is the most popular season, with all roads and facilities open. The weather is warm, making it ideal for hiking and camping, but the park can get crowded. If you visit in summer, try to arrive early in the day to avoid peak crowds.

Spring (April through early June) and fall (September through October) are excellent times to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, and in fall, you’ll see the park’s landscapes in vibrant autumn colors. Winter offers a unique experience with snowy landscapes and opportunities for snowshoeing and wildlife viewing, but many roads are closed to cars.

Getting to Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park spans three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Most visitors enter through one of the park’s five main entrances: North Entrance (Gardiner, MT), Northeast Entrance (Cooke City, MT), East Entrance (Cody, WY), South Entrance (Jackson, WY), or West Entrance (West Yellowstone, MT). Each entrance offers different routes and scenery, so choose one based on your travel plans.

The closest airports to the park are Yellowstone Airport in West Yellowstone, Montana, and Jackson Hole Airport in Jackson, Wyoming. Both airports are within driving distance, and rental cars are available. Be sure to plan your route and check for any road closures, especially if you’re visiting in winter when certain entrances may be inaccessible.

Must-See Attractions in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is famous for its geothermal features, with some of the most iconic sights located in the park’s geyser basins. Old Faithful, perhaps the most famous geyser, erupts every 90 minutes, providing a spectacular show. Nearby, the Upper Geyser Basin is home to a variety of other geysers, including Grand and Castle Geysers.

Another must-see is the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the U.S. Its vibrant colors and steam make it one of the park’s most photographed spots. The Yellowstone Canyon area, often called the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, features stunning viewpoints over waterfalls and colorful canyon walls, especially from Artist Point and Lookout Point.

Wildlife Viewing Tips

Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places in the U.S. for wildlife viewing. Bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears are commonly spotted in the park, especially in the Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley. Early morning or late evening are the best times to view animals, as they are more active during these hours.

Always remember to keep a safe distance from wildlife, as these are wild animals that can be unpredictable. The park advises staying at least 25 yards away from animals like bison and elk, and 100 yards from bears and wolves. For a closer view, consider bringing binoculars or a zoom lens.

Top Activities for Visitors

Hiking is a popular activity in Yellowstone, with trails for all experience levels. Some popular hikes include the Fairy Falls Trail, which offers an excellent view of the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Mount Washburn Trail, known for panoramic views and potential wildlife sightings. Be sure to check trail conditions and bring plenty of water, as some hikes can be challenging.

For water enthusiasts, Yellowstone Lake provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Guided tours are available, or you can rent equipment if you prefer to explore on your own. Note that permits are required for boating and fishing, so be sure to check with the park office.

Where to Stay Near Yellowstone National Park

Accommodations in and around Yellowstone National Park range from campgrounds to hotels. Inside the park, options include lodges such as Old Faithful Inn, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, and Canyon Lodge. These fill up quickly, especially in summer, so booking early is essential if you want to stay within the park.

If park lodging is full, there are plenty of hotels and vacation rentals in nearby towns like West Yellowstone, Gardiner, and Cody. Each location offers a different experience and access to various entrances, so choose one based on what you plan to see and do during your visit.

Essential Tips for Visiting Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is a vast and remote park, so preparation is key. Here are a few essential tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit:

• Pack for all weather: Weather in Yellowstone can be unpredictable, with temperatures dropping quickly in the evening, even in summer. Layers and rain gear are recommended.
• Plan your route: Yellowstone is large, so plan which attractions you want to see each day to avoid unnecessary driving. Map apps can be unreliable in the park, so pick up a park map at the entrance.
• Respect wildlife: Remember, you are visiting a natural habitat. Keep a respectful distance from animals, and do not feed them as this can harm their health.
• Stay on designated trails: To protect the park’s unique environment and ensure your safety, always stay on marked trails, especially in geothermal areas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park?

The best time to visit is during late spring (May-June) and early fall (September) when the weather is mild, and crowds are smaller.

Are there entrance fees for Yellowstone National Park?

Yes, Yellowstone charges an entrance fee. You can purchase a 7-day pass for around $35 per vehicle, or get an annual national parks pass.

Can I camp in Yellowstone National Park?

Yes, camping is available within the park, with several campgrounds offering reservations. Some are first-come, first-served, so plan ahead.

Is there cell service in the park?

Cell service is limited in Yellowstone, with some signal around visitor centers. Plan accordingly as you may not have reception throughout the park.

What should I do if I encounter wildlife on a trail?

Stay calm, keep a safe distance, and never approach or feed the wildlife. Move slowly away if the animal is too close, giving it space to move.