Mountain · National Park
Yellowstone
The world's first and wildest national park
Best Time
Jun–Aug
Suggested Stay
3–5 days
Climate
Continental mountain
Coordinates
44.4280° N, 110.5885° W
WildlifeHikingPhotography
About
Established in 1872, Yellowstone is the world's first national park and sits atop one of Earth's largest active volcanic systems. Over 10,000 hydrothermal features — geysers, hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots — dot the landscape. The park hosts the largest free-roaming bison herd in North America, as well as grizzly bears, wolves, and moose. Old Faithful erupts every 90 minutes; the Grand Prismatic Spring blazes electric blue and orange from the boardwalk.
Highlights
01Old Faithful geyser (erupts every ~90 min)
02Grand Prismatic Spring from the overlook trail
03Lamar Valley for bison and wolf watching at dawn
04Artist Point view of the Lower Falls
05Norris Geyser Basin — hottest in the park
Insider Tips
▸Enter from the West Entrance (most facilities) or via Cody for dramatic scenery
▸Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk — bring binoculars
▸Stay 100 yards from bison, 300 yards from bears
▸Grand Loop Road is 142 miles — budget 2 days to drive it fully
▸Book lodging inside the park 13 months in advance
Nearby Destinations
Grand Teton National ParkJackson HoleCodyBillings