A Newcomer's Guide to Yellowstone National Park

As the first national park in the United States, Yellowstone has enchanted guests since the 1870s. With its towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, this 3,471-square-mile park is a major attraction. However, what truly sets Yellowstone apart are its geothermal wonders. This land is home to erupting geysers, bubbling mud pots, and steaming lakes, making travel in this isolated part of northwestern Wyoming feel like a journey to another world.

When is the best time to visit Yellowstone?

Most travelers choose to visit during the summer months, from June to early September. This is when all roads, campgrounds, and trails are accessible (though snow may linger at higher elevations until early July). Unfortunately, this period also sees heavy traffic and large crowds at popular spots like Old Faithful.

To avoid the crowds and inflated accommodation rates, consider visiting just before or after peak season (in May or October). For a unique experience, explore Yellowstone in winter, when access is typically by special snow coaches (buses equipped with large snow tires). Several lodges remain open during winter, and you can book tours by ski or snowshoe.

How long should I plan to stay in Yellowstone?

With five widely spaced entrances, Yellowstone is vast, and you could easily spend a week exploring without running out of activities. If you're limited to a long weekend, dedicate your first day to the western part of the park, where the most remarkable geothermal features—such as Old Faithful, Norris Geyser Basin, and Mammoth Terraces—are located.

On your second day, head east to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, then visit the picturesque Yellowstone Lake, particularly the West Thumb area, which also features geysers and bubbling hot springs.

If you have four days available, you can enjoy some wildlife viewing in the Lamar Valley, tackle a couple of challenging hikes, and still have ample time to explore the park's visitor centers. Museums operated by the park near Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone provide valuable insights into the park’s natural history, wildlife, and the geological forces shaping the land beneath our feet.

Is it straightforward to access and navigate Yellowstone?

The primary gateway airports are located in Jackson (56 miles), Bozeman (65 miles), and Billings (129 miles). There's also the small West Yellowstone airport, which offers limited and expensive summer flights. After arriving, you'll need to rent a car, as bus services are not available within the park.

With many vehicles on the park roads, careful planning is essential: start your day early to reach your main destination and avoid traffic delays, and be prepared to exercise patience. Traffic jams are often caused by bison, who may choose to meander down the road. Remember, this is their territory, and we are merely visitors. You'll need to wait until they safely clear the area.

Must-See Activities in Yellowstone

The highlight of Yellowstone is Old Faithful, famous for its predictable eruptions approximately every 90 minutes. There are numerous excellent viewing spots for this spectacular geyser, including the observation deck of the Old Faithful Inn, where you can grab a cold drink (like the local Old Faithful Ale) while witnessing nature's incredible display. Afterward, venture into the Geyser Basin, filled with geothermal marvels.

Don’t miss the Grand Prismatic Spring, known for its vibrant colors. Enjoy the leisurely boardwalk loop, but for an even better view, take the short hike up the Fairy Trail to the overlook above the spring.

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is another breathtaking destination that deserves a top spot on your itinerary. This dramatic canyon stretches for about 20 miles, featuring steep walls adorned in beautiful shades of orange, pink, and auburn. Several stunning waterfalls cascade through the canyon: visit the Brink of the Lower Falls for an exhilarating view just above the rushing water, then escape the crowds by hiking along the North Rim, where you'll enjoy expansive vistas of the falls while strolling through the surrounding forests.

While most visitors stick to the boardwalk trails, those eager to explore the backcountry will find plenty of opportunities among the park's 1,000 miles of trails. For bragging rights, tackle the ascent of Mt. Washburn, which rises to 10,219 feet. The 6.8-mile round trip leads you to an overlook with panoramic views, and you're likely to encounter wildflowers and bighorn sheep along the way.

My favorite activity in Yellowstone

I enjoy waking up early and heading to Lamar Valley. Often called the Serengeti of the US, this valley is home to some of the largest bison and elk herds in North America. Just after sunrise, wildlife watching reaches its peak, with a good chance to see not only these large ungulates but also pronghorn (the fastest land animal in North America), moose, and bighorn sheep. On fortunate days, I might even spot wolf packs hunting elk, their preferred prey.

What’s the budget for a trip to Yellowstone?

Unless you plan to camp, you’ll need a reasonable budget to fully enjoy Yellowstone. In-park accommodations skyrocket during the brief summer season, and nearby towns also see price hikes due to limited options. Additionally, factor in car rental and fuel costs, as exploring the park without a vehicle is impractical (unless visiting in winter). If you're okay with some basic amenities, small two-person cabins without bathrooms start at $150 per night.

Here are some average daily expenses to consider:

Hiking with Bears in Mind

When trekking in grizzly territory, stay vigilant and make plenty of noise—avoid hiking solo. Refrain from hiking before sunrise or after sunset. If you come across a bear up close, don’t run; instead, back away slowly. If it charges, use your bear spray.

What about bear spray?

Absolutely! You should never hike in Yellowstone without bear spray at hand and easily accessible (on your belt, not hidden in your backpack). Purchase a canister upon arrival, as you cannot carry it on planes. It's available at various stores, including those inside the national park. For a quick guide on how to use bear spray, check out more here.

Keep your distance from the fuzzy cows

Actually, bears aren't the deadliest animals in Yellowstone. More injuries and fatalities have been caused by bison. Always keep your distance from bison and other wildlife, as these seemingly gentle creatures will charge if they feel threatened.

Geothermal Dangers

When hiking, stick to the trails and remain on the boardwalks in geothermal areas. Ignoring these warnings can lead to serious legal trouble (as actor Pierce Brosnan found out earlier this year) and could result in severe injuries if you accidentally fall into a boiling spring or steam vent.

Essential Packing Tips

Even on a sunny summer day, it's smart to bring a waterproof shell jacket and a knit cap. Dress in layers that you can easily remove as needed. Mountain weather can change rapidly, so always be ready for rain and chilly temperatures.

Etiquette for Wildlife Watching

If you spot something interesting from the road and want to take a closer look, don’t park in the roadway and impede traffic. Use designated pullouts and ensure your vehicle is completely off the main road when you park.