Imagine standing at the edge of a rainbow-coloured hot spring, watching the steam rise against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks. Picture herds of bison roaming free across vast valleys while geysers erupt with explosive power, sending plumes of water skyward.
Immerse yourself in the wilderness and discover why this park is a gem that needs to be explored. With such a diverse array of attractions, you’ll never be stuck for fun things to do in Yellowstone Park.
Table of Contents
Below Are the 17 Fun Things to Do in Yellowstone Park.
1. Witness the iconic Old Faithful geyser shoot water over 100 feet high every 90 minutes.
Old Faithful is one of Yellowstone’s most famous attractions. It erupts with remarkable regularity, making it a must-see.
Visitors gather to watch the geyser’s powerful display, which reaches impressive heights. This experience showcases the park’s geothermal activity.
2. Explore the vibrant colours of the largest hot spring in the U.S., the Grand Prismatic Spring.
The Grand Prismatic Spring is a stunning natural wonder with brilliant colours. These colours are due to the various bacteria that live in the water.
Walking the boardwalk gives you an up-close view of this breathtaking hot spring. Don’t miss the overlook for a bird’s-eye view of its full splendour.
3. Take in breathtaking views and cascading waterfalls along the scenic trails of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone offers spectacular sights. The Yellowstone River carves the canyon and features striking rock formations.
Trails along the canyon provide access to viewpoints and waterfalls. It’s a perfect spot for photography and nature walks.
4. Visit the Upper Geyser Basin, home to the largest concentration of geysers in the world, including Old Faithful.
The Upper Geyser Basin hosts the highest number of geysers. Old Faithful is the most famous among them.
Exploring this area reveals many active geothermal features. It’s a hotspot for geyser enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
5. Enjoy a natural hot spring experience where thermal waters mix with the Gardner River at the Boiling River.
The Boiling River offers a unique bathing experience. Here, hot springs mix with the cool waters of the Gardner River.
It’s one of the few places in the park where you can safely soak in a hot spring. The area is accessible via a short walk from the parking lot.
6. At Norris Geyser Basin, discover the park’s hottest and most dynamic thermal area, including Steamboat Geyser.
Norris Geyser Basin is Yellowstone’s hottest and most changeable thermal area. It includes Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser.
The basin is constantly evolving, making each visit unique. Boardwalks guide you through a landscape of geysers and hot springs.
7. Paddle across the largest high-elevation lake in North America, Yellowstone Lake, surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Yellowstone Lake is a pristine, high-altitude lake. It offers excellent opportunities for boating and fishing.
The lake is surrounded by mountains, providing a beautiful backdrop. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful day on the water.
8. Walk among the unique limestone terraces formed by geothermal activity at Mammoth Hot Springs.
Mammoth Hot Springs features terraces created by mineral deposits. The terraces are constantly changing shape and color.
Boardwalks allow you to explore these fascinating formations up close. It’s a geological wonder you won’t want to miss.
9. Travel the park’s main road, the Grand Loop Road, connecting all major attractions in a figure-eight shape.
The Grand Loop Road is Yellowstone’s primary route. It connects the park’s major sites in a figure-eight layout.
Driving the Loop offers a comprehensive tour of Yellowstone. Plan stops along the way to fully experience the park’s diversity.
10. Gain panoramic views of the park from the popular summit trail to Mount Washburn.
Hiking Mount Washburn provides panoramic views of Yellowstone. It’s a popular trail for visitors seeking breathtaking vistas.
The trail is well-marked and offers stunning scenery along the way. Reaching the summit is a rewarding experience.
11. Get the best views of the 308-foot Lower Falls from Artist Point.
Artist Point offers one of the best views of Lower Falls. The viewpoint is easily accessible from the South Rim Drive.
The falls plunge 308 feet into the Yellowstone River. It’s a sight that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
12. Explore geothermal features along the shores of Yellowstone Lake at West Thumb Geyser Basin.
West Thumb Geyser Basin is located along Yellowstone Lake. It features a variety of geothermal attractions.
The boardwalk trail passes bubbling hot springs and fumaroles. The lake’s backdrop enhances the basin’s scenic beauty.
13. See bison, wolves, and bears in one of the park’s best wildlife viewing areas, Lamar Valley.
Lamar Valley is known for its abundant wildlIt’s It’s often referred tAmerica’sica’s Serengeti.
Early morning or late evening is the best time for wildlife spotting. Bring binoculars for a closer look at the animals in their natural habitat.
14. Experience bubbling mud pots and sulfuric hot springs at the Mud Volcano Area.
The Mud Volcano Area is a geothermal hotspot. It features bubbling mud pots and sulfuric springs.
The area is easily accessible via boardwalks. The sights and smells here are unlike any other part of the park.
15. See colorful hot springs, geysers, and mud pots along the short boardwalk trail of Fountain Paint Pot.
Fountain Paint Pot is a short but rewarding trail. It showcases colorful hot springs and active mud pots.
The trail is easy to navigate and perfect for familIt’s It’s a quick way to see a variety of geothermal features.
16. Enjoy a scenic one-way drive past geothermal features and hot springs on Firehole Lake Drive.
Firehole Lake Drive is a beautiful one-way route. It passes by numerous geothermal attractions.
Highlights include hot springs, geysers, and colorful pools. The drive offers a relaxing way to see these features up close.
17. Explore vibrant thermal pools and geysers in the lesser-known Biscuit Basin.
Biscuit Basin is a quieter area with stunning geothermal features. It includes colourful pools and erupting geysers.
The boardwalk trail provides easy access to these sigIt’s It’s a peaceful spot to eYellowstone’sone’s geothermal wonders.
FAQs
Don’t miss the Old Faithful geyser, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Yellowstone Grand Canyon.
Do not approach or feed the wildlife, and avoid leaving marked trails to protect the ecosystem and your safety.
Stay on designated paths, keep a safe distance from wildlife, and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Follow all posted signs, do not disturb wildlife, pack out all trash, and camp only in designated areas.
While generally safe, Yellowstone has natural hazards such as geothermal features, unpredictable wildlife, and rugged terrain.
