10 Best Things to Do in Yellowstone Park
Hi, I’m Emily Johnson, and I recently had the chance to visit Yellowstone National Park. It was an amazing experience, and I want to share with you the 10 best things to do in the park. From geysers to wildlife, there’s something for everyone in Yellowstone.
Curiosities and Interesting Facts
- Yellowstone was the first national park in the United States.
- The park covers over 2 million acres.
- Yellowstone is home to the largest super volcano on the continent.
- The park has over 10,000 hydrothermal features, including geysers and hot springs.
- Yellowstone is home to over 60 species of mammals, including grizzly bears, wolves, and bison.
1. Visit Old Faithful
One of the most iconic features of Yellowstone is Old Faithful. This geyser erupts every 90 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 180 feet in the air. It’s a pretty amazing sight to see. I made sure to time my visit to catch an eruption, and it did not disappoint.
2. Hike to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a breathtaking sight. The canyon is over 20 miles long, and up to 4,000 feet wide. The Yellowstone River runs through the canyon, and there are several hiking trails that allow you to get up close and personal with the canyon walls. I did the Uncle Tom’s Trail, which is a steep but rewarding hike that takes you down to the base of the Lower Falls.
3. See the Wildlife
Yellowstone is home to some amazing wildlife, and you’re almost guaranteed to see something if you keep your eyes peeled. Bison are probably the most common, and they can often be seen grazing along the roadsides. I was lucky enough to see a grizzly bear on my trip, which was definitely a highlight.
4. Drive the Grand Loop Road
The Grand Loop Road is a 142-mile scenic drive that takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the park. It’s a great way to see a lot of the park in a short amount of time. I did the drive over the course of two days, stopping at various points of interest along the way.
5. Soak in the Boiling River
The Boiling River is a unique spot where a hot spring meets the Gardner River, creating a spot where you can soak in warm water while surrounded by the beauty of the park. I spent an afternoon there, and it was incredibly relaxing.
6. Visit the Lamar Valley
The Lamar Valley is known as the Serengeti of North America because of the abundance of wildlife that can be seen there. Bison, wolves, and bears are all common sights in the valley. I did a guided tour through the valley and it was definitely one of the highlights of my trip.
7. Explore the Norris Geyser Basin
The Norris Geyser Basin is the hottest and most changeable thermal area in the park. There are several boardwalks that allow you to explore the basin and see some of the most unique hydrothermal features in the park. I was blown away by the colors and textures of the features.
8. Go Fishing
Yellowstone is home to some amazing fishing, with over 1,000 miles of streams and rivers. I went on a guided fishing trip on the Yellowstone River and it was a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the park.
9. Visit the Upper Geyser Basin
The Upper Geyser Basin is home to some of the most famous geysers in the park, including Castle Geyser and Beehive Geyser. There are several boardwalks that allow you to explore the basin and see the geysers up close. I timed my visit to see Castle Geyser erupt, and it was definitely worth the wait.
10. Take a Scenic Drive to Yellowstone Lake
Yellowstone Lake is the largest freshwater lake above 7,000 feet in North America. The lake is incredibly beautiful, with crystal-clear water and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. I did a scenic drive around the lake and it was one of the most peaceful and relaxing parts of my trip.
FAQs
What is the best time of year to visit Yellowstone?
The best time to visit Yellowstone depends on what you want to see and do. If you want to see wildlife, the best time is in the spring and fall. If you want to see the geysers, the summer is the best time to visit. Keep in mind that the park can be crowded during the summer months.
What should I bring with me to Yellowstone?
You should bring comfortable clothing and shoes for hiking, as well as sunscreen, bug spray, and a hat. It’s also a good idea to bring a reusable water bottle and snacks, as food options in the park can be limited and expensive.
Are there any safety tips I should be aware of?
Yes, there are several safety tips to keep in mind while visiting Yellowstone. First and foremost, always stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves, and 25 yards away from all other wildlife. It’s also important to stay on designated trails and boardwalks in the thermal areas, as the ground can be unstable and dangerous.