25 Amazing Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park
Have you ever imagined standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, watching waterfalls roar or spotting bison in the Lamar Valley? Yellowstone National Park is filled with so many unforgettable sights, it can be hard to decide what to see first.
With over 2.2 million acres of incredible landscapes, narrowing down the best things to do in Yellowstone can feel overwhelming.
After years of exploring the parks and fine-tuning my Yellowstone itinerary, I’ve compiled a list of must-see spots and experiences. From chasing waterfalls to watching wildlife, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
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Top Attractions You Can’t-Miss in Yellowstone
To help you prioritize your trip, I’ve ranked the top things all first-time visitors should do in Yellowstone. Here are my must-see recommendations based on my own experiences visiting the park.
1. Old Faithful Geyser and the Upper Geyser Basin
One of the most famous landmarks in the world, Old Faithful erupts with clockwork precision every 90 minutes, making it a must-see in Yellowstone. You can find the day’s eruption schedule on a sign outside the geyser, in the Old Faithful Inn, or the Old Faithful Visitor Center.
There are three ways to view Old Faithful:
- Viewing Platform: The boardwalk around the geyser is the most popular and accessible option. You’ll find benches here for waiting between eruptions.
- Observation Point: If you want to escape the crowds, take the strenuous uphill walk to get a bird’s eye view of Old Faithful. It’s roughly 1.1 miles round trip from the viewing platform.
- Deck of the Old Faithful Inn: If you’ve already seen Old Faithful on the viewing platform, you can catch another show on the second-floor deck. The deck is the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic lunch.
But don’t just watch Old Faithful and leave—take time to explore the entire Upper Geyser Basin, home to the park’s largest concentration of geothermal features.
Walking the 3-mile boardwalk loop, you’ll find four more geysers with predicted eruption times: Riverside Geyser, Castle Geyser, Grand Geyser, and Daisy Geyser. In addition, be sure to see Heart Spring, Sawmill Geyser, Beauty Pool and Chromatic Pool, and Morning Glory Pool.
Plan to arrive at Old Faithful around 8 AM to avoid crowds. Afterward, take a walk through the Upper Geyser Basin. If you arrive at Old Faithful just after it erupted, I recommend exploring the rest of the Upper Geyser Basin first and looping back for the next eruption about an hour later.
2. Grand Prismatic Spring and the Midway Geyser Basin
Grand Prismatic Spring is the most photographed feature in Yellowstone, and it’s easy to see why. This massive hot spring displays vibrant colors ranging from deep blue in the center to fiery orange around the edges due to varying water temperatures and microorganisms.
The surrounding Midway Geyser Basin is home to several other impressive features, like the Excelsior Geyser Crater and Turquoise Pool.
Take the Fairy Falls Trail to the overlook for the best view of Grand Prismatic Spring. The easy 1-mile hike from the Fairy Falls Trailhead gives you the perfect view of the hot spring from above.
Midday and afternoon provides the best lighting and brightest colors in the spring after the morning fog has burned off. You may have to wait for a parking spot at the trailhead, but it’s worth it!
3. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
The Yellowstone River carved the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone over thousands of years. The canyon is famous for its dramatic cliffs, colorful rock formations, and two incredible waterfalls: the Upper and Lower Falls. The best way to see the canyon is on a scenic drive of the North Rim and South Rim.
Start your visit at Artist Point on the South Rim for the best view of the Lower Falls. Then, explore the other viewpoints along the North Rim Drive. The road along the North Rim is a one-way loop, so I recommend the stops in this order: Brink of the Lower Falls, Lookout Point & Red Rock Point, Grand View, and Inspiration Point.
4. Mammoth Hot Springs
Mammoth Hot Springs is one of the most unique geothermal areas in Yellowstone. The hot springs here have created beautiful terraced formations made of travertine limestone. The terraces are constantly changing as new hot springs form and old ones dry up, creating cascading shades of orange, brown, purple, and yellow.
Explore the Lower Terraces on a short walk with highlights like Palette Spring, Minerva Terrace, and Mound and Jupiter Terraces. The Upper and Main Terraces offer additional sights, including Canary Spring, which is accessible via a scenic drive a short drive from town.
Elk rutting (mating) season starts in mid-August and ends in September. During this time, you’ll see plenty of elk throughout Mammoth, including several battling bull elk. Be sure to keep your distance!
5. Norris Geyser Basin
Norris Geyser Basin is the hottest and most active geothermal area in Yellowstone. It’s home to Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world, which can shoot water over 300 feet into the air. The basin has two areas: a 0.8-mile loop through Porcelain Basin and a longer 1.7-mile loop around Back Basin.
Norris Geyser Basin, home to Steamboat Geyser (the tallest active geyser in the world), features rare acidic geysers and colorful pools. The basin comprises two areas: Porcelain Basin and Back Basin. Don’t miss these features on your walk:
- Porcelain Basin: Constant Geyser, Whirligig and Pinwheel Geysers, Crackling Lake, Congress Pool
- Back Basin: Steamboat Geyser, Emerald Spring, Cistern Spring, Echinus Geyser, Puff ‘n Stuff Geyser, Green Dragon Spring, Porkchop Geyser
Parking is available at the Norris Geyser Basin lot, but it typically fills between 9 AM and 3 PM, so I recommend arriving in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and find a parking spot.
6. Yellowstone Lake
Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America, has more than 110 miles of scenic shoreline. The lake is known for its cold, clear waters and is a great spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking.
While there are many ways to see the lake, some of my favorite activities include the Storm Point Trail, the historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and the Lake Butte Overlook.
If you have more time to spend at Yellowstone Lake, I recommend taking a boat tour or renting a boat from Yellowstone National Park Lodges. Options include a scenic cruise, private boat rentals, and guided sightseeing and fishing tours.
7. West Thumb Geyser Basin
West Thumb Geyser Basin is a small but unique geothermal area right on the shores of Yellowstone Lake. The basin features colorful hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and even underwater geysers.
The 0.5-mile boardwalk trail takes you through various geothermal features, including the Abyss Pool, one of the deepest hot springs in the park, known for its striking dark color. Other must-see features include Fishing Cone, Black Pool, Thumb Geyser, Seismograph Pool, and Lakeshore Geyser.
If you’re heading south to Grand Teton, West Thumb Geyser Basin is the perfect final stop on your way out of the park.
8. Lower Geyser Basin
Lower Geyser Basin is home to some of Yellowstone’s most dynamic geothermal features. This area includes the Fountain Paint Pot, a colorful hot spring bubbling with mud, and the Great Fountain Geyser, one of the park’s largest geysers which erupts twice daily to over 200 feet. The basin offers diverse geothermal activity, from boiling pools to steaming fumaroles.
9. Biscuit Basin
Biscuit Basin is a lesser-known but equally beautiful geothermal area just north of the Upper Geyser Basin. It’s named for the “biscuits” of silica that once surrounded Sapphire Pool before a 1959 earthquake scattered the rocks.
In addition to the Sapphire Pool, the basin features several colorful hot springs and small geysers such as Black Diamond Pool.
Due to the July 2024 eruption, Biscuit Basin is closed for the remainder of the 2024 season. I recommend visiting Black Sand Basin instead.
10. Old Faithful Inn
Old Faithful Inn is not just a place to stay—it’s a historic landmark and a must-see attraction in its own right. Built in 1904, the inn is one of the largest log structures in the world, featuring a massive stone fireplace and a multi-story lobby.
Head to the second-floor deck to watch Old Faithful erupt from a unique vantage point, away from the crowds. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic lunch with a view.
Finding the perfect place to stay can make or break your trip. I’ve ranked the top lodges in and near Yellowstone to help you have the best experience possible.
Even if you’re not staying overnight, it’s worth stopping by to admire the architecture or eat in the dining room. After visiting the Old Faithful Inn, be sure to check out the newly constructed Old Faithful Visitor Education Center.
Easily Plan Your Perfect Yellowstone Trip with My 87-Page Guide
Join hundreds of travelers who’ve used this guide to plan a stress-free, unforgettable trip.
- Detailed, hour-by-hour itineraries for all must-see sights.
- Insider tips to help you skip the crowds and find hidden gems.
- Easy-to-follow maps and regional guides.
- Trusted advice from my years of exploring the national parks.
My Favorite Hiking Trails in Yellowstone
11. Mount Washburn Trail
The Mount Washburn Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Yellowstone, offering panoramic views of the park from the summit. The trail takes you up to 10,243 feet, where you can see the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Hayden Valley, and even the Teton Range on a clear day.
There are two ways to hike Mount Washburn:
- Via Dunraven Pass (More Scenic, My Recommendation): 6.8 miles, 1394 feet elevation
- Via Chittenden Road (Shorter Fire Road): 5.6 miles, 1482 feet elevation
12. Fairy Falls Trail
Fairy Falls is one of Yellowstone’s tallest waterfalls, and the 5-mile hike to reach it is relatively easy, making it an excellent choice for families. The trail takes you through a lodgepole pine forest to the base of the falls, where you can enjoy the cool mist and the sound of rushing water.
Take the short detour to the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook for a stunning view of the colorful hot spring from above. It’s best seen around midday when the fog has lifted, and sunlight is direct.
13. Lone Star Geyser Trail
The Lone Star Geyser Trail is a peaceful hike to one of Yellowstone’s less-visited geysers. The 5-mile trail follows an old service road through a forested area, leading you to Lone Star Geyser, which erupts about every three hours. It’s a unique experience to watch a geyser erupt without the crowds you’ll find at Old Faithful.
14. Beaver Ponds Loop Trail
The Beaver Ponds Loop Trail is a lesser-known hike near Mammoth Hot Springs, with a chance to see wildlife and beautiful ponds created by beavers. The 5-mile trail winds through meadows and forests, providing views of the surrounding mountains and opportunities to spot elk, beavers, and other animals.
There are plenty more trails in Yellowstone worth exploring! Whether you want easy walks or more challenging hikes, I’ve got a complete guide to the park’s top trails.
Renowned Wildlife Viewing Spots in Yellowstone
15. Lamar Valley
Lamar Valley is often called the “Serengeti of North America” because of its incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. This wide, open valley is one of the best places in Yellowstone to spot animals and vast herds of bison. You’re also likely to see wolves, bears, and pronghorn, making it a must-visit spot for wildlife lovers.
The best spots for seeing wildlife include:
- Slough Creek: Great for spotting wolves, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Soda Butte: Look for bison herds and possibly bears in this area.
- Lamar River: Watch for pronghorns and sometimes grizzly bears near the river.
Always keep a safe distance from wildlife—at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from all other animals. Use binoculars, a zoom lens, or a spotting scope for close-up views without disturbing the animals.
16. Hayden Valley
Hayden Valley is another top spot for wildlife viewing in Yellowstone, especially for those hoping to see bison, elk, and grizzly bears. The valley’s lush, open landscape is ideal for spotting animals grazing or moving through the area. Like Lamar Valley, the best times to visit are early morning or late evening when the animals are most active.
My favorite places for watching wildlife in Hayden Valley are:
- Yellowstone River Overlook: Look along the riverbanks for elk and the occasional grizzly bear.
- Hayden Valley Overlook: See bison, elk, and occasionally bears from this popular viewpoint
- Hayden Valley at Trout Creek: Known for bison and elk and occasionally bald eagles
- Mud Volcano Area: Spot bison grazing near the thermal features.
Stunning Scenic Drives in Yellowstone
17. Grand Loop Road
The Grand Loop Road is Yellowstone’s main driving route, taking you through all the major areas of the park. This scenic drive connects you to Yellowstone’s most famous sights, from Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Mammoth Hot Springs.
It’s the perfect way to explore the park’s diverse landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the views. The Figure-8 route is 142 miles total, so plan for a full day with stops.
18. Firehole Canyon Drive
Firehole Canyon Drive is a 2-mile one-way detour off the Grand Loop Road that takes you along the Firehole River. The drive features a beautiful waterfall, Firehole Falls.
At the end of the drive, you have a chance to swim in the Firehole River swimming area, one of the few places in the park where swimming is allowed in the summer. The canyon’s steep walls and rushing water make this a must-see spot.
19. Blacktail Plateau Drive
Blacktail Plateau Drive is a one-way unpaved scenic drive between Mammoth and Tower-Roosevelt. The 6-mile dirt road takes you through meadows and forests, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially early in the morning or late in the day. The drive also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a favorite for those looking to escape the crowds.
The road is unpaved, so an SUV is preferable, though AWD or 4×4 isn’t required. This drive is perfect for those seeking to explore off-the-beaten-path. Drive slowly and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like elk, bison, and even bears.
Yellowstone’s Hidden Gems and Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions
20. Tower Fall
Tower Fall is one of Yellowstone’s hidden gems, often overlooked by visitors focused on the more famous spots. This stunning waterfall drops 132 feet into a deep canyon, framed by towering rock spires that give the fall its name.
This viewpoint, accessible via a short walk from the Tower Fall parking area, offers picturesque waterfall vistas.
Stop by the nearby Tower General Store, located in the same parking lot, for a quick snack or ice cream after the overlook!
21. Mud Volcano
Mud Volcano is one of Yellowstone’s most unique geothermal areas, with its bubbling mud pots and hissing fumaroles. The area has an otherworldly feel, with steam rising from the ground and the strong smell of sulfur in the air.
The main attractions are the Mud Volcano and Dragon’s Mouth Spring, where steam and water roar out of a cave, making it look like a dragon’s lair.
22. Roosevelt Arch
Roosevelt Arch is a historic and symbolic entrance to Yellowstone, located at the park’s north entrance in Gardiner, Montana. The arch, completed in 1903 and dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt, is inscribed with the words “For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People.”
It’s a must-see for history buffs and anyone who appreciates the significance of Yellowstone as America’s first national park.
23. Black Sand Basin
Black Sand Basin is a small but colorful geothermal area just north of the Upper Geyser Basin. The basin gets its name from the black volcanic sand that surrounds the area. It’s less crowded than nearby attractions like Old Faithful.
The most notable features include Emerald Pool, with its striking green color, and Cliff Geyser, which erupts frequently from a ledge along Iron Creek.
24. Artist Paint Pots
Artist Paint Pots is a lesser-known geothermal area that offers a variety of colorful hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and fumaroles. The name comes from the vibrant colors found in the region, which look like an artist’s palette.
This 1-mile trail is perfect for those looking to experience Yellowstone’s geothermal activity without the crowds.
25. Boiling River Hot Spring
Boiling River is one of Yellowstone’s best-kept secrets, where you can experience a natural hot spring in a beautiful river setting. The hot water from the spring mixes with the cold water of the Gardner River, creating the perfect spot for a warm soak.
Unlike most hot springs in Yellowstone, you can swim here. The Boiling River is only open during summer daylight hours. Bring water shoes due to the rocky riverbed and always supervise children as there is no lifeguard on duty.
Due to the 2022 flooding in Yellowstone, swimming is not currently allowed at the Boiling River. Instead, I recommend the Firehole River Swimming Area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park offers an incredible range of activities, from watching Old Faithful erupt to exploring the colorful thermal pools at Grand Prismatic Spring. Whether hiking the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, spotting wildlife in Lamar Valley, or relaxing by Yellowstone Lake, there’s something for everyone in this remarkable park.
More Yellowstone Guides to Help Plan Your Trip:
Easily Plan Your Perfect Yellowstone Trip with My 87-Page Guide
Join hundreds of travelers who’ve used this guide to plan a stress-free, unforgettable trip.
- Detailed, hour-by-hour itineraries for all must-see sights.
- Insider tips to help you skip the crowds and find hidden gems.
- Easy-to-follow maps and regional guides.
- Trusted advice from my years of exploring the national parks.
