The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Yellowstone National Park

Grand Prismatic Spring | Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a wonderland of geothermal activity, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant wildlife. Spanning more than 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, it's no surprise that Yellowstone draws over three million visitors each year. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to explore more, this comprehensive guide covers the must-see attractions, visitor centers, activities, regulations, and tips to make the most of your Yellowstone adventure.

Scenic Drives and Dunraven Pass

The scenic drives through Yellowstone are part of the experience, with Dunraven Pass being a highlight. This mountain pass is the last to open each year, usually in late May, connecting Canyon Village with Tower-Roosevelt. The winding road offers awe-inspiring mountain views and frequent opportunities to spot wildlife like bears, elk, and bison.

Yellowstone National Park Visitor Centers

Yellowstone is home to ten visitor centers spread throughout the park, each offering unique exhibits, park information, ranger-led programs, and more:

• Albright Visitor Center (Mammoth Hot Springs): Historical stone building with wildlife exhibits, park information, and free Wi-Fi.

• Canyon Visitor Education Center: Learn about the Yellowstone supervolcano, watch a 20-minute film, and explore a large relief map.

• Fishing Bridge Visitor Center: Situated near Yellowstone Lake, offering a museum and ranger interactions.

• Grant Visitor Center: Focused on the 1988 fires, with information on fishing, boating, and camping permits.

• Madison Visitor Center: Convenient for those entering from West Yellowstone.

• Museum of the National Park Ranger: Staffed by retired rangers, offering historical perspectives.

• Norris Geyser Basin Museum: Historic trailside museum with summer ranger programs.

• Old Faithful Visitor Education Center: Offers fantastic geyser views and interactive geothermal exhibits.

• West Thumb Information Station: Located near West Thumb Geyser Basin.

• West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center: Open year-round, provides permits and information.

Getting Around Yellowstone

Yellowstone Park Guided Service

Due to its size (63 miles north to south, 54 miles east to west), the best way to get around Yellowstone is by personal vehicle.

• Yellowstone Taxi: Offers shuttle, taxi, and guided services, ideal for hikers and cyclists needing drop-offs or pick-ups between trailheads.

Lodging and Vacation Packages

Maximize your visit with seasonal lodge packages that include accommodations, transportation, and guided activities. Lodging fills quickly, so book early.

Top Attractions in Yellowstone

Old Faithful Geyser | Yellowstone National Park

• Old Faithful: Erupts about every 90 minutes, one of only six predictable geysers.

• Grand Prismatic Spring: The largest hot spring in the U.S., with vivid colors caused by heat-loving microorganisms. Best viewed from the Fairy Falls Trail.

• Grand Canyon of Yellowstone: Offers stunning views of the Upper and Lower Falls. Lookout Point is a prime photo spot.

• Yellowstone Lake: The largest high-elevation lake in North America.

• Norris Geyser Basin: Home to the Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world.

  
  

  Activities in Yellowstone

  
  

• Camping: Reservations are required spring through fall. RVs are only allowed at Fishing Bridge RV Park due to bear activity.

• Backcountry Camping: Permit required. Visit go.nps.gov/YELLbackcountry.

• Horseback Riding: Trails open around July 1. Permits and Coggins test required. Info at go.nps.gov/YELLhorseride.

• Fishing: Park permit required (not state-issued). Kids under age 16 fish free. Permits at www.recreation.gov.

• Swimming: Allowed only in designated areas like the Firehole Swim Area. No soap, food, or flotation toys.

• Boating: Inspections and permits required for all watercraft.

• Hiking: Over 1,000 miles of trails. Carry bear spray and hike in groups. go.nps.gov/YELLdayhikes.

• Bicycling: Allowed on public roads, not on trails or boardwalks. go.nps.gov/YELLbicycling.

Educational Programs

• Junior Ranger & Young Scientist: Activity books and toolkits available at visitor centers.

• Ranger-led Programs: Daily summer activities for all ages. Check the park schedule.

• Yellowstone Forever Institute: Offers field studies, private tours, and day hikes.

Safety and Regulations

Buffalo | Yellowstone National Park

• Hot Springs: Stay on boardwalks to avoid serious burns. Pets are not allowed in thermal areas.

• Wildlife: Keep a safe distance. Carry bear spray.

• Environmental Hazards: Be aware of falling trees, volcanic activity, and hydrothermal explosions.

Important Regulations

• Pets: Not allowed on trails or in thermal areas. Must be leashed in permitted zones.

• Hot Springs: Do not throw objects or stray from paths.

• Firearms: Allowed, but not in buildings. No discharging.

• Drones: Strictly prohibited.

Entering the Park and Visiting Grand Teton

Moose Falls | Yellowstone National Park

Entering Yellowstone through the South Entrance brings you directly from Grand Teton National Park, which requires a separate entry fee. Don’t miss Moose Falls, a hidden gem located 1.2 miles from the gate—a short walk to a stunning waterfall often missed by travelers.

Planning Your Yellowstone Adventure

Yellowstone National Park offers more than just a getaway—it's an immersive experience into the raw beauty and power of nature. Whether you're watching Old Faithful erupt, hiking the rim of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, or spotting wildlife from your car, there's something for everyone. Plan ahead, follow safety guidelines, and let the wild heart of Yellowstone leave its mark on your adventure.

For up-to-date information, permits, and reservations, visit the official Yellowstone website.

Want a closer look at the stunning sights and hidden gems of Yellowstone National Park? Check out our Wandering Past Limits YouTube channel, where we bring the park to life through immersive video, firsthand tips, and family-friendly adventures. From geysers and wildlife encounters to must-see hikes and travel hacks, our Yellowstone video gives you a real feel for what to expect and how to plan your visit. Watch below and don’t forget to subscribe for more national park guides, RV life insights, and outdoor learning inspiration!

Take a virtual tour though Yellowstone National Park