Yellowstone National Park State Map
Explore the Best of Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular destinations in the United States. This vast wilderness area is home to an incredible array of natural wonders, from the world-famous Old Faithful geyser to the stunning Grand Prismatic Spring. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Yellowstone has something for you. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip to Yellowstone National Park.
Top Attractions
Yellowstone is home to some of the most iconic natural landmarks in the world. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the bubbling mud pots and hot springs, there’s no shortage of amazing sights to see. Some of the top attractions in the park include:
- Old Faithful geyser
- Grand Prismatic Spring
- Mammoth Hot Springs
- Lamar Valley
- Hayden Valley
- Tower Fall
Each of these attractions is unique and worth exploring in depth.
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions in Yellowstone are certainly stunning, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover. Some of our favorites include:
- Undine Falls
- Blacktail Plateau Drive
- Beaver Ponds Loop Trail
- Tower Creek Trail
- Sunset Lake
- Lone Star Geyser
These lesser-known spots offer a chance to get away from the crowds and experience the park’s natural beauty in a more intimate way.
Food Scene
Yellowstone may be known for its natural wonders, but it also has a surprisingly diverse and delicious food scene. Some of the top places to eat in the park include:
- Old Faithful Inn Dining Room
- Canyon Lodge Dining Room
- Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room
- Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room
- Grant Village Restaurant
Whether you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, a gourmet dinner, or a quick snack, you’ll find plenty of options in Yellowstone.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Yellowstone can be an expensive destination, but there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing your experience. Some tips for budget-friendly travel in the park include:
- Bring your own food and snacks
- Camp instead of staying in a hotel
- Visit during the shoulder season (spring or fall)
- Take advantage of free activities like hiking and wildlife watching
- Buy an annual park pass if you plan to visit multiple times in a year
With a little planning, you can enjoy everything Yellowstone has to offer without breaking the bank.
Outdoor Adventures
Yellowstone is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with endless opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and more. Some of the top outdoor adventures in the park include:
- Backpacking the Bechler River Trail
- Climbing Mount Washburn
- Fly fishing in the Lamar River
- Canoeing or kayaking on Yellowstone Lake
- Rock climbing in the Gallatin Mountains
- Snowshoeing in the winter
No matter what your skill level or interests, there’s an outdoor adventure waiting for you in Yellowstone.
Historical Landmarks
Yellowstone has a rich history, and there are many landmarks throughout the park that tell the story of its past. Some of the top historical landmarks to visit include:
- Fort Yellowstone Historic District
- Obsidian Cliff
- Yellowstone Historic Center Museum
- Hayden Valley Petroglyphs
- Madison Buffalo Jump State Park
- Yellowstone Gateway Museum
These landmarks offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who have called Yellowstone home over the centuries.
Family-Friendly Activities
Yellowstone is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids (and adults) will love. Some of the top family-friendly activities in the park include:
- Visiting the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center
- Going on a ranger-led hike or wildlife watching tour
- Exploring the Junior Ranger program
- Attending a campfire program
- Visiting the Yellowstone Association Institute
- Going on a horseback ride
From learning about the park’s wildlife to exploring its natural wonders, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained in Yellowstone.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
While Yellowstone is a popular destination, there are still plenty of opportunities to get off the beaten path and discover something new. Some of the top off-the-beaten-path experiences in the park include:
- Exploring the Lamar Valley in the winter
- Going on a backcountry camping trip
- Visiting the Black Sand Basin
- Hiking to the top of Electric Peak
- Going on a guided wildlife watching tour
- Visiting the Norris Geyser Basin
These experiences offer a chance to see a different side of Yellowstone and get away from the crowds.
Natural Wonders
Yellowstone is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. From its geysers and hot springs to its waterfalls and canyons, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to see. Some of the top natural wonders in the park include:
- Old Faithful geyser
- Grand Prismatic Spring
- Yellowstone Falls
- Mammoth Hot Springs
- Hayden Valley
- Lamar Valley
These natural wonders are truly breathtaking and should not be missed on any trip to Yellowstone.
Vibrant Nightlife
While Yellowstone may not be known for its nightlife, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy after the sun goes down. Some of the top nightlife experiences in the park include:
- Attending a campfire program
- Stargazing in the Hayden Valley
- Going on a guided night hike
- Visiting the Old Faithful Inn for a drink
- Attending a live music performance at the Lake Lodge
- Going on a moonlit horseback ride
These activities offer a chance to experience Yellowstone in a different way and enjoy the park’s beauty under the stars.
Local Markets
While Yellowstone may be a wilderness area, there are still local markets and shops to explore. Some of the top local markets in the park include:
- The Yellowstone General Store
- The Canyon Village Market
- The Tower Fall General Store
- The Roosevelt Lodge General Store
- The Lake Lodge Gift Shop
- The Old Faithful Gift Shop
These markets offer a chance to shop for souvenirs, snacks, and other essentials during your visit to Yellowstone.
Beaches and Mountains
Yellowstone is home to both beaches and mountains, offering a diverse array of landscapes to explore. Some of the top beaches and mountains in the park include:
- Yellowstone Lake Beach
- West Thumb Geyser Basin Beach
- Mammoth Hot Springs Terrace Beach
- Mount Washburn
- Electric Peak
- The Gallatin Mountains
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach or summit a peak, Yellowstone has something for you.
Cultural Immersion
Yellowstone has a rich cultural history, and there are many opportunities to learn about the people who have called the park home over the centuries. Some of the top cultural immersion experiences in the park include:
- Visiting the Museum of the National