Things to do in Yellowstone National Park

Activities, attractions and tours

Yellowstone National Park showing a river or creek and forests
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park
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Top places to visit

1. Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a colossal wilderness of diverse landscapes and ecosystems, a natural playground of mountains, roaring waterfalls, volcanic phenomena, bears and bison.
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Yellowstone Breathtaking Waterfall View at the Iconic Artist Point

2. Old Faithful

Visit Old Faithful to see why it has earned its name. It has been consistently erupting for as long as people have known about it. The geyser’s reliability is a main reason why Yellowstone National Park, the world’s first national park, was created in 1872. Stay in the vicinity of the geyser for an hour or more and it’s almost certain to come to life. In fact, it’s so reliable that the park service provides time predictions for the 20 daily eruptions.
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Old Faithful

3. Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake in Yellowstone National Park is a marvel just by its location at such a high altitude. At 7,733 feet (2,357 meters) above sea level and with a surface area of 132 square miles (342 square kilometers), this is the largest high-elevation lake in North America. Although it’s located in a park with many hydrothermal features, don’t assume the water is warm. When you visit Yellowstone Lake dip a toe in, if you like, to discover the chill. The water may approach 70 F (21 C), but the average temperature is 41 F (5 C). The lake freezes over in winter.
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Yellowstone Lake which includes a lake or waterhole

4. Mammoth Hot Springs

When you visit Mammoth Hot Springs, prepare to be mesmerized by nature. Located near Fort Yellowstone in the Mammoth Hot Springs Historic District, the hot springs are one of Yellowstone National Park’s most iconic destinations.
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Mammoth Hot Springs

5. Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is an awe-inspiring gorge with rock formations of pink and yellow hues and several immense waterfalls. The canyon, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) long, is a major highlight of Yellowstone National Park. Hike trails surrounding this spectacular gorge and enjoy exceptional vistas.
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Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

6. Lamar Valley

Yellowstone National Park’s Lamar Valley has open spaces that allow visitors to see many animal species from off-road viewing areas. Look for numerous bison, which some people call buffalo. You can also see bears, longhorn antelope, wolves, elk and other species here. Park guests visit Lamar Valley often just to see wildlife. Don’t be surprised if you’re caught in a traffic jam waiting for animals to cross from one side of the road to the other.
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Lamar Valley featuring a river or creek and hiking or walking as well as a couple

7. Fishing Bridge

Fishing Bridge is a vehicle and pedestrian bridge that crosses the Yellowstone River at the point where it empties into Yellowstone Lake. Join other visitors on the bridge to spot schools of cutthroat trout and admire the landscapes of the national park. Fishing Bridge began its existence as a log crossing in 1902 and was rebuilt in its present form in 1937.
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Fishing Bridge

What to do in Yellowstone National Park

Popular places to visit

Yellowstone National Park showing rapids, mist or fog and landscape views

Yellowstone National Park

Embark on a thrilling outdoor adventure at the oldest and largest national park in the United States. You’ll come across one magnificent view after another.

Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park East Entrance

Yellowstone National Park East Entrance

5/5(2 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Yellowstone National Park East Entrance, a lovely green space in Yellowstone National Park. Discover the area's mountain views and restaurants.

Yellowstone National Park East Entrance
Yellowstone National Park South Entrance

Yellowstone National Park South Entrance

4/5(3 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Yellowstone National Park South Entrance, a lovely green space in Yellowstone National Park. While you're here, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Yellowstone National Park South Entrance
Old Faithful

Old Faithful

4.5/5(10 reviews)

Its iconic stature and reliability attract visitors from around the world. View this geyser, which always satisfies with its regular dramatic shows.

Old Faithful
Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake

5/5(1 review)

In an area with many unique natural attractions, this large lake appears next to tall mountains. Visit for beautiful views and interesting walks.

Yellowstone Lake
Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs

Near the northern edge of Yellowstone National Park, drive around colorful travertine terraces or walk among steaming thermal features in this otherworldly area.

Mammoth Hot Springs
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

5/5(4 reviews)

Enjoy the mesmerizing views of waterfalls, a river and a variety of brightly colored rock formations in this iconic canyon, a national treasure.

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley

5/5(4 reviews)

View wildlife wandering through this large area. While some animals saunter across the roadway, you may need binoculars to see them farther away.

Lamar Valley
Grand Prismatic Spring

Grand Prismatic Spring

4.5/5(8 reviews)

Otherworldly is an appropriate description of this volcanic feature that bears little resemblance to the commonplace perception of a spring.

Grand Prismatic Spring

Areas of Yellowstone National Park

West Thumb

West Thumb

Discover geothermal activity, a geyser basin, the small Grant Village and more natural attractions from the western inlet of Yellowstone Lake.

West Thumb
Canyon Village

Canyon Village

Use this stopping point as a base for exploring Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Artist’s Point, one of America’s most iconic natural sights.

Canyon Village
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Upper Geyser Basin

While visiting Upper Geyser Basin, you might make a stop by sights like Old Faithful and Firehole River.

Upper Geyser Basin
Fort Yellowstone Historic District

Mammoth

While visiting Mammoth, you might make a stop by sights like Fort Yellowstone Historic District and Beaver Ponds Loop Trail.

Mammoth
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Lake Village

If you're spending some time in Lake Village, Yellowstone Lake and Pelican Valley Trail are top sights worth seeing.

Lake Village
Tower Fall

Tower Junction

In the Lamar Valley near Wyoming’s border with Montana, see the Petrified Tree, Tower Fall and some of Yellowstone National Park’s most iconic wild residents.

Tower Junction
Photo by John Toranto

Ashton

Frequently asked questions

Is Yellowstone National Park worth visiting?
Yellowstone National Park has a unique mix of attractions, culture and local charm. Whether you're into the outdoors, history or traditional cuisine, there's plenty you'll enjoy here.
How do I spend a day in Yellowstone National Park?
Start your adventures with a visit to Lower Yellowstone Falls and Artist Point. Then, tour different areas of Yellowstone National Park for local restaurants and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Yellowstone National Park?
Lower Yellowstone Falls is one of the top tourist attractions in Yellowstone National Park and should feature high on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Yellowstone National Park?
Three days is plenty for a quick escape to Yellowstone National Park — you'll hit the main attractions and get a good idea of the local vibe. But if you want to really experience it all, plan at least seven to ten days to discover the surrounding areas too.
What are some activities to do in Yellowstone National Park with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities sets the tone for a great escape. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Yellowstone National Park with kids.

What to do in Yellowstone National Park for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or adventure seeker, there's a range of things to do in Yellowstone National Park for adults.
Are there free things to do in Yellowstone National Park?
With lots of free things to do in Yellowstone National Park, you can discover the area without getting your wallet out. Soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or stroll through the local neighbourhoods.