Visiting Yellowstone National Park in the USA
Discover the magic of Yellowstone National Park! Plan your unforgettable adventure amidst stunning geothermal wonders like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring. Explore diverse wildlife, hike scenic trails, and choose from historic hotels, cozy cabins, or campgrounds. Reserve your lodging early, especially for peak season. Remember to pack layers for Yellowstone’s unpredictable weather and download maps due to limited cell service. Learn essential safety tips for wildlife encounters and geothermal areas. Start planning your Yellowstone adventure today!
Important information
- Reserve lodging and campsites well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Pack layers of clothing for unpredictable weather and carry bear spray for safety.
- Download maps and park information beforehand due to limited cell service.
- Check the park’s website (nps.gov/yell) for road conditions, closures, and safety alerts before traveling.
- Respect wildlife by maintaining safe distances (100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other animals) and following park regulations.
Plan Your Visit to Yellowstone National Park
Plan your Yellowstone adventure! Book your accommodations well in advance, especially for peak season, selecting from hotels, cabins, and campgrounds. Check the park’s website for lodging availability and road conditions. Yellowstone’s weather can change rapidly, so pack layers of clothing. For your safety, carry bear spray and be aware of park regulations concerning food storage and wildlife interactions. A flexible itinerary is key, enabling you to adjust to weather changes or unexpected wildlife encounters. Cell phone service is limited, so download maps and park information beforehand. You can enter Yellowstone through five entrances: North, Northeast, East, South, and West. Verify entrance opening dates and closures on the park’s website before you travel. Use our travel entry requirements checker available on Passport Free Countries. Check if you need a visa or other travel documents via Passport Free Countries: https://passportfreecountries.org
Book your lodging early, especially if traveling during peak season. You can choose from various options, including hotels, cabins, and campgrounds.
Check the park’s website for current lodging availability and road updates.
Pack layers of clothing as Yellowstone’s weather is unpredictable.
Carry bear spray for safety and be sure to review park regulations regarding food and wildlife.
Plan a flexible itinerary that allows you to adapt to changing weather and unexpected animal sightings.
Download maps and information in advance due to unreliable cell service.
Access Yellowstone through five entrances: North, Northeast, East, South, and West. Remember to check opening dates and closures on the park’s website before your visit.
Basic Information for First-Time Visitors
Yellowstone National Park has five entrances: North, Northeast, East, South, and West. Summer days are pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 70-80°F (21-27°C). Winters are harsh, with temperatures dropping to 0-20°F (-18 to -7°C). Plan your visit with information from nine visitor centers: Albright, Canyon, Fishing Bridge, Fort Yellowstone, Grant Village, Madison, Norris, Old Faithful, and West Yellowstone. Internet and cellular service are often unreliable, so planning is essential. A seven-day vehicle pass costs $35. The park is open year-round, but some roads may be closed during winter due to snow.
Top Things to Know Before You Go
Prioritize safety by staying on designated boardwalks and observing wildlife from a safe distance.
Securely store food to avoid attracting animals.
Reserve lodging and campsites in advance, particularly during peak season.
Yellowstone’s weather can change rapidly, so pack layers of clothing.
Carry bear spray for protection in bear country.
Inform someone of your hiking itinerary, especially if venturing into remote areas.
Pack a first-aid kit for any emergencies.
Familiarize yourself with park regulations.
Operating Dates and Park Road Access
Yellowstone’s roads typically open in late April or early May, closing again in early November. Winter access is restricted, but the North Entrance near Gardiner, Montana remains open. During this time, you can explore the park by snowcoach or snowmobile. For precise opening and closing dates for each entrance and road, visit the park’s website.
Entrance Fees and Pass Options
A 7-day vehicle pass costs $35, granting access for all occupants.
Individuals on foot, bikes, or entering without a vehicle can obtain a 7-day pass for $20.
Motorcycles have a slightly lower 7-day rate of $30.
These passes cover both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. The annual America the Beautiful Pass is also valid.
Directions and Transportation
Yellowstone National Park welcomes visitors through five entrances across Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho. The North Entrance, near Gardiner, Montana, provides access to the park’s northern areas. The Northeast Entrance is convenient for travelers heading to Cooke City and Silver Gate, Montana. West Yellowstone, Montana, is located near the West Entrance. The South Entrance provides easy access from Jackson, Wyoming. Lastly, the East Entrance is near Cody, Wyoming. For detailed directions and road conditions, consult online park maps. Inside the park, explore by car, shuttle, or guided tour.
Current Conditions and Alerts
For the latest information on road closures, weather conditions, and important safety alerts, visit the park website. Have a specific question? Contact a park ranger.
Where to Stay and Eat in Yellowstone
Plan your Yellowstone adventure with a stay that suits your style. Choose from historic hotels, cozy cabin getaways, or immersive campgrounds.
Historic Hotels
- Old Faithful Inn, known for its unique architecture.
- Lake Yellowstone Hotel, offering elegant accommodations.
- Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, situated near the park’s impressive terraces.
Cozy Cabin Getaways
- Canyon Lodge, providing rustic comfort.
- Roosevelt Lodge Cabins, offering a secluded retreat.
- Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins, perfect for a winter escape.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Yellowstone offers various campgrounds:
- Grant Village Campground.
- Madison Campground.
- Canyon Campground.
Dining options range from formal meals to casual bites:
Formal Dining
- Old Faithful Inn Dining Room.
- Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room.
Casual Dining
Enjoy casual bites at general stores, snack bars, and delis located throughout the park.
Lodging: Hotels and Inns
Plan your Yellowstone adventure and choose from nine unique lodging options inside the park. These include historic gems like the Old Faithful Inn and the Lake Yellowstone Hotel, or comfortable stays at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Grant Village. Reservations are highly recommended due to the park’s popularity. If park lodging is full, consider nearby gateway communities. Gardiner, Montana, and West Yellowstone offer plenty of additional choices. Reserve your room now!
Camping: Reservation Tips and Options
Reserve your Yellowstone campsite well in advance, especially for peak season, as they fill up quickly. Visit the park’s website for reservations and availability.
Dining Options Inside the Park
Yellowstone National Park offers diverse dining options, from restaurants and cafes to quick snack bars. Many are conveniently located near the park’s main attractions and visitor centers. Several eateries are located within the park’s hotels and lodges, such as the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room, which boasts stunning views of the geyser.
Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park
Plan your Yellowstone adventure! Hike over 900 miles of trails, encountering bison, elk, and wolves. Capture breathtaking photos of Old Faithful and the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring. Camp beneath a starlit sky and fish in designated areas. Join ranger programs to uncover the park’s history. In winter, Yellowstone transforms into a snowshoer’s and skier’s paradise.
Exploring Yellowstone
- Hike over 900 miles of trails, encountering wildlife like bison, elk, and wolves.
- Capture stunning photos of iconic landmarks such as Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring.
- Camp under the stars and fish in designated areas.
Activities and Logistics
- Join ranger programs for deeper insights into the park’s history.
- Enjoy winter activities like snowshoeing and skiing.
- Explore the park by driving, biking, taking a bus, or venturing into the backcountry.
Check road closures and alerts before your visit.
Must-See Natural Wonders
Yellowstone National Park is a wonderland of breathtaking features. The Grand Prismatic Spring’s vibrant rainbow hues are mesmerizing. Mammoth Hot Springs’ travertine terraces are equally impressive, a testament to the park’s geothermal activity.
- Experience the vibrant hues of Grand Prismatic Spring,
- Witness the reliable eruptions of Old Faithful,
- Explore the travertine terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs.
Old Faithful reliably erupts in a spectacular display. Beyond these iconic landmarks, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone offers stunning vistas and powerful waterfalls. Hikers can explore diverse landscapes on numerous trails, often encountering the park’s abundant wildlife.
- Marvel at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone,
- Hike diverse trails and encounter wildlife,
- Discover the wonders of Yellowstone.
Exploring Geothermal Areas
Yellowstone’s geothermal areas are a must-see, boasting incredible features like Old Faithful, plus a multitude of hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. These wonders reveal the park’s dynamic hydrothermal systems. Visitors can explore these geothermal marvels in a variety of ways:
- Boardwalks and Trails: Experience the geothermal areas at your own pace by traversing the numerous boardwalks and trails, offering breathtaking views and up-close encounters with these natural wonders.
- Guided Tours: Gain deeper insights into the science behind the geothermal activity through informative guided tours, enriching your understanding of the park’s unique hydrothermal systems.
- Independent Exploration: Discover the geothermal wonders independently, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of Yellowstone’s active landscape at your leisure.
Hiking Trails and Safety Tips
Hike with a group of three or more people for enhanced safety and enjoyment.
Stick to marked trails and boardwalks to avoid getting lost or encountering hazardous terrain.
Always inform someone about your hiking plan, including your destination and expected return time, especially when hiking in remote areas.
Carry a well-stocked first-aid kit to handle any unforeseen emergencies or injuries.
Familiarize yourself with park regulations, including safe food storage practices and guidelines for wildlife viewing, to ensure a responsible and safe visit.
Wildlife Watching: Best Spots and Guidelines
Lamar Valley is a wildlife viewing paradise, frequented by bison, grizzly bears, and black bears. You might even spot one yourself!
Photography in Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park is a photographer’s paradise, brimming with breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife. Capture stunning geothermal features, from steaming geysers to vibrant hot springs. Frame iconic bison, majestic elk, and even elusive bears and wolves against the park’s amazing vistas. Birdwatchers will also delight in the abundant avian species, offering yet another photographic opportunity.
Wildlife Photography
- Capture iconic bison against the park’s vistas.
- Photograph majestic elk in their natural habitat.
- Attempt to capture elusive bears and wolves.
- Discover abundant avian species for birdwatchers and photographers.
Landscape Photography
- Capture stunning geothermal features.
- Photograph steaming geysers.
- Frame vibrant hot springs against the landscape.
Guided Tours and Ranger Programs
Explore Yellowstone National Park with our expert park rangers.
Join our park rangers for insightful walks and talks, discovering the hidden gems of Yellowstone. In the evening, gather around a campfire for captivating discussions about the park’s history and wonders.
Embark on guided tours to explore Yellowstone’s abundant wildlife and capture breathtaking photos. For a more relaxed experience, take a scenic drive and immerse yourself in the park’s stunning landscapes. Yellowstone offers something for every adventurer.
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Explore Yellowstone Lake with a scenic cruise. For a more adventurous outing, rent a motorboat and discover Yellowstone or Lewis Lakes at your own pace. Horseback riding is another popular way to experience the park.
Safety and Accessibility in Yellowstone
Wildlife viewing is an incredible experience, but safety should be your top priority. Maintain a safe distance of 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other animals. Stay on designated boardwalks and trails, and be prepared for sudden weather changes. In bear country, carry bear spray and know the park regulations and emergency procedures. Protecting yourself also protects the wildlife.Proper food storage and waste disposal are essential for keeping animals at a safe distance. Never approach or feed them—it’s dangerous for both you and the animals. If you encounter wildlife, remain calm and give them space. Learning to identify animal tracks and signs can enhance your safety.Yellowstone National Park is committed to accessibility. The park offers accessible trails, restrooms, visitor centers, tours, and programs. More information is available on the park’s website or at any visitor center.
General Safety Tips for Visitors
Respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance and sticking to designated boardwalks and trails, especially near geothermal features.
Be prepared for unpredictable weather by packing layers.
Carry bear spray and familiarize yourself with its proper use.
Store food securely and dispose of trash responsibly in receptacles.
If you’re venturing into the backcountry, inform someone of your itinerary.
Before your visit, consult the park’s website for important alerts and current conditions.
Pack a first-aid kit and be mindful of potential altitude sickness.
Remember to follow all park regulations.
Wildlife Safety: Bears, Bison, and More
Respect wildlife by maintaining a safe distance. Stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves for everyone’s safety. Other large animals, like bison and elk, require a 25-yard buffer. Carry bear spray and know how to use it; it could save your life. Never feed park animals, as this disrupts their natural behaviors and creates risks for both you and them.
Accessibility Resources for Visitors
The National Park Service (NPS) welcomes everyone to explore its parks and offers numerous resources to enhance visitor experiences. For instance, the NPS Mobile App provides detailed accessibility information about park features. US citizens or permanent residents with disabilities can obtain a free lifetime Access Pass. Visitor centers also loan assistive listening devices. For the latest details on specific trails, facilities, and programs, consult the individual park websites. Here’s a summary of the resources available:
- NPS Mobile App: Provides detailed accessibility information.
- Access Pass: Free lifetime access for US citizens or permanent residents with disabilities.
- Assistive Listening Devices: Available for loan at visitor centers.
For specific details, check individual park websites.
Nearby Attractions and Additional Resources
South of Yellowstone: Grand Teton National Park offers majestic mountains and stunning hiking trails.
East of Yellowstone: Cody, Wyoming, the “Rodeo Capital of the World,” features museums and thrilling rodeos.
At Yellowstone’s west entrance: West Yellowstone, Montana, provides easy access and numerous amenities.
Northeast of Yellowstone: Red Lodge, Montana, a charming mountain town nestled in the Beartooth Mountains.
At Yellowstone’s north entrance: Gardiner, Montana, serves as the park’s historic northern gateway.
For trip planning: The official Yellowstone National Park website (nps.gov/yell) details park access, permits, and activities.
For in-park lodging and tours: Xanterra Travel Collection (yellowstonenationalparklodges.com).
For educational resources and guided programs: The non-profit Yellowstone Forever (yellowstone.org).
The Yellowstone Pledge: Protect the park through responsible travel. Respect wildlife, stay on marked paths, and pack out all trash to minimize human impact.
Nearby Cities and Parks to Explore
South of Yellowstone lies Grand Teton National Park.
Northeast, Red Lodge, Montana, captivates with breathtaking mountain vistas.
East, the town of Cody, Wyoming, immerses visitors in rodeo and western culture.
West Yellowstone, Montana, welcomes guests at the park’s western gateway, providing a range of convenient services.
Trip-Planning Resources and Itineraries
Planning your Yellowstone adventure is easy with the park’s helpful resources. These include suggested itineraries and maps. These tools allow you to navigate the park efficiently and discover its diverse offerings, from geysers and hot springs to abundant wildlife. Online trip planning tools further simplify the process. To ensure a smooth experience, especially during peak season, remember to book accommodations and tours ahead of time.
Yellowstone Pledge for Conservation
Protect Yellowstone National Park’s natural beauty by taking the pledge to be a responsible park steward. This means minimizing your environmental impact and respecting wildlife. Follow park regulations, such as storing food properly and staying on designated trails and boardwalks. Pack out everything you pack in, and be considerate of other visitors. Taking the Yellowstone Pledge helps protect the park for future generations. Take the pledge today.
