National Parks

Yellowstone National Park: Geysers, Wildlife, and Wonder

Witness erupting geysers, rainbow hot springs, and roaming bison herds in America's first and most legendary national park.

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Location:

Yellowstone National Park, WY

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When to Visit:

Late June through early September for peak access and wildlife activity; September for thinning crowds and elk rut; winter (December–February) for snowcoach tours and bison in snow

Yellowstone National Park, WY Travel Recommendations

Old Faithful Inn

Old Faithful Inn

The world's largest log hotel, located steps from Old Faithful geyser in Yellowstone National Park and a beloved landmark since 1904.
Reserve
Canyon Lodge & Cabins – Yellowstone

Canyon Lodge & Cabins – Yellowstone

Modern lodge and cabin accommodations near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, offering easy access to canyon viewpoints and wildlife-watching areas.
Reserve
Grant Village Campground – Yellowstone

Grant Village Campground – Yellowstone

A large and well-equipped campground on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, offering access to fishing, boating, and prime wildlife viewing opportunities.
Reserve a Site
Yellowstone Lake Scenic Boat Tours

Yellowstone Lake Scenic Boat Tours

Guided scenic boat tours on Yellowstone Lake departing from Bridge Bay Marina, offering stunning views of the park's mountains and shoreline.
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Yellowstone Forever Wildlife Tours

Yellowstone Forever Wildlife Tours

Nonprofit-run guided wildlife tours in Yellowstone led by expert naturalists, offering morning and evening excursions to spot wolves, bears, bison, and more.
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Yellowstone National Park, WY Travel Tips

  • Book lodging inside the park or in gateway towns (West Yellowstone, Gardiner, Jackson) 6–12 months in advance — in-park lodges sell out almost immediately when reservations open.
  • The Lamar Valley in the park's northeast corner is the best place for wolf and bear sightings — bring binoculars or a spotting scope and arrive at dawn for the best activity.
  • Stay at least 25 yards from bison and elk, and 100 yards from bears and wolves — bison injure more visitors than any other animal in the park and are faster than they look.
  • Old Faithful erupts approximately every 90 minutes — check the predicted eruption time posted at the visitor center to plan efficiently without a long wait.
  • Timed entry reservations are required for the most congested park entrances during summer — check recreation.gov before your trip for the latest requirements.

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