Yellowstone National Park is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the United States. As the world’s first national park, it attracts millions of visitors each year who come to witness its geothermal wonders, vast landscapes, and incredible wildlife. Whether you are visiting for a few days or an extended trip, there are countless ways to experience this natural treasure.
This guide highlights the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park, from watching geysers erupt to hiking world-class trails. You will also find links to helpful guides on the Yellowstone volcano, the best time to visit, and the best hikes so you can plan the perfect trip.
Explore Yellowstone’s Geothermal Wonders
One of the most iconic experiences in Yellowstone is seeing its geothermal features. The park sits atop the massive Yellowstone volcano, which fuels more than 10,000 hot springs, geysers, and mud pots.
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Old Faithful Geyser: Erupts about every 90 minutes, making it the most reliable and popular attraction.
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Grand Prismatic Spring: Famous for its rainbow colors, this is the largest hot spring in the United States.
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Mammoth Hot Springs: A series of terraced, steaming formations that look almost otherworldly.
For more details on the geology behind these features, visit our guide to the Yellowstone volcano or check the USGS Yellowstone Volcano Observatory
Discover Wildlife in Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley
Yellowstone is home to some of the richest wildlife populations in North America. You can often see:
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Bison herds grazing in Lamar Valley
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Wolves roaming in packs, especially during dawn and dusk
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Elk, moose, and grizzly bears in forested areas
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Bald eagles soaring over rivers and lakes
Bring binoculars and a camera for the best experience. For official wildlife viewing tips, visit the NPS wildlife safety page.
Visit the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a must-see. This dramatic canyon stretches 20 miles long and plunges up to 1,200 feet deep. The highlights are the waterfalls:
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Lower Falls: A 308-foot drop, twice the height of Niagara Falls
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Upper Falls: A powerful 109-foot cascade
Boardwalks and overlooks provide incredible views, and trails like Uncle Tom’s offer closer perspectives. For more options, see our guide to the best hikes in Yellowstone National Park.
Explore Yellowstone Lake
At 136 square miles, Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America. Popular activities include:
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Boating and kayaking (rentals are available in summer)
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Fishing for cutthroat trout (permits required)
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Scenic walks along the shoreline
During winter, the frozen lake becomes a striking sight, especially at sunrise.
Drive the Grand Loop Road
The Grand Loop Road is a 142-mile scenic drive that connects most of Yellowstone’s main attractions. Driving the loop gives you the flexibility to stop at geyser basins, canyons, valleys, and lakes at your own pace. Plan at least two to three days to explore the full loop without rushing.
Go Hiking in Yellowstone
Yellowstone offers over 900 miles of hiking trails. Whether you want a short boardwalk trail or a challenging backcountry trek, there is something for everyone.
Some of the best trails include:
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Mount Washburn Trail for sweeping views
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Fairy Falls Trail near Grand Prismatic Spring
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Lamar Valley trails for wildlife and landscapes
See our full guides to the best hikes in Yellowstone National Park and the best Yellowstone National Park hikes to plan your adventure.
Learn About Yellowstone’s History
Yellowstone is not only a natural wonder, it is also a cultural and historical treasure. The park was designated in 1872 as the first national park in the world. Visitor centers and museums such as the Albright Visitor Center share the story of early explorers, Native American heritage, and the importance of conservation.
You can read more about the park’s background in our overview post on Yellowstone National Park.
Plan Your Visit
The best way to enjoy Yellowstone is to plan ahead. Consider when to visit, where to stay, and how long to spend in the park.
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For seasonal tips, see our guide to the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park.
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For lodging and camping details, check the NPS lodging and camping page.
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Remember to reserve accommodations months in advance, especially during summer.
Final Thoughts
The best things to do in Yellowstone National Park range from geyser watching and canyon exploring to wildlife viewing and unforgettable hikes. The park’s diversity ensures that every visitor, whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, will find experiences they will never forget.
Use this guide as a starting point, then explore our supporting posts on the Yellowstone volcano, the best time to visit, and the best hikes to make your trip complete.
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