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Yellowstone National Park

Plan your perfect trip to Yellowstone National Park with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best times to visit, where to stay, top attractions, and essential travel tips for an unforgettable experience in America's first national park.

Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is America's first national park and a true natural wonder. Covering more than 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone is home to geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, forests, canyons, rivers, and lakes. Here is a travel guide to help you plan your trip to Yellowstone National Park.


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When to Visit

The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park depends on your interests, as each season offers different experiences.


  • Summer (June to August):

    • This is the most popular time to visit the park, as the weather is warm and all park facilities and roads are open.

    • You can enjoy hiking, wildlife watching, and geothermal features without the worry of snow.

    • However, this is also the busiest time of the year, with crowds at popular attractions and limited availability for accommodations and camping.

  • Fall (September to November):

    • Fall is a great time to visit Yellowstone, as the crowds have diminished and the weather is still mild.

    • This is also a prime time for wildlife watching, as animals are active in preparation for winter.

    • However, some facilities and roads may begin to close in late September or October, so it's important to check the park's website for updated information.

  • Winter (December to February):

    • Winter in Yellowstone is a unique and magical experience, with snow-covered landscapes and steaming geysers.

    • This is a prime time for wildlife watching, as animals are concentrated in lower elevations.

    • However, most roads in the park are closed to regular vehicles, and access is limited to guided snowmobile or snowcoach tours.

  • Spring (March to May):

    • Spring is the least popular time to visit the park, as the weather can be unpredictable and some roads and facilities may still be closed.

    • However, this is a great time to avoid crowds and experience the park's geothermal features without the summer heat.

    • Wildlife is also active in the spring, with opportunities to see newborn animals.



Getting There and Getting Around


Getting to Yellowstone National Park:

Yellowstone National Park is located in the U.S. states of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. The park has five entrance stations:


  • North Entrance:

    • Located in Gardiner, Montana. The North Entrance is the only park entrance open to automobiles year-round.

  • Northeast Entrance:

    • Located near Cooke City, Montana. This entrance provides access to the park via the Beartooth Highway, which is typically open from late May to mid-October.

  • East Entrance:

    • Located near Cody, Wyoming. This entrance is usually open from early May to early November.

  • South Entrance:

    • Located near Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. This entrance is typically open from mid-May to early November.

  • West Entrance:

    • Located in West Yellowstone, Montana. This entrance is usually open from late April to early November.


The closest airports to Yellowstone are in Bozeman, Montana; Jackson Hole, Wyoming; and Cody, Wyoming.


Getting Around Yellowstone National Park:

Once you are in Yellowstone, the best way to get around is by car. The park has an extensive network of roads that connect the major areas of the park. There are also several scenic drives, such as the Grand Loop Road, that provide access to many of the park's main attractions.


During the summer months, you can also explore the park by bike, horseback, or on foot. There are over 900 miles of trails in the park, ranging from easy boardwalks to strenuous backcountry hikes.


In winter, some roads in the park are closed to regular vehicles and can only be accessed by guided snowmobile or snowcoach tours. You can also explore the park on cross-country skis or snowshoes.


Please note that the weather in Yellowstone can be unpredictable, and road conditions can change rapidly. It is recommended that you check the park's website or contact the visitor center for the most up-to-date information before your visit.



Top Attractions in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is divided into several distinct regions, each with its own unique features and attractions. These regions are:


Mammoth Country

Mammoth Country, located in the northern part of Yellowstone National Park, is known for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and historic structures. Here are some of the main attractions in Mammoth Country:


  • Mammoth Hot Springs:

    • A complex of hot springs and travertine terraces that are constantly changing due to the deposition of minerals.

  • Mammoth Hot Springs Historic District:

    • A collection of historic structures, including the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and the Albright Visitor Center.

  • Fort Yellowstone:

    • A historic army fort that played a key role in the park's early history.

  • Roosevelt Arch:

    • A stone arch at the park's North Entrance that was dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903.

  • Yellowstone River:

    • The longest undammed river in the contiguous United States, offering opportunities for fishing and wildlife watching.

  • Gardiner River:

    • A tributary of the Yellowstone River that is known for its hot springs and scenic beauty.

  • Boiling River:

    • A popular spot for swimming, where hot spring water mixes with the cold river water.

  • Bunsen Peak:

    • A prominent peak that offers panoramic views of the park.

  • Osprey Falls:

    • A dramatic waterfall that plunges into the Sheepeater Canyon.

  • Lava Creek Canyon:

    • A rugged canyon with stunning vistas and opportunities for hiking.

  • Undine Falls:

    • A beautiful waterfall that is easily accessible from the road.

  • Wraith Falls:

    • A small but picturesque waterfall located just off the main road.



Roosevelt Country

Roosevelt Country, located in the northeastern part of Yellowstone National Park, is named after President Theodore Roosevelt and is known for its rugged landscapes, wildlife, and historic structures. Here are some of the main attractions in Roosevelt Country:


  • Lamar Valley:

    • Known as the "American Serengeti," Lamar Valley is a prime spot for wildlife watching, with frequent sightings of wolves, bison, elk, and grizzly bears.

  • Tower Fall:

    • A stunning 132-foot waterfall located near the Tower-Roosevelt Junction.

  • Petrified Tree:

    • A fossilized tree stump that is millions of years old, preserved by volcanic ash.

  • Roosevelt Lodge:

    • A historic lodge that offers accommodations, dining, and guided horseback rides.

  • Lost Lake:

    • A peaceful lake surrounded by forests and meadows, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching.

  • Specimen Ridge:

    • A ridge known for its fossilized leaves, petrified wood, and stunning views.

  • Calcite Springs Overlook:

    • A viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Yellowstone River and surrounding landscape.

  • Yancey's Hole:

    • A historic site where an early Yellowstone settler built a hotel in the 1880s.

  • Slough Creek:

    • A popular spot for fly fishing, with a campground nearby.

  • Hellroaring Creek:

    • A scenic creek with opportunities for fishing and hiking.

  • Cache Creek:

    • A creek that flows through a remote and scenic canyon, offering opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching.

  • Soda Butte:

    • A conical-shaped thermal feature that was once an active geyser.


Canyon Country

Canyon Country, in the central-eastern part of Yellowstone National Park, is named after the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, a stunning geological feature that is the highlight of the area. Here are some of the main attractions in Canyon Country:


  • Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone:

    • A magnificent canyon that stretches approximately 20 miles, with sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and a range of rock formations.

  • Lower Falls:

    • The largest waterfall in the park and one of the most famous, dropping 308 feet.

  • Upper Falls:

    • A beautiful waterfall that drops 109 feet, located just upstream of the Lower Falls.

  • Artist Point:

    • A popular viewpoint that offers stunning views of the Lower Falls and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

  • Inspiration Point:

    • Another popular viewpoint that provides panoramic views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

  • Lookout Point:

    • A viewpoint that offers close-up views of the Lower Falls.

  • Sublime Point:

    • A viewpoint that offers unique perspectives of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

  • Brink of the Lower Falls Trail:

    • A short but steep trail that takes you to the brink of the Lower Falls.

  • Brink of the Upper Falls Trail:

    • A trail that takes you to the brink of the Upper Falls.

  • North Rim Trail:

    • A trail that follows the north rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, with several viewpoints along the way.

  • South Rim Trail:

    • A trail that follows the south rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, with several viewpoints along the way.

  • Hayden Valley:

    • A beautiful valley that is a prime spot for wildlife watching, with frequent sightings of bison, elk, and grizzly bears.


Lake Country

Lake Country, in the southeastern part of Yellowstone National Park, is named after Yellowstone Lake, one of the largest high-elevation lakes in North America. Here are some of the main attractions in Lake Country:


  • Yellowstone Lake:

    • A stunning lake that offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife watching.

  • West Thumb Geyser Basin:

    • A geothermal area on the shore of Yellowstone Lake, known for its hot springs, geysers, and colorful pools.

  • Fishing Bridge:

    • A historic bridge that was once a popular spot for fishing. It offers great views of Yellowstone Lake.

  • Lake Village:

    • A historic area that includes the Lake Yellowstone Hotel and the Lake Lodge, both of which offer accommodations and dining.

  • Natural Bridge:

    • A natural rock bridge that spans a small creek, located near Bridge Bay.

  • Pelican Valley:

    • A remote valley that is a prime spot for wildlife watching, with frequent sightings of grizzly bears.

  • Storm Point:

    • A point on the shore of Yellowstone Lake that offers stunning views and a great spot for watching sunsets.

  • Elephant Back Mountain:

    • A mountain that offers panoramic views of Yellowstone Lake and the surrounding area.

  • Bridge Bay:

    • A bay on Yellowstone Lake that offers opportunities for boating and fishing.

  • Moose Falls:

    • A beautiful waterfall located near the South Entrance of the park.

  • Lewis Falls:

    • Another stunning waterfall located near the South Entrance of the park.

  • Colter Bay:

    • A bay on Jackson Lake, located just south of Yellowstone National Park, that offers additional opportunities for boating and fishing.


Geyser Country

Geyser Country, located in the southwestern part of Yellowstone National Park, is renowned for its geothermal features, including the world-famous Old Faithful geyser. Here are some of the main attractions in Geyser Country:


  • Upper Geyser Basin:

    • The largest concentration of geysers in the world, including Old Faithful, Castle Geyser, and Grand Geyser.

  • Old Faithful:

    • The most famous geyser in the world, known for its predictable eruptions.

  • Grand Prismatic Spring:

    • The largest hot spring in the United States, known for its vivid colors.

  • Lower Geyser Basin:

    • Another concentration of geysers, including the famous Fountain Paint Pot.

  • Midway Geyser Basin:

    • Home to the Grand Prismatic Spring and several other hot springs and geysers.

  • Biscuit Basin:

    • A small geyser basin known for its sapphire pool.

  • Black Sand Basin:

    • Another small geyser basin known for its unique black sand.

  • Firehole River:

    • A river that flows through the area, known for its hot springs and geysers.

  • Firehole Lake Drive:

    • A scenic drive that takes you past several geysers and hot springs.

  • Fountain Paint Pot Nature Trail:

    • A short trail that takes you past several geothermal features, including the famous Fountain Paint Pot.

  • Great Fountain Geyser:

    • A geyser that has one of the largest eruptions in the park, with water shooting up to 220 feet in the air.

  • Morning Glory Pool:

    • A hot spring known for its vivid blue color.



Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley, located in the northeastern part of Yellowstone National Park, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. While Lamar Valley itself is the main attraction, here are some specific points of interest and features within or near the valley:


  • Lamar Valley:

    • A beautiful valley known as the "American Serengeti" for its rich wildlife, including wolves, bears, bison, and elk.

  • Lamar River:

    • A river that flows through the valley, offering opportunities for fishing and wildlife watching.

  • Slough Creek:

    • A tributary of the Lamar River that is popular for fly fishing.

  • Pebble Creek:

    • Another tributary of the Lamar River that offers great fishing opportunities.

  • Specimen Ridge:

    • A ridge known for its petrified trees, fossilized leaves, and stunning vistas.

  • Buffalo Ranch:

    • A historic ranch that played a key role in the park's bison conservation efforts.

  • Soda Butte:

    • A conical-shaped thermal feature that was once an active geyser.

  • Lamar Buffalo Ranch Historic District:

    • A collection of historic structures that tell the story of the park's bison conservation efforts.

  • Rose Creek:

    • A creek that flows through the valley, providing habitat for fish and other wildlife.

  • Trout Lake:

    • A lake located just north of the Lamar Valley that is popular for fishing and hiking.

  • Cache Creek:

    • A creek that flows through a remote and scenic canyon, offering opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching.



Top Activities to do in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is not only a place of stunning natural beauty, but also a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. With over 2.2 million acres to explore, there are countless activities to enjoy in the park.


  1. Wildlife Watching:

    • Home to grizzly bears, wolves, bison, elk, and more, the park offers incredible opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitat.

  2. Hiking:

    • With over 900 miles of trails, there are hiking options for all skill levels, from easy boardwalks to challenging backcountry routes.

  3. Fishing:

    • Anglers can fish in the park's rivers, lakes, and streams, which are teeming with trout.

  4. Horseback Riding:

    • Guided horseback rides are a unique way to explore the park's scenery.

  5. Stagecoach Rides:

    • Step back in time with a guided stagecoach ride, and learn about the park's history and geology.

  6. Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing:

    • In the winter, the park is a great place for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

  7. Snowmobiling:

    • Explore the park's winter beauty with a guided snowmobile tour.

  8. Guided Tours:

    • Take a guided tour to learn about the park's geology, history, and wildlife from knowledgeable guides.

  9. Photography:

    • The park's stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife provide ample opportunities for photography.

  10. Bird Watching:

    • The park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for bird watching.

  11. Boating and Kayaking:

    • Explore Yellowstone's lakes and rivers by boat or kayak. Rentals are available, or you can bring your own (with a permit).

  12. Camping:

    • Experience the park up close by camping in one of its many campgrounds.

  13. Picnicking:

    • Pack a lunch and enjoy a meal in the great outdoors at one of the park's many picnic areas.

  14. Stargazing:

    • With its remote location and low light pollution, Yellowstone is an excellent place for stargazing.

  15. Educational Programs:

    • Attend ranger-led talks and walks to learn more about the park's natural and cultural history.

  16. Hot Springs and Geothermal Features:

    • Visit the park's famous geothermal features, including hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles.

  17. Swimming:

    • Take a dip in the Firehole River Swimming Area or Boiling River, where hot spring water mixes with cold river water.

  18. Visit Visitor Centers and Museums:

    • Learn about the park's history, geology, and wildlife at one of its visitor centers or museums.

  19. Scenic Drives:

    • Take a drive along the park's scenic roads, such as the Grand Loop Road or the Beartooth Highway.

  20. Bird Watching:

    • Bring your binoculars and spot some of the park's 300+ bird species.

  21. Photography:

    • Capture the park's stunning landscapes, wildlife, and geothermal features with your camera.


Food Scene in the Park

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find a variety of dining options, from casual cafes and grills to full-service restaurants. Here's a breakdown of the food scene within the park:


Full-Service Restaurants:

  • Located in the park's historic hotels and lodges, these restaurants offer a range of options, from fine dining to family-friendly meals.

  • Examples include the Old Faithful Inn Dining Room, Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room, and the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel Dining Room.


Casual Dining and Cafeterias:

  • These establishments provide a more laid-back dining experience, with cafeteria-style service and a variety of menu options.

  • Examples include the Canyon Lodge Eatery, Grant Village Lake House Restaurant, and the Old Faithful Geyser Grill.


Fast Food and Grab-and-Go Options:

  • For those on the go, there are several fast-food restaurants and snack shops throughout the park.

  • Examples include the Old Faithful Snow Lodge Geyser Grill, Mammoth General Store, and Yellowstone General Stores.


Picnic Areas:

  • If you prefer to bring your own food, there are many picnic areas scattered throughout the park, complete with tables and grills.


Outside the park, you'll find a range of dining options in nearby towns such as West Yellowstone, Gardiner, Cody, and Jackson. These towns offer a variety of restaurants, cafes, and diners serving local and international cuisine, as well as fast-food options for those on the go.


Local specialties to try include trout, buffalo burgers, and huckleberry treats. Don't forget to check out the local farmers' markets and food festivals for a taste of regional flavors and ingredients.


Where to Stay

Yellowstone offers a range of accommodation options, from campsites to lodges. Some popular options include the Old Faithful Inn, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, and Canyon Lodge. Make sure to book well in advance, especially if you are visiting during the summer months.


Yellowstone National Park Lodges

Yellowstone National Park has a variety of lodges that provide accommodations for visitors. Here are the details for each of the lodges:


  • Old Faithful Inn:

    • Location: Near Old Faithful Geyser in the Upper Geyser Basin.

    • Description: A historic hotel built in 1904 and designated as a National Historic Landmark. It is known for its rustic architecture and massive stone fireplace.

    • Facilities: Full-service restaurant, gift shop, and interpretive tours.

    • Accommodations: Range from rooms with private bathrooms to rooms without bathrooms.

  • Canyon Lodge and Cabins:

    • Location: Near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone in the Canyon Village area.

    • Description: The largest lodging facility in the park with over 500 rooms and cabins.

    • Facilities: Full-service restaurant, cafeteria, deli, gift shop, and interpretive programs.

    • Accommodations: Range from hotel rooms to cabins.

  • Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins:

    • Location: Overlooking Yellowstone Lake in the Lake Village area.

    • Description: A historic hotel built in 1891 and designated as a National Historic Landmark. It has been recently renovated to restore its colonial revival architecture.

    • Facilities: Full-service restaurant, lounge, gift shop, and interpretive programs.

    • Accommodations: Range from hotel rooms with lake views to cabins.

  • Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins:

    • Location: Near Mammoth Hot Springs in the Mammoth Hot Springs area.

    • Description: A historic hotel built in the 1930s with a casual and relaxed atmosphere.

    • Facilities: Full-service restaurant, gift shop, and interpretive programs.

    • Accommodations: Range from hotel rooms with private bathrooms to cabins.

  • Grant Village:

    • Location: Near the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake in the Grant Village area.

    • Description: A modern hotel complex with six two-story buildings.

    • Facilities: Full-service restaurant, lounge, gift shop, and interpretive programs.

    • Accommodations: Hotel rooms with private bathrooms.

  • Roosevelt Lodge Cabins:

    • Location: Near Tower Fall in the Roosevelt-Tower area.

    • Description: A rustic lodge with cabin accommodations and a casual atmosphere.

    • Facilities: Full-service restaurant, gift shop, and interpretive programs.

    • Accommodations: Range from cabins with private bathrooms to cabins without bathrooms.


It is recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially if you are planning to visit during the summer months when the lodges are in high demand. Reservations can be made online or by phone through the park's authorized concessionaire, Yellowstone National Park Lodges.


Campgrounds in the Park

Yellowstone National Park offers 12 campgrounds with over 2,000 sites. Each campground offers different amenities, and some are more developed than others. Here is a detailed account of each campground:


  1. Bridge Bay Campground:

    • Location: Near Yellowstone Lake in the Bridge Bay area.

    • Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, and a dump station.

    • Open: Late May to mid-September.

  2. Canyon Campground:

    • Location: Near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone in the Canyon Village area.

    • Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, and a dump station.

    • Open: Late May to mid-September.

  3. Fishing Bridge RV Park:

    • Location: Near Yellowstone Lake in the Fishing Bridge area.

    • Amenities: Full-hookup RV sites, flush toilets, potable water, laundry facilities, and a dump station.

    • Open: Late May to mid-September.

  4. Grant Village Campground:

    • Location: Near the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake in the Grant Village area.

    • Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, and a dump station.

    • Open: Late May to mid-September.

  5. Indian Creek Campground:

    • Location: Near Mammoth Hot Springs in the Mammoth Hot Springs area.

    • Amenities: Vault toilets and potable water.

    • Open: Mid-June to mid-September.

  6. Lewis Lake Campground:

    • Location: Near Lewis Lake in the southern part of the park.

    • Amenities: Vault toilets and potable water.

    • Open: Mid-June to early November.

  7. Madison Campground:

    • Location: Near the Madison River in the Madison Junction area.

    • Amenities: Flush toilets, potable water, and a dump station.

    • Open: Early May to mid-October.

  8. Mammoth Campground:

    • Location: Near Mammoth Hot Springs in the Mammoth Hot Springs area.

    • Amenities: Flush toilets and potable water.

    • Open: Year-round.

  9. Norris Campground:

    • Location: Near Norris Geyser Basin in the Norris Junction area.

    • Amenities: Flush toilets and potable water.

    • Open: Mid-May to late September.

  10. Pebble Creek Campground:

    • Location: Near Pebble Creek in the northeastern part of the park.

    • Amenities: Vault toilets and potable water.

    • Open: Mid-June to late September.

  11. Slough Creek Campground:

    • Location: Near Slough Creek in the northeastern part of the park.

    • Amenities: Vault toilets and potable water.

    • Open: Mid-June to late October.

  12. Tower Fall Campground:

    • Location: Near Tower Fall in the Roosevelt-Tower area.

    • Amenities: Vault toilets and potable water.

    • Open: Late May to late September.


Most campgrounds accept reservations. To find out more information about each campground The Yellowstone National Park Website.


If you are planning on staying at the following sites make reservations at Yellowstone National Park Lodges (Bridge Bay, Canyon, Fishing Bridge RV Park, Grant Village, and Madison).


These campgrounds (Indian Creek, Lewis lake, Mammoth, Norris, Pebble Creek, Slough Creek and Tower Falls) reservations are make at Recreation.gov .


Reservations can be made online or by phone through the park's authorized concessionaire. It is recommended to make reservations well in advance, especially if you are planning to visit during the summer months.


Stay in the Surrounding Area

For those who wish to stay outside of Yellowstone National Park, there are several towns and areas nearby that offer a range of accommodations, from hotels and motels to bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. Here are some of the best areas to consider:


  • West Yellowstone, Montana:


    • Located just outside the park's West Entrance, this is one of the most popular places to stay for visitors to Yellowstone.

    • Offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, cabins, and campgrounds.

    • Home to several restaurants, shops, and attractions, including the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center and the Yellowstone IMAX Theatre.

  • Gardiner, Montana:

    • Located outside the park's North Entrance, this small town is a convenient base for exploring the Mammoth Hot Springs area.

    • Offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals.

    • Nearby attractions include the Roosevelt Arch and the Boiling River hot springs.

  • Cody, Wyoming:

    • Located about an hour from the park's East Entrance, this town is known for its Wild West history and culture.

    • Offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and guest ranches.

    • Home to several museums, including the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and the Cody Firearms Museum.

  • Jackson, Wyoming:

    • Located about an hour from the park's South Entrance, this popular tourist town is known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities.

    • Offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals.

    • Home to several shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the National Elk Refuge and the Jackson Hole Playhouse.

  • Livingston, Montana:

    • Located about an hour from the park's North Entrance, this charming town offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals.

    • Home to several shops, restaurants, and galleries, as well as the Livingston Depot Center museum.

  • Island Park, Idaho:

    • Located about an hour from the park's West Entrance, this small town is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities.

    • Offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, cabins, and vacation rentals.

    • Nearby attractions include the Henrys Lake State Park and the Big Springs National Water Trail.


No matter where you choose to stay, be sure to book your accommodations well in advance, especially if you are planning to visit during the busy summer months.


Tips for Visiting


There are a few other important things to know about Yellowstone National Park that can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit:


Safety

  • Be aware of potential hazards such as wildlife, geothermal features, and unpredictable weather.

  • Carry bear spray, make noise to avoid surprising a bear, and stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves and 25 yards away from other wildlife.

  • Stay on designated trails and boardwalks to avoid injuring yourself on geothermal features.

Regulations

  • Follow all park rules and regulations, including speed limits, pet restrictions, and camping regulations.

  • Do not feed wildlife, as it can harm them and alter their natural behavior.

  • Practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the park.

Accessibility

  • Yellowstone is a large park with limited cell phone reception, so be sure to have a map and plan your route in advance.

  • Some facilities and attractions may not be fully accessible to those with mobility impairments, so check the park's website or contact a visitor center for information on accessibility.

Weather and Clothing

  • The weather in Yellowstone can be unpredictable, with snow possible even in the summer months, so be sure to dress in layers and bring rain gear.

  • Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for hiking and exploring the park.

  • Even during the summer months, temperatures in Yellowstone can drop significantly at night. To ensure a comfortable and warm camping experience, it is crucial to come prepared with the necessary gear. Be sure to pack hats, gloves, and warm clothing to protect yourself from the cold. Additionally, a thick, well-insulated sleeping bag is essential for a cozy night's sleep under the stars. With the right preparations, you'll be ready to fully enjoy the natural beauty and serenity of camping in Yellowstone National Park.

Transportation

  • Yellowstone is a large park with limited public transportation, so a car is recommended for getting around.

  • Be aware that some park roads are closed in the winter, so check the park's website for current road conditions and closures.

Fees and Passes

  • There is an entrance fee to visit Yellowstone, and it is valid for seven days and includes access to Grand Teton National Park.

  • An annual pass is also available for unlimited visits to Yellowstone and other national parks.

  • Check this link for current fee information.


We hope you find this guide helpful in planning your trip to Yellowstone National Park. Enjoy your visit and the incredible natural beauty that the park has to offer!

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