Discover the Best Things to Do in Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone National Park, the crown jewel of America’s national park system, is a vast wilderness of unparalleled natural beauty and endless adventure. This iconic destination offers an array of activities for visitors of all ages and interests, ensuring that everyone can find their perfect Yellowstone experience. Whether you’re exploring the park on a sunny day, seeking indoor activities during a rainy afternoon, looking for family-friendly fun, or hoping to bring your furry friend along, Yellowstone has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park, with options for every occasion and travel companion. Get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of this awe-inspiring landscape and create memories that will last a lifetime. Things to do in Yellowstone on a Sunny Day 1. Witness the Iconic Old Faithful: No visit to Yellowstone is complete without watching the park’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful, erupt against a clear blue sky. Marvel at the towering plume of steam and water, reaching heights of up to 180 feet, and feel the power of the earth beneath your feet. 2. Hike the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the stunning Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, a 20-mile-long chasm carved by the Yellowstone River. Admire the canyon’s colorful walls, painted in shades of yellow, red, and orange, and witness the thundering cascades of the Upper and Lower Falls. 3. Explore the Vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring: Discover the mesmerizing hues of Grand Prismatic Spring, the park’s largest hot spring and a true wonder of nature. Observe the vivid blue center, surrounded by concentric rings of green, yellow, and orange, created by heat-loving bacteria. This breathtaking sight is a photographer’s dream on a sunny day and an unforgettable Yellowstone experience. 4. Spot Iconic Wildlife: Yellowstone is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves. Head to prime viewing spots like Hayden Valley or Lamar Valley to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats. Always maintain a safe distance and follow park guidelines to ensure a respectful and safe wildlife-watching experience. 5. Embark on a Scenic Drive: Take a leisurely drive along the Grand Loop Road, a 142-mile route that connects many of the park’s most spectacular sights. Stop at scenic viewpoints to admire the sweeping vistas, verdant forests, and shimmering lakes that define Yellowstone’s stunning landscape. Things to do in Yellowstone on a Rainy Day 1. Visit Historic Fort Yellowstone: Step back in time at the Historic Fort Yellowstone at Mammoth Hot Springs, where you can explore the park’s fascinating history and admire the beautiful architecture of the former U.S. Army post. Take a self-guided tour of the buildings, learn about the park’s early days, and gain a deeper appreciation for Yellowstone’s rich heritage. 2. Explore Educational Visitor Centers: Rainy days provide the perfect opportunity to delve into the park’s ecology, geology, and wildlife at one of Yellowstone’s informative visitor centers. Visit the Canyon Visitor Education Center to learn about the park’s supervolcano and geothermal features, or head to the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center to discover the science behind the park’s legendary geysers. 3. Attend Ranger-Led Programs: Join knowledgeable park rangers for engaging lectures, talks, and presentations that shed light on Yellowstone’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and conservation efforts. These educational programs offer a fascinating glimpse into the park’s natural wonders and the challenges of preserving them for future generations. 4. Relax in Historic Lodges: Seek refuge from the rain in one of Yellowstone’s iconic lodges, such as the Old Faithful Inn or the Lake Yellowstone Hotel. These historic structures offer cozy lobbies, inviting fireplaces, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for relaxing with a good book or enjoying a hot beverage while the rain patters outside. 5. Savor a Leisurely Meal: Rainy days are the perfect time to indulge in a delicious meal at one of the park’s diverse dining establishments. From the rustic charm of the Roosevelt Lodge to the elegance of the Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room, Yellowstone offers a range of culinary options to suit every taste and budget. Things to do in Yellowstone with Kids 1. Become a Junior Ranger: Encourage your children to engage with the park’s natural wonders by participating in the Junior Ranger Program. This interactive educational program allows kids to complete fun activities, learn about the park’s ecology and history, and earn a special badge upon completion. 2. Discover Bubbling Mud Pots: Ignite your children’s curiosity by visiting the Mud Volcano area, where they can observe the bizarre and fascinating world of mud pots, fumaroles, and other geothermal features. Watch as the mud bubbles and gurgles, and explain the geological forces that create these otherworldly landscapes. 3. Hike to the Brink of the Lower Falls: Take your family on a short but memorable hike to the brink of the Lower Falls, where they can witness the raw power of the Yellowstone River as it plunges 308 feet into the canyon below. The trail offers stunning views of the waterfall and the vibrant colors of the canyon walls. Note: this trail is steep – descending 600 feet in .5 mile. 4. Attend a Campfire Program: Gather around the campfire with your family for an engaging ranger-led program that combines storytelling, demonstrations, and interactive activities. Learn about the park’s wildlife, geology, and conservation efforts while creating lasting memories under the stars. 5. Go Fishing: Introduce your children to the joys of fishing in Yellowstone’s pristine waters. The park offers numerous fishing opportunities, from the expansive Yellowstone Lake to the winding rivers and streams that crisscross the landscape. Be sure to obtain the necessary permits and follow park regulations to ensure a safe and sustainable fishing experience. Things to do in Yellowstone with your dog Things to do in Yellowstone with your dog 1. Explore Scenic Drives with Your Furry Friend: Yellowstone’s scenic drives offer a fantastic way to experience the park’s beauty with your dog by your side. Cruise along the park’s roads, stopping at viewpoints to admire the stunning landscapes and snap photos of your furry companion against the backdrop of Yellowstone’s natural wonders. Location: Dogs are only allowed in developed areas, such as front country campgrounds, within 100 feet of roads and parking areas, and in cars. They are not allowed on boardwalks, hiking trails, in the backcountry, or in thermal areas. Restraint: Dogs must be physically restrained at all times, either by being in a crate, on a leash no longer than six feet, or in a car. Supervision: Dogs must never be left unattended outside. Waste: Owners must bag and dispose of pet waste. Other needs: Pets must not be left in situations where they lack basic needs like food, water, shade, and ventilation. 2. Enjoy a Picnic with Your Pup: Spend quality time with your dog and enjoy a picnic lunch at one of Yellowstone’s designated picnic areas. Many of these scenic spots allow leashed dogs, providing the perfect opportunity to relax, refuel, and soak in the park’s natural beauty together. 3. Stay in Pet-Friendly Accommodations: Plan your Yellowstone stay around the park’s pet-friendly lodging options, such as the 320 Ranch or the Clubhouse Inn. These accommodations allow you to keep your dog close by, ensuring a comfortable and convenient base for your Yellowstone adventures. Yellowstone National Park is an unrivaled destination that offers an incredible array of activities and experiences for visitors of all ages, interests, and travel styles. Whether you’re seeking sunny day adventures, rainy day alternatives, family-friendly fun, or dog-friendly options, this awe-inspiring park has something to offer. By exploring the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park, you’ll create unforgettable memories, forge deep connections with nature, and gain a profound appreciation for the untamed beauty of America’s wilderness. As you plan your visit to Yellowstone, remember to prioritize safety, respect the park’s rules and regulations, and practice the principles of Leave No Trace. By being responsible stewards of this natural treasure, we can ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the wonder and magic of Yellowstone for years to come. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Yellowstone adventure today and discover the countless ways to immerse yourself in the beauty, history, and adventure of America’s first national park. Whether you’re watching Old Faithful erupt against a clear blue sky, hiking through the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, or sharing a picnic with your furry best friend, Yellowstone National Park promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you inspired, refreshed, and deeply connected to the natural world. For a full list of hotels and accommodations, visit us here. For restaurant and dining options, go here.