Yellowstone National Park, located primarily in the U.S. state of Wyoming, is one of the most popular national parks in the world. It'sIt is famous for its incredible natural beauty, with vast landscapes, hot springs, geysers, and wildlife. With so much to see and do, it can be challenging to decide on the best things to do in Yellowstone.
Here are seven of the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park:
Watch Old Faithful Geyser Erupt
Old Faithful Geyser
The most famous geyser in Yellowstone is Old Faithful. It erupts approximately every 90 minutes and shoots hot water and steam up to 180 feet in the air. Watching an eruption of Old Faithful is a park tradition in Yellowstone.
2. Visit the Grand Prismatic Spring
The Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the most beautiful (and photographed) hot springs in Yellowstone National Park. Its vibrant rainbow colors are due to the presence of thermophile (heat-loving) bacteria that thrive in the hot water. The spring is the third-largest hot spring in the world and is a must-visit for any Yellowstone visitor.
3. Explore the Yellowstone Grand Canyon
Yellowstone
Grand Canyon
The Yellowstone Grand Canyon is a massive canyon that stretches over 20 miles long and features beautiful waterfalls and stunning rock formations. Visitors can hike or drive along the canyon's rim and take in the stunning views.
4. Spot Wildlife in Lamar Valley
Lamar Valley is often referred to as the “Serengeti of North America” due to its vast grasslands and abundance of wildlife. Here you can see bison, elk, coyotes, and even grizzly bears. The best time to see wildlife in Lamar Valley is during the early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active.
5. Take a Dip in the Boiling River
The Boiling River is a unique feature in Yellowstone where hot water from a thermal spring mixes with the cold water of the Gardner River. Visitors can take a dip in the river and enjoy the warm waters while surrounded by the park's beautiful scenery.
6. Go on a Hike to the Yellowstone Falls
Yellowstone Falls is one of the park's most popular attractions and for a good reason. The waterfall is made up of two separate sections: the Upper Falls, which is 109 feet tall, and the Lower Falls, which is 308 feet tall. There are several hiking trails that take you to different viewpoints of the falls, including the Uncle Tom's Trail, which takes you down a series of stairs to a platform that offers a great view of the Lower Falls.
7. Visit the Norris Geyser Basin
The Norris Geyser Basin is Yellowstone's hottest, oldest and most active geyser basin. Visitors can walk along boardwalks and observe the various geysers, hot springs, and steam vents. The basin is also home to the world's tallest active geyser, Steamboat Geyser, which can erupt up to 400 feet in the air.
Yellowstone National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, wildlife, and adventure. With so much to see and do, visitors are spoiled for choice. From watching Old Faithful erupt to hiking through the park's many trails, Yellowstone National Park offers something for everyone.
