Yellowstone National Park Tours and Activities

Yellowstone National Park showing mist or fog, landscape views and a waterfall
Yellowstone National Park showing mist or fog, landscape views and a waterfall
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park
Tower Fall which includes a waterfall


See rare hydrothermal events, go on rewarding hikes and enjoy the adventure of exploring North America’s oldest and biggest national park.

Explore the natural wonders among the mountains, waterfalls and wildlife of Yellowstone National Park. This 890,308-hectare (2.2 million-acre) wilderness was officially protected in 1872 to preserve its rugged natural beauty.

Although the area hasn’t seen an eruption for 640,000 years, volcanic activity constantly bubbles beneath and on the surface in the form of mud pools, steam vents and geysers. Walk the boardwalks at Mammoth Hot Springs and witness the beauty of these hydrothermal events.

Hike on the paths around Old Faithful, the park’s most famous geyser. This well-known crowd-pleaser spurts water and gas high into the air about 17 times a day, with intervals between eruptions ranging from 1 to 2 hours. You can time your visit using the predicted eruption timetable posted at the Old Faithful Visitor Centre. This particular geyser lies in the Upper Grey Basin, a 2.5-square-kilometre (1-square-mile) natural geological attraction that features about 150 other geysers.

Explore some of Yellowstone’s 1,770 kilometres (1,100 miles) of hiking trails. There are graded paths for easier walks and steeper, more challenging hikes. Try one of many popular walks such as the Geyser Hill Loop and day hikes around the canyon. Send your own echo into Yellowstone’s breathtaking canyon, which extends 32 kilometres (20 miles) long and drops 305 metres (1,000 feet) deep in some parts.

You’ll need experience to hike the Observation Peak trail. This strenuous path rises 425 metres (1,400 feet) in 4.8 kilometres (3 miles). At the top of the mountain peak hikers are treated to a bird’s-eye views of Old Faithful Village and its scenic surroundings.

Yellowstone National Park is open every day, year-round. Each of its five entrances provide access to the main Grand Loop Road that connects many of the park’s main attractions. In the cold winter months, there may be some road closures due to heavy snowfall.

See the Yellowstone page on the U.S. National Park Service’s official website for details on camping, attractions and advice for navigating the park safely.

Yellowstone National Park Travel Guide Video

Popular places to visit


Top Yellowstone National Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Grant Village - Inside the Park

Grant Village - Inside the Park

2.5 out of 5
24 Rainbow Loop Yellowstone National Park WY
Grant Village - Inside the Park
Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins - Inside the Park

Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins - Inside the Park

3 out of 5
235 Yellowstone Lake Rd Yellowstone National Park WY
Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins - Inside the Park
Old Faithful Inn - Inside the Park

Old Faithful Inn - Inside the Park

2.5 out of 5
3200 Old Faithful Inn Rd Yellowstone National Park WY
Old Faithful Inn - Inside the Park
Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins - Inside the Park

Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins - Inside the Park

2.5 out of 5
2051 Snow Lodge Ave Yellowstone National Park WY
Old Faithful Snow Lodge & Cabins - Inside the Park
Canyon Lodge & Cabins - Inside the Park

Canyon Lodge & Cabins - Inside the Park

3 out of 5
41 Clover Ln Yellowstone National Park WY
Canyon Lodge & Cabins - Inside the Park
Lake Lodge Cabins - Inside the Park

Lake Lodge Cabins - Inside the Park

2.5 out of 5
459 Lake Village Rd Yellowstone National Park WY
Lake Lodge Cabins - Inside the Park
Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch

Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch

3 out of 5
2 mi south of S. Entrance of Yellowstone Moran WY
Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch
Kelly Inn West Yellowstone

Kelly Inn West Yellowstone

2.5 out of 5
104 South Canyon West Yellowstone MT
Kelly Inn West Yellowstone
Stage Coach Inn

Stage Coach Inn

2.5 out of 5
209 Madison Ave West Yellowstone MT
Stage Coach Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park offers a plethora of activities for visitors, including wildlife watching, hiking, and shopping. You can explore the park through various options such as guided tours, day tours, and snowmobile tours during winter. For a comprehensive experience, consider booking Yellowstone tours or vacations that provide insights into the park's stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

Shopping

In Yellowstone National Park, you can find charming gift shops like the Old Faithful Visitor Center and the Yellowstone General Stores, offering unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the nearest mall is the West Yellowstone Shopping Plaza, featuring various shops and local crafts.

Recreation

Yellowstone National Park offers rejuvenating wellness retreats amidst stunning landscapes. Experience guided meditation sessions by serene hot springs, or indulge in outdoor yoga surrounded by majestic mountains. For recreational activities, explore hiking trails, soak in mineral-rich waters, or embark on wildlife watching excursions, connecting with nature for ultimate relaxation.

Adventure

At Grant Village Campground, located 4.8km from Yellowstone, enjoy outdoor family adventures amidst stunning natural beauty. Hike the scenic Uncle Tom's Trail, 19.3km away, for breathtaking vistas, or explore the picturesque Pelican Valley Trail, situated 14.8km from the park, for a truly adventurous experience.

Nightlife

Yellowstone National Park offers a serene nightlife atmosphere, where stargazing is a highlight. While the park itself lacks nightlife venues, nearby towns like West Yellowstone feature cosy pubs and local eateries, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration in this stunning natural setting.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, located in Wyoming, is a remarkable destination for tourists seeking outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Key attractions include the iconic geysers, the serene Yellowstone Lake, and informative visitor centres. The park offers a unique national park experience, particularly for those staying in nearby West Yellowstone, ensuring that visitors can fully immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife that the area has to offer.

  • Old Faithful: Renowned for its predictable eruptions, Old Faithful is a must-see geyser offering an exhilarating experience. Visitors can enjoy the surrounding boardwalks and viewing areas, making it perfect for adventure seekers wanting to witness nature's power up close.
  • Shoshone Geyser Basin: This eco-friendly park is a treasure for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Explore stunning geothermal features while enjoying the pristine natural environment, perfect for hiking and photography amidst the unique landscapes.
  • Castle Geyser: A majestic sight, Castle Geyser is known for its impressive eruptions and striking cone shape. The surrounding area offers picturesque views, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and appreciation of Yellowstone's geothermal wonders.

Best time to go to Yellowstone National Park

The best time to visit Yellowstone National Park is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. November, March and July are its hottest month on average. At the time of March, visitor numbers are and weather is mostly cloudy. January and December are its coolest month on average. At the time of December, visitor numbers are and weather is mostly cloudy.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January13.6°F (-10.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February14.5°F (-9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March22.1°F (-5.5°C)Light RainMostly Cloudy
April27.9°F (-2.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May37.4°F (3.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June48.9°F (9.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July59.0°F (15.0°C)No RainSunnyHighSlightly High
August57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainSunnyHighAverage
September49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainSunnyHighAverage
October34.3°F (1.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November22.1°F (-5.5°C)Light RainMostly Cloudy
December12.9°F (-10.6°C)Light RainMostly Cloudy

Tips to save on your trip to Yellowstone National Park

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