Here you can find the largest concentration of wildlife in the lower 48 states. The wildlife most enjoyed by visitors are grizzly and black bears, bison, gray wolves, moose, elk, fox, badgers, wild horses, pronghorn, and otters.
Yellowstone with it's vast wildlife, scenic resources, and popularity, is also an example of the best and worst about tourism.
With herds of bison and bears coming in close contact with humans, there is the temptation of visitors to feed and agitate the wildlife to the detriment of the wildlife and their own safety. During the peak summer months the Old Faithful geyser, the hot springs, the steam vents, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, can be overwhelmed with tourists.
The Top Things to Do In Yellowstone
Experience the Wildlife
The wildlife in Yellowstone is everywhere. You can't escape seeing animals while driving or hiking through the park and it is one of the top reasons people visit Yellowstone. The best bet for seeing wildlife is the Lamar Valley. It is also noted for being the spot where the gray wolves were reintroduced in the USA.
The Geysers and Hot Springs
Be sure to see the most popular scenic attraction, the Old Faithful geyser which erupts about every 90 minutes. On average it sprouts water 135 feet into the air. Continue on nearby and take a mild stroll through the paved trails of many of the other hot springs and geysers and visit the beautiful multi-colored Morning Glory.
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is not to be missed. Be sure to take your camera and experience the canyon's awesome dimensions; 4,000 feet wide and 1,200 foot depth, along with it's two beautiful waterfalls. The Lower Falls drops off 308 feet into the canyon, and the Upper Falls with a 109 foot drop.
Hiking
The best way to experience Yellowstone's wildlife and beautiful scenery up close is on foot. With 1,300 miles of trails for all levels of ability, there is plenty to see. Try the Uncle Tom's Trail or the Mount Washburn Spur Trail.
Fishing
Yellowstone has hundreds of miles of quality, fish able trout rivers, creeks, and streams. The fish include the rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brown trout, brook trout, lake trout. mountain whitefish and arctic grayling. Fly fishing in Yellowstone is tops with the Fire Hole River amongst the best. The fishing season runs from Memorial Day to the first Sunday in November.
Whitewater Rafting
Planning to come to Yellowstone in the warmer summer months? Take the family or friends on a whitewater rafting trip down one of the many rivers with fantastic scenery.
Horseback riding
Another great way to experience Yellowstone National Park and the great outdoors is on Horseback. There are many riding outfits in the region that can provide horses with guides.
Camping
Get close to nature by camping out. There are many RV parks and campgrounds throughout the region.
Places to Stay In or Near Yellowstone National Park
Lake Yellowstone Hotel
Xanterra Parks & Resorts
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
1-866- 439-7375
Open mid May - early October.
Located on Yellowstone Lake, this is an elegant hotel in the style of the 1920s.
Mammoth Hot Springs
Xanterra Parks & Resorts
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
1-866- 439-7375
This quaint resort is located below the steaming limestone terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs, and near the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park.
Old Faithful Inn
Xanterra Parks & Resorts
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
1-866- 439-7375
Open from mid May - mid October. It's the most popular lodging in the Park. Ideally located within steps of the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser, The grand lobby is one of the largest log structures in the world.
Old Faithful Snow Lodge
1-866-256-9046
Open from mid December until early March, this is a rustic and contemporary luxurious retreat that is one of the only lodging facilities open during the summer and winter seasons at Yellowstone National Park. Snow coach and other sightseeing tours are also available through the Snow Lodge.
Pine Edge Cabins
One mile from the North East Gate of Yellowstone National Park
(406) 838-2371)
Open year round, affordable prices with all cabins equipped with down comforters, kitchenettes, and bathrooms with showers.
Rainbow Ranch Lodge
42950 Gallatin Rd.
Gallatin Gateway, MT
(406) 995-4132
reservations@rainbowranchbigsky.com
A luxurioys twenty-one room hotel and gourmet restaurant located on the banks of the Gallatin River in Big Sky, Montana.
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