Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming Travel Guide
Discover Yellowstone National Park, where geysers, hot springs, and wildlife create an unforgettable natural wonderland in Wyoming, USA.
Yellowstone National Park, located in Wyoming, is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. Established in 1872, it was the first national park in the world. This park offers visitors a chance to witness nature's raw beauty and power, with geysers, hot springs, and waterfalls at every turn. One of the park's most famous features is Old Faithful, a geyser that erupts with remarkable regularity. Nearby, the Grand Prismatic Spring dazzles with its vibrant colors, a result of unique microbial life. The park also hosts the Yellowstone Caldera, one of the largest active volcanic systems in the world, providing a unique geological perspective. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the opportunity to see bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves in their natural habitats. The Lamar and Hayden Valleys are prime spots for wildlife viewing. Hikers can explore over 900 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. In winter, Yellowstone transforms into a snowy paradise, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Yellowstone National Park.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.
- Bring layers of clothing, as weather can change quickly.
- Always stay on marked trails and boardwalks to protect both yourself and the environment.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it, especially if hiking in backcountry areas.
- Book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Check road conditions and park alerts before your visit.
- Don't feed the wildlife; it's harmful to them and illegal.
Destinations in Yellowstone National Park
Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.
Explore Yellowstone National Park: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Yellowstone National Park
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
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All Attractions
Old Faithful
Experience the breathtaking eruptions of Old Faithful, a natural wonder in Yellowstone National Park that showcases the power of geothermal activity.
Grand Prismatic Spring
Explore the stunning colors and geothermal wonders of Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park, a top destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Old Faithful Visitor and Education Center
Explore the Old Faithful Visitor and Education Center, your gateway to Yellowstone's geothermal wonders with interactive exhibits and breathtaking views.
Gibbon Falls
Discover Gibbon Falls, a stunning waterfall in Yellowstone National Park, offering breathtaking views and a tranquil escape into nature's beauty.
Best landmarks in Yellowstone National Park
Top-rated picks
Best Landmarks
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All Landmarks
Old Faithful
Experience the natural wonder of Old Faithful, Yellowstone's iconic geyser, known for its impressive eruptions and stunning geothermal landscapes.
Grand Prismatic Spring
Experience the vibrant colors and breathtaking beauty of Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park, a true natural marvel and scenic wonder.
Old Faithful Visitor and Education Center
Explore Yellowstone's geothermal wonders at the Old Faithful Visitor and Education Center, your gateway to unforgettable adventures and rich park history.
Gibbon Falls
Discover Gibbon Falls in Yellowstone National Park, a breathtaking waterfall surrounded by stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, a must-see for nature lovers.
Best bars in Yellowstone National Park
Top-rated picks
Best Bars
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Old Faithful
Experience the spectacular eruptions of Old Faithful, a natural marvel in Yellowstone National Park, that captivates thousands every year.
The Buffalo Bar
Savor the spirit of the Wild West with delicious American cuisine and vibrant nightlife at The Buffalo Bar in West Yellowstone, Montana.
Running Bear Pancake House
Experience the fluffy pancakes and warm hospitality at Running Bear Pancake House, your perfect breakfast stop in West Yellowstone, Montana.
Slippery Otter Pub
Experience the warmth of West Yellowstone at Slippery Otter Pub, where delicious American cuisine meets a welcoming atmosphere.
Best shops in Yellowstone National Park
Top-rated picks
Best Shops
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Old Faithful
Discover the awe-inspiring Old Faithful geyser in Yellowstone National Park, a natural wonder that captivates tourists with its stunning eruptions and breathtaking scenery.
Canyon Village - General Store
Discover the Canyon Village General Store in Yellowstone: your one-stop destination for gifts, groceries, and delicious diner meals amidst stunning scenery.
Fishing Bridge - General Store
Fishing Bridge General Store in Yellowstone National Park: A treasure trove of essentials, unique gifts, and local charm awaits you.
Mammoth General Store
Mammoth General Store in Yellowstone National Park: Your one-stop shop for unique gifts, outdoor gear, and local specialties amidst breathtaking scenery.
Explore Yellowstone National Park on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Yellowstone National Park, mapped for you.
Yellowstone National Park Essentials
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Yellowstone National Park spans across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, but the majority of the park lies in Wyoming. The nearest airports are Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody, Wyoming, Jackson Hole Airport in Jackson, Wyoming, and Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport in Bozeman, Montana. From these airports, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to the park. Driving is a popular option; major highways such as US-20, US-89, and US-191 lead directly to Yellowstone's five entrances.
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Within Yellowstone National Park, the best mode of transportation is by car. There are several car rental services available at nearby airports and towns. The park has a network of well-maintained roads connecting major attractions. During the summer, the park offers guided bus tours, and there are seasonal shuttles that run to popular destinations. Bicycling is also an option, but be prepared for long distances and varied terrain. Note that many roads are closed during the winter season.
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The official currency in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted within the park and in surrounding areas. ATMs can be found at various visitor centers and lodges within the park. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions or in remote areas where card payment may not be available.
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Yellowstone National Park is generally safe for tourists, but natural hazards such as wildlife, geothermal features, and unpredictable weather can pose risks. Always stay on designated trails and boardwalks, maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and follow park regulations. There are no high-crime areas targeting tourists within the park, but it is always best to remain vigilant and secure your belongings.
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In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Park rangers are trained to handle emergencies and can be found at visitor centers and ranger stations throughout the park. Medical facilities are available at the Mammoth Clinic and Lake Clinic within the park. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Carry a first aid kit and be aware of your surroundings to prevent accidents.
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Fashion: Do wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions. Avoid wearing strong fragrances that can attract insects. Religion: Do respect others' beliefs and practices, but there are no specific religious customs you need to follow in the park. Public Transport: Do use the park's shuttle services where available and be courteous to other passengers. Don't litter; always dispose of trash in designated bins. Greetings: Do greet park staff and fellow visitors with a friendly hello. Eating & Drinking: Do pack out all your trash and food waste. Don't feed the wildlife, as it is harmful to their health and safety.
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To experience Yellowstone National Park like a local, visit during the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall when the park is less crowded. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to see wildlife. Be sure to attend ranger-led programs to learn more about the park's history and geology. For a unique experience, take a hike on some of the lesser-known trails, and always carry a map and plenty of water.
When is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park?
Useful Local Phrases for Yellowstone National Park
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Yellowstone National Park. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHowdy
[Ha-dee] - GoodbyeSee ya later
[See ya lay-ter] - YesYep
[Yep] - NoNope
[Nope] - Please/You're welcomeSure thing
[Shoor thing] - Thank youThanks a bunch
[Thanks a bunch] - Excuse me/SorryPardon me
[Par-don me] - How are you?How's it going?
[How's it goin'?] - Fine. And you?Doing good, you?
[Doin' good, you?] - Do you speak English?You speakin' English?
[You speakin' English?] - I don't understandI don't get it
[I don't get it]
- HelloHowdy
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
[Can I see the menu?] - I don't eat meatI'm a vegetarian
[I'm a vegetarian] - Cheers!Cheers!
[Cheers!] - I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
[Can I get the check?]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
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- Help!Help!
[Help!] - Go away!Leave me alone!
[Leave me alone!] - Call the Police!Call the cops!
[Call the cops!] - Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
[Get a doctor!] - I'm lostI'm turned around
[I'm turned around] - I'm illI'm not feeling well
[I'm not feelin' well]
- Help!Help!
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- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
[I want to buy...] - I'm just lookingJust browsing, thanks
[Just browsing, thanks] - How much is it?What's the price?
[What's the price?] - That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
[That's a bit steep] - Can you lower the price?Can you cut me a deal?
[Can you cut me a deal?]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
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- What time is it?What time ya got?
[What time ya got?] - It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
[It's one o'clock] - Half past (10)Half past ten
[Half past ten] - MorningMorning
[Morning] - AfternoonAfternoon
[Afternoon] - EveningEvening
[Evening] - YesterdayYesterday
[Yesterday] - TodayToday
[Today] - TomorrowTomorrow
[Tomorrow] - 1One
[Wun] - 2Two
[Too] - 3Three
[Three] - 4Four
[For] - 5Five
[Fyv] - 6Six
[Six] - 7Seven
[Sev-en] - 8Eight
[Ayt] - 9Nine
[Nyn] - 10Ten
[Ten]
- What time is it?What time ya got?
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- Where's a/the...?Where's the nearest...?
[Where's the nearest...?] - What's the address?What's the address?
[What's the address?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out?
[Can you point it out?] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
[When's the next bus?] - A ticket (to ....)One ticket to...
[One ticket to...]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the nearest...?
History of Yellowstone National Park
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Long before Yellowstone became a national park, it was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Shoshone, Crow, and Nez Perce. These tribes utilized the land for hunting, fishing, and spiritual practices. They were well aware of the geothermal wonders, referring to the area as 'the land of the burning ground' and 'many smoke.'
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In 1807, John Colter, a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, became the first known European-American to explore the Yellowstone region. His tales of boiling mud, steaming rivers, and geysers were initially met with skepticism and earned the area the nickname 'Colter's Hell.'
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In 1870, an expedition led by Henry D. Washburn, Nathaniel P. Langford, and Gustavus C. Doane ventured into the Yellowstone region. Their detailed accounts and stunning sketches captured the public's imagination and were instrumental in advocating for the establishment of Yellowstone as a national park.
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On March 1, 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act into law, making Yellowstone the world's first national park. This groundbreaking move set a precedent for the conservation of natural landscapes across the globe.
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From 1886 to 1918, the U.S. Army was responsible for managing and protecting Yellowstone National Park. They established Fort Yellowstone, which served as the park's headquarters and developed early conservation policies that laid the groundwork for modern park management.
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The summer of 1988 saw one of the most significant natural events in Yellowstone's history: a series of wildfires that burned nearly 793,880 acres, about 36% of the park. These fires fundamentally changed the park's ecosystem and led to new policies on fire management.
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Yellowstone National Park is the heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the largest nearly intact temperate-zone ecosystems on Earth. This region is a critical habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of bison and elk.
Neighbouring Regions of Yellowstone National Park
The closest regions to Yellowstone National Park, if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of Wyoming
Looking beyond Yellowstone National Park? Discover Wyoming for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore WyomingYellowstone National Park in Photos
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Yellowstone National Park: A Natural Wonderland
Yellowstone National Park, located in Wyoming, is a breathtaking destination known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. Established in 1872, it was the first national park in the world. This park offers visitors a chance to witness nature's raw beauty and power, with geysers, hot springs, and waterfalls at every turn. One of the park's most famous features is Old Faithful, a geyser that erupts with remarkable regularity. Nearby, the Grand Prismatic Spring dazzles with its vibrant colors, a result of unique microbial life. The park also hosts the Yellowstone Caldera, one of the largest active volcanic systems in the world, providing a unique geological perspective. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the opportunity to see bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves in their natural habitats. The Lamar and Hayden Valleys are prime spots for wildlife viewing. Hikers can explore over 900 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. In winter, Yellowstone transforms into a snowy paradise, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.