Established in 1872, Yellowstone is the world's first national park. Geysers, multicoloured hot springs, a canyon and free-roaming bison: it is one of the highlights of any trip to the American West. You just need to pick the right time and allow enough days.
What to see in Yellowstone?
- Old Faithful, the most famous geyser, and the Upper Geyser Basin.
- Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the USA, with spectacular colours from the Fairy Falls overlook.
- The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and its falls, from Artist Point.
- Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley, to watch bison, elk, bears and sometimes wolves.
- Mammoth Hot Springs and its travertine terraces.
When to go to Yellowstone?
Most park roads are open from late April or May to early November. June and September are our favourite months: wildlife is active and crowds are smaller than in July-August. In winter the park becomes another world: only the road between Gardiner and Cooke City stays open to cars, and the rest is explored by snowcoach or snowmobile.
How many days?
Allow at least three days in the park, ideally four, staying inside or at the park gates. Add one or two days for nearby Grand Teton National Park and its mountains reflected in the Snake River.
Our tips
- Book in-park accommodation very early, often a year ahead.
- Set off at dawn for wildlife and to beat the crowds at Old Faithful.
- Stay on the boardwalks: thermal ground is fragile and dangerous.
- Keep your distance from bison and bears.
Rockies, Grand Canyon or winter version: our tours through Yellowstone are built with our USA specialist.
