12 Yellowstone Locations You Can Actually Visit
Top Spots Open to the Public
The hit TV series Yellowstone has captivated audiences with its gripping drama and stunning landscapes. Set against the backdrop of Montana's breathtaking scenery, the show has sparked interest in the real-life locations featured on screen.
Fans of Yellowstone can experience the rugged beauty and Western charm of the show's settings by visiting several accessible filming locations. From sprawling ranches to quaint small towns, these destinations offer a glimpse into the world of the Dutton family and the iconic American West. Exploring these sites allows viewers to immerse themselves in the atmosphere that has made Yellowstone a cultural phenomenon.
1) Old Faithful
Old Faithful is one of Yellowstone National Park's most iconic attractions. This predictable geyser erupts approximately every 90 minutes, sending hot water and steam up to 180 feet into the air.
Visitors can witness this spectacular natural phenomenon from the viewing area near Old Faithful Inn. The eruption typically lasts between 1.5 to 5 minutes, providing ample time for photography and appreciation.
The Old Faithful area offers more than just the famous geyser. Travelers can explore the surrounding Upper Geyser Basin, which contains numerous other geothermal features.
For those seeking a different perspective, Observation Point provides an elevated view of Old Faithful and the surrounding landscape. This vantage point requires a short hike but offers a unique experience away from the main crowds.
To avoid the busiest times, consider visiting Old Faithful early in the morning or later in the evening. These off-peak hours often provide a more serene atmosphere for enjoying this natural wonder.
2) Grand Prismatic Spring
Grand Prismatic Spring stands as one of Yellowstone National Park's most iconic features. Located in the Midway Geyser Basin, this colorful hot spring is the largest in the United States and the third-largest in the world.
The spring's vibrant hues range from deep blue at its center to orange and red at the edges. These colors result from heat-loving microorganisms that thrive in the mineral-rich waters.
Visitors can view Grand Prismatic Spring from two main vantage points. The boardwalk around the spring offers an up-close experience of its size and colors. For a bird's-eye view, the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook provides a stunning panoramic perspective.
The spring is approximately 370 feet in diameter and over 121 feet deep. Its waters reach temperatures of about 160°F (70°C), creating the steam that often shrouds its surface.
To fully appreciate Grand Prismatic Spring, plan to spend 1-2 hours exploring the area. The best times to visit are mid-day when sunlight enhances the spring's colors, or early morning when steam is less likely to obscure the view.
3) Mammoth Hot Springs
Mammoth Hot Springs is a unique geothermal area in Yellowstone National Park. It features terraced limestone formations created by hot water bubbling up from underground springs.
Visitors can explore the area via a network of boardwalks. These paths allow for up-close views of the colorful mineral deposits and steaming hot springs.
The Upper Terrace Drive offers a scenic route for those who prefer to stay in their vehicles. This one-way loop provides overlooks of the terraces and surrounding landscape.
The Mammoth Hot Springs Historic District is located nearby. This area contains park headquarters and several buildings from the old Fort Yellowstone.
The Albright Visitor Center is situated in the historic district. It provides information about the park's history and geology, making it a great starting point for exploring the area.
Wildlife sightings are common around Mammoth Hot Springs. Elk often graze in the area, especially during fall and winter months.
4) Norris Geyser Basin
Norris Geyser Basin stands out as one of Yellowstone's most captivating thermal areas. It is renowned for being the hottest and most dynamic geyser basin in the park.
The basin is divided into two main sections: Back Basin and Porcelain Basin. Each offers unique geothermal features and scenic views for visitors to explore.
Back Basin features a trail through forested areas, showcasing a variety of thermal attractions. Visitors can witness an array of geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles along the path.
Porcelain Basin presents a stark landscape with milky blue pools and steaming vents. Its barren terrain provides an otherworldly experience for those who venture through it.
Steamboat Geyser, the world's tallest active geyser, is located in Norris Geyser Basin. While its major eruptions are unpredictable, it remains a popular attraction.
The area's extreme heat and acidity create a harsh environment. Despite these conditions, microscopic life forms thrive here, demonstrating nature's resilience.
Visitors should follow marked trails and safety guidelines when exploring Norris Geyser Basin. The dynamic nature of this area means features can change rapidly, adding to its allure.
5) Yellowstone Lake
Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America. It covers 136 square miles and sits at an altitude of 7,733 feet above sea level.
Visitors can experience the lake's beauty by driving along the Grand Loop Road between West Thumb and Fishing Bridge. This scenic route offers stunning views of the expansive water and surrounding landscape.
The lake's shores provide opportunities for various activities. Hiking trails wind along the waterfront, allowing visitors to explore the area on foot. Fishing is also popular, with anglers seeking native cutthroat trout.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, lake cruises are available. These boat tours offer a unique perspective of the park's geothermal features and wildlife from the water.
West Thumb Geyser Basin, located on the lake's western shore, showcases an intriguing blend of geothermal activity and lakeside scenery. Here, visitors can observe hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles against the backdrop of Yellowstone Lake.
Wildlife enthusiasts may spot elk near the lake, particularly in the Grant Village and Lake Village areas. These locations also offer amenities for visitors, including lodging and dining options.
6) Lamar Valley
Lamar Valley is a stunning destination in Yellowstone National Park's northeastern corner. This expansive area is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.
The valley stretches for about 29 miles along the Lamar River, offering visitors sweeping vistas of open grasslands and rolling hills. Its remote location requires a bit of travel, situated over 90 minutes from Old Faithful.
Wildlife enthusiasts flock to Lamar Valley for its diverse animal populations. Visitors may spot bison herds, elk, pronghorn, and even elusive wolf packs. The area is particularly famous for wolf-watching, though sightings require patience and luck.
Photographers find Lamar Valley especially appealing. The wide-open spaces and abundant wildlife create perfect conditions for capturing memorable images. Some visitors rent powerful zoom lenses to photograph distant animals.
Accessing Lamar Valley is easiest through the park's northeast entrance. While it's a bit of a trek from popular park features, the journey rewards visitors with a less crowded and truly wild Yellowstone experience.
7) Hayden Valley
Hayden Valley is a prime destination in Yellowstone National Park for wildlife enthusiasts. This vast expanse of grasslands offers unparalleled opportunities to observe the park's iconic animals in their natural habitat.
Bison are the most commonly spotted creatures in Hayden Valley. Visitors often witness large herds grazing on the lush meadows or crossing the winding Yellowstone River.
The valley is also home to elk, grizzly bears, and wolves. Early morning and late evening are the best times for wildlife viewing, as animals are more active during these cooler hours.
Several pullouts along the road provide safe spots for visitors to park and scan the landscape with binoculars or cameras. It's important to maintain a safe distance from all wildlife.
The Hayden Valley River Trail offers hikers a chance to explore the area on foot. This path follows the Yellowstone River, providing scenic views and potential wildlife sightings.
For those interested in geothermal features, the nearby Mud Volcano area showcases muddy hot springs and fumaroles. The Dragon's Mouth and Churning Caldron are particularly fascinating attractions in this section of the park.
8) Artist Point
Artist Point offers one of the most spectacular views in Yellowstone National Park. Located on the south rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, it provides an unparalleled vantage point of the Lower Falls and the colorful canyon walls.
The vista from Artist Point showcases the 308-foot Lower Falls cascading down into the canyon. The surrounding landscape features striking hues of yellow, pink, and orange, created by the mineral-rich rock formations.
Visitors can reach Artist Point via a short, paved walkway from the parking area. The path is wheelchair accessible, making this breathtaking view available to most park guests.
The lookout point has been a popular destination for over a century, attracting both casual visitors and artists seeking inspiration. Its name, however, stems from a historical misunderstanding about its artistic significance.
For photography enthusiasts, Artist Point offers excellent opportunities to capture the beauty of the falls and canyon. The changing light throughout the day creates varied scenes, each worthy of a photograph.
While at Artist Point, visitors may also spot wildlife in the surrounding area. The nearby forests and open spaces are home to various species native to Yellowstone.
9) Upper Geyser Basin
The Upper Geyser Basin is a must-visit location in Yellowstone National Park. This area boasts the highest concentration of geysers in the world, with over 150 geysers and numerous hot springs.
Old Faithful, the park's most famous geyser, is located here. It erupts approximately every 60 to 110 minutes, making it a reliable attraction for visitors.
The basin spans from the Old Faithful area to the Grand Loop Road. Visitors can explore the area on foot using a network of boardwalks and trails. These paths provide safe access to various geothermal features.
Besides Old Faithful, the Upper Geyser Basin is home to other impressive geysers. These include Grand Geyser, Castle Geyser, and Riverside Geyser. Each offers unique eruption patterns and characteristics.
Colorful hot springs, such as Morning Glory Pool, add to the basin's visual appeal. The vibrant hues result from thermophilic bacteria thriving in the hot water.
To make the most of a visit, it's advisable to start at the Old Faithful Visitor Center. Here, visitors can obtain information about predicted eruption times for major geysers in the area.
10) West Thumb Geyser Basin
West Thumb Geyser Basin is a must-visit location in Yellowstone National Park. Situated on the western shore of Yellowstone Lake, it offers a unique blend of geothermal features and stunning lake views.
The basin is accessible via the Grand Loop Road, approximately 22 miles north of the park's South Entrance. Visitors can explore the area through a boardwalk trail that consists of two loops.
The outer loop spans half a mile, while the inner loop covers a quarter-mile. These trails provide safe access to various hydrothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles.
One notable attraction is Black Pool, a hot spring renowned for its deep, dark blue color. The basin's location on the lakeshore creates a picturesque setting for observing geothermal activity.
For those interested in water activities, kayak tours are available from Grant Village Marina to West Thumb Geyser Basin. These guided excursions typically last 4-5 hours and offer a unique perspective of the area.
West Thumb Geyser Basin holds historical significance as the first Yellowstone feature to be described in a published work. This fact adds to its appeal for visitors interested in the park's rich history.
11) Tower Fall
Tower Fall is a stunning 132-foot waterfall located in the northeastern region of Yellowstone National Park. It cascades dramatically from Tower Creek, framed by unique volcanic rock formations that give the area its name.
Visitors can easily access an overlook near the Tower General Store for a breathtaking view of the falls. The short walk to the viewpoint makes it accessible for most park guests.
The surrounding landscape has captivated artists and photographers for generations. Thomas Moran, a renowned painter, was among those inspired by Tower Fall's natural beauty.
Prior to 1986, a large boulder perched precariously at the waterfall's edge, adding to its distinctive appearance. Though the boulder has since fallen, the site remains a popular attraction.
Tower Fall offers more than just visual appeal. The area is known for its clear night skies, making it an excellent spot for stargazing. On cloudless nights, visitors may even glimpse the Milky Way with the naked eye.
For those exploring Yellowstone's northeastern section, Tower Fall provides a memorable stop along the scenic drive through diverse park landscapes.
12) Yellowstone Canyon
The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is a stunning natural wonder within Yellowstone National Park. This 20-mile-long canyon showcases the power of erosion, carved by the Yellowstone River over thousands of years.
The canyon's depth ranges from 800 to 1,200 feet, offering breathtaking views from various lookout points. Its colorful walls display a palette of yellows, pinks, and reds, created by hydrothermal alteration of the rhyolite rock.
Visitors can explore the canyon from both the North Rim and South Rim drives. These routes provide easy access to several viewpoints, including Artist Point and Inspiration Point.
The canyon is home to two magnificent waterfalls: Upper Falls and Lower Falls. Lower Falls, with a 308-foot drop, is particularly impressive and can be viewed from multiple angles.
Hiking trails of varying difficulty allow visitors to experience the canyon up close. The North Rim Trail and South Rim Trail offer scenic walks along the canyon's edge.
Wildlife spotting is common in the area, with opportunities to see osprey nesting on the canyon walls and other native species in the surrounding forests.
Safety Tips When Visiting Yellowstone
Staying safe in Yellowstone requires awareness of wildlife and weather conditions. Proper precautions and preparedness can help visitors enjoy the park's natural wonders responsibly.
Wildlife Precautions
Maintain a safe distance from animals. Stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other wildlife like bison and elk. Never feed or approach animals, even if they appear tame.
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise while hiking to alert animals of your presence. Hike in groups when possible.
Store food properly in bear-proof containers or vehicles. Keep a clean campsite to avoid attracting wildlife.
Weather Preparedness
Pack layers of clothing for rapidly changing conditions. Temperatures can fluctuate drastically, even in summer.
Check weather forecasts daily and plan activities accordingly. Be prepared for sudden storms, especially in afternoons.
Carry extra water and stay hydrated. High elevations can increase the risk of dehydration and altitude sickness.
Wear sturdy hiking boots and use trekking poles on uneven terrain. Bring a first aid kit for any emergencies.
Inform someone of your planned route and expected return time when hiking or exploring remote areas.
Park Conservation Efforts
Yellowstone National Park implements extensive conservation measures to protect its unique ecosystems and wildlife. These efforts focus on sustainable practices and engage visitors through volunteer opportunities.
Sustainable Practices
Yellowstone prioritizes energy conservation as a major consumer within the National Park Service. The park is reducing its reliance on coal-fueled power plants and fossil fuels by improving energy efficiency in facilities. Renewable energy sources are being integrated where feasible.
Park officials carefully manage tourism to minimize environmental impact. Entrance fees directly support maintenance and conservation projects. Many park stores offer eco-friendly merchandise, with proceeds benefiting conservation initiatives.
Yellowstone's conservation efforts extend to wildlife protection. Park rangers monitor animal populations and habitats, implementing measures to reduce human-wildlife conflicts. Strict regulations govern visitor behavior to preserve natural ecosystems.
Volunteer Opportunities
Yellowstone offers various volunteer programs for visitors to actively participate in conservation efforts. These programs allow individuals to contribute directly to park preservation while gaining hands-on experience.
Popular volunteer activities include trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and wildlife surveys. Participants work alongside park staff, learning about Yellowstone's ecosystems and conservation challenges.
The Youth Conservation Corps provides summer employment for young people, engaging them in conservation projects. This program fosters environmental stewardship among the next generation.
Yellowstone also partners with organizations to conduct citizen science projects. These initiatives involve visitors in data collection, supporting ongoing research and monitoring efforts within the park.
