Planning a trip to Yellowstone can feel overwhelming. With nearly 3,500 square miles of stunning landscapes and geothermal wonders, it’s hard to know where to start. I’ve been there—on my first visit, I didn’t realize how spread out the park was and struggled to fit everything in.
But with some careful planning, you can prioritize the best sights and make the most of your time.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the must-see attractions in Yellowstone National Park, ranked from top priorities to hidden gems. With my firsthand experience exploring the park, I’ll share practical tips to help you avoid crowds, make the most of your visit, and see Yellowstone’s highlights at your own pace.
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Top 25 Must-See Attractions in Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park offers something for everyone, from geothermal wonders to breathtaking wildlife encounters. Whether you’re into hiking, scenic drives, or geyser tours, there’s always something incredible to explore.
To help you prioritize your trip, I’ve ranked the top 25 things to do in Yellowstone—from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path gems. Here are my must-see recommendations based on my own experiences visiting the park.
1. Old Faithful Geyser
Old Faithful is Yellowstone’s most famous attraction due to its frequent, predictable eruptions and accessibility. The geyser erupts approximately every 90 minutes, lasting 1.5 to 5 minutes, and can shoot water over 100 feet high.
There are three ways to view Old Faithful:
- Viewing Platform: The boardwalk around the geyser is the most popular and most accessible option. You’ll find benches here for waiting between eruptions.
- Observation Point: If you want to escape the crowds, take the strenuous uphill walk to get a bird’s eye view of Old Faithful. It’s roughly 1.1 miles round trip from the viewing platform.
- Deck of the Old Faithful Inn: If you’ve already seen Old Faithful from the viewing platform, you can catch another show from the second floor deck of the Old Faithful Inn. This is the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic lunch.
Every day, park rangers release an estimated eruption schedule. You can find the schedule for that day on a sign outside the geyser, in the Old Faithful Inn, or the Old Faithful Visitor Center.
If you arrive at Old Faithful just before an eruption, you can sit on the benches surrounding the viewing area and wait for the show. If you arrive at Old Faithful just after it erupted, I recommend exploring the rest of the Upper Geyser Basin first and looping back for the next eruption about an hour later.
This area of Yellowstone is a must-see and therefore very crowded. I recommend arriving before 8 AM to avoid crowds and find easy parking.
Get the Yellowstone Itinerary & Guidebook
The step-by-step itinerary and ultimate guidebook covers all the must-see geysers, hot springs, hikes, and sights. This 87-page guide is filled with detailed itineraries, insider tips, maps, regional overviews, and more for planning a stress-free trip to Yellowstone!
2. Upper Geyser Basin
- Area: Old Faithful
- Estimated Time: 1 to 2 hours
The Upper Geyser Basin, the area surrounding Old Faithful, features the highest concentration of geothermal features in the world. After seeing Old Faithful erupt, walk around the rest of the Upper Geyser Basin.
The entire Upper Geyser Basin Loop is about 3 miles roundtrip from the Old Faithful Visitor Center. Most of the route is handicapped accessible on paved paths or boardwalks.
You’ll find four more geysers with predicted eruption times here: Riverside Geyser, Castle Geyser, Grand Geyser, and Daisy Geyser. In addition, be sure to see Heart Spring Hot Spring, Sawmill Geyser, Beauty Pool and Chromatic Pool, and Morning Glory Pool.
3. Grand Prismatic Spring
- Area: Old Faithful
- Estimated Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Grand Prismatic Spring, the star of Midway Geyser Basin, is one of Yellowstone’s most iconic landmarks. This stunning hot spring displays vibrant rainbow colors due to varying water temperatures and microorganisms.
The hottest water is blue at the center of the spring. As the water temperature cools, the colors change from green to yellow to orange.
There are two ways to view Grand Prismatic Spring:
- From the Overlook via Fairy Falls Trail: The hot spring is best seen from above. The overlook starts at the Fairy Falls Trailhead, taking you on a relatively easy 1-mile hike up to the overlook.
- From Midway Geyser Basin: The accessible boardwalks through the geyser basin give you up close views of the hot spring and several surrounding features.
Plan to visit in the early afternoon for the most vibrant colors when the lighting shines directly on the spring and the morning fog has burned off.
4. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- Area: Canyon Village
- Estimated Time: 2 to 6 hours
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, carved by the Yellowstone River, features stunning rock colors and dramatic geology. Explore the canyon via the scenic North Rim and South Rim drives, with viewpoints and short trails showcasing the canyon’s waterfalls.
The Lower Falls is the tallest waterfall in the park and is about twice the height of Niagara Falls. The Upper Falls is smaller and quieter and is best seen from the Upper Falls Viewpoint on the South Rim.
I recommend visiting the South Rim first in the morning, then the North Rim afterward. The road along the North Rim is a one-way loop, so I recommend stopping at each viewpoint in order.
My favorite attractions on the South Rim are:
- Artist Point: Beautiful mid-morning views of the Lower Falls
- Upper Falls Viewpoint: Easy walk to a view of the Upper Falls
- South Rim Trail: 4+ mile hike connecting the South Rim’s best viewpoints
Don’t miss these stops on the North Rim (listed here in order):
- Brink of the Upper Falls: Viewpoint atop the Upper Falls, accessible via an access road between South Rim and North Rim Drives
- Brink of the Lower Falls: Steep 0.7-mile trail to a misty platform atop the Lower Falls.
- Lookout Point: Accessible viewpoint of the Lower Falls and canyon.
- Red Rock Point: Steep 0.7-mile trail from Lookout Point to a closer view of the Lower Falls.
- Grand View: Accessible viewpoint for canyon colors and the Yellowstone River.
- Inspiration Point: Offers views both upstream and downstream through the canyon.
Read More: 15 Best Hikes in Yellowstone
5. Lamar Valley
- Area: Tower-Roosevelt
- Estimated Time: 2 to 3 hours
Lamar Valley, located in northeastern Yellowstone, is a prime spot for wildlife viewing, including bison, bears, coyotes, and wolves. The best times to spot wildlife are just after sunrise and before sunset when animals are most active.
There’s plenty of excellent pull-offs in Lamar Valley for wildlife viewing. However, the valley is wide and wildlife will be further away, so I recommend bringing a pair of binoculars or a spotting scope.
6. Mammoth Hot Springs
- Area: Mammoth
- Estimated Time: 1 to 2 hours
Mammoth Hot Springs, near Gardiner, Montana, features unique travertine terraces formed by geothermal activity. These terraces, colored by microorganisms, create cascading hot springs in shades of orange, brown, purple, and yellow.
Explore the Lower Terraces on a short walk with highlights like Palette Spring, Minerva Terrace, and Mound and Jupiter Terraces. The Upper and Main Terraces offer additional sights, including Canary Spring, accessible via a scenic drive a short drive from town.
Elk rutting (mating) season starts in mid-August and ends in September. During this time, you’ll see plenty of elk throughout Mammoth, including several battling bull elk.
7. Biscuit Basin
- Area: Old Faithful
- Estimated Time: 15 to 30 minutes
Biscuit Basin, located just north of the Upper Geyser Basin, is a lesser-visited geothermal area. Named after a 1959 earthquake that caused Sapphire Pool to erupt and scatter rock “biscuits”, this basin features several stunning geysers and pools.
In addition to Sapphire Pool, don’t miss Mustard Spring or Jewel Geyser. If you want to spend a bit more time hiking, you can connect Biscuit Basin and the Upper Geyser Basin via a 1.2-mile trail each way.
8. Norris Geyser Basin
- Area: Norris
- Estimated Time: 1 to 2 hours
Norris Geyser Basin, home to Steamboat Geyser (the tallest active geyser in the world), features rare acidic geysers and colorful pools. The basin comprises two areas: Porcelain Basin and Back Basin.
On the 0.8-mile loop through the Porcelain Basin, don’t miss Constant Geyser, colorful runoff from Whirligig and Pinwheel Geysers, Crackling Lake, and Congress Pool.
The Back Basin is the longer of the two loops at 1.7 miles and is home to Steamboat Geyser. However, Steamboat eruptions are rare, sometimes going years between eruptions. Instead, see Emerald Spring, Cistern Spring, Echinus Geyser, Puff ‘n Stuff Geyser, Green Dragon Spring, and Porkchop Geyser.
9. Hayden Valley
- Area: Canyon Village
- Estimated Time: 1 to 2 hours
Hayden Valley is one of the best spots in Yellowstone for wildlife viewing, featuring large bison herds, elk, moose, bears, wolves, and bald eagles. Located between Canyon Village and Mud Volcano, the 7-mile drive through the valley offers prime wildlife watching opportunities, especially in the hours after sunrise and before sunset.
The best way to spot wildlife in Hayden Valley is to find a spot to pull over and wait. Often you won’t see wildlife right away, so your best bet is to bring a camping chair and stakeout.
Most wildlife will be far away. The best way to get an up-close look is with a pair of binoculars or a spotting scope.
My favorite places for watching wildlife in Hayden Valley are:
- Yellowstone River Overlook (44.634698, -110.448242)
- Hayden Valley Overlook (44.668139, -110.470134)
- Hayden Valley at Trout Creek (44.643473, -110.457219)
- Pull off near Canyon Village (44.726394, -110.493908)
Get the Yellowstone Itinerary & Guidebook
The step-by-step itinerary and ultimate guidebook covers all the must-see geysers, hot springs, hikes, and sights. This 87-page guide is filled with detailed itineraries, insider tips, maps, regional overviews, and more for planning a stress-free trip to Yellowstone!
10. West Thumb Geyser Basin
- Area: Grant Village
- Estimated Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
West Thumb Geyser Basin, located along the shores of Yellowstone Lake, offers stunning views and unique geothermal features. The 0.5-mile boardwalk trail takes you through various geothermal features, including the Abyss Pool, a stunning teal-blue pool over 50 feet deep.
Other must-see features include Fishing Cone, Black Pool, Thumb Geyser, Seismograph Pool, and Lakeshore Geyser.
If you’re heading south to Grand Teton, this is the perfect final stop on your way out of the park. This often-overlooked basin is especially recommended if you’re heading south to Grand Teton National Park.
11. Tower Fall
- Area: Tower-Roosevelt
- Estimated Time: 30 minutes
Tower Fall is one of Yellowstone’s tallest waterfalls, plunging 132 feet through a spire-filled canyon. Although the trail to the waterfall’s base is closed due to erosion, you can still enjoy stunning views from the Tower Fall Overlook.
This viewpoint, accessible via a short walk from the Tower Fall parking area, offers picturesque vistas of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape. Its convenient location off the Grand Loop Road makes it an easy and worthwhile stop.
12. Yellowstone Lake
- Area: Lake Village
- Estimated Time: 30 minutes to a half-day
Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America, has more than 110 miles of scenic shoreline. While there’s plenty of ways to see the lake, some of my favorite activities include the Storm Point Trail, visiting the historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and driving to Lake Butte Overlook.
If you have more time to spend at Yellowstone Lake, I recommend taking a boat tour or renting a boat from Yellowstone National Park Lodges. Options include a scenic cruise, private boat rentals, and guided sightseeing and fishing tours.
13. Mount Washburn
- Area: Tower-Roosevelt
- Estimated Time: 4 to 6 hours
Mount Washburn, one of the highest points in Yellowstone at 10,200 feet, provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges from the fire lookout of the summit.
There are two ways to hike Mount Washburn:
- Dunraven Pass to Mount Washburn: 6.8 miles, 1394 feet elevation, 4% average grade
- Chittenden Road to Mount Washburn: 5.6 miles, 1482 feet elevation, 5% average grade
Both trails feature wildflowers and chances to see bighorn sheep and mountain goats. I prefer the Dunraven Pass route as it is more scenic compared to Chittenden Road, which is simply an old fire road.
Read More: Best Hikes in Yellowstone National Park
14. Old Faithful Inn
- Area: Old Faithful
- Estimated Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
The Old Faithful Inn, a National Historic Landmark, is the crown jewel of the Yellowstone lodges. Opened in 1904, it showcases impressive rustic architecture, especially in its multi-story lobby.
Even if you aren’t staying here, stop by to explore the lobby or dine at the restaurant. The second floor deck offers stunning views of Old Faithful, making it an ideal spot for a picnic while watching the geyser erupt.
After visiting the Old Faithful Inn, be sure to check out the newly constructed Old Faithful Visitor Education Center.
Read More: Best Lodges in Yellowstone National Park
15. Mud Volcano
- Area: Lake Village
- Estimated Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Mud Volcano is a fascinating geothermal area known for its bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles, emitting a distinct sulfuric odor. The main attractions are the Mud Volcano and Dragon’s Mouth Spring.
Mud Volcano features a boiling pot of mud, while Dragon’s Mouth Spring is a cave that emits steam and sounds like a huffing dragon. It’s also a great spot to see bison grazing near the geothermal features, often in the field across the river.
16. Lower Geyser Basin
- Area: Old Faithful
- Estimated Time: 1 to 3 hours
The Lower Geyser Basin is a lesser-visited yet fascinating area in Yellowstone, known for its hydrothermal features. The Fountain Paint Pot Trail shows off bubbling mud pots that resemble boiling clay.
But the highlight of the Lower Geyser Basin is the Great Fountain Geyser, which erupts twice a day, reaching heights over 200 feet and lasting nearly an hour. Check the visitor centers or the Yellowstone Geyser Activity page for predicted eruption times.
17. Black Sand Basin
- Area: Old Faithful
- Estimated Time: 15 to 30 minutes
Black Sand Basin is a smaller, often overlooked geothermal area near the Upper Geyser Basin. Named for the black volcanic sand that covers parts of the basin, it features a variety of colorful hot springs and small geysers.
The most notable features include Emerald Pool, with its striking green color, and Cliff Geyser, which erupts frequently from a ledge along Iron Creek.
18. Firehole Canyon Drive
- Area: Madison
- Estimated Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Firehole Canyon Drive is a scenic detour that runs parallel to Yellowstone’s Grand Loop Road. This short, 2-mile drive follows the picturesque Firehole River, passing by the impressive Firehole Falls and leading to a popular swimming area.
The route provides beautiful views of the canyon and river, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon drive. While the swimming hole can get crowded on warm summer days, it’s a refreshing break from the even busier areas of the park.
19. Roosevelt Arch
- Area: Mammoth
- Estimated Time: 15 minutes
Roosevelt Arch, located at the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park in Gardiner, Montana, is an iconic symbol of the park. This historic stone arch was constructed in 1903 and was dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt.
The arch’s cornerstone inscription reads, “For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People”, a nod to the park’s history and early conservation effort.
20. Artist Paint Pots
- Area: Norris
- Estimated Time: 30 to 45 minutes
The Artist Paint Pots, located near Norris, is a vibrant geothermal area showcasing colorful hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and small geysers. The short, less-visited 1-mile loop trail takes you through a forested area to a boardwalk where you can observe the geothermal activity up close.
The name comes from the brilliant hues of the mud pots, resembling an artist’s palette.
21. Fairy Falls Trail
- Area: Old Faithful
- Estimated Time: 2 hours
Fairy Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Yellowstone National Park. The trail begins at the Fairy Falls Trailhead, the same path used to access the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook.
As you hike, you pass through forested areas before reaching the stunning waterfall. The trail is relatively easy, making it suitable for most visitors. Along the way, be sure to stop at the overlook for a breathtaking view of Grand Prismatic Spring from above.
22. Blacktail Plateau Drive
- Area: Tower-Roosevelt
- Estimated Time: 1 hour
Blacktail Plateau Drive is a one-way unpaved scenic drive between Mammoth and Tower-Roosevelt. This less-visited route is a peaceful detour from Grand Loop Road, showcasing rolling hills and providing excellent wildlife spotting opportunities.
Look out for bison, elk, and even bears. The road is unpaved, so an SUV is preferable, though AWD or 4×4 isn’t required. This drive is perfect for those seeking to explore off-the-beaten-path.
23. Beaver Ponds Loop Trail
- Area: Mammoth
- Estimated Time: 2 to 3 hours
The Beaver Ponds Loop Trail is a 5-mile loop that begins near Mammoth Hot Springs. This trail offers a mix of open meadows, forested areas, and five scenic ponds, providing excellent opportunities to spot wildlife such as beavers, elk, and various bird species.
The moderate hike features some elevation gain but is suitable for most hikers. This is another excellent off-the-beaten-path activity.
24. Lone Star Geyser Trail
- Area: Old Faithful
- Estimated Time: 3 to 4 hours
The Lone Star Geyser Trail is a 5-mile round trip hike that leads to one of Yellowstone’s lesser-known geysers. Starting at the Lone Star Trailhead, the trail follows the Firehole River through a pine forest and ends at the Lone Star Geyser, which erupts roughly every three hours.
The trail is relatively flat and accessible, making it a perfect half-day excursion for those seeking a peaceful hike away from the crowds.
25. Boiling River Hot Spring
- District: Mammoth
- Estimated Time: 1 to 2 hours
The Boiling River, located just north of Mammoth, is a unique hot spring where geothermal activity heats the Gardiner River. Unlike most hot springs in Yellowstone, you can swim here.
The river’s cool water mixes with the hot spring, creating comfortable, bathtub-like temperatures. This spot is ideal for families with active kids, especially in the summer.
Bring water shoes due to the rocky riverbed and always supervise children as there is no lifeguard on duty. The Boiling River is usually open from July to September when water levels are lower.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the number one attraction in Yellowstone?
The most popular attraction in Yellowstone National Park is Old Faithful, located in the Upper Geyser Basin. Here you’ll find the largest concentration of geysers and hot springs in the world. Plan to spend at least a few hours here.
What is the best way to explore Yellowstone?
The best way to explore Yellowstone is on a hike or walk. Much of Yellowstone’s popular geothermal geyser basins have boardwalk paths or trails, making them easily accessible for most visitors.
What is the most interesting thing about Yellowstone National Park?
Not only is Yellowstone America’s oldest national park, but it also preserves more than 10,000 geothermal features and is home to the densest concentration of hot springs in the world. Plus, Yellowstone’s landmass is larger than Rhode Island.
What should I be careful of in Yellowstone?
The most significant danger to visitors in Yellowstone is in the geyser basins. Always stay on the trail and never touch any features, pools, or geysers. Keep a close watch on children. If you encounter wildlife, keep at least 25 yards away.
Final Thoughts and Next Steps
While Yellowstone National Park is large and filled with great things to do, you can use this guide to prioritize your time in the park.
If you only have a few days in Yellowstone, I recommend focusing on these top 10 things to do:
- Old Faithful Geyser
- Upper Geyser Basin
- Grand Prismatic Spring
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- Hayden Valley
- Lamar Valley
- Yellowstone Grand Loop Road
- Mammoth Hot Springs
- West Thumb Geyser Basin
- Yellowstone Lake
Get the Yellowstone Itinerary & Guidebook
The step-by-step itinerary and ultimate guidebook covers all the must-see geysers, hot springs, hikes, and sights. This 87-page guide is filled with detailed itineraries, insider tips, maps, regional overviews, and more for planning a stress-free trip to Yellowstone!
Read these posts next:
- Itinerary: Ultimate 1 to 5 Day Yellowstone Itinerary
- Hikes: 15 Best Hikes in Yellowstone
- Add Grand Teton: 7 Day Grand Teton & Yellowstone Road Trip
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