Must see locations in Yellowstone National Park
Do you love National Parks? If you answered yes, you are in the right place. National Parks are one of my favorite destinations to explore, with Yellowstone National Park being a top one on my list. No Matter how many times I have visited/viewed these sights, these 5 must see locations within Yellowstone National Park still amaze me every time.
Things to Know before You Go
With 2.2 million acres of stunning beauty, Yellowstone National Park offers endless exploration opportunities. Before we delve into the details of the five must-see spots, let’s go over some key facts and useful information.
Yellowstone is the worlds first National Park spanning into three states, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. With more than 500 active geysers, 10,ooo plus hydrothermal, geological features, beautiful scenic views and an abundance of wildlife, this park will leave you speechless every time. Or at least it does me!
There are five entrances to the park. North, Northeast, South, East and the west entrance, leaving you with many options as a base camp outside the park near each entrance, or many options for places to stay inside the park as well.
Yellowstone National Park – 5 Places Worth Visiting
Grand Prismatic Spring
What makes it Special?
Located in Midway Geyser Basin, Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in Yellowstone and one of the largest spring in the world. Making it one of the most popular attractions in the park. What I love the most about it, is the vibrant colors. The colors of the rainbow, rich in colors red, yellow, green and blue. Seriously leaves me speechless no matter how many times I have viewed it.
The water in the spring is near boiling, ranging from 145.4 to 188.6 degrees Fahrenheit in different areas. The spring is home to a variety of pigmented thermophiles, which are microorganisms that thrive in hot temperatures
Viewing Tips
There are two viewing points.
1. Midway Geyser Basin Trail:
This easy 0.7-mile trail offers a fantastic opportunity to see the spring up close. The boardwalk loops around, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone. As you stroll along the boardwalk, you’ll also encounter other magnificent sights, including the Excelsior Geyser, Opal Pool, and Turquoise Pool.
2. Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail:
This trail leads up to a viewing point where you will be looking down at Grand Prismatic Spring. Getting a spectacular view of all its glory. You can really see the vibrant beautiful colors from this view point.
The trail is located at the fairy falls trailhead where parking is very limited. Considered an easy route that is a 1.5 mile out-and-back trail with a 200 elevation gain. We have yet to do this hike, but believe me, next time it will be mission accomplished!
Safety Precautions
With near boiling temperatures, being cautious and staying on the trails are crucial for your safety. Always follow these precautions when exploring any hydrothermal areas.
- Stay on boardwalks and designated trails.
- Supervise children at all times.
- Never run, push, or shove.
- Never touch or scratch hydrothermal mats.
- Hydrothermal water can severely burn you and burn holes in your clothes.
Old Faithful Geyser
Why Visit Old Faithful?
A trip to Yellowstone National Park wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Old Faithful. From the anticipation of waiting for the eruption, to finally watching it erupt, is a Yellowstone must see.
Old Faithful is one of the most iconic landmarks in Yellowstone National Park and a must-see for visitors. It’s famous for its predictability—erupting every 90 minutes on average—making it one of the few geysers in the world you can reliably schedule a visit to see. The eruptions, which can reach heights of 100-180 feet, are truly awe-inspiring, lasting anywhere from 1.5 to 5 minutes.
Beyond the impressive spectacle, Old Faithful holds a significant place in history as the first geyser in Yellowstone to be named in 1870. It has since become a symbol of the park and its unique geothermal activity.
Best Times to See It & Viewing Tips
- To avoid crowds, visit during the early hours before noon, or evening during dusk.
- Hike the Observation Point trail for views of Old Faithful as well as it’s own geyser.
- Stop by the Visitor center upon arrival to see the next estimated time of eruption.
The busiest months at Old Faithful are June through September, with crowds peaking from noon to 6 PM. So if you are really wanting to avoid the crowds, winter season has less crowds and usually lower prices for airfare and lodging.
Nearby Attractions
Visitors also enjoy the amenities around the site, including the Old Faithful Visitor Center and historic Old Faithful Inn, where you can learn more about the geyser and the park’s geothermal features. I would love to stay in the Old Faithful Inn one if these days, the rustic log features and being right in the heart of the National Park appeals to me,
Old Faithful Inn is a national historic landmark that I love to explore every time we visit. With the wood and wrought iron focal points, large stone fire place and hand crafted clock, it’s defiantly worth walking in to check out the amazing architecture.
Whether you’re witnessing an eruption for the first time or the fiftieth, Old Faithful’s timeless beauty and powerful energy leave a lasting impression. Its accessibility and surrounding attractions make it a highlight for both first-time visitors and seasoned park-goers alike.
West Thumb Geyser Basin
Why Visit West Thumb Geyser Basin?
Located along the picturesque shores of Yellowstone Lake, the largest lake at high elevation in North America, makes it one of the most picturesque places in the park.
West Thumb Geyser Basin is part of a caldera within a caldera! The West Thumb caldera formed about 150,000 years ago and is part of the larger Yellowstone Caldera. The geothermal features extend into Yellowstone Lake, making it one of the few places where you can see geysers and hot springs under water.
Key Features
Fishing Cone
Located along the shores of Yellowstone Lake, Fishing Cone is geyser that back in the day use to have eruptions as high as 40 feet. As the water level of Yellowstone Lake has increased, it no longer erupts and is now considered a hot spring.
Abyss Pool
One of the deepest hot springs in the park, descending 53 feet. While it did have eruptions many years ago, with some eruptions being as high as 100 feet, the pool has returned to its non-eruptive state.
I love the beautiful turquoise color of the pool and then that backdrop with Yellowstone Lake, makes it perfection in my opinion.
With multiple other geysers and hot springs along the boardwalk at West Thumb Geyser Basin, this is a must see and a great stop inside the park.
Viewing Tips
- Boardwalk Access: With an easy-to-navigate boardwalk that loops around the basin, it makes it accessible to visitors of all ages.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon visits can provide quieter experiences and better lighting for photos. In cooler weather, you might also see more steam rising from the geothermal features.
- Wildlife: Since the basin is near Yellowstone Lake, it’s a great spot for wildlife sightings, including elk, bison, and occasionally, bears.
West Thumb Geyser Basin is a must-see destination in Yellowstone National Park, offering visitors a unique blend of geothermal wonders set against the tranquil backdrop of Yellowstone Lake. From the colorful Fishing Cone and deep Abyss Pool to the intriguing mudpots, West Thumb provides a quieter, scenic experience that’s as captivating as it is accessible.
As you leave West Thumb, consider stopping at Grant Village, just a short drive away, where you’ll find convenient spots for food, gas, and shopping. It’s the perfect place to recharge before continuing your Yellowstone adventure, especially if you’re headed to the stunning Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Saved the best for last (I think). This is one of my absolute favorite places in the park and let me show you and tell you why. There are two viewing points at this location that are both unique and spectacular in their own way, making it 5 places to visit in Yellowstone National Park.
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is one of the park’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, showcasing a breathtaking blend of dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant colors that shift with the light. This iconic canyon, carved by the Yellowstone River over thousands of years, stretches roughly 20 miles long and plunges up to 1,200 feet deep. With its striking beauty and rich geological history, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone offers visitors an unforgettable experience, blending natural wonder with picturesque viewpoints and unforgettable hikes. Whether you’re here to capture its beauty in photographs or to simply take in the views, this destination is a must-see highlight of Yellowstone National Park.
Upper Falls
The Upper Falls of Yellowstone National Park has two primary lookout points.
1. Brink of Upper Falls:
Standing right above the waterfall and watching it cascade down the canyon walls is truly breathtaking. Along the trail, which starts just steps from the parking lot, there are several viewpoints to take in the stunning scenery. This makes it an easy and accessible visit for everyone. The beauty here reminded me of our trip to Banff, with its incredible waterfalls. It’s truly a place where nature’s beauty surrounds you.
At this location, you’ll find yourself standing at the water’s edge as it tumbles over the cliff. A set of stairs leads down to the main attraction, offering an even closer view. However, be cautious, as the stairs can become wet or muddy depending on the weather.
2. Upper Falls Viewpoint:
Located near the South Rim parking lot, this beautiful lookout is just a short walk away. It’s a quick and easy viewpoint, perfect for visitors of all abilities. Best of all, there are no stairs or challenging hikes, making it accessible for everyone.
Lower Falls
For one of the most breathtaking views in Yellowstone, head to Artist Point. Here, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Lower Falls and the vibrant canyon walls. In the distance, you can spot the Upper Falls, while the water flows majestically through the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. This viewpoint offers one of the most photogenic and dramatic scenes in the entire park—I promise, you won’t be disappointed!
With so many incredible places to explore in Yellowstone, narrowing it down to just five was no easy task. However, these five gems hold a special place in my heart and are truly must-see destinations. From iconic geysers and colorful hot springs to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, this park offers something unforgettable for every nature lover and adventurer.
If you’re planning your visit, choosing the right basecamp can make all the difference. Located just a short drive from Yellowstone, Island Park is an ideal spot to stay, offering convenient access to the park’s wonders while providing a peaceful retreat. For tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to make the most of your time in Island Park, check out my full guide here.
Happy exploring, and may your Yellowstone adventure be filled with awe-inspiring moments and memories to last a lifetime!
