Yellowstone is the first and the largest National Park in the continental United States. Founded in 1872, it is 3468 square miles of spectacular vistas, hydrothermal features and wildlife. If at all possible, stay in the park. It takes at least 45 minutes to an hour to get to the main attractions from any one of the five entrances. The less time you spend driving the more time you have to enjoy the park. Have a plan and know what you want to do and see each day. If you break the park up into sections you will avoid spending a lot of time driving and waiting for the Buffalo "traffic jams" to clear. Yellowstone gets 4 million visitors a year with most coming in June, July and August, if you can visit in May or September you will be rewarded with less crowds. It truly is a natural marvel and worth the effort to visit.
Mt. Haynes with the Madison River in the foreground.
Old Faithful is the iconic geyser that release large plumes of steam on a regular basis. We hiked the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Trail in combination with the Biscuit Basin Trail. It was a great way to see multiple hydrothermal features and escape the crowds that congregate around Old Faithful.
A large part of the Yellowstone experience is the opportunity to see wildlife in their natural environment On our 3 day visit, we saw bison, deer, bear cubs, river otter, and this beautiful elk.
Hiking is a big part of any visit to a National Park for us. There are signs everywhere warning you to bring bear spay on any hike. There are places in the park and in the towns surrounding the park allow you to return any unused cans.
This photo was taken on the Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail. We were able to walk this trail, the Duck Lake Trail and the West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail in one day. All three trails are accessed from the same parking lot.
Grand Prismatic Spring is viewed from an overlook and elevated walkways. The area gets very congested. If possible, visit first this in the morning.
Lamar and Hayden Valleys offer the best opportunity to view wildlife.
Morning Glory Geyser.
The Grand Loop Drive is 147 miles long and takes 4-7 hours to complete. You will be rewarded by views like this one.
A fire pit and roasted marshmallows. The best way to savior a day in Yellowstone. Ready to book your trip on Booking.com.
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