Things to Do in Yellowstone

Yellowstone sits atop one of the world's largest active volcanic systems. The park spans ~2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, containing more than half of the world's geothermal features. Total geothermal count: roughly 300 geyers and thousands of hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. What makes Yellowstone remarkable isn't just the famous Old Faithful or the prismatic hot springs—it's how this geothermal wonderland coexists with one of North America's most intact ecosystems. You'll find massive herds of bison wandering through steaming valleys, wolves hunting in packs, and grizzly bears fishing for trout in pristine rivers. Pure wilderness theater. The park sits at the heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the largest nearly intact temperate-zone ecosystems on Earth, where wildlife moves freely across millions of acres just as it did centuries ago.

Dining options inside the park are limited and pricey. Most lodges offer casual American fare like burgers, steaks, and regional specialties—nothing revolutionary. The Old Faithful Inn dining room provides the most atmospheric experience with its massive log architecture. The Lake Yellowstone Hotel offers more upscale dining. For better variety and value, hit the gateway towns of West Yellowstone, Jackson, and Gardiner with numerous restaurants from local steakhouses to international cuisine. Worth noting: many in-park restaurants close or have limited hours outside peak summer season.

Summer (June through August) offers the warmest weather and full park access but brings the largest crowds and highest prices. Late spring (May) and early fall (September) provide excellent wildlife viewing as animals are more active in cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists too. Winter transforms Yellowstone into a snow-covered wonderland accessible mainly by snowcoach or snowmobile—a completely different but magical experience. Weather can be unpredictable year-round, and snow in July at higher elevations isn't uncommon.