Yellowstone National Park Travel Guide
In the northwest corner of Wyoming lies the world's first national park. In this 3,472-square mile area called Yellowstone National Park, nature shines brightly. Spectacular geysers, steaming hot springs, mud pots and fumaroles make it a Mecca for more than 3 million tourists and nature lovers every year. But aside from the natural marvels that make Yellowstone a wonder to behold, it is the intricate weave among the volcanic, hydrothermal and glacial processes that make the landscape of Yellowstone so unique. And the animal life? Count on seeing bears, deer, bison, elk and wolves on your trip.
Sights
No trip to Yellowstone would be complete without visiting Old Faithful, which erupts once every hour and a half. Other geysers in the Upper Geyser Basin also worth checking out include Grand Geyser, Castle Geyser and Riverside Geyser. View the spectacular Mammoth Hot Spring Terraces that are constantly changing shape and color. Take a dip in the Boiling River, one of the few naturally heated swimming holes in the park. If you want to hike, ascend the more than 8,000-foot-tall Bunsen Peak, where you can get an amazing view of Fort Yellowstone. Just be prepared to encounter an occasional bear or two. Don't miss the bubbling pools of mud at the Mud Volcano and the Sulphur Cauldron. Of course, no trip to the park would be complete without a trek to The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, which is about 900 feet deep and a half mile wide.
Things to Do
You can take day hikes in the park and gaze upon the amazing variety of animals there. If you want to watch herds of bison, head to Hayden Valley. For bighorn sheep-watching, head up to Mt. Washburn. You can also go horse back riding and backpacking. Swimming is also allowed in some areas like the Firehole Cascades swimming area, but make sure you go with a buddy since there is no lifeguard around. But the best way to bring home a piece of your memorable trip is to take pictures of the amazing flora, fauna and landscapes found in this wild wonderland.
Dining and Shopping
There are a variety of restaurants and bars within Yellowstone National Park itself. The town of West Yellowstone in Montana, especially along Yellowstone Avenue, has its share of good eateries and family-style restaurants. You can get locally made handicrafts, souvenirs and collectibles as well as ceramics and wooden furniture in the shops that line Canyon Street and Yellowstone Avenue. Check out Eagle's Store -- it has been in business for more than a hundred years!
Where to Go in Yellowstone National Park
