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We are sometimes asked, "What are the things I must see when I visit Yellowstone?"

 

Yellowstone is vast and varied, and visitors have different interests and abilities, so there is no one easy answer.  However, we have compiled a list of the top seven attractions in Yellowstone that we feel will be helpful.  It is designed to serve as a starting point for planning your visit.

 

 

7. Lamar Valley

Photo: Bruce Gourley.

 

This wide, expansive valley is home to bison, elk, coyote, grizzly and wolf, and is must-visit area for serious wildlife watchers.   Bison and elk are readily visible, and coyotes can oftentimes be spotted.  Visitors who are willing to rise early in the morning or wait up until dusk also may have the opportunity to see bears and wolves.  In fact, Lamar Valley is the #1 destination for viewing wolves.  There are also abundant fishing opportunities in the Lamar Valley.

 

 

6. Norris Geyser Basin

Photo: Norris Geyser Basin by Bruce Gourley.

 

One of Yellowstone's most popular geyser basins, Norris is home to Echinus (one of the Park's most popular geysers) and Steamboat (the world's tallest geyser).  In addition, there are several miles of boardwalks from which you can explore dozens of multi-colored thermal features.  Finally, elk and the occasional bison can sometimes be spotted in the area.

 

 

5. Yellowstone Lake

Photo: Yellowstone Lake by Bruce Gourley.

 

This is the largest high-altitude lake in the lower 48 states, and it is breathtaking in grandeur.  As you follow the long shoreline both east and north, you will see snow-capped mountains rising across the lake.  On windy days, ocean-like waves break onto the shore.   Be sure to visit Lake Village and walk through the Hotel.  You might also want to sit on the porch of Lake Lodge and take in the view.

 

 

4. Mammoth Hot Springs

Photo: Mammoth Hot Springs by Bruce Gourley.

 

This is Park headquarters and it radiates history, featuring some of the oldest buildings in the Park, including structures from the days when the U.S. Army was managing Yellowstone.  Be sure to drop by the Visitor's Center and allow enough time to watch a film, browse the history exhibit, and walk through the upstairs wildlife museum.  In addition, Mammoth Hot Springs Terrace is quite magnificent, and the Terrace drive is a must.  Finally, be sure to look for the seemingly ever-present elk grazing on the green lawns of Mammoth Village.

 

 

3. Hayden Valley

Photo:  Bison in the Hayden Valley by Bruce Gourley.

 

This valley, centrally located in Yellowstone, is the first place to go to see wildlife in Yellowstone.  As you drive along this beautiful, broad valley you are likely to see herds of bison, scattered elk (and the occasional herd), and the occasional grizzly bear.  You are also likely to see waterfowl, including ducks, Canadian geese and pelicans, swimming in or lounging near the Yellowstone River.

 

There are a number or roadside turnouts along the Hayden Valley, offering views on both sides of the road.  The Yellowstone river is positioned on the east side of the roadway.  Several turnouts are scenic overlooks that allow panoramic views of the Valley floor below.

 

 

2. Lower Falls and Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Photo: Lower Falls by Bruce Gourley.

 

Yellowstone's Grand Canyon may not be as big as the Grand Canyon in Arizona, but it is nonetheless breathtaking.  The Lower Falls of the Grand Canyon, at 308 feet high, is one of the most photographed features in all of Yellowstone.  There are numerous vantage points on both the North and South sides of the Canyon, and we recommend that you take the time to view the Canyon from both sides.  Also, be certain to take the 3/8 mile (one way) hike down to the edge of the Lower Falls.  The experience at the lip of the falls is breathtaking.

 

 

1. Old Faithful / Upper Geyser Basin

Photo: Bruce Gourley.

 

The name says it all.  Old Faithful is the most popular attraction in Yellowstone, and everyone who visits for the first time should watch this most famous of geysers erupt.   Although neither the highest or most regular geyser in the Park, it is spectacular.   Also, take an hour or two to walk around the boardwalks and visit some of the many other geysers in the Upper Geyser Basin, such as Castle, Grotto, Riverside and Daisy.   And be sure to take the 1.4 mile walk to Morning Glory Pool, one of the most colorful thermal features in all of Yellowstone.  In addition, be sure to visit the Old Faithful Inn, which is the single most impressive human structure in Yellowstone.   And finally, bison and elk can oftentimes be spotted grazing in the area.

 

Via: yellowstone.net