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Yellowstone National Park wilderness guide
National Park · WY, MT, ID
Wildlife%20Viewing Guide

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a vast, geothermal wonderland that offers unparalleled outdoor exploration opportunities, from its famous geysers to its diverse wildlife.

National Park2,219,7914+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

2,219,791

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a vast, geothermal wonderland that offers unparalleled outdoor exploration opportunities, from its famous geysers to its diverse wildlife.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872 as the first national park in the world, spans 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. It is renowned for its unique geothermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful geyser and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring. The park is home to various ecosystems, ranging from subalpine forests to expansive grasslands. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot bison, bears, wolves, and elks, among other species. Recreational opportunities abound with countless hiking trails, campsites, and fishing spots. The park's topographic diversity provides scenic vistas, rugged canyons, lush valleys, and high-altitude lakes. Visitors are drawn to its natural wonders, historical sites, such as the historic Old Faithful Inn, and the chance to experience the geothermal and geological marvels up close.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Yellowstone National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Hiking Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail★ 9.3⌖ 1 miHiking
Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail

Hiking Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail

Enjoy stunning views on the Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail. Located in Yellowstone National Park, it's ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography. Spot bison and elk as you hike through pine forests to the overlook. Best visited late spring to early fall.

Geysers & Hot Springs at West Thumb★ 8.8⌖ 1 miHiking
West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail

Geysers & Hot Springs at West Thumb

Explore the West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail in Yellowstone National Park. This easy boardwalk trail offers views of hot springs and wildlife. Ideal for families and photographers, it's best visited in spring and fall to avoid crowds.

Kayaking on Yellowstone Lake in Yellowstone National Park★ 8.8⌖ 3 miKayaking
1095 Grant Marina Rd

Kayaking on Yellowstone Lake in Yellowstone National Park

Explore the vast and serene Yellowstone Lake in Yellowstone National Park. Suitable for all levels, kayaking here offers encounters with wildlife and views of geothermal features. Launch points are accessible, but permits are required. Summer visits provide the best experience.

West Thumb Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park★ 9.7⌖ 7 miGeyser Viewing
Yellowstone Caldera

West Thumb Geyser Basin, Yellowstone National Park

Explore West Thumb Geyser Basin in Yellowstone, known for vibrant geothermal features. Enjoy lakeside views and witness unique geyser activity. Accessible by car, and best visited in summer months for optimal experience.

Geyser ViewingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Old Faithful Geyser✦ Grand Prismatic Spring✦ Lamar Valley for wildlife watching✦ Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Yellowstone National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Yellowstone National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees required; various passes available

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Yellowstone National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Slough Creek Campground

A remote campground favored for its wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for anglers.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Yellowstone National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Yellowstone National Park
⌖ 13.63 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

The unparalleled adventure haven that combines geothermal wonders, vibrant ecosystems, and diverse wildlife experiences.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Yellowstone National Park
⌖ 13.63 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Yellowstone National Park, Montana

An iconic wilderness offering diverse ecosystems, geothermal wonders, and exceptional wildlife experiences.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Canyon Village
⌖ 21.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Canyon Village, Wyoming

A gateway to extraordinary natural wonders and outdoor adventures in the heart of Yellowstone National Park.

Summer and FallExplore Town
West Yellowstone
⌖ 29.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

West Yellowstone, Montana

Gateway town offering immediate access to outdoor adventures, centered around Yellowstone National Park and its wilderness.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Island Park
⌖ 37.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Island Park, Idaho

A tranquil outdoor haven offering unique landscapes for thrill-seekers and nature lovers in the Rocky Mountains.

Summer and WinterExplore Town
Mammoth
⌖ 38.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mammoth, Wyoming

A gateway to Yellowstone's enchanting wilderness with great access to natural wonders and thrilling outdoor adventures.

Summer and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Yellowstone National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.