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The sun sets behind the sharp point of a snow-covered mountain; pink clouds are reflected in a pond
Destinations › … › United States › Idaho

Yellowstone National Park

warningPark Closure5 warnings calendar_monthMay–Jun, Sep–Octbest time schedule4 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$20entry
Yellowstone National ParkYour own route Plan a trip here →
Park Closure Biscuit Basin Closed Due to Hydrothermal Explosion

The parking lot, boardwalk, and Firehole River at Biscuit Basin, located north of Old Faithful, is closed to all travel until further notice due to the possibility of another event at the site of a hydrothermal explosion that occurred July 23, 2024. Details open_in_new

Caution Stay Away From Bull Elk

Bull elk are fast and unpredictable this time of year and can seriously injure people. If an elk charges, run. In addition to staying at least 25 yards (23 m) away from elk and bison, always stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves. Details open_in_new

Information West Thumb Geyser Basin Boardwalk - Partial Closure

A section of the West Thumb Geyser Basin boardwalk will be closed to Fishing Cone and Lakeshore Geyser through mid-October while crews replace damaged support structures along the shoreline. The remaining sections of boardwalk will remain open to visitors. Dates are subject to ch Details open_in_new

Information Vehicle Entrance Reservation Not Needed

Although an entrance pass is required to enter Yellowstone National Park, vehicle reservations are not needed. You are encouraged to purchase an entrance pass before arriving, but you may also purchase passes at any entrance station upon arrival. Details open_in_new

Information Traffic Delays - Gardner River High Bridge

Expect a single lane of traffic with up to 15-minute delays, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, from April 1 through late October 2026. Oversized/overweight vehicles (8'6"+ wide, 75'+ long, 80,000 lbs+ gross vehicle weight) will not be able to cross the bridge during this time. Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is the first national park in the world. It is known for its geothermal features, including over 300 geysers and diverse wildlife such as bison and elk. The park's name comes from the Yellowstone River, which flows through it, rather than the yellow rocks found in its canyons. Visitors often come to experience the vast landscapes and unique geological formations. However, the park covers 2.2 million acres, making it challenging to explore fully in just a couple of days. To appreciate its beauty, consider venturing beyond the main roads and paved paths.

In pictures

A geyser erupts steam in front of the bright sun.
A geyser erupts steam in front of the bright sun.

Things to do

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
1-2 Hours · Winter/Spring

Look out across the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone or take in the beauty of the Yellowstone River and its wat...

Snow Pass Ski Trail
2-3 Hours · Winter

The Snow Pass Ski Trail is a 4.2 mile (6.76 km), skier-tracked, one-way, easiest to most-difficult, ski that t...

Yellowstone River Picnic Area Trail
2-3 Hours · Summer/Fall

Follow the rim of the Yellowstone River valley, enjoying views of bighorn sheep, the Narrows of the Yellowston...

Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail
1-3 Hours · Summer/Fall

Hike to a high mountain meadow for a commanding view of the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake and the distant Abs...

West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail
30-60 Minutes · Summer/Fall

Stroll through a geyser basin of colorful hot springs and dormant lakeshore geysers situated on the scenic sho...

Trout Lake Trail
1-2 Hours · Winter/Spring

Enjoy a short hill climb through Douglas-fir forest to Trout Lake.

Abandoned Railroad Bed Bike Trail
2-4 Hours · Summer/Fall

An abandoned railroad bed located near the north entrance of Yellowstone makes a beautiful bike trail.

Storm Point Trail
1-2 Hours · Summer/Fall

Pass by Indian Pond and through a forest to the shores of Yellowstone Lake. Along the way, look for marmots in...

Sepulcher Mountain Trail
6-8 Hours · Summer/Fall

Climb to the summit of Sepulcher Mountain while keeping an eye out for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and moos...

Sentinel Meadows & Queen’s Laundry Trail
2-4 Hours · Winter/Summer

Follow the Firehole River and cross meadows until reaching a hydrothermal area. Look for the large sinter moun...

Riddle Lake Trail
2-4 Hours · Summer/Fall

Hike through small mountain meadows and forests to the shores of a picturesque little lake. Look for elk in th...

Ribbon Lake Trail
3-4 Hours · Summer/Fall

Take a stroll out to Ribbon Lake, also passing by Lily Pad and Clear lakes.

Practical

At a glance

Established
1872
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Price
Non-commercial Groups $20, Per Person $20, Commercial Entrance - Sedan $20
Accessibility
some areas wheelchair accessible
Address
2 Officers Row, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
307-344-7381
Price
~$20
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Expect long queues during peak season, especially at popular sites.
Tickets are required for entry, and reservations are recommended for accommodations.
Spring and fall offer fewer crowds, but some facilities may be closed.
Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.

Photo: NPS / Jacob W. Frank