Plan Your Visit to Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park spans parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, USA, atop a still-active volcanic hotspot.
Yellowstone National Park spans parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, USA, atop a still-active volcanic hotspot.
Yellowstone National Park is managed by the National Park Service. Most visitors need a park entrance pass, and some activities require separate reservations. Prices and reservation systems change, so confirm current details on nps.gov/yell before you go.
A standard vehicle or per-person entrance pass covers park entry for a set period (often 7 days). An America the Beautiful annual pass also works at all US national parks.
Some parks require timed-entry vehicle reservations, campground bookings, or lottery permits for popular trails and lodges in peak season.
Visitor centers, shuttle buses, and ranger programs are free or low-cost once you are inside the park. Hours vary by season.
Yellowstone National Park spans parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, USA, atop a still-active volcanic hotspot.
It's known for the Old Faithful geyser, the Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake, and abundant wildlife including bison, wolves, and grizzly bears across its geyser basins and canyons.
Established in 1872, it's the world's first national park.
Secure entry tickets, timed slots, or park passes for Yellowstone National Park before you lock lodging.
Pack layers, water, and sun protection. Conditions change quickly in the parks.
Most visitors base themselves near Yellowstone, Wyoming, and travel in by transit, tour, or car.
Hours, prices, and access rules change. Confirm details on nps.gov/yell before you go.
The park's famous predictable geyser.
A vividly colored hot spring in the Midway Geyser Basin.
Dramatic canyon views from Artist and Upper Falls overlooks.
Prime wildlife viewing for wolves, bison, and bears.
Terraced travertine formations in the north.
A large high-elevation lake with scenic shorelines.
Do I need a park pass?
Yes, most vehicles need an entrance pass. America the Beautiful annual passes are also accepted at US national parks.
When is the best time to visit?
Shoulder seasons often mean milder weather and shorter lines. Peak summer and holidays are the busiest.
How long should I plan?
Allow at least a few hours for highlights; popular parks and complexes easily fill a full day.
Are prices on this page guaranteed?
No. Treat any figures as approximate and confirm current rates on the official operator site before you book.
Is Yellowstone National Park suitable for kids?
Many areas are family-friendly, but check stair counts, heat exposure, and any age or height limits for specific attractions.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, weather-appropriate layers, and offline maps if cell service is unreliable.
Yellowstone National Park spans parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, USA, atop a still-active volcanic hotspot.
It's known for the Old Faithful geyser, the Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake, and abundant wildlife including bison, wolves, and grizzly bears across its geyser basins and canyons. Established in 1872, it's the world's first national park.
