Yellowstone National Park: Your Complete 2025 Travel Guide
Welcome to Yellowstone National Park—the world's first national park and an unforgettable adventure waiting to happen! Established in 1872, this UNESCO World Heritage Site spans nearly 3,500 square miles across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, offering breathtaking geothermal wonders, abundant wildlife, and pristine wilderness. Plan your dream Yellowstone vacation with our comprehensive guide to the park's must-see attractions, best lodging options, and unforgettable tours.
Yellowstone Fast Facts
- Best Time to Visit: May-October for full access (some roads close in winter)
- Entry Fee: $35/vehicle (7-day pass) or $80 annual pass
- Must-See: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake
- Wildlife Spotting: Dawn/dusk for best viewing opportunities
Experience Yellowstone's Geothermal Wonders
The park sits atop the massive Yellowstone Caldera, one of Earth's largest active volcanic systems. Witness over 10,000 hydrothermal features including:
- 500+ geysers - including famous Old Faithful erupting every 90 minutes
- Vibrant hot springs like Grand Prismatic - the largest in North America
- Bubbling mudpots and steaming fumaroles
For the ultimate experience, book a guided geothermal tour with park experts.
Wildlife Watching Paradise
Yellowstone offers world-class wildlife viewing with over 60 mammal species including:
- Iconic bison herds roaming Lamar Valley
- Gray wolves - successfully reintroduced in 1995
- Grizzly bears fishing in Yellowstone River
- Elk, moose, pronghorn and hundreds of bird species
Join a wildlife safari tour for expert-led viewing opportunities.
Plan Your Perfect Yellowstone Vacation
Make the most of your visit with our essential planning resources:
- Lodging Guide: From historic lodges to modern hotels (~$150-400/night)
- Camping Options: 12 campgrounds with 2,000+ sites ($15-50/night)
- Itineraries: 1-day highlights to week-long adventures
- Photo Tips: Best spots and times for stunning shots
References: National Park Service, Yellowstone Forever, and official park research data. Last updated July 2025.