The Canyon Visitor Education Center serves as an excellent resource for visitors, providing educational exhibits and displays on the park's natural history, geology, and wildlife. The center's exhibits focus on the unique geologic features and processes that have shaped the canyon and surrounding landscape over millions of years.

You can learn about the area's volcanic history, including the formation of the Yellowstone Caldera, and explore the various rock formations that can be seen in the canyon walls. You can also pick up maps and brochures, purchase books and souvenirs, and get information on hiking trails and other activities in the area.

In addition to the exhibits, the Canyon Visitor Education Center also offers a range of educational programs, including ranger-led walks and talks, wildlife watching, and other interpretive programs.

Canyon Visitor Education Center

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a spectacular natural wonder carved by the Yellowstone River. The canyon stretches for about 24 miles and is up to 1,200 feet deep with colors ranging from bright yellows and oranges to deep reds and browns, creating a breathtaking and otherworldly landscape.

We recommend driving around and stopping at the four major viewpoints starting with the Inspiration Point, then Grand View, then Lookout Point, then you can descend down the stairs on Uncle Tom's Trail to the bottom of the Lower Falls, then finally Artist Point which is also a start of the Point Sublime Trail.

Artist Point is the most scenic and our personal favorite, offering a panoramic view of the Lower Falls and the canyon walls. Lookout Point a bit closer look at the Lower Falls. Grand View is located exactly opposite from Artist Point and offers a wider perspective of the canyon, with the river winding its way through the steep cliffs.

What makes the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone unique is not just its stunning beauty but also its geological history. The canyon was formed by a combination of volcanic activity and erosion, making it a fascinating location for geologists and nature enthusiasts. The vibrant colors of the canyon walls are a result of the oxidation of iron compounds in the rock formations.

Grand Canyon Of The Yellowstone

Hayden Valley is a large, open valley known for its abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. The valley floor is covered in lush grasses and wetlands, providing ample food and habitat for a variety of animals including bison, elk, grizzly bears, wolves, coyotes, and bald eagles.

We recommend starting your scenic drive early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the wildlife is the most active. Drive slowly down the road and stop at multiple designated parking locations to take in the views.

Be prepared for bison crossing the roads and significantly adding time to your driving estimate. On the other hand, it presents a unique opportunity to take a closer look at these magnificent creatures.

One of the major viewpoints in Hayden Valley is the Mary Mountain Trailhead, which provides a great vantage point for observing bison and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Another popular viewpoint is the Sulphur Caldron near the Mud Volcano.

Hayden Valley is a unique and important ecosystem in the park, providing critical habitat for a variety of species. Its scenic beauty and abundant wildlife make it a must visit destination.

Hayden Valley

Lamar Valley is slightly more remote than Hayden Valley, but as a result it is less crowded, and as beautiful and vast. You also spot bison, elk, wolves, coyotes, bears, and other animals roaming through the valley.

You can slowly drive through the valley and stop at every viewpoint you like to take in the views. One of the unique viewpoints in Lamar Valley is the Soda Butte Cone, a volcanic feature that is worth a visit. It is also home to the historic Lamar Buffalo Ranch, which was once a hub for bison conservation and is now used for educational purposes.

Lamar Valley is a must-visit destination if you have enough time, offering a unique opportunity to witness the park's natural beauty and abundant wildlife.

Lamar Valley

Hiking to the summit of Mt. Washburn provides spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Along the way, you will pass through beautiful meadows and forests, and may encounter bison, elk, and bears.

There are two trailheads to Mt. Washburn – from Dunraven Pass or Chittenden Road. We recommend doing it out and back from Dunraven Pass (check AllTrails link) as it is easier and more scenic. You can also start at one trailhead and finish at the other, but then you'll need to figure out your car logistics since the trailheads are located quite far from each other.

The hike to the summit of Mt. Washburn is around 7 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,400 feet. Once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the park, including the Yellowstone River, Hayden Valley, and the Grand Tetons in the distance. It is a great spot to take a break, enjoy a snack, and take in the stunning scenery.

AllTrails

Mt. Washburn

Mud Volcano is a geothermal area that is well-known for its bubbling mud pits, hot springs, and steam vents. The area is named after the large mud pots which bubble and gurgle as gas and water escape from deep underground. The mud pots are particularly striking, as they are filled with grayish-brown mud that looks almost like boiling chocolate.

The Mud Volcano area is also home to several hot springs, including Dragon's Mouth Spring, which is named for the steam and water that pours out of a cavernous opening in the ground, creating a loud roaring noise that sounds like a dragon's breath.

You can also see the Sulphur Caldron, a massive hot spring that emits steam and has a distinct sulfur smell. The area also features several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the Mud Volcano Trail and the Sour Creek Dome Trail.

Mud Volcano

Norris Porcelain Basin is one of the most unique and colorful thermal areas in Yellowstone. The basin contains a variety of hydrothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. The colors of the features are due to the presence of thermophilic (heat-loving) microorganisms that thrive in the extreme conditions.

The Porcelain Basin is easily accessible via a series of boardwalks, and visitors can get up close to the various features, including the world-renowned Steamboat Geyser. The geysers here are especially noteworthy, as they are some of the hottest and most acidic in the park. The basin can be quite smelly due to the sulfur gases released by the hydrothermal features.

Overall, Norris Porcelain Basin is a must-see destination for visitors to Yellowstone. Its unique features and colors make it a truly remarkable experience.

Norris Porcelain Basin

The Point Sublime Trail is located in the remote north rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and offers stunning views of the canyon, the Yellowstone River, and the surrounding mountains. The trail is approximately 3 miles roundtrip and is considered a moderately strenuous hike, with a 300-foot elevation gain.

The Point Sublime Trail features several unique viewpoints, including the breathtaking Point Sublime itself, which offers a panoramic view of the canyon and the surrounding wilderness. The trail also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing.

While the trail starts at the very popular Artist Point, it is considered a hidden gem, offering a chance to escape the crowds and experience the park's natural beauty up close. The trail's unique viewpoints, diverse wildlife, and stunning scenery make it a must-visit for anyone who loves hiking and the outdoors.

Point Sublime Trail

Sand Point is a stunning area on the eastern shore of Lake Yellowstone with long stretches of black-sand beaches and views of the lake with surrounding mountains as its backdrop.

What we love about this spot is that it is so serene that you might end up having the entire place to yourself. You can enjoy picknicking, hanging out at the beach, or even go on a scenic hike (Sand Point Trail) that leads to the Rock Point.

Sand Point

Storm Point is a scenic hiking trail on the eastern shore of Yellowstone Lake. The trail is a moderate 2.5-mile loop hike that leads you through a forested area and along the shoreline. The trail is known for its picturesque views of Yellowstone Lake, which is the largest freshwater lake above 7,000 feet in North America.

Along the trail, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the forest and lake, as well as several different types of wildlife like bald eagles, ospreys, and mule deer. The endpoint of the trail is Storm Point, a small peninsula that extends out into the lake, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Storm Point is a great place for a picnic or to take a break and relax while taking in the beauty of Yellowstone. The trail is less crowded than many of the other popular hiking trails in the park, making it a peaceful and serene experience.

Storm Point

Tower Falls is a stunning 132-foot waterfall located in the northern part of the park. The waterfall was named after the towering rock formations that surround it. You can access the falls via a short, easy hiking trail that winds through the forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

At the base of the falls, you can take in the mist and spray from the waterfall and marvel at the natural beauty of the area. There are also a number of lookout points along the trail that offer breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding canyon. The Tower Fall area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bighorn sheep, black bears, and gray wolves. There are several picnic areas and campgrounds nearby, making it a great stop.

Tower Falls

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I’d pick Lake Yellowstone Hotel for a stay on the shores of Yellowstone Lake. Having a restaurant on site is handy.

Even after exploring the geothermal valleys of Iceland and New Zealand, Yellowstone managed to impress. Truly one of the most stunning geothermal parks in the world. If you love nature and unique landscapes, it will make you feel on another planet.

The Lake Yellowstone Hotel is a historic hotel located on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, in the heart of Yellowstone National Park. The hotel has been welcoming guests since 1891 and is a popular destination for visitors to the park who are looking for a unique lodging experience.

The hotel's architecture is influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement and features a rustic style that blends in with the natural surroundings. The interior of the hotel is decorated in a classic, elegant style, with period furnishings and artwork. The hotel's main lobby is a spacious and inviting space, with comfortable seating areas, a fireplace, and large windows that offer stunning views of the lake.

The Lake Yellowstone Hotel offers a range of accommodations, including guest rooms, suites, and cabins. The rooms are cozy and comfortable, with modern amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning. Many of the rooms offer views of the lake or the surrounding forest.

The hotel also offers a range of dining options, including a fine dining restaurant, a casual grill, and a deli. The restaurants serve a variety of cuisines, including regional specialties and classic American fare. Guests can also enjoy cocktails and snacks at the hotel's bar.

The Lake Yellowstone Hotel is an excellent choice for independent travelers planning a trip to Yellowstone. Its central location makes it a convenient base for exploring the park's many attractions, and its historic charm and modern amenities offer a comfortable and memorable lodging experience.

Lake Yellowstone Hotel

Explore everything Yellowstone has to offer, plus the stunning Grand Teton.

Yellowstone & Grand Teton

A short trip filled with some of the most outworldly landscapes on our planet.

Yellowstone Highlights

Home to the breathtaking Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, this spot offers views that look like they're straight out of a painting. Hiking along the rim or down to the Lower Falls is a must to fully grasp the scale of this natural masterpiece.

Lake Yellowstone Hotel

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