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

Jackson Downtown offers a range of shops, galleries, restaurants, and activities to enjoy. The town square is home to many local events and festivals throughout the year, including the Elkfest and Old West Days, which showcase the region's Western heritage.

One of the most iconic features of Jackson Downtown is the elk antler arches that decorate each corner of the town square. These arches are made up of thousands of elk antlers and have become a symbol of the area's unique wildlife and natural beauty. In addition to the elk antler arches, you can explore local shops and restaurants, or relax on a park bench and enjoy the scenery.

Jackson Downtown

Jenny Lake is one of the most popular destinations in Grand Teton National Park. The lake is approximately 1,191 acres and is surrounded by stunning Teton Mountain Range views. You can enjoy a variety of activities at the lake, including hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming.

The most popular activity at Jenny Lake is hiking, with several trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lake. We recommend going on a Jenny Lake Trail which is a 7.5-mile loop that takes you around the lake, offering stunning views along the way.

In addition to hiking, you can also take a boat tour of Jenny Lake. The boat tours offer a unique perspective of the lake and its surrounding mountains, with experienced guides providing information about the area's history, geology, and wildlife. 

Overall, Jenny Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Grand Teton National Park, offering a unique mix of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Jenny Lake

Lake Solitude Trail is a beautiful hiking trail that offers stunning views of the Teton Range, alpine meadows, and serene lakes.

The trail begins at Jenny Lake, then you enter stunning Cascade Canyon, and finally reach Lake Solitude, a pristine alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks. The trail is about 18 miles round trip with an elevation gain of around 2,700 feet, making it moderate to strenuous hike, but the scenery is well worth the effort.

You can also 

One of the unique aspects of this trail is the diverse range of landscapes and ecosystems you will encounter. From the shores of Jenny Lake to the high alpine environment of Lake Solitude, this trail offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of the Tetons.

Lake Solitude Trail

Schwabacher Landing is a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts visiting Grand Teton National Park. The landing provides stunning views of the Teton Range, as well as access to the Snake River, which flows through the valley. You can take a short walk along the riverbank to see the reflection of the mountains in the water or hike along the nearby trails to experience the area's natural beauty.

One of the unique features of Schwabacher Landing is the beaver ponds that can be found in the area. These ponds are created by beavers who build dams along the river, which in turn create pools of water that attract a variety of wildlife, including moose, elk, and birds. You may also see beavers at work in the ponds, building and repairing their dams.

Whether you're an avid photographer looking for the perfect shot or simply hoping to experience the park's natural beauty, Schwabacher Landing offers a truly unique and memorable experience.

Schwabacher Landing

The Snake River Overlook is a scenic viewpoint located that offers a stunning panoramic view of the Snake River and the Teton Range, including the iconic Grand Teton peak. The viewpoint gained worldwide fame after Ansel Adams captured its beauty in his famous photograph "The Tetons and the Snake River."

The Snake River Overlook is a great spot to take in the beauty of the park and the surrounding landscape. It is particularly scenic during sunrise and sunset when the sky and mountains are painted in a variety of colors. We also recommend taking a short hike from the parking lot to get a closer view of the river and the mountains.

Snake River Overlook

Boiling River is a unique natural attraction in the northern part of Yellowstone National Park, where a hot spring and a cold river merge together, creating a perfect spot to relax in a natural hot tub.

The hot spring water flows out of the ground at temperatures of up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, but as it enters the Gardner River, it cools down, creating a comfortable and safe temperature to soak in.

Wade into the water and find the perfect spot where the hot spring and cold river water mix. The experience is truly unique, as you can feel the temperature change as you move closer to the source of the hot spring water.

Be advised that swimming or soaking in the Boiling River is only allowed in designated areas for safety reasons. The Boiling River may be closed during high water or extreme weather conditions, so it's always a good idea to check with park rangers before making the trip.

Boiling River

Mammoth Hot Springs is a unique thermal area located in the northwestern part of the park. It features a series of terraced hot springs and travertine formations that have been created by thousands of years of hot water flowing from the nearby geothermal vents. The travertine terraces are the main attraction, and they are constantly changing due to the water flow and the mineral deposits left behind.

The area is accessible via a boardwalk trail that takes you through the terraces, with stunning views of the colorful mineral deposits and the surrounding mountains. The Liberty Cap, a cone-shaped formation, is one of the most prominent features of Mammoth Hot Springs. Other noteworthy formations include the Minerva Terrace, the Canary Spring, and the Palette Spring.

Mammoth Hot Springs is also home to a historic district that includes several old buildings that were constructed in the late 1800s when the area was used as a military post. The Albright Visitor Center is located in the historic district and provides information about the area's geology, history, and wildlife.

By the way, wildlife is abundant in Mammoth Hot Springs, and you can often spot elk, bison, and other animals grazing in the nearby fields.

Mammoth Hot Springs

The Roosevelt Arch is a historic landmark located at the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It was constructed in 1903 and dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt as the ceremonial entrance to the park.

The arch is made of rough hewn stone and features two stone pillars with a large stone arch spanning between them. The arch is inscribed with the phrase "For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People" which reflects the park's mission to preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of the area for the public to enjoy.

The Roosevelt Arch is not only a symbol of Yellowstone National Park, but also an iconic symbol of the American West. You can walk through the arch and take in the stunning mountain views and the wildlife that roam the area. You can learn more about the history of the arch and the park at the nearby Roosevelt Arch Visitor Center, which features exhibits and information about the park's natural and cultural history.

Roosevelt Arch

Biscuit Basin is a hydrothermal area located next to the Upper Geyser Basin. It is known for its colorful and active geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. The area was named after biscuit-like deposits that were created by the hot springs' mineral-rich water.

One of the most famous features of Biscuit Basin is the Sapphire Pool, which has deep blue waters and is surrounded by colorful bacterial mats. Another unique feature is the Jewel Geyser, a cone geyser that erupts water up to 20 feet high. There are also several other notable features in the area, such as the Shell Geyser, Avoca Spring, and Mustard Spring.

You can access Biscuit Basin via an easy boardwalk trail that loops through the area, providing views of the various geothermal features. 

Biscuit Basin

Fairy Falls Trail is a scenic hiking trail culminating in the spectacular Fairy Falls, which plunge 197 feet into a misty pool below. A quick mid-way detour leads to the Grand Prismatic Overlook, so you can kill two birds with one hike.

The trail is a 5.4-mile roundtrip hike that takes you through lush forests, over a meandering stream, and past geothermal features before reaching the waterfall. The trail is relatively flat and shaded, making it a pleasant hike.

The highlight of the hike is undoubtedly Fairy Falls themselves. You can stand in awe of the impressive cascade and feel the cool mist from the pool below. For those who want to extend their hike, there is a trail that continues on to Imperial Geyser, a picturesque and not crowded pool with the geyser erupting every few minutes.

Overall, Fairy Falls Trail's combination of stunning natural beauty, geothermal features, and easy accessibility make it a must-visit for any explorer.

Fairy Falls & Prismatic Overlook

Firehole Lake Drive is a 3-mile one-way scenic drive that takes you past a series of geysers, hot springs, and other geothermal features. It winds through a forested area and offers stunning views of colorful hot springs, geysers, steam vents, and bubbling mud pots.

We recommend stopping at White Dome Geyser, then Great Fountain Geyser, and Firehole Lake.

Firehole Lake Drive

The Fountain Paint Pot Trail is a unique and colorful boardwalk trail located in the Lower Geyser Basin area of the park. The trail features a variety of geothermal features for its short length, including bubbling mud pots, steam vents, and colorful hot springs.

One of the most notable features on the Fountain Paint Pot Trail is the namesake "paint pots," which are small pools of boiling mud that create colorful mud "paints" that bubble and gurgle. You can also see the beautiful Celestine Pool, which has an unusual blue coloration due to its high temperature and mineral content.

The Fountain Paint Pot Trail is a great option if you are looking for an easy and accessible walk through some of Yellowstone's most unique geothermal features. It's also a great place for photography, as the vibrant colors of the mud pots and hot springs create a stunning contrast against the surrounding landscape.

Fountain Paint Pot Trail

This scenic hiking trail provides stunning panoramic views of the iconic Grand Prismatic Spring. The trail is a moderate 1.6-mile roundtrip hike that takes you through a beautiful forested area before ascending a steep hill to a viewing platform overlooking the Grand Prismatic Spring.

The viewing platform offers spectacular views of the multicolored spring from above, showcasing the vivid hues of blue, green, yellow, and orange created by the microorganisms living in the hot spring.

We like this trail because it gives a bird's eye view of the entire spring and its surroundings which is different from what most visitors see from ground level.

Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail

The Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the most iconic and stunning geothermal features in the world. It is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world, with a diameter of 370 feet and a depth of 121 feet.

The spring is known for its striking rainbow colors, which are created by the unique bacteria that live in the mineral-rich waters. The colors are particularly vibrant during the summer months when the water temperature is at its highest.

Take a boardwalk trail that leads around the edge of the spring for a closer view. One unique feature of the spring is its constantly changing colors, which shift based on the water temperature, time of day, and weather conditions. Despite its beauty, be careful to stay on designated paths and boardwalks, as the water can be dangerously hot and acidic.

Grand Prismatic Spring

The Lone Star Geyser Trail is a moderate 5-mile round-trip hike that offers a great way to see the park's geothermal features up close and without the crowds.

The Lone Star Geyser erupts every three hours and can shoot water up to 45 feet high. The geyser is located in a secluded clearing in the forest, which makes the experience even more special. Along the way, you will also see several other smaller geysers and hot springs.

The hike itself is a beautiful walk through a forested area with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is a great option for those looking for a slightly more off-the-beaten-path hike in Yellowstone National Park.

Lone Star Geyser Trail

Old Faithful is one of the most famous geysers in the world and is known for its predictability, erupting approximately every 91 minutes. Old Faithful was named by explorers in the 19th century for its consistent eruptions, which they found to be "faithful" in timing.

The eruptions of Old Faithful typically last between 1.5 and 5 minutes, with an average height of around 130 feet, although some eruptions can reach up to 185 feet high. The geyser's water temperature can exceed 200 degrees Fahrenheit, and the steam and spray from an eruption can be visible from miles away.

Old Faithful

The Upper Geyser Basin is home to the largest concentration of geysers in the world, including the famous Old Faithful geyser. It covers an area of approximately 2 square miles and has over 500 geysers, hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots. 

You can explore the basin through a network of boardwalks that provide easy access to the various geysers and other hydrothermal features. The basin is also home to a visitor center, which provides information about the geysers and the geological processes that create them.

We recommend visiting this basin later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and catch perfect lighting that amplifies all the features of this geothermal field. Start your trip from the main Old Faithful parking lot and slowly make your way up to the last (and our favorite) Morning Glory Pool – a stunningly beautiful hot spring.

Another tip is to continue on foot for another 15 minutes beyond the Morning Glory Pool and reach the Biscuit Basin, cutting extra driving and parking time.

The Upper Geyser Basin is a fascinating natural wonder and a must-see attraction.

Upper Geyser Basin

West Thumb Geyser Basin is a small geyser basin that offers a diverse range of hydrothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. You can explore it along a boardwalk trail that is approximately 1/4 mile long.

This basin is quite unique because many of the thermal features are located underwater in Yellowstone Lake and you can observe them through the clear water at the edge of the lake. The colors of the hot springs and geysers are particularly vivid and striking, ranging from brilliant blues to deep greens and oranges.

Some of the major features at the basin include Abyss Pool, Black Pool, Fishing Cone, and Thumb Paint Pots. Fishing Cone is particularly notable because it was once used by early visitors for cooking fish caught in the lake. While visitors are no longer permitted to use the cone for cooking, it remains a popular attraction at the geyser basin.

West Thumb Geyser Basin

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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.

Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel is a historic hotel located in the Mammoth Hot Springs area inside Yellowstone National Park. The hotel was built in 1883 and has been in operation ever since, making it one of the oldest hotels in the National Park System.

The Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel has a variety of accommodations, including hotel rooms, cabins, and suites. The hotel also features a restaurant, lounge, and gift shop. It is open seasonally from late May through early October.

Booking tip: if there's no availability on Expedia, check out their website as it often has more available rooms there.

Mammoth Hot Springs 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

This area feels like stepping back in time with its historic Fort Yellowstone buildings and the steaming terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs. Elk often roam the streets here, adding to the surreal beauty of the place.

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Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel

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Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel

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Nearby things to do

Yellowstone itineraries with this stay

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