The big names, what each is like, and how much walking it takes.
Check conditions first. Road closures, trail closures, bear activity, and thermal-area rules change often. Figures here are approximate. Confirm current details at nps.gov/yell.
Old Faithful erupts about every 90 minutes, and the visitor center posts predicted times. Boardwalks continue past Castle, Grand, and other geysers. Come early or late to avoid the crowds.
The colors come from heat-loving microbes that change with the water's temperature. A short overlook trail off the Fairy Falls route gives the best view of the whole ring from above.
Yellow and orange canyon walls frame the 308-foot Lower Falls. The North and South Rim drives offer many viewpoints, and Artist Point is among the best.
Often called America's Serengeti for its herds of bison and its wolves and bears. Pull off safely, stay in your car near animals, and bring binoculars or a spotting scope.
Flowing water has built white terraces of travertine. The formations change from year to year, and some terraces dry out. It sits near the park's north entrance and its year-round road.
One of the largest high-elevation lakes in North America. The water stays very cold, so boating and swimming carry real risk. West Thumb Geyser Basin sits on the shore.
Most of the park is above 7,000 feet, so even short climbs feel harder. Carry bear spray where trail rules recommend it, hike in groups, and make noise on the trail.
A wide trail climbs to a lookout tower with a view over much of the park. Bighorn sheep and wildflowers are common, and snow can linger into early summer.
A flat trail through forest to a 200-foot waterfall, with a short side trail up to the Grand Prismatic overlook.
| Trail | Round trip | Climb | Effort | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Storm Point | about 2.3 mi | minimal | Easy | A lakeside loop with views of Yellowstone Lake. It is bear and bison country, so stay alert. |
| Observation Point (Old Faithful) | about 2 mi | about 200 ft | Easy to moderate | A short climb above Old Faithful for a view of the whole basin. |
| Mystic Falls | about 2.5 mi | about 500 ft | Moderate | A waterfall near Biscuit Basin, with an optional extended loop onto the ridge. |
| Trout Lake | about 1.2 mi | about 150 ft | Easy | A short walk to a small lake in the northeast, good for spotting otters and trout. |
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