People explore the boardwalks at Grand Prismatic Spring

Yellowstone

bearswolvesbisongeysersmountainsphotography
Bison - NPS / Jacob W. Frank
United States|North America
88
Wildlife
82
Access
80
Stay
85
Safety
93
Photo
36
Crowds
54
Cost
68
Birding

Yellowstone is one of North America's most iconic wildlife landscapes, where vast high-elevation plateaus, valleys, and geothermal basins support bison, elk, bears, wolves, and a uniquely photogenic mix of mammals and geothermal scenery. It is strongest for travelers who want a classic American megafauna destination with exceptional landscape-photography value, while accepting heavy visitor pressure and meaningful trip costs in peak seasons.

12°
Clear

Gallery

Wildlife Species

Grizzly Bear

Uncommon

Mammal · Best time: Spring/Fall

Gray Wolf

Rare

Mammal · Best time: Dawn/Dusk

American Bison

Common

Mammal · Best time: All Day

Pronghorn

Common

Mammal · Best time: All Day

Dusky Grouse

Common

Bird · Best time: Morning

Geography

Terrain
Mountains, forests, hot springs, geysers
Elevation
1,610-3,462m
Climate
Semi-arid continental
Area
8,991 km²

Weather

Best Months
MayJuneSeptemberOctober
Avg. Temperature
5-25°C
Rainfall
Moderate
Humidity
40-60%

Getting There

Nearest Airport

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport or other regional gateways such as Jackson, Cody, or West Yellowstone

Multiple entrances are road-accessible, but long driving distances inside the park are part of the experience

Transport
  • Rental car strongly recommended
  • Scenic self-drive wildlife circuits
  • Seasonal guided wildlife tours and shuttle options in some areas

Where to Stay

Old Faithful Inn

$$$

Historic Lodge · Inside park

Canyon Lodge

$$

Modern Lodge · Inside park

Under Canvas Yellowstone

$$$

Glamping · 10 min from entrance

Location

44.4280, -110.5885View larger map

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