Explore Parks
All ParksExploreActivitiesAlertsNewsroom
This site was made with love by Ben Myatt|API
National Park

Yellowstone National Park

Brilliant blues and greens of a hot spring ringed by oranges, yellows, reds, and browns.

The bright colors found in Grand Prismatic Spring come from thermophiles—microorganisms that thrive in hot temperatures

Photo: NPS/Jim Peaco

About

On March 1, 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park for all to enjoy the unique hydrothermal wonders. Today, millions of people come here each year to camp, hike, and enjoy the majesty of the park.

Activities

Arts and CultureAuto and ATVScenic DrivingAstronomyBikingMountain BikingRoad BikingBoatingBoat TourCampingBackcountry CampingCanoe or Kayak CampingCar or Front Country CampingHorse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use)
Group Camping
RV Camping
Fishing
Freshwater Fishing
Fly Fishing
Food
Dining
Picnicking
Guided Tours
Self-Guided Tours - Walking
Self-Guided Tours - Auto
Bus/Shuttle Guided Tour
Boat Tour
Hands-On
Arts and Crafts
Volunteer Vacation
Hiking
Backcountry Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Horse Trekking
Horseback Riding
Paddling
Canoeing
Canoe or Kayak Camping
Kayaking
Junior Ranger Program
Skiing
Cross-Country Skiing
Snow Play
Snowmobiling
Snowshoeing
Swimming
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Park Film
Museum Exhibits
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store
Gift Shop and Souvenirs

Directions

Yellowstone National Park covers nearly 3,500 square miles in the northwest corner of Wyoming (3% of the park is in Montana and 1% is in Idaho). Yellowstone has five entrance stations, and several are closed to regular vehicles during winter. It takes many hours to drive between these entrances, so be sure to check the status of roads at the entrance you intend to use while planning your trip and before you arrive.

Get directions →

Weather

Yellowstone's weather can vary quite a bit, even in a single day. In the summer, daytime highs can exceed 70°F (21°C), only to drop 20 or more degrees when a thunderstorm rolls through. It can snow during any month of the year, and winter lows frequently drop below 0°F (-18°C), especially at night. Bring a range of clothing options, including a warm jacket and rain gear, even in the summer.

News

Yellowstone visitor injured by bison encounter
Jun 26, 2026

Yellowstone visitor injured by bison encounter

A 12-year-old visitor was injured by a bison in Yellowstone National Park on June 26 at approximately 9:15 a.m.

Tips for visiting Yellowstone National Park this Fourth of July
Jun 25, 2026

Tips for visiting Yellowstone National Park this Fourth of July

If you plan to visit Yellowstone National Park this Fourth of July, plan ahead to protect yourself and this wild and awe-inspiring place. Summer is the busiest time in the park, so please pack your patience. Expect crowds at popular areas and lines at entrance stations, construction areas, and roadside wildlife sightings.

Body of kayaker found on Yellowstone Lake in Yellowstone National Park
Jun 11, 2026

Body of kayaker found on Yellowstone Lake in Yellowstone National Park

On the morning of June 8, occupants of a vessel on Yellowstone Lake discovered the body of a 41-year-old male, Brandon Rhea of Denver, Colorado, floating in the water near Rock Point on the northwest shore of the lake near Bridge Bay.

Entrance Fees

Entrance - Private Vehicle$35.00
Entrance - Non-commercial Groups$20.00
Entrance - Motorcycle$30.00
Entrance - Snowmobile$30.00