Yellowstone brings the drama—this is where bison roam, waterfalls crash, and mountains loom large. And then there’s the geothermal stuff—hot springs, geysers, and boiling mud pots. The most famous is Old Faithful, a geyser that has reliably erupted for decades. Yellowstone is also massive in scope. While it’s located primarily in Wyoming, it extends into Montana and Idaho and has five separate entrances.

You’ll need a vehicle to get the most out of the park, but its sprawling size doesn’t mean you’ll be on your own. In fact, you’ll be joined by more than three million visitors per year. Prepare for traffic jams caused by both humans and wildlife. Luckily, there are plenty of places to rest around the park, including nine lodges and 2,100 campsites. See below for more recs to make the most of your trip.

Things to see and do in Yellowstone

Some things that are worth trying out:

Place to Eat:

Typical costs when traveling

A trip to Yellowstone National Park can cost a significant amount, ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the type of lodging, activities, and duration of your stay. Entrance fees, lodging, food, and activities are all factors to consider. 

Accommodation:

• Price: $20–$40 per night
• Options: Madison, Canyon, Grant Village, and more
• Tip: Book through Recreation.gov (many fill up months in advance)

Do’s and Don’ts

In Yellowstone National Park, do stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other animals, including bison and elk. Don’t feed any animals, even birds and squirrels, or take anything, like plants, from the park’s natural setting. Also, do stay on boardwalks and designated trails, and don’t wander off them.