Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park is one of our family’s favorite places to explore, offering breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, and endless adventures. Here’s why we love it and some tips for making the most of your family trip to this incredible national park!
1. Stunning Natural Wonders
From the iconic Old Faithful geyser to the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone is full of natural wonders. We love taking time to explore each site and marvel at the beauty of nature together. Secret tip: to see a rainbow in front of the Lower Falls at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, the best time is during mid-morning (approximately 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM) on a sunny day in the summer—it was gorgeous!
2. Wildlife Encounters
Yellowstone is home to diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, and wolves. One of our favorite activities is to drive through the park at dawn or dusk for the best chance to spot animals in their natural habitat. Remember to keep a safe distance and use binoculars for a closer look! We’ve also had a Wildlife safari with a guide which was a ton of fun. Want to see even more animals? There’s a Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone!
3. Kid-Friendly Hikes
There are plenty of family-friendly trails suitable for all ages. We love the easy walks around geysers, such as the boardwalks at Fountain Paint Pot and the trails at Mammoth Hot Springs. These hikes provide a great opportunity for kids to learn about geology and ecology while enjoying the outdoors.
4. Educational Opportunities
Yellowstone offers a wealth of educational experiences for kids. Attend ranger-led programs, visit the Visitor Centers, and explore interactive exhibits to learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
5. Scenic Drives
Take advantage of Yellowstone’s scenic drives, like the Grand Loop Road. Enjoy beautiful views from your vehicle, and make stops at lookout points to capture family photos against stunning backdrops.
5. Camping Adventures
If your family enjoys camping, consider staying at one of Yellowstone’s campgrounds. Camping is a great way to immerse yourself in nature and spend quality time together around the campfire after a day of exploration.
6. Yellowstone Excursions
We enjoyed the Stage Coach ride & the Wildlife Tour via the Yellow Bus. The staff were so informative and exceptional. Make sure to make a reservation.
7. Not a camper? Stay at Yellowstone’s lodges. Just remember that many do not have air conditioning, but it usually cools off at night. We loved staying there and it felt like a true getaway.
*Tip: You will not have cell phone coverage in most of the park. Make sure to get a paper map if you get turned around easily. But, there are signs to guide you throughout. We loved our kids NOT being on technology! There is some limited wifi at a few of the lodges.
