Yellowstone is a sightseer's paradise, and at 2.2 million acres/900,000 hectares, there's plenty to see. In their eagerness to visit the park's highlights, some people just drive around the Grand Loop, only leaving their vehicles to eat, sleep and see Old Faithful erupt. With just a little more effort, including short hikes and visits to museums, you can dramatically enhance your experience. Winter visitors have a limited but no less majestic opportunity to explore. With the exception of the road between Mammoth and Silver Gate/Cooke City, all of the park's roads are closed to cars in the winter, making snow coaches (large heated vans on caterpillar treads) or cross-country skis excellent alternatives.
| Historic Sites | Top  |
First built in 1891 as a rudimentary lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel was expanded and upgraded to an elegant hotel in 1903 and 1929. It has been restored to its 1920s grandeur, with a grand portico facing the lake and gracious wicker furniture in the spacious lobby. It's a charming place to linger and recapture the feeling of the stagecoach days. Open mid-May to October. Lake Village, Yellowstone National Park.
Built in the winter of 1903-04, this is one of the largest log buildings in the world. From every angle—the steep-pitched roof to the soaring atrium with its log-lined ceiling and massive iron chandeliers to the railings made of twisted tree lodgepole pine—it's impressive. Its rustic appearance has been dubbed "parkitecture." The inn is said to be haunted by more than one ghostly entity, but it is nonetheless the most frequently requested place for a night's lodging. In Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park.
At the North Entrance, visitors pass through this massive stone arch named for Theodore Roosevelt, who placed the cornerstone for the arch during its construction. Designed by Robert C. Reamer, the architect who built Old Faithful Inn, it was completed in 1903. This is the point where tourists once left the train to board stagecoaches that would take them around the Grand Loop. Above the arch is carved the motto, "For the benefit and enjoyment of the people." North Entrance (near Gardiner, Montana), Yellowstone National Park. http://www.yellowstone-natl-park.com/arch.htm.
This lodge is interesting both for its recreational opportunities and for its place in popular American culture. It was built in the 1920s to be an automobile camp that would enable middle-class families to visit the park, making it one of the first motels (and it's a lot more charming than today's cinder-block bunkers). It still offers the rustic character of the Old West with horseback and stagecoach rides and dinner cookouts. The area is home to Yellowstone's largest elk herd—about 15,000 animals. Open June-August. Tower/Roosevelt, Yellowstone National Park.
Several visitors centers have exhibits about the history of Yellowstone. In towns near the park's boundaries, there are also a number of museums dedicated to art inspired by the wildlife of the region, the natural history of the Rockies and more.
Located in the former bachelors' quarters in Fort Yellowstone, this is the main museum collection in the park. It focuses on history, natural history and works of art that have been inspired by Yellowstone's wonders. Daily 9 am-5 pm. Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park. Phone 307-344-2263.
One of the region's most celebrated Western heritage centers, the Buffalo Bill Historical Center offers five museums under one roof, exploring the region's cultural and natural history as well as contemporary Western art. Open daily. Hours vary by month. 720 Sheridan Ave., Cody. Phone 307-587-4771. http://www.bbhc.org.
Exhibits, re-enactments and lectures provide a window into the Rocky Mountain Fur Trade Era (1820s-40s). May-September open daily 9 am-5 pm. Open weekdays 9 am-4 pm in October. Closed November-April. 700 E. Hennick, Pinedale. Phone 877-686-6266. http://www.museumofthemountainman.com.
Yellowstone park rangers will impress you with their knowledge, dedication and enthusiasm. This museum's exhibits and short films explain how the ranger's role evolved at Yellowstone from a quasi-military function to specialists who educate the public, maintain the ecological balance of the park and work hand-in-hand with researchers. Late May-September daily 9 am-5 pm. Norris Campground, off the Grand Loop, Yellowstone National Park.
Located in downtown Billings, Montana, en route to Billings-Logan International Airport from Yellowstone, the Yellowstone Art Museum is a requisite stop for art enthusiasts. Housed in the former Yellowstone County Prison, the museum features contemporary and historic art of the Rocky Mountain West. Hours vary. 401 N. 27th St., Billings. Phone 406-256-6804. http://yellowstone.artmuseum.org.
A gold mine for history buffs and researchers alike, the Yellowstone National Park Heritage and Research Center holds 5.3 million items documenting the park's natural and cultural history as well as the history of national parks and conservation movements around the world. Open Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm. The center is open to the general public, but its archives and some of its collections are accessible by appointment only. 200 Old Yellowstone Trail, Gardiner. Phone 307-344-2664. http://www.nps.gov/yell/historyculture/collections.htm.
This picturesque canyon formed by the Yellowstone River is home to two of the park's most beautiful waterfalls, the Upper Falls (109 ft/33 m high) and the Lower Falls (308 ft/94 m high). You can view the canyon from several lookout points on either side, but you'll appreciate it most if you hike the trails along the canyon edge. The view from Artist's Point, accessible by a paved path, is picture-perfect: The yellow, orange, red and brown canyon walls frame the Lower Falls for a stunning vista. If you're feeling energetic, hike down into the canyon on the asphalt trail. There are benches along the way to rest and admire the view. You can often spot osprey, which nest near water. Near Canyon Village, off the Grand Loop, Yellowstone National Park. http://mms.nps.gov/yell/features/canyontour/index.htm.
South of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, this valley is home to an abundance of wildlife. Nature photographers will want to linger to get a shot of the resident moose, elk, bears and bison. The bison act as if they own the place—herds often stray across the road, oblivious to cars. Hayden Valley is also an excellent place to spot waterfowl. The Dragon's Mouth Mud Volcano is worth a stop to see gurgling mud pots, geothermal features where the rock has been broken down by water rich in sulfuric acid. On the Grand Loop between Canyon Village and Fishing Bridge, Yellowstone National Park.
From 1907 to 1952, the Lamar Valley was the site of a buffalo-ranching operation designed to revive the park's buffalo population, which had neared extinction. Nowadays, crowds gather there to spot the gray wolves that were reintroduced to the park in 1995. The best time to see wolves is early morning in the spring, early summer or winter. Also watch for bison, elk and moose—as well as the occasional grizzly or black bear. The road through the Lamar Valley is plowed year-round. Between Tower/Roosevelt and the Northeast Entrance, Yellowstone National Park.
Boardwalks wind around the otherworldly terraces at Mammoth Hot Springs, leading to emerald and azure pools and vast platforms of white stone. Steaming, mineral-rich water glides over the terraces every day, forming rivulets, pools and miniature falls. At Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park. http://mms.nps.gov/yell/features/mammothtour/index.htm.
Steamboat, the world's largest active geyser (and one of the most unpredictable), is in Norris Geyser Basin. Scientists believe this basin has been active for 100,000 years, making it the oldest geyser basin in the park. It's also hot: In 1929, a team of scientists measured the temperature 1,087 ft/335 m below the surface at 459 F/237 C. The interval between geyser eruptions ranges from four days to 50 years, so be patient. At Norris, on the Grand Loop, Yellowstone National Park. http://mms.nps.gov/yell/features/norristour/index.htm.
Obsidian Cliff is an impressive, almost eerie outcropping of glasslike volcanic rock. Native Americans, who prized obsidian as the best material for making very sharp, durable projectile points, traveled from far and wide to collect the stone at this cliff. The Grand Loop, south of Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park.
The most famous feature at Yellowstone, Old Faithful spouts every 74 to 79 minutes. It's an impressive sight, even though you will generally be viewing it with a crowd. Get up in the middle of the night or very early in the morning to experience it on your own.
Old Faithful is in what's called Upper Geyser Basin. There are a number of other geysers close by that may be less reliable than Old Faithful but can be equally impressive. Castle Geyser is named for its shape—a large cone. North of Old Faithful, the Lower Geyser Basin contains other geothermal features, including fumaroles and hot springs. Fountain Paint Pot is the most popular of several mud pots in the area—it "decorates" the basin in spurts of earth tones. On the Grand Loop, Yellowstone National Park. http://www.nps.gov/archive/yell/tours/oldfaithful/index.htm.
A 132-ft/40-m waterfall in a beautiful setting, Tower Falls is a short walk from the Tower/Roosevelt area.
The largest freshwater lake in the U.S. at an altitude above 7,000 ft/2,100 m, Yellowstone Lake is approximately 20 mi/32 km long and 14 mi/23 km wide. At several places around the lake, you can see wisps of steam curling up from the sand, another reminder of the volcanic activity percolating beneath the park. At West Thumb, there's a geyser basin with beautiful clear azure pools that overlook the lakeshore and small geyser cones that rise up in the lake itself.
| Neighborhoods & Districts | Top |
Yellowstone has several settlements or villages where lodging and services are concentrated. Each has its own character.
This is a popular area on Yellowstone Lake with several restaurants and lodging options, including an RV campsite. The Lake Yellowstone Hotel, the oldest hotel in the park, is located there. Off the Grand Loop, Yellowstone National Park.
Located on the shore of Yellowstone near West Thumb, Grant Village has restaurants, a lodge and camping. It's a good place to stop for a brief rest or for the night. At the visitors center, the "Yellowstone and Fire" exhibit explains the role of forest fires in the park's ecology.
During the decade after Yellowstone's designation as a national park, the Mammoth area was subject to the exploits of poachers, developers and souvenir hunters. Civilian superintendents were hired to protect the park and its visitors, but their lack of experience, funding and staffing made their task insurmountable. In 1886, the U.S. Army came to the rescue, beginning 30 years of military presence in the park. Many of the buildings in Mammoth were part of the original Fort Yellowstone, which was built in the 1890s to house the troops and their families.
Located near the park's North Entrance, Mammoth, short for Mammoth Hot Springs, serves as the park's headquarters and provides housing for year-round staff. It has several restaurants and a hotel and cabins that are open year-round. Evenings at Mammoth bring almost guaranteed elk sightings: Elk like to congregate around the hot springs at night.
The most developed area of the park, it has several restaurant and hotel options to handle the crowds who make the requisite pilgrimage to view Old Faithful erupt. The best known is the Old Faithful Inn, a soaring log building that celebrated its centennial in 2004. You'll also find a photo-processing shop in the shopping area, stores carrying hiking and sporting gear, and galleries that exhibit works by local and regional artists. Snow Lodge is the only hotel at this location that is open in the winter, when the area is only accessible by snowcoach, snowmobile or skis.
The most rustic village area, Tower/Roosevelt is the hub for horseback riding, stagecoach rides and Old West chuck-wagon dinners. Lodging is in simple cabins or the rustic Roosevelt Lodge, and dining is hearty cowboy fare.
Recreation options in Yellowstone are limited only by your curiosity and physical stamina. For summer visitors who are up to it, an overnight backpacking trip in Yellowstone is a great way to experience the park (and escape the crowds at the same time). Advance reservations for backcountry campsites can be made beginning 1 April for the upcoming year. The reservation must be made by mail, and there's a fee of US$20 for the trip, regardless of the length of your campsite stay or the number in your party (if made in person less than 48 hours prior to your stay, there is no fee). Advance reservations increase your chances of getting a campsite. Begin by requesting a Backcountry Trip Planner, which contains a reservation form and information on hiking in the park. (Phone 307-344-2160; http://www.nps.gov/yell/publications/pdfs/backcountry/index.htm). Be sure you understand the details of picking up your permit and other requirements that must be met.
Xanterra Parks & Resorts offers a variety of guided tours, including sightseeing buses and boat rentals. National Park Service rangers also provide tours and guided hikes, many of which are free of charge. Details about tours and services offered during your visit are in the seasonal publication Yellowstone Today, as well as at visitors centers, hotels and campgrounds.
Visit the Cooke City Bike Shack for insight on the area's best cycling and hiking. Mountain bike rentals are available during the warm months. Come winter, the Shack offers cross-country and backcountry ski equipment as well as a shuttle service for skiers and their gear. Main Street, Cooke City. Phone 406-838-2412. http://www.beartooths.com/bikeshack.
An excellent selection of rental bikes and cross-country ski equipment. It also has a coffee bar with delectable baked goods. Open daily 9 am-7 pm. Mountain-bike rental costs US$8 per hour or US$25 per day. 40 Yellowstone Ave., West Yellowstone. Phone 406-646-7744. http://www.freeheelandwheel.com.
| Bird Watching | Top |
Birding opportunities are abundant in most areas of the park. Around 320 species have been identified to date, about 150 of which are known to nest and breed within the park's boundaries. Bald eagles, osprey and pelicans frequent the Yellowstone Lake area, and swans may be seen along the Madison River midway between the West Entrance and Madison Junction. Osprey are also visible around the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone area. Spring and fall migratory seasons offer opportunities to spot birds not commonly found in the park. Birders should plan a stop at the Fishing Bridge visitors center, where the exhibits focus on birds and their role within the park, and where there is a high probability of seeing pelicans. An easy 1-mi/1.6-km loop hike begins about 1 mi/1.6 km east of the visitors center and leads you through several areas with good viewing potential.
A birder's checklist is available on the park's Web site at http://www.nps.gov/yell/naturescience/birds.htm.
| Boating & Sailing | Top |
Private boats of all types (including float tubes) need to have a park permit that must be obtained in person. Boats are prohibited on all rivers and streams except the channel between Shoshone and Lewis lakes, where hand-powered boats are allowed. Rafting trips can be arranged on surrounding waterways, and boat rentals, guided fishing charters and scenic cruises are available from Xanterra at the Bay Bridge Marina on Yellowstone Lake.
Family-friendly whitewater rafting trips down the misnamed Stillwater River outside Red Lodge, Montana. Half- and full-day trips are available as well as "Paddle and Saddle" trips combining trail rides with whitewater for a full day of Montana-style fun. Open late May-early September daily 8 am-8 pm. Phone 406-446-3061. Toll-free 800-897-3061. http://www.adventurewhitewater.com.
Half-day, full-day and overnight white-water rafting and kayaking trips on the Yellowstone River with a locally owned company. At the North Entrance to Yellowstone, Gardiner. Phone 406-848-7510. Toll-free 866-807-0744. http://www.flyingpigrafting.com.
White-water rafting, kayaking and combination trips along the Yellowstone River led by knowledgeable, experienced guides. Half- and full-day trips offered. 406 Scott St., Gardiner. Phone 406-848-7777. Toll-free 800-858-7781. http://www.yellowstoneraft.com.
Yellowstone is working to stabilize and increase its native fish populations, especially the cutthroat trout. Fishing is allowed in the Yellowstone River (except in areas marked as nonfishing areas), Yellowstone Lake and other streams around the park. Rules pertaining to size and possession limits depend upon the species, but the maximum number of fish that may be kept by any one person is five per day.
A park permit is required for anglers 12 and older (free for 12- to 15-year-olds; a fee is charged for anglers 16 and older), but a state license is not necessary. Bait fishing is not allowed, and nontoxic (lead-free) tackle is required. Regulations and permits are available at ranger stations, visitors centers and general stores.
Occasionally, the park must apply fishing restrictions in certain areas. Information on current fishing restrictions can be found at the park Web site at http://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/fishrestrict.htm.
| Spas and Health Clubs | Top |
If you're eager to go "hot potting" (soaking in hot springs), consider taking a drive to one of the hot springs resorts north of Yellowstone. Chico Hot Springs in Pray, Montana, is just a half-hour drive from the gateway community of Gardiner. In fact, there are more than two dozen developed hot springs in Montana. For more information, visit http://visitmt.com/tripplanner/wheretogo/hotsprings.htm.
| Hiking & Walking | Top |
While you're driving through the park, take time to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery up close, along the park's marked walking trails. They're a great—and not too difficult—way to get close to natural wonders you've seen only in photographs. (A walk may also provide an escape from the worst of the crowds: Studies show that the average visitor never gets farther than 0.25 mi/0.40 km from his or her vehicle.) Trails are well-marked, with distances posted.
Possible trails include those located at the Mammoth Hot Springs terraces, Norris Geyser Basin, Fountain Paint Pot, Upper Geyser Basin, West Thumb Geyser Basin, Mud Volcano and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Elephant Back Loop Trail (south of Fishing Bridge from the East Entrance) climbs to a great overlook of Lake Village over the course of about 4 mi/6 km. At the trail junction, choose either direction, since both lead to the top. Moose and deer frequent this area. From the overlook, see the Pelican Valley to the left, Yellowstone Lake and its islands ahead and the Absaroka Range rising above the lake.
Ranger-led hikes are a great way to learn about Yellowstone's geothermal features and wildlife. Most are free, but a fee is charged for half-day Ranger Adventure Hikes, which are longer and more specialized. Reservations for Ranger Adventure Hikes can be made at park visitors centers.
| Horseback Riding | Top |
Trail rides organized by Xanterra head out from Canyon, Mammoth and Tower-Roosevelt. Each ride covers a very different section of the park. They last one or two hours, and reservations are recommended. Trail rides are appropriate for riders ages 8 and older. Stagecoach rides depart from Tower/Roosevelt. They make an affordable, less physically taxing way to experience the Old West. You can make reservations at your hotel or a visitors center.
Cross-country skiing is the name of the game at Yellowstone: Miles/kilometers of outstanding terrain, with groomed trails and roadways, are a pleasure for even novice skiers. Backcountry skiing on ungroomed trails is popular, too. Rental equipment is available at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Old Faithful Snow Lodge.
Snowshoes are the footwear of choice for many winter visitors. And at Mammoth, a skating rink is set up every winter, with skates available to rent.
Rent cross-country and backcountry skis at Sylvan Peak in downtown Red Lodge. A full range of clothing, accessories and equipment for skiing, hiking, warm-weather and winter camping is also available. Advice from the friendly, experienced staff is free. Phone 406-446-1770. Toll-free 800-249-2563.
Hot springs and thermal pools don't add up to swimming at Yellowstone—water from geothermal features can measure up to 170 F/76 C, and a dip can be fatal. There are no swimming pools at any in-park lodgings, and most of the lakes, rivers and streams are too cold. Along the north entrance road from Gardiner to Mammoth, however, a section of the Gardiner River known as the Boiling River lends itself to swimming. A footpath leads from a parking area to a hot spring that is open in the summer after the high water recedes. Access is during daylight hours only, and bathing suits are required.
| Other Options | Top |
West Yellowstone is touted as the snowmobile capital of the world, thanks to the amount and quality of its annual snowfall and the wealth of trail opportunities in and around the park. Some visitors choose to stay in gateway cities and make day trips into the park on snowmobiles. However, the use of snowmobiles in the park is a controversial issue. Some people believe they have an adverse effect on air quality and wildlife—instead of conserving energy as the animals normally do in the deep snowpack, they flee from the loud motorized vehicles.
In recent years, the park's official stance toward snowmobiles has wavered with the political winds. Only snowmobiles that are part of guided trips are allowed in the park. Xanterra provides guides and snowmobiles from Mammoth and Old Faithful; additional authorized outfitters are located in West Yellowstone, Cooke City and Gardiner.
The Junior Ranger Program, offered through Yellowstone National Park, is available to children ages 5-12. Children receive an activity paper and complete a variety of activities, some led by a park ranger. Sign up for the program at park visitors centers. The fee is US$3. https://cms.imr.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/juniorranger.htm.
Nightlife in Yellowstone itself revolves around campfires and evening ranger programs, although hotels and inns have bars and sitting lounges with soft music playing in the background. Bars and restaurants in the park's gateway communities offer live music, gambling and other entertainment on weekends and some weeknights. Local theaters feature films, concerts and plays. Summertime around Yellowstone is festival time. A stop at each town's chamber of commerce will help you navigate the offerings.
| Performing Arts | Top  |
Each summer, free concerts are held, showcasing a variety of genres. Concerts take place at Cody City Park every Friday in July and August. 908 Sheridan Ave., Cody.
Each summer, this theater company performs three plays on a rotating schedule. Presentations are well-suited to families and audiences of all ages, with two daily performances Monday-Saturday during the peak summer season. 29 Madison Ave., West Yellowstone. Phone 406-646-7757. http://www.playmill.com.
Gift shops in the park offer a wide range of possibilities—both in variety and quality—for the traveler who wants to carry home a remembrance of Yellowstone. Although many items are standard tourist fare, many shops promote the work of local artists and artisans. The Indian Handicrafts Shop at Old Faithful Inn, for example, is worth investigating for its selection of Native American pottery, jewelry and art. For a deeper look into Western art, head to the town of Livingston, Montana, which has nearly two dozen galleries.
General stores carry a range of grocery items and alcoholic beverages (because the park predates the state of Wyoming, it is not subject to state laws governing liquor sales), books and souvenirs. They also carry camping, fishing and sports gear.
| Shopping Hours | Top |
Shops within the park are open every day 7:30 am-9:30 pm during the summer season. Stores in the surrounding communities are generally open daily, with widely varying store hours.
There are no dedicated bookstores in the park, but most gift shops and general stores offer a good selection of books about Yellowstone's history, geology and wildlife.
This gallery features contemporary Western art. The collection includes paintings, sculptures and photography. Hours vary. 1210 Sheridan Ave., Cody. Phone 307-587-4006. http://www.jericogallery.com.
This Red Lodge gallery features gorgeous ceramic items created by acclaimed artists from around the country. Offers visiting artist lectures, demonstrations and workshops. Hours vary. 123 S. Broadway, Red Lodge. Phone 406-446-3993. http://www.redlodgeclaycenter.com.
Showcases local and regional artists whose work reflects an emphasis on the Yellowstone area. Its collection includes paintings, photography, ceramics, Zapotec weavings and more. Daily 9 am-8 pm in the summer season, Tuesday-Saturday 10 am-5 pm off-season. 216 W. Park St., Gardiner. Phone 406-848-7306. http://www.yellowstonegallery.com.
| Specialty Stores | Top |
Gorgeous beads from around the world are the focal point at this eclectic Red Lodge shop, which also offers jewelry, world-music CDs, postcards and stationery, and exotic clothing and accessories. Open daily. Hours vary. 212 S. Broadway Ave., Red Lodge. Phone 406-446-2008.
A premier fly-fishing shop that sells fishing and camping gear and souvenirs. It also offers guided fishing trips. While you're there, visit the gallery of western art, too. Open daily. Hours vary. 39 Madison Ave., West Yellowstone. Phone 406-646-7801. Toll-free 800-854-9559. http://www.budlillys.com.
An extensive array of collectibles and Montana-made products are sweetened by a large selection of bulk candy. 204 Park St., Gardiner. Phone 406-848-7669. Toll-free 866-848-7669. http://www.christmasinparadise.com.
Custom-made knives crafted before your eyes, along with pottery and other crafts made in Montana. 115 Yellowstone Ave., West Yellowstone. Phone 406-646-4116. http://www.seldomseenknives.com.
This outlet store offers name-brand outdoor clothing, accessories and gear at deeply discounted prices. Open in the summer season Monday-Saturday 9 am-7 pm, Sunday noon-6 pm; in the off-season Monday-Saturday 9 am-6 pm, Sunday 11 am-5 pm. 1402 Eighth St., Cody. Phone 307-578-5802. http://www.sierratradingpost.com.
The arts are the focus at this shop, with an artist-in-residence program featuring potters, painters and artists in other media. There's also a full schedule of book signings, readings and musical offerings. Old Faithful Lodge, Yellowstone National Park. Phone 307-344-7311.
If all you have is a day at Yellowstone, consider taking a guided tour: You will be able to spend your time seeing the sights instead of dodging traffic and wildlife.
From fire ecology to nature writing, field courses offered by the nonprofit Yellowstone Association Institute provide an insider's perspective on the Yellowstone ecosystem. Field seminars, "Lodging and Learning" experiences and backcountry courses provide a range of learning opportunities for all audiences. Headquartered in the park's Lamar Valley, Yellowstone National Park. Phone 307-344-2294. http://www.yellowstoneassociation.org/institute.
Custom-designed and reasonably priced small-group and family tours can include hiking and photography options. Cross-country skiing and snow-coach tours are offered in the winter. 555 Yellowstone Ave., West Yellowstone. Phone 406-646-9591. Toll-free 800-858-3502. http://www.yellowstoneguides.com.
Multiday wildlife and nature tours, including backpacking, hiking, pack trips, cross-country skiing trips and snowshoeing tours. Specializes in wolf and bear safaris. Phone 406-586-1155. Toll-free 866-586-1155. http://www.yellowstonesafari.com.
Full-day park tours in vans that give every rider a window seat. Most tours include short hikes to visit sights or view wildlife. In the winter, the company offers ski and touring packages. Madison and Dunraven streets, West Yellowstone. Phone 406-646-1092. Toll-free 888-493-2260. http://www.yellowstonetourguides.com.
Though you could drive through the park in one day, that's about all you'd be doing—driving. We recommend three days, more if you plan to see other attractions in northwest Wyoming such as Grand Teton National Park, or visit any of the gateway communities and their attractions. This itinerary assumes you are visiting in warm weather, when all roads in the parks are open. Be sure to make reservations well in advance—hotels and campgrounds are full to capacity during the high season. Also be sure to check in advance for road closures and delays due to construction and weather (yes, it can snow in Yellowstone in the summer).
Day 1—Enter the park through the West Entrance, turn left at Madison Junction and head to Norris. Stop for a stroll along the boardwalk that winds through the geyser basin. Visit the Museum of the Park Ranger and learn about the history of the National Park Service and Yellowstone's rangers. Continue north to Mammoth Hot Springs, where the Albright Visitor Center provides a broad overview of the park and its history. A walkway around the hot-springs area provides an up-close look at the travertine terraces. Overnight in the Mammoth area.
Day 2—Head east on the Grand Loop road to Tower Fall, where a short hike takes you to the base of this dramatic waterfall. Continue south on the loop road to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, stopping to hike in the canyon or to take a horseback ride. When ready, continue south to Yellowstone Lake and overnight there.
Day 3—Spend some time in the Yellowstone Lake area before continuing south and then west to Old Faithful. See Old Faithful erupt and spend some time touring the Upper and Lower Geyser basins. Try to include an off-the-road hike to see less-visited trails. If you want a quieter overnight experience, return to the lake area or stay in Grant Village.
Day 4—Depart the area by road or air.