Designated in 1872, Yellowstone is America’s oldest and one of the most visited national parks. Nearly four and a half million tourists visit the park each year. It’s a wonderland of exceptional geothermal features, hosting more hot springs and geysers than any other place. Its abundant wildlife—from bison to bears—is also a defining feature. Spring brings prime wildlife-watching opportunities, fewer crowds, and vibrant wildflower blooms. Discover 15 activities not to miss in America’s first National Park this spring.
Explore Roosevelt Arch
Roosevelt Arch is the park’s formal North Entrance, dating back to the Army era. Driving through it lets you catch a unique glimpse of Yellowstone’s rich history. The iconic stone structure remains a popular spot for snapping epic photos, reminding travelers of where it all started and the role of President Roosevelt in the park’s development.
Kayak the Yellowstone River
Kayaking is a great way to experience America’s first national park’s beauty, thermal features, and diverse wildlife. The Yellowstone River is home to many of the park’s stunning features, including waterfalls and canyons. By kayaking the river, you’ll witness the park’s beauty from a unique perspective and enjoy a more intimate adventure than scenic drives and hiking.
Explore Mammoth Hot Springs
The scenic beauty and diversity of Mammoth Hot Springs are hard to match. Nestled about 50 miles north of the world-famous Old Faithful, the area is divided into two broad trails—the Upper and Lower Terraces—with about 50 hot springs. Mammoth Hot Springs’ hydrothermal features are some of the most stunning and unique in Yellowstone National Park. It is the only part of the park you can access by car throughout the year.
Hike West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail
While not as popular as Old Faithful Geyser or Grand Prismatic Spring, West Thumb Basin is just as impressive. Strolling through the basin gives you access to various thermal features, magnificent hot springs, mud pots, and small geysers. The hike also offers sweeping views of the deep blue Yellowstone Lake and the Absaroka Mountains.
Discover the Grandeur of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Cut 1,200 feet deep by the Yellowstone River, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is one of the park’s most photographed locations. Numerous hikes and overlooks offer an impressive view of its dramatic, colorful rock formations. If you want to learn about Yellowstone’s rich geologic history, don’t miss adding the canyon to your bucket list.
Experience the Beauty of the Yellowstone Falls
While Yellowstone Falls is a portion of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, it stands out as a destination on its own. There is no way to see the canyon and both the Upper and Lower Falls simultaneously, thanks to the bending nature of the gorge. To enjoy an up-close view of the falls, drive the North and North Rim Drives, which offer amazing pullouts and viewpoints.
Hike Mystic Falls
Mystic Falls is one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Yellowstone. Accessible via the Mystic Falls Trail, the nearly two-and-a-half-mile hike is perfect for travelers visiting Yellowstone with kids. The hike meanders along the scenic Little Firehole River through a conifer forest, and witnessing the waterfall cascade 70 feet is an unforgettable experience.
Go Fishing on the Lewis River
One of the tributaries of the Snake River, the Lewis River stretches 18.1 miles on Yellowstone’s southern side. The region is known for its diverse wildlife, including moose and beaver. The river’s clear waters make it an impressive fly-fishing destination, with Chinook salmon being a common catch in the spring.
Hike the Yellowstone Natural Bridge Trail
Covering 3.1 miles, the Yellowstone Natural Bridge Trail is a great place to stretch your legs and explore a breathtaking natural bridge. Meandering through a forest and meadow, the hike features spectacular natural scenery with views in every direction. Vibrant wildflower blooms make hiking the trail enjoyable in the spring, and the creek under the arch adds to the beauty of the place.
Visit Punch Bowl Spring
Located in the Upper Geyser Basin, Punch Bowl Spring is famous for its constantly boiling pool, which maintains a steady temperature of 197.8°F. The hot spring’s unique appearance is its main draw. It is surrounded by a geyserite rim whose edges appear like a saw blade, raising the boiling pool above the surface and creating a “punch bowl” effect.
Explore Gibbon River and Falls
When visiting Yellowstone National Park in the spring, Gibbon River and Falls are a must-do. Watching the breathtaking waterfall drop 84 feet is magical. Strolling along the river allows you to absorb the serene beauty of the place. Wildlife spotting is excellent here, with bison and elk among the main sightings. Gibbon River is also known as a premier fly-fishing destination.
Visit Grand Prismatic Spring
As its name suggests, Grand Prismatic Spring is grand. It’s America’s largest hot spring, with a diameter of 370 feet and a depth of more than 121 feet. The spring is famous for its spectacular colors, including yellow, orange, and green. Hike the Grand Prismatic Overlook to enjoy a gorgeous view of this geothermal wonder from above.
Explore Firehole Canyon Drive
Firehole Canyon Drive is one of the most scenic roads in Yellowstone. The road winds along the Firehole River through Firehole Canyon, guaranteeing incredibly stunning views of the area. It boasts multiple pullouts, with Firehole Falls—a 40-foot waterfall—as one of the first stops. Don’t miss the Firehole Swimming Area, where you can take a refreshing dip.
Admire Lone Star Geyser
Considered Yellowstone’s most photogenic geyser, Lone Star Geyser is a cone-shaped volcanic feature known for its magical eruptions. It occasionally emits hot water and steam, with major eruptions lasting up to half an hour and reaching heights of up to 45 feet. If you love geothermal features, this impressive wonder shouldn’t be missed on your spring bucket list.
Spot Wildlife in Lamar Valley
Dubbed “the American Serengeti,” Lamar Valley enjoys a scenic location in Yellowstone’s northeast corner. It is one of the park’s best hidden gems and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Visiting the valley is your best chance to see large animals like wolves, bison, bears, elk, and more. With wild creatures emerging from winter hibernation and others giving rise to their young, spring is the perfect time to explore this wonderland.
