The American West is known for its landscapes and national parks. Yellowstone is the second-largest national park in the contiguous United States. Because of this, there are a lot of picturesque landscapes that nature lovers will want to experience. Only a short drive away is the Grand Teton National Park. The mountainous terrain and numerous lakes are complimentary to Yellowstone. The following is the second post in a three-part Wyoming National Parks – Yellowstone and Grand Teton Itinerary covering the canyons and wildlife of East and South Yellowstone.
- West Yellowstone: Geysers, Hikes, and Springs
- East & South Yellowstone: Canyons and Wildlife (this post)
- Grand Teton National Park: Placid Lakes and Towering Mountains
Post Contents
Day 3 – Northeast Yellowstone
Norris Geyser Basin
The Norris Geyser Basin is one of the most dynamic and active thermal areas located in Yellowstone National Park. Spanning an area of roughly two square miles, it is known for its impressive collection of geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. The basin is named after Philetus Norris, the second superintendent of Yellowstone National Park, who played a significant role in its exploration.
What sets Norris Geyser Basin apart is its ever-changing nature, characterized by frequent eruptions, shifting hydrothermal features, and a high level of geothermal activity. It showcases a wide variety of geothermal features including the world’s tallest active geyser (Steamboat Geyser) and colorful hot springs. Unfortunately, Steamboat Geyser is primarily dormant, so count yourself lucky if you get to see this geyser erupt while you are there. The basin consists of two areas: Porcelain Basin and Back Basin.
Visitors to Norris Geyser Basin can walk on scenic boardwalk trails that wind through the basin. This makes exploring the area very easy. The Porcelain Basin area of the trail is only about three-quarters of a mile in length. If you include the Back Basin portion of the trail, add 1.5 miles. This isn’t a tough hike, and the terrain is mostly flat. If you are short on time, you can skip the Back Basin portion since Steamboat Geyser is unlikely to erupt while you are there.
Mammoth Hot Springs
Mammoth Hot Springs is a geothermal feature known for its stunning terraces and unique limestone formations. The hot springs flow through a series of travertine terraces, creating a mesmerizing landscape of cascading mineral-rich water.
The terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs are formed through a combination of heat, water, and limestone. Hot water rises from deep underground and interacts with limestone, dissolving it and carrying it to the surface. As the water reaches the surface, it cools, causing the dissolved limestone to precipitate and form intricate terraces over time. The terraces are constantly evolving as the water flow shifts and deposits mineral-rich layers.
The unique formations of Mammoth Hot Springs exhibit a wide array of colors, ranging from dazzling white to vibrant shades of orange, red, and brown. Visitors can easily explore the area on boardwalks and trails. The dynamic formations create an amazing contrast against the surrounding landscape. In addition to the geological wonders, Mammoth Hot Springs is also known for its historic structures, including the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, Fort Yellowstone, and the Albright Visitor Center.
Lamar Valley
The Lamar Valley is a picturesque region located in Yellowstone National Park and known for its landscapes and diverse wildlife. Situated in the northeastern part of the park, it stretches along the Lamar River and encompasses wide-open meadows, hills, and scattered forests. Yellowstone is often referred to as the “Serengeti of North America.”. The Lamar Valley which is renowned for its abundant wildlife population, including herds of bison, elk, and pronghorn antelope is one of the main reasons. Visitors to the valley can also spot grizzly bears, wolves, coyotes, and various bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Because of the wide variety of wildlife in the area, this is a great place to park and wait for the animals to cross your path. The Lamar Valley offers a peaceful and remote setting that is far away from the bustling tourist areas of the park. The valley’s striking landscapes combined with the opportunity to observe Yellowstone’s wildlife in their natural habitat make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers within the park. Definitely bring a camera to capture the natural beauty.
Visitors can drive through the Lamar Valley looking for wildlife and pulling off at the turnouts. If you are low on time, this isn’t a bad option. However, if you have more time, its nice to park somewhere to enjoy the weather, landscapes, and wildlife as they move through the area while eating a snack or early dinner.
Return to West Yellowstone
I recommend returning to West Yellowstone tonight. However, it is a long drive so some may prefer to stay elsewhere. Staying at the Canyon Village Lodge in the park is a good option that would shave about 1 hour off the drive back to West Yellowstone tonight. It will also reduce the drive in the morning as the hikes and sights for the next day are near Canyon Village.
However, there are several downsides of staying near Canyon Village though. The first downside is the increased price. The lodges in the national park are almost always more expensive than similar accommodations outside the park. In addition, there are very few rooms that will accommodate larger groups that want to stay together. Finally, the lodges have more of a hotel atmosphere, and you are restricted to the food options in the lodge. Unlike accommodations outside the park, visitors won’t have a full kitchen with cooking appliances inside the park lodges.
Day 4 – East Yellowstone
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is a stunning geological feature carved by the powerful Yellowstone River. It stretches approximately 20 miles long and reaches depths of up to 1,200 feet. The canyon’s unique and vibrant colors, ranging from yellow and orange to pink and red, are a result of the minerals present in the rock formations. The canyon is famous for its waterfalls, most notably Lower Falls and Upper Falls. The Lower Falls, plunging approximately 308 feet, is one of the park’s most iconic and photographed attractions. Visitors can admire the magnificent scenes from various viewpoints along the canyon rim or take hikes down into the canyon to explore its trails and cascading waterfalls up close.
Visits to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone are split into two sections: North Rim and South Rim. On the North Rim, it is most common to start at the Brink of the Upper Falls Overlook. From there, visitors can hike the whole North Rim Trail out and back to the parking area, or visitors can drive and park at each of the overlooks. While there are parking areas at each overlook, they are small and easily fill up. Stops along the North Rim should include: Brink of the Upper Falls, Brink of the Lower Falls, Lookout Point, and Inspiration Point.
After visiting the North Rim, visitors should explore the South Rim. There are fewer overlooks and stops here than on the North Side. However, there are still a few that shouldn’t be missed. Start in the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone Upper Falls Viewpoints Parking Lot. There is a good viewpoint from the southside of Upper Falls from here. If it is open, also take the Uncle Tom’s Cabin Trail to the base of the Lower Falls. This trail involves many steps so you need to be in good shape. The views from the base of the falls are stunning. The final overlook to visit on the South Rim is Artist Point. This is perhaps one of the most famous views in all of Yellowstone. It captures the Lower Falls perfectly framed by the walls of the canyon.
Mount Washburn
Mount Washburn is a prominent peak in Yellowstone National Park. Standing at an elevation of 10,243 feet (3,122 meters), it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The mountain is named after Henry D. Washburn, an explorer who played a crucial role in the establishment of Yellowstone as the first national park in the United States. Mount Washburn is a popular destination for day hikers in the park. The well-maintained trail that leads to its summit makes for an enjoyable hike for most skill levels. There are two trails that reach the summit of the mountain: Dunraven Pass (Mount Washburn South Trail) and Chittenden Road.
Chittenden Road Trail mostly follows a service road that leads to the top of the mountain. This 5.6 mile out-and-back trail approaches the peak from the north side of the mountain. The southern approach to Mount Washburn is via Dunraven Pass. This 6.8 mile out-and-back trail is considered slightly more difficult than the Chittenden Road Trail. Reaching the top rewards visitors with unparalleled vistas of the Yellowstone Caldera, the park’s geothermal features, and the surrounding mountain ranges. It is a haven for wildlife, and lucky hikers might see bighorn sheep, marmots, fox, or even the elusive bear along the way.
As before, wrap up the day by returning to West Yellowstone (roughly a 1 hour and 20-minute drive) or Canyon Village (roughly a 30-minute drive).
Day 5 – South Yellowstone
Hayden Valley
Day 5 is the last day spent in Yellowstone National Park. The morning starts with the scenic and expansive Hayden Valley. Stretching along the Yellowstone River between Yellowstone Lake and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, it is renowned for its abundant wildlife. The valley is named after Ferdinand V. Hayden, a geologist and explorer who played a pivotal role in the park’s establishment.
Hayden Valley is the other locations that gives Yellowstone its Serengeti nickname. This is due to the remarkable concentration of wildlife here. It is home for large mammals such as bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves and various bird species. Visitors can witness the spectacle of these magnificent creatures roaming freely in their natural habitat. The valley offers several vantage points and pullouts along its scenic road, providing opportunities for observation and photography. Movement along this road is particularly slow due to the number of visitors using the pull-offs and slowing or stopping to observe animals.
Animals are the most active around sunrise/dawn and sunset/dusk. If you are able to arrive at the Hayden Valley around these times, you will have the best sightings. However, getting to Yellowstone that early can be difficult for many. Mid-day viewers will still see animals while dealing with a lot more traffic.
West Thumb Geyser Basin
The West Thumb Geyser Basin is a geothermal basin located on the western shore of Yellowstone Lake. It is one of the park’s most picturesque and accessible geyser basins. Named after its thumb-like protrusion into the lake, this unique area showcases a fascinating array of geothermal features. Visitors to the West Thumb Geyser Basin are greeted with a stunning sight: a deep-blue thermal pool surrounded by vibrant hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and occasionally erupting geysers. The contrasting colors, ranging from vibrant blues and greens to rusty oranges and yellows, create a mesmerizing spectacle against the backdrop of the lake.
The basin offers a boardwalk trail that winds its way through the thermal features, allowing visitors to explore the area up close while ensuring their safety. Along the trail, one can witness the famous Fishing Cone—a hot spring where early park visitors used to fish while simultaneously cooking their catch in the boiling waters. Visitors will also be able to see the Abyss Pool (so named for its impressive depth).
The West Thumb Geyser Basin presents a captivating blend of geothermal activity and natural beauty, providing an immersive experience into the unique geology and hydrothermal processes of Yellowstone National Park.
Lake Yellowstone
The last stop prior to exiting Yellowstone National Park is the namesake lake. Lake Yellowstone, also known as Yellowstone Lake, is the largest body of water in the park. Situated at an elevation of 7,733 feet (2,357 meters), it spans approximately 136 square miles (352 square kilometers) and offers a scenic centerpiece within the park. The lake is known for natural beauty and pristine waters. Surrounded by mountains and lush forests, it provides a tranquil setting for various recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and lakeside picnicking. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the awe-inspiring landscapes, creating a visual feast for visitors.
Yellowstone Lake is not only a place of scenic splendor but also a significant ecological hub. It supports a diverse array of aquatic life, including native fish species such as cutthroat trout. The lake’s thermal features, such as the West Thumb Geyser Basin, add to its allure, blending geothermal activity with its serene waters. While exploring the lake from the shores provides a picturesque experience, there are several opportunities to explore the lake from the water. At the Lake Yellowstone Lodge, there are facilities that will allow visitors to rent a rowboat or motorboat. If you want to captain a boat, I would recommend renting one and taking it for a drive. Boats can be rented from the Bridge Bay Marina (a 5-minute drive south of the Lake Yellowstone Lodge).
Drive to Grand Teton National Park
Even though the sightseeing in Yellowstone National Park has come to an end, the nature exploration continues with Grand Teton National Park. With these parks being so close, its easy to lump them together in one trip. Grand Teton is located about 1.5 hours south of Yellowstone. However, the vast majority of people will stay around Jackson or Teton Village. Therefore, expect the driving time to be about 2 hours total.
