Discovering Yellowstone

Visitor Center: If you are traveling with kids, your first stop at Yellowstone should be at one of their Visitor Centers. Here you can pick up a Junior Ranger Packet to guide your experience throughout the park. At the close of your trip, turn it back in for your very own ranger badge.

Old Faithful: Old Faithful is no doubt an iconic feature of Yellowstone. The Inn provides a clock that estimates the next time of eruption. We were able to explore the surrounding boardwalks and then make our way over. If you make a stop at the front desk, you will find a scavenger hunt for the kids that takes them through historical facts and areas of the hotel.

Grand Prismatic Spring: This is the largest hot spring in Yellowstone and the third largest in the world, making it a must-see. Its brilliant, vibrant colors are accessible from the boardwalks at ground level or from above. The colors are so vivid and striking that they appear almost surreal. Parking here can be tricky; try to arrive as early as possible.

Hayden Valley: Driving through Hayden Valley provided countless opportunities for the boys to spot wildlife, making it a highlight of our trip. Visiting in late spring was particularly rewarding as we were lucky enough to see adorable baby cubs. The pace of the drive is relaxed, and with multiple turnouts along the way, we were able to grab our binoculars and truly soak it all in.

Roosevelt Corrals: The Roosevelt Corrals experience was a favorite for the boys. Although they were too young for the guided horseback rides, we opted for the delightful wagon ride instead. Set on a replica Tally-Ho stagecoach, we journeyed through Pleasant Valley, where we spotted an abundance of bison. On our return, we had an incredible moment when we got within arm’s length of a bison, which was truly unforgettable. The knowledgeable and entertaining guides enhanced the experience, making it even more enjoyable. For those planning ahead, we highly recommend trying the stagecoach or horseback ride paired with an old West cookout for a complete adventure.

Lamar Valley: Located in the northeast corner is a stretch of land called Lamar Valley. Visiting Lamar Valley at dawn is ideal, as the animals start to stir and you avoid the crowds. If you’re fortunate, you might encounter a “bison car jam” as these magnificent creatures make their way across the roads to new grazing areas. It is best to keep your distance and let me move at their own pace. I highly recommend bringing binoculars; we were lucky enough to spot a few gray wolves during our visit. Patience is key, so be sure to pack some coffee and snacks for the road to make the most of your early morning adventure.

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone: This landmark is striking, to say the least. It has been created by the mighty Yellowstone River. The main feature is the Lower Falls, where you can watch the river surge down the canyon (the distance is more than twice the height of Niagara Falls). If you’re visiting with children, it’s important to note that the rock barrier is relatively low, so be sure to supervise them at all times in this area to ensure their safety.