The world-famous Yellowstone National Park is a sprawling 8,983-square-kilometer expanse that showcases varying ecosystems and fascinating wildlife in three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. One of the first national parks in the world, Yellowstone National Park is known for its mesmerizing lakes, dramatic canyons, waterfalls, rivers, mountains and dense forest, all of which can be seen on hiking trails.

The volcanic hotspot at Yellowstone has created one of the national park’s most recognizable attractions, the Yellowstone Caldera, which has created numerous geysers, mud pots, and hot springs. Don’t miss seeing the famed Old Faithful geyser and the largest active geyser in the world, the Steamboat Geyser.

Considered one of America’s best megafauna wildlife habitats, Yellowstone National Park is home to timber wolves, coyotes, Canadian lynx, grizzly bears, bison, black bears and mountain goats. You can spend a night under the stars at campsites around the park, explore the thermal features on wooden and paved trails and take snowmobile tours.

Getting there

Yellowstone National Park is about five hours’ drive north of Salt Lake City, where you can fly into Salt Lake City International Airport. You can also drive there from various towns around the park, such as Bozeman, Idaho Falls, Casper and Butte. There’s ample parking within the park.