Yellowstone is a world of its own. A geological wonder that has been wowing visitors for generations, many of whom come back time and time again to witness some of Earth’s most dramatic landscapes. It was unquestionably the place we most wanted to visit on our trip, and it didn’t disappoint.
After years of watching documentaries and reading about this majestic National Park, we were finally going to see it. Charlie was pretty excited too! It’s not often that you find yourself looking for bears on a super-volcano, among some 300 geysers – you heard me right, 300!
To show you just how mind-blowing it is, I’ve put together my favourite 7 sights in Yellowstone.
OLD FAITHFUL
The Old Faithful geyser is definitely the most famous non-animal attraction in Yellowstone, and one of the first things people go and see when they arrive at the park. I know we did.
Located at the Upper Geyser Basin, Old Faithful erupts in a very timely manner, every 90 minutes, give or take 15 minutes or so. The view of the geyser rising up in the air in all its glory is something that has to be experienced. Truly incredible and worth the ‘hype’.
MORNING GLORY POOL
One of the most emblematic images of Yellowstone, the Morning Glory pool is located in the Upper Geyser area of the park. The hot spring used to have a strong blue colour, which has changed into shades of green and blue with orange edge, as tourists unfortunately kept throwing trash and debris into the spring which has partially blocked it and lowered its temperature, allowing for microorganisms to live there.
Read more about the Morning Glory’s colour transformation.
YELLOWSTONE LAKE / WEST THUMB
Yellowstone Lake has over 100 miles of shoreline, and is the largest mountain lake in America, and is the second largest fresh water lake in the world.
The lake is also home to various hot springs, which you can see at West Thumb’s Basin, some of which lay under the cold water, slowly bubbling away such as the wonderful Fishing Cone. In the past, people used to be able to catch their fish at the lake and cook it straight in the hot spring – so awesome!
LAMAR VALLEY
The Lamar Valley is one of those places you never want to leave. Not because its natural beauty is a geological feat, but because this is where you’re most likely to spot herds of bison, elk and if you’re lucky wolves and coyotes roaming in this stunning valley.
We spent hours watching bison playing and fighting in the plains, caught the sunset and managed to spot some antelope. The elk didn’t fancy showing up, but we were lucky enough to see them on our way home, by the river near the west entrance.
YELLOWSTONE CANYON & LOWER FALLS
The Yellowstone Canyon and lower falls are truly a striking sight. The result of several enormous volcanic eruptions that happened in Yellowstone 600,000 years ago, the canyon has been sculpted throughout thousands of years.
We explored the South Rim, and walked the trail to the Artists’ Point from which you can see the Canyon’s dramatic formation, with the river flowing through it, and the falls behind.
MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS
The Mammoth Hot Springs are located at the north of the park, and are most well known for their signature travertine terraces, which have been formed by hot springs that rise to the surface and leave limestone in formations that resemble ‘stairs’.
The stark contrast between the snowy-white limestone, and the orange and yellow travertine make for the most incredible sight.
COLLOIDAL POOL
Located in the Porcelain Basin in the Norris Geyser basin, the Colloidal Pool is a hot spring that features a beautiful milky blue colour, and is shaped as a figure eight. The Colloidal Pool’s calming and ethereal waters contrast with the raw and severe background, and seem slightly surreal – beautiful.
Norris Basin is also where you can find Steamboat Norris, the tallest active geyser in the world!
More information about Yellowstone:
Yellowstone National Park Website
Download the National Park’s full map of Yellowstone NP & Grand Teton
Prepare your Yellowstone family trip with these wonderful resources
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