Yellowstone National Park is one of those places that seems almost otherworldly. I recall my initial visit — steam billowing from geothermal pools, the vibrant colors and kaleidoscopic formations of Grand Prismatic Spring and the awe of watching Old Faithful erupt like clockwork. If you’ve never been, let me tell you this — Yellowstone is bucket list worthy.
What Is So Special About Yellowstone?
Yellowstone is more than America’s first national park; it’s a sprawling, 2.2-million-acre playground of natural wonders. From geysers and hot springs to wildlife and waterfalls, this one has it all. What stood out most to me was how vibrant the landscape is. The earth shakes and rattles, the water effervesces, and the wildlife wanders. It is a testament of how raw and wild nature can be.
Highlights of Yellowstone National Park
If you’re visiting, here are some places you don’t want to miss:
Old Faithful: The geyser’s name says it all; this geyser is a reliable performer. I remember sitting on the wooden benches and waiting with a crowd of excited visitors, then watching in awe as it blasted water 130 feet in the air. It’s a quintessential Yellowstone experience.
Grand Prismatic Spring: The largest hot spring in the U.S. and among the most photographed sites in the park. The colors are surreal — the vivid blues, greens, and oranges — like gazing into a giant, steaming rainbow.
Yellowstone Lake: This large, high-altitude lake is great for kayaking, fishing or merely taking in the scenery. I spent an afternoon at this very spot, and the tranquillity was unlike any other.
Lamar Valley: The so-called “Serengeti of North America,” this is where to see wildlife. During my visit, I saw bison, elk and even a pack of wolves in the distance. Bring binoculars — you can thank me later.
Advice for Your Trip to Yellowstone
Plan in Advance: Yellowstone is vast, and cell service can be spotty. I would recommend that you get a map and plan your route ahead of time. Believe me, you don’t want to miss out because you didn’t know where to go.
Be Respectful of the Wildlife: This is their home; we are just visitors. Stay safely distant — from bison especially. They seem to move slowly, but can run faster than you expect.
Dress in Layers: The weather changes in a heartbeat. One minute it is sunny and warm, the next it is snowing. I found this out the hard way, so be sure to pack accordingly.
Why Yellowstone Haunts You
What I love about Yellowstone is how it sticks with you, well after you leave. The sulfur wafting from the geysers, the bison grazing nearby, the rainbow stretching over a waterfall — it’s sensory overload in the best way.
If you want a destination that reconnects you with nature and leaves you in awe, go to Yellowstone National Park. Hearing how many [] people come into the park: Whether you’re a long-time [visitor] or a first-time visitor, this park is for everybody. So, what are you waiting for? Begin scheduling your visit right here!
My Yellowstone experience—have you ever been? Let me know if you have!