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Best of Yellowstone National Park

Big enough that the drives are the trip — thermal basins, wildlife valleys and a week that never repeats itself.

3 daysLocal gems
Trip length
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Checking live park conditions…

Best time to visit: May to September

Full road access, active thermal basins and wildlife in the valleys. Roads close to cars from November to late April, and even in June the passes can hold snow.

Day 1·Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic

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  1. Sightseeing

    Grand Prismatic Spring

    The most famous and colorful hot spring in Yellowstone, best viewed in the morning when the steam isn't as intense. Arrive early to beat the crowds.

  2. Sightseeing

    Old Faithful

    The iconic geyser that erupts regularly. Check the visitor center for predicted eruption times.

Day 2·The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

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  1. Sightseeing

    Artist Point

    Perhaps the most famous and photographed view of the Lower Falls of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Consider it for sunrise.

  2. Sightseeing

    Inspiration Point

    Another stunning viewpoint of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, offering a different perspective of the falls.

  3. Activity

    Fairy Falls

    A beautiful waterfall reached via a relatively flat walk. Take the spur trail to the base for a closer look.

Day 3·Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley

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  1. Sightseeing

    Mammoth Hot Springs

    Terraces of travertine formed by hot, mineral-rich water. Explore both the Upper and Lower Terraces.

  2. Sightseeing

    Lamar Valley

    Often called the 'Serengeti of North America,' this is prime wildlife viewing territory. Best at dawn or dusk for spotting wolves and bison.

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