Yellowstone National Park was never part of my travel plans.

Chasing the northern lights? Absolutely! And a trip to Alaska is definitely on my wish list. But geysers? They just didn’t pique my interest.

Wow, was I mistaken.

As Richard Jehle, an interpretive specialist at Yellowstone, mentioned, “Old Faithful is merely a small part of what Yellowstone has to offer.”

I saw it firsthand this fall, and now, Yellowstone might just top my list of favorite national parks. (Sorry, Zion!)

Here’s why you should consider Yellowstone a must-visit destination and what to keep in mind before your trip.

Is Yellowstone Worth Visiting?

Definitely! From the moment you approach the park’s entrances in Montana, Wyoming, or Idaho, you’ll understand why this area is known as America’s first national park.

It feels as if you’re entering several parks at once, each with unique landscapes: dense forests, bubbling mud pots, hissing fumaroles, North America’s largest high-elevation lake, and Lamar Valley, often regarded as the Serengeti of North America for its incredible wildlife.

Make sure to set aside enough time to absorb everything. After two full days in the park, I realized that it wasn’t nearly sufficient.

Where Can You Spot Wildlife in Yellowstone?

Wildlife can be found all over the park.

A good indicator that a remarkable animal is nearby is the presence of crowds or cars. I noticed gathering crowds before I even spotted two bears: a black bear roaming the hillside and a distant grizzly bear that appeared as a mere dot to my eyes.

Be prepared for potential traffic delays due to wildlife crossings, particularly with elk or bison that have the priority. Slow down and keep your eyes peeled for any activity, and don’t forget your camera.

Is There a Scenic Drive in Yellowstone?

Absolutely! Many of Yellowstone’s attractions are visible along the park’s figure-eight loop, complete with various pullouts for quick stopovers and photo moments. Don’t miss exploring areas like Mammoth Hot Springs and West Thumb Geyser Basin; both locations feature boardwalks designed for visitor safety and accessibility while protecting fragile geothermal structures.

Keep in mind that there isn’t a park-operated shuttle service, so you will need your own transportation to navigate the park, especially during winter when many roads are off-limits to vehicles. For those without a car, there are numerous third-party tours available.

Is Food Available in Yellowstone National Park?

Yes, indeed! The park offers numerous quick-service eateries as well as general stores where visitors can purchase groceries and ready-to-eat items like sandwiches. Some hotels, including the renowned Old Faithful Inn, feature table-service restaurants.

You might be surprised by the range of services available, encompassing gas stations, vehicle repair shops, and post offices.

What to Pack for Yellowstone

In addition to the standard items you’d bring to any national park, it’s crucial to carry layered clothing due to the unpredictable weather. During my October visit, one day was sunny and in the 80s, while the next turned grey and windy, with temperatures in the 50s.

Yellowstone’s weather is highly unpredictable due to most of the park being situated at an elevation of 6,000 feet (1829 m) or more. Visitors should be prepared for considerable temperature changes and the possibility of rain or snow at any time of the year, as noted on the park’s official website.

Don’t forget to bring binoculars for spotting wildlife that may be at a distance. I didn’t have any, but fortunately, a generous stranger lent me hers so I could catch a glimpse of a grizzly bear far off.

It’s best to avoid seeing a grizzly bear up close. Park rangers recommend that hikers carry bear spray for safety. If you forget to bring your own, it’s available for purchase within the park.

Additionally, it’s wise to stock your vehicle with snacks and extra water, as there are long distances between stores throughout the park.

Be sure to pick up a paper map at one of the park’s visitor centers and download essential park information to your phone for offline access, as cell service is limited in most areas.

(This story has been revised to include updated information and correct a typo.)