What to do in Yellowstone for One Day.

If you only have a day to be in Yellowstone, here is the perfect guide for all the landmarks you should see to fulfill your National Park adventure. Although it is a lot of driving, you get the chance to see most of the popular sites in one day.

Grand Prismatic Spring. Midway Geyser. This midway geyser basin is the largest hot spring in the United States. The minerals give off colors such as deep reds, yellows, and oranges that contrast against the beautiful blue-green water. 

The Old Faithful Inn and geyser. Every hour or an hour and a half, the Old Faithful natural geyser erupts to be about 130 feet high. You can sit up close on the benches, watch from the Inn porch, or hike up the trail to see it upon a mountain. The Old Faithful Inn, adjacent to the geyser, was built in 1904 and is one of the few log hotels still standing in the United States. The Inn is a treehouse, fairytale dream. Make sure to stop by and get some lunch or souvenirs inside after watching the geyser erupt. 

Yellowstone Lake. Lake Village. This lake is so big it almost looks like an ocean! It is the largest freshwater lake above 7,000 feet in North America. Stop by the Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins for water refills and lunch at the deli with a gorgeous lake view. 

Hayden Valley. To see some wildlife, mostly bison, go to Hayden Valley. In the summer, it is mating season for bison so they populate the area. However, you may get stuck on the road from bison crossing. There’s also the potential to see elk, coyotes, and grizzly bears so make sure to stay in your car and bring binoculars. 

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Canyon Area. A popular hiking spot, this area is a primary attraction. Check out Artist Point to experience the pink rock and emerald green river. 

Lamar Valley. This valley has been a world watching destination since wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone in 1995. It is also home to bison, elk, black and grizzly bears. Lamar Valley is a bit further away than destinations 1-5, so people usually like to dedicate a whole day to hang around and spot wildlife. For the best chance to catch animals, stay overnight and wake up to spot the creatures or come to the National Park in the afternoon.

For more information about Yellowstone check out https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/things2do.htm! Plan a visit out west, it’s worth it! Plus, the whole family can go.