See Yellowstone National Park by Car
Drive, Park, and Walk to View Diverse Scenery Unique to Wyoming
Sep 16, 2008
Driving is the best way to get the most out of Yellowstone National Park. There are plenty of chances to get out of the car and walk, but as the entire park stretches 4,680 square miles, driving allows visitors to see several natural attractions in less time. The park is set up in two large roadway loops that sit on top of each other when looking at a map.
Driving the Lower Loop
The Lower Loop can be accessed from the West (Montana), South (Grand Teton National Park), and East entrances. As of 2008, private vehicles pay $25 for a seven day pass that can be used for Grand Teton National Park as well.
Hot Springs and Geyser Basins
The Lower Loop weaves through the volcanic caldera where visitors can't help but notice hundreds of hot springs sprouting white steam into the air, potent with minerals. Signs along the main road alert visitors to viewing areas, most equipped with wooden walkways in order to preserve the fragile ground beneath as well as the safety of visitors. West Thumb Geyser Basin (easily reached from South entrance) is an exceptionally beautiful stop along the loop, flaunting springs of various sizes and colors, with panoramic views of pristine Yellowstone Lake stretching serenly into the distance. Perhaps one of Yellowstone's most famous attractions is Old Faithful. Found in the Upper Geyser Basin, it's an active geyser, erupting 130 feet high on average. Timing an eruption can be difficult and intervals can be anywhere from 60 minutes to 90 minutes depending on the season and other natural factors.
Yellowstone's Grand Canyon
More stunning views can be found in Canyon Village. Park in the enormous lot, get out of the car, and walk to the trailheads. Scenic forest paths provide sneak glimpses of Yellowstone's Grand Canyon and the spectacular Lower Falls. Walk to Artist Point to get a postcard perfect view of the 308 foot high Lower Falls tumbling into the river that has carved Yellowstone's 20 mile long namesake canyon. Parking is available at Artist Point.
Wildlife Viewing
Wild animals flourish in Yellowstone and visitors must proceed with caution. Bison, moose, grizzly bear, and black bear should not be approached or fed as they're capable of injury and/or fatalities. When visitors view from a car, animals are not threatened and everyone has an equal opportunity to see. Other wildlife includes pronghorn antelope, pika, wolf, bighorn sheep, mule deer, elk, coyote, osprey, trumpeter swan, and American white pelican.
Driving the Upper Loop
The Upper Loop can be accessed indirectly through the Lower Loop by all entrances, but directly by the North, the only entrance open to Yellowstone year round. The others (West, South, East) are closed from early November to mid-May. Both Mammoth Springs and Park Headquarters are located near the North entrance.
For a long stay, accomodation and camping options are available throughout Yellowstone, but all visitors can find restrooms and picnic areas to the side of the road. Whether it's a day's drive through Yellowstone or a week, the park's natural beauty provides any visitor with an unforgettable and rejuvinating experience.
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