Yellowstone National Park is not just a destination; it’s one of the top things to do in Yellowstone National Park for families seeking adventure. Nestled across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, this iconic park is famous for its geothermal wonders, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re hiking through lush forests, watching bison roam freely, or marveling at the vibrant colors of geothermal pools, Yellowstone National Park offers unforgettable experiences for families. Here are some of the top things to do in Yellowstone National Park with your family.

1. Visit Old Faithful and the Geyser Basin

One of the top things to do in Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful is a must-see for any visitor. This reliable geyser erupts about every 90 minutes, shooting boiling water up to 180 feet in the air.

Tip: Be sure to check the eruption schedule at the Old Faithful Visitor Center to plan your visit!

2. Wildlife Watching in Hayden Valley

Wildlife watching is one of the top things to do in Yellowstone National Park. Hayden Valley offers some of the best opportunities to spot animals like bison, elk, wolves, and even grizzly bears. The valley’s wide-open spaces provide viewing opportunities, during the early morning or late evening when animals are most active.

Pro Tip: Keep your distance from wildlife and never approach animals. It’s for your safety and theirs!

3. Hike the Easy Trails at Yellowstone

There are plenty of easy and family-friendly trails that offer beautiful views without requiring much experience. The two great trails to explore are the Mystic Falls Trail and the Lone Star Geyser Trail.

Kid-Friendly Suggestion: The Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail is a 1.1-mile trail that leads to stunning views of the largest lake in the park. Perfect for families with little ones!

4. Explore the Grand Prismatic Spring

One of the top things to do in Yellowstone National Park is visiting the Grand Prismatic Spring. This vibrant rainbow-colored geothermal feature is located in the Midway Geyser Basin, and the best view is from the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook.

Fun Fact: The colors are created by bacteria that thrive in the hot waters, with each color representing a different temperature range.

5. Boating and Fishing on Yellowstone Lake

If your family enjoys water activities, spend a day on Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-altitude lake in North America. Boating and fishing are among the top things to do in Yellowstone National Park. You can rent a boat or take a guided boat tour, which is a fantastic way to enjoy the scenery.

Important Note: Make sure you have a valid fishing permit, as fishing is regulated in the park.

6. Junior Ranger Program

For families traveling with younger kids, the Junior Ranger Program is an excellent way to keep them engaged and learning about Yellowstone. The Junior Ranger Program is one of the top things to do in Yellowstone National Park, where children can pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at any visitor center. It contains fun activities like puzzles, wildlife tracking, and information about the park’s history.

7. The Yellowstone Heritage and Museum Trail

If you’re interested in learning about the park’s history and culture, the Yellowstone Heritage and Museum Trail is a fascinating educational experience. Visiting the Yellowstone Heritage and Research Center and the Museum of the National Park Ranger is one of the top things to do in Yellowstone National Park.

8. Enjoy the Park’s Scenic Drives

Yellowstone’s scenic drives are an ideal way to see the park’s beauty from the comfort of your car. Some of the most popular routes, like the Grand Loop Road and the North Rim Drive, pass many of Yellowstone’s major attractions, making scenic drives one of the top things to do in Yellowstone National Park.

9. Take a Trip to the Yellowstone Waterfalls

Yellowstone is home to some of the most incredible waterfalls in the country, including the Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The waterfall is a massive 308 feet tall—twice the height of Niagara Falls! Several viewpoints along the canyon rim offer beautiful views, with Artist Point being one of the most picturesque.

10. Stargazing in the Great Outdoors

Yellowstone is a designated Dark Sky Park, making it perfect for stargazing. As the sun sets and the stars begin to appear in the crisp night sky and families can enjoy marveling the Milky Way. The park even hosts occasional ranger-led stargazing programs to help visitors learn more about the night sky.

Yellowstone National Park offers families an incredible mix of natural wonders, wildlife, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking, wildlife watching, or soaking in the beauty of geothermal features and waterfalls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The best part? These experiences are perfect for creating lifelong memories with your families.

Before you head out, be sure to check the weather, pack plenty of snacks, and bring your camera—because the moments you’ll capture in Yellowstone will be ones your family will never forget!