Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, was established in 1872. Spanning an immense 2.2 million acres, much of it remains untouched by roads. Even a lifetime wouldn’t be enough to see everything, but here’s how to make the most of your visit—starting with five must-see destinations in Yellowstone National Park.
In brief
Yellowstone is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its extraordinary geological activity and landscapes.
The Yellowstone Volcano, one of the largest on Earth, is still alive today!
At its core lies a supervolcano. The last major eruption occurred 640,000 years ago, forming a vast 50-by-70 km caldera—large enough to fit the entire city of Tokyo! This volcanic system continues to power the park’s famous geysers, hot springs, fumaroles, and mudpots.
Yellowstone’s Wonders
The supervolcano powers the world’s largest collection of hydrothermal features.
Geysers
Steam jets from the earth, with underground water reaching temperatures above the boiling point at the surface! Old Faithful is the most famous, and some geysers have predictable eruption times.
Fumaroles
The hottest hydrothermal features, these steam vents hiss and whistle as water flashes into vapor before reaching the surface. Best seen in cool weather, check out Roaring Mountain (between Mammoth and Norris).
Travertine Terraces
Mammoth Hot Springs is known for its chalk-white formations, which are ever-changing as mineral-rich waters shape new terraces.
Mudpots
Acidic, bubbling pools that change with the seasons. The best spots to see them include Artists Paintpots, Norris Geyser Basin, Fountain Paint Pot, West Thumb Geyser Basin and Mud Volcano.
Hot Springs
The most common hydrothermal features, ranging from calm, crystal-clear pools to boiling, frothy waters. A must-see is Abyss Pool in West Thumb geyser basin.
Yellowstone is a land of natural wonders, where each corner holds something unique. While it’s impossible to see everything, planning your itinerary around the hydrothermal features will help you make the most of your trip!
