Top Five Attractions in Yellowstone National Park (YNP)

5.) Mount Washburn

Most likely considered one of the "plainer" attractions at Yellowstone National Park, this landmark is a diamond in the rough. It doesn't seem like much as you drive, or hike, up the winding trail; but at the top is an inspirational view of the park that seems to stretch on forever. The photos were breathtaking- and mostly free from other tourists. A great place for picnics, many families had their kids play here and photographers scaled the peak for photos like this:

4.) Old Faithful

Maybe the most famous attraction of the park. It is a nice place to set up chairs or a blanket and have a picnic. There isn't a big parking area, so you may have to hang around for a bit to find a spot. Tourist enjoy watching the cone geyser go off more than once and the geyser can take 30-120 minutes to erupt.

3.) The Grand Prismatic Spring

'Don't Touch the Water!' Signs are everywhere and yet people still touch the water and laugh exclaiming, "It doesn't burn!" and they're right it doesn't- at first. Most people touch the water and continue on with their day after they feel they "One upped" the caution signs. But in a couple hours the acid has slowly ate away at their skin, unnoticeably, and they have a burn. I noticed this first hand when I went, I saw teenagers run out into the pool to grab expensive name brand hats- obvious bait from someone who knew better. With their shoes wet with moisture from the acidic geyser, they continued their day.

Located in the Midway Geyser Basin, the pools are beautiful and the sky can be seen clearly in their reflection. The colors of the pools are so unique and beautiful, I spent a lot of time there taking pictures such as the one below:

2.) Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley is truly beautiful. I recommend being parked in the valley by the river before the sun rises. Bring binoculars and you may see the wolf pack hunting along the river. Mid June is my favorite time to visit the valley. The bison come down from the hills in the morning with their calves in the thousands and even block the road- stay in your vehicle and give them plenty of room to cross the road. Do not approach the bison- they are wild. Every year there are encounters between tourists and bison that result in death.

The valley itself is gorgeous during early summer. Multiple flower species grow up the side of the mountains and spread to the valley floor, creating splashes of color throughout the landscape.

1.) Grand Canyon of Yellowstone/ Artist Point

By far my favorite attraction in the park. I imagine that thousands of years ago the Grand Canyon in Arizona could have looked the same way. A trail follows the river as it rushes below. If the wind is still, the river's roar can be heard below. Appropriately named Artist Point, this view is so picturesque that many post cards can be found with the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone as it's cover.

I hope as summer is around the corner that those who are planning to visit Yellowstone National Park find this article interesting! Pets are not allowed on the trails so it is best to leave them home. Temperatures vary throughout the day- from 50°F's in the morning to 90°F's in the afternoon. It is always a good idea to wear good walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen. Be sure to bring drinking water, binoculars and bear spray is also a good idea- hopefully you never have to use it!

There are plenty of other attractions within the park. I only had one day to explore and it is definitely not enough time! I would recommend planning your vacation over a period of a few days. Also keep in mind that the park does not have cell phone service and only one radio station throughout the park. Bring your Spotify playlist!

Thank you for reading my article and I hope you have the best adventures! Happy Reading!