Last updated on June 27th, 2023 at 03:25 pm

There is a reason why Yellowstone was established as the world’s first ever National Park in 1872.

I’ve visited enough places in the US and around the world to list a bunch of remarkable locations. Yet, every time someone asks me which is the most unique place to visit in the US, my answer without a doubt is – Yellowstone National Park. I am thankful for those who decided centuries ago to preserve this land for generations to see. Here are some important money-saving tips if you are visiting the US for the first time or are coming after a long break.

The diversity that Yellowstone National Park offers is like no other in the world.

Trust me when I say this. I have seen geysers erupt in Iceland and let me tell you Old Faithful Geyser in Yellowstone is way more impressive than Strokkur.

So let’s go on a photo journey to understand why Yellowstone is remarkably more exceptional than any other parks. This post is not a planning guide and you can find tons of useful information to plan your trip on NPS official website.

So without further delay let me jump into the extraordinary –

Geysers

The power that Mother Earth holds within can be witnessed just a few feet away in Yellowstone. Seeing Old Faithful geyser erupt should be on your bucket list for sure! Old faithful normally erupts approximately every 74 minutes and it can last for up to 5 minutes at times. But the exact timing and duration of eruption are dependent on nature’s whim. TIP: Check out the ranger prediction timings listed around the visitor center on the day of your visit.

Hot Springs

My favorite part of the park after geyser was walking around these pretty looking spring pools. However, don’t go on the looks. Water temperatures and the acid levels in these hot springs are high enough to cause burns. TIP: Please do not attempt to touch these springs. Be prepared to be reminded of the pungent smell from your Chemistry labs in school. FACT: The smell of sulphur is present all around geothermal parts of the park. These photos are only a fraction of all the colorful hot springs you’ll see in the park. FUN FACT: Heat-loving microorganisms that live in these acidic springs impart the lovely colors that we see.

Volcanoes

There are dozens of mini-volcanoes present in the premise. Although they do not spit lava, there is gas, mud, water, and sulphur gushing out of these volcanoes. These volcanoes looked like a pot of water getting boiled on a stove. Majority of these caldrons are present in the Mud Volcano region of the park. TIP: Sulphur Caldron is the most acidic spring in Yellowstone.

Wildlife

Even though the earth is super active in this part of the country, wildlife is diverse and in plenty.  This is something not many people know. You can be sure to spot a deer, antelope, bison, grizzly bear, black bear, horse, heron, crane and other varieties of wild animals and sometimes in dozens. TIP: Head to Lamar Valley area in Yellowstone for a higher chance to spot wildlife. I saw a Bison for the first time in life here as well as my first ever Grizzly Bear sighting was in Yellowstone. TIP: Carry a binocular or a zoom lens in order to spot animals from a distance.

Wild Flowers

I am a sucker for flowers if you don’t already know by now so indeed I took plenty of stops to capture their beauty. Summer is a great time to spot wildflowers all around Yellowstone National Park.

Waterfalls

The Canyon Village area is where the incredible Upper and Lower falls reside. TIP: Uncle Tom’s Point hike which consists of 328 steps will take you all the way down to remarkable views of the falls. This area is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Rivers

Yellowstone River is the longest river in the region, however, there are many other smaller rivers, streams and creeks flowing throw the park.

Mountains

With Grand Tetons just on the outskirts, there are enough peaks for the mountain lovers in Yellowstone as well.

Landscapes

The landscape changes with every turn here in Yellowstone. From geothermal activities to rolling hills, you are in for a treat of every kind.

Adventure Activities

For those who are adrenaline junkies like me, there are tons of adventure activities that can be included on your trip. I went for Whitewater rafting on Yellowstone River in Gardiner, MT. Another spot for whitewater rafting would be Snake River near Jackson Hole TIP: There is no rafting within the park limits but plenty of companies offer just outside the park.  There are also plenty of scenic hiking trails within the park.

TIP: Give yourself a minimum of 4-5 days to see the entire park if not more.

If I haven’t already convinced you enough to visit Yellowstone then let me remind you -there was a big reason why centuries ago it was decided to preserve this land. If you don’t see Earth in action here now then you are missing out on an age-old treasure!

Have you guys been to Yellowstone yet, what did ya think? As a matter of fact, Gaurav has never been to Yellowstone so I am all geared up for round 2 hopefully in the near future. On that note, read more about visiting Lower & Upper Antelope Canyon, a spectacular display of Mother nature’s work in Arizona.

If I was successful in convincing you, then do not forget to save and share this post with others 🙂 

Happy Traveling!