Yellowstone This is one of those spots that you will remember forever. After visiting a handful of times—and approaching it differently on each trip—I can say with certainty: it’s not just a national parkIt is not just a place, but a whole world. This wild and wonderful landscape, which spans over 2.2 millions acres, is nothing less than spellbinding. It features steaming geysers and technicolor springs as well as bison roaming freely and jaw-dropping Canyons. You’ll always find something to love on every visit.
As the world’s first national park, Yellowstone has long been a magnet for travelers—and during spring and summer, when the sun is out and road trip season kicks into high gear, it buzzes with even more energy. The biggest problem with a massive park is not what to see but where to sleep. Yellowstone is surrounded with character-rich gateways towns, and sprinkled throughout are unforgettable places to stay. From design-forward mountain cabins and riverside yurts to classic park resorts and luxury ranches.
You can choose to be a member of the Whether you are road-tripping With kids, with friends or in pursuit of a quiet couple’s retreatWe’ve selected the best places to stay in and around Yellowstone so that your trip is as memorable as the park.
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The best places to stay at Yellowstone in a glance
FAQ:
When is the ideal time to visit Yellowstone Park?
The best time to visit Yellowstone is late May through September, when the park is fully open and wildlife is active—though early mornings and shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) help you avoid the heaviest crowds. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, so expect crowds—especially near major attractions like Old Faithful.
How can I travel around Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone is only accessible by car, if you are not travelling with a guide. There is no public transportation inside the park. Grand Loop Road is the best way to see all of the major attractions, but it can take a long time due to traffic jams caused by wildlife and slow speed limits. The cell service is limited so it’s best to download maps ahead of time and fuel up when you can.
Where can I stay near Yellowstone to make the most of my trip?
What you stay in depends on your priorities. West Yellowstone, for example, is perfect for families who want to see geysers. Gardiner, with its North Entrance, is the best place to get into Lamar Valley’s wildlife. Cooke City, Silver Gate, is perfect for nature lovers seeking quiet escapes. Cody offers a Wild West feel, while Jackson is a luxurious option near Grand Teton. Inside-the-park lodging is unbeatable but you’ll need to book early—consider splitting your stay across different areas to explore more with less driving.
How can I get away from the crowds?
Start your days early—before 8 a.m.—to beat the crowds at popular spots like Old Faithful or Grand Prismatic Spring. If you want to experience more solitude, consider visiting lesser-known regions like the Lamar Valley or Tower Fall (especially if you are in the northern part of the state), the Bechler area, or Tower Fall. The late spring or early autumn is also a great time to visit because there are fewer people, and the temperatures are cooler.
Download the App to help you plan your next hike. AllTrails app—the new Peak membership includes trail traffic data, custom routes, and trail conditions.
