Yellowstone Country Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Yellowstone Country in Montana, including things to do, where to stay, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Yellowstone Country

Located in Montana, USA, in the Rocky Mountains, Yellowstone Country is a natural wonderland known for its geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife. The area is home to Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the world and one of the largest in the United States, covering 3,468 square miles.

List of Places to Visit in Yellowstone Country

Yellowstone Country is full of must-see attractions, from museums and historical sites to natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Buffalo Bill Center of the West: A museum complex in Cody that includes five separate museums dedicated to western art, firearms, Plains Indians, natural history, and Buffalo Bill himself.
  • Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument: A historic site that commemorates the famous battle between General Custer and the Sioux and Cheyenne tribes in 1876.
  • Yellowstone Historic Center: Located in West Yellowstone, this museum offers exhibits on the history and culture of the Yellowstone area, from Native American tribes to early explorers and pioneers.

Natural Attractions of Yellowstone Country: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Yellowstone National Park: The main attraction in Yellowstone Country, this park boasts stunning landscapes, geothermal features like Old Faithful, and abundant wildlife like bison and wolves.
  • Grand Teton National Park: Located just south of Yellowstone, this park features dramatic mountain scenery, hiking trails, and an abundance of outdoor activities.
  • Beartooth Highway: A scenic drive that takes you through the Beartooth Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yellowstone Country

Yellowstone Country is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise, with trails and paths for every skill level. Here are some of the best:

  • Lone Star Geyser: A 4.8-mile roundtrip trail that takes you to a geyser that erupts every three hours.
  • Mount Washburn: A 6.2-mile roundtrip hike that offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
  • Blacktail Plateau Drive: A 6-mile scenic drive through meadows and forests, with biking trails along the way.

Best Things to Do in Yellowstone Country: Activities and Tours

  • Wildlife Watching: Yellowstone is home to an abundance of wildlife, from bison and elk to wolves and bears. Take a guided tour with a park ranger or wildlife expert to see these animals up close.
  • Fishing: The Yellowstone River offers some of the best fly-fishing in the country, with a variety of trout species to catch.
  • Rafting: Take a thrilling white-water rafting trip down the Snake River, which runs through Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yellowstone Country

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in West Yellowstone, visit the Yellowstone Historic Center
Day 2 Explore Yellowstone National Park, see Old Faithful, hike the Lone Star Geyser trail
Day 3 Take a guided wildlife watching tour, see bison, elk, and wolves
Day 4 Drive the Beartooth Highway, stop for scenic views and photo opportunities
Day 5 Visit Cody and the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, learn about western art and history
Day 6 Go fishing on the Yellowstone River, try to catch some trout
Day 7 White-water rafting trip on the Snake River, enjoy thrilling rapids and scenic views

Food and Drink Scene of Yellowstone Country

Yellowstone Country is known for its hearty, western-style cuisine and locally produced beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Burger: A classic western dish, made with lean bison meat and often served with toppings like bacon and cheese.
  • Huckleberry Pie: A regional specialty, made with sweet-tart huckleberries picked in the local mountains.
  • Rocky Mountain Oysters: A unique delicacy, made from deep-fried bull testicles.

Local Beverages

  • Huckleberry Wine: Made from the same berries used in the pie, huckleberry wine is a flavorful and unique local product.
  • Microbrews: Montana is home to many craft breweries that produce unique and delicious beers, like the Moose Drool Brown Ale from Big Sky Brewery.

Where to Stay in Yellowstone Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Yellowstone Country offers a range of accommodation options, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts. Here are some popular choices:

  • Old Faithful Inn: Located in Yellowstone National Park, this historic hotel offers stunning views of the park’s most famous geyser.
  • The Lodge at Big Sky: A luxury resort in Big Sky, Montana, that offers skiing in the winter and outdoor activities in the summer.
  • Yellowstone Hostel: An affordable option in Gardiner, Montana, near the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park.

What to Buy in Yellowstone Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Yellowstone Country offers a wide range of unique souvenirs and locally produced products that make great gifts or keepsakes. Here are some ideas:

  • Bison Jerky: A tasty and portable snack made from the lean meat of bison, a common sight in Yellowstone.
  • Huckleberry Jam: A sweet and tangy spread made from the region’s abundant huckleberries.
  • Western-Style Leather Goods: Yellowstone Country is home to many skilled leatherworkers who produce a range of goods, from belts and wallets to boots and hats.

Local Culture and Customs of Yellowstone Country

Yellowstone Country has a distinct western culture, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities, ranching, and hunting. The area’s history is deeply intertwined with that of Native American tribes like the Crow and the Shoshone.

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone Country

Yellowstone Country is open year-round, with each season offering unique opportunities and challenges. The best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences:

  • Summer (June-August): The peak season for tourism, with warm weather, long daylight hours, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
  • Fall (September-November): A quieter season, with cooler weather and colorful fall foliage.
  • Winter (December-February): Cold and snowy, but ideal for winter sports like skiing and snowmobiling.
  • Spring (March-May): A season of unpredictable weather and rapidly changing conditions, but also a time of renewal and growth.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yellowstone Country

Do:

  • Pack layers: The weather in Yellowstone Country can change rapidly, so be prepared for anything.
  • Respect wildlife: Observe animals from a safe distance and never approach or feed them.
  • Take the scenic route: Yellowstone Country is full of beautiful scenery, so take time to enjoy the journey.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash behind: Help preserve the natural beauty of Yellowstone Country by packing out what you pack in.
  • Venture off the trails: Stay on designated trails to protect fragile ecosystems and avoid potential hazards.
  • Ignore warning signs: Follow park rules and regulations for your own safety and the protection of the wildlife and environment.

Safety and Health

Safety in Yellowstone Country

  • Be aware of the risks of wildlife encounters and take appropriate precautions.
  • Stay on designated trails and follow park rules and regulations.
  • Be prepared for rapidly changing weather and high-altitude conditions.

Health in Yellowstone Country

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, especially at higher elevations.
  • Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and hats.
  • Be prepared for the potential risks of outdoor activities, like hiking, fishing, and rafting.

Getting to Yellowstone Country: Transportation Options and Logistics

Yellowstone Country is easily accessible by car or plane. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Yellowstone Country

  • Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN): Located 90 minutes from Yellowstone National Park, this airport offers daily flights from major cities across the country.
  • Jackson Hole Airport (JAC): Located near Grand Teton National Park, this airport is about a two-hour drive to Yellowstone.

Bus Stations Near Yellowstone Country

  • Greyhound: Offers bus service to West Yellowstone and Gardiner, Montana.
  • Alltrans: Offers shuttle service from Bozeman to Yellowstone National Park.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Available at most major airports and in nearby towns like Bozeman and Jackson Hole.
  • Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Available in some areas, like Bozeman and West Yellowstone.

How to Get Around in Yellowstone Country

The best way to get around Yellowstone Country is by car, as many of the most popular attractions are spread out. In the park, there are also several tour options, including guided wildlife tours and sightseeing trips.

Where to Go Next from Yellowstone Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Yellowstone Country is conveniently located near many other popular destinations in the western United States. Here are some ideas for where to go next:

  • Glacier National Park: Located in northwestern Montana, this park offers stunning mountain scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing.
  • Salt Lake City: Located about a six-hour drive south of Yellowstone, Salt Lake City is the capital of Utah and home to many historic and cultural attractions.
  • Denver: Located about a nine-hour drive east of Yellowstone, Denver is a bustling city known for its outdoor recreation, cultural amenities, and vibrant food and drink scene.

Conclusion

Yellowstone Country is a truly special place, filled with natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and a rich western culture. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide has everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful part of the world.

Fly fishing the Yellowstone River with Electric Peak in the background Fly fishing the Yellowstone River with Electric Peak in the background The Roosevelt Arch in Gardiner Montana, named after President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, in 1903. The top of the arch is inscribed with a quote from the Organic Act of 1872, the legislation which created Yellowstone, which reads The Roosevelt Arch in Gardiner Montana, named after President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt, in 1903. The top of the arch is inscribed with a quote from the Organic Act of 1872, the legislation which created Yellowstone, which reads "For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People." Skiing at Red Lodge Skiing at Red Lodge President Barack Obama fly fishing the Gallatin River President Barack Obama fly fishing the Gallatin River Boiling River in Yellowstone. Boiling River in Yellowstone. classic tour buses are available to tour Yellowstone National Park classic tour buses are available to tour Yellowstone National Park Black Bear are a common sight in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Black Bear are a common sight in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. A display at the Museum of the Rockies. A display at the Museum of the Rockies. driftboat fly fishing on the Yellowstone River driftboat fly fishing on the Yellowstone River Trout Lake in the Gallatin National Forest Trout Lake in the Gallatin National Forest Bison on the road in Yellowstone Park Bison on the road in Yellowstone Park Beartooth Mountains Beartooth Mountains


    Belgrade
    Bozeman
    Cooke City
    Gardiner
    West Yellowstone