LOCAL AREA

Located primarily in Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872 and holds the distinction of being the first national park globally. Home to 2 million acres of wilderness and iconic geothermal features like Old Faithful, the park boasts a unique landscape teeming with wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of bison. Explore its canyons, witness the vibrant colors of hot springs, and marvel at the majestic Yellowstone Lake.

Old Faithful is the most well-known thermal feature in Yellowstone National Park and was named by the first official expedition to Yellowstone, the Washburn Expedition of 1870. They were impressed by its size and frequency. Old Faithful erupts every 35 to 120 minutes for one and a half to five minutes. Its maximum height ranges from 90 to 184 feet. It is not the biggest or the most regular geyser in Yellowstone but it is the biggest regular geyser.

About 600,000 years ago, huge volcanic eruptions occurred in Yellowstone, emptying a large underground magma chamber. The roof of this chamber collapsed, forming a giant smoldering caldera that was 30 miles (45 km) across, 45 miles (75 km) long, and several thousand feet deep. Eventually, the caldera was filled with lava. Over the years, weathering and erosion have carved what has become known as the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center's primary mission is to provide visitors to the Yellowstone area an opportunity to observe, learn, and appreciate grizzly bears and gray wolves. Check out these bears and wolves saved from parks around the country as they interact with each other and live safely in captivity. A new raptor exhibit has recently been added as well. This is a great educational and fun family activity.

When you are in Yellowstone Country, you will want to see it all: waterfalls, wildlife, the unique geology of the area, and, of course, the geysers. To make the most of your time here, let an experienced guide provide you with an interpretive tour. These guides can do everything, while you simply sit back and "enjoy the ride". Winter months also include a guided snowmobile tour and a snow van to enjoy the beautiful snow views from a heated tour van.

Experience the thrill of the West Yellowstone Rodeo, set against the picturesque backdrop near the Idaho border. Running until August 17th, this iconic event features performances 5 to 6 days a week from mid-June. Established decades ago, it remains a cherished family-owned tradition, embodying the essence of Montana's rugged charm. Nestled amidst Montana's stunning landscapes, it promises an unforgettable blend of adrenaline and scenic beauty, showcasing the spirit of the American West.

Take a glimpse into a collection of artifacts and documents relating to this history of travel and West Yellowstone, the town established in 1908. The Museum is located in the historic Union Pacific Depot and enjoy our exhibits, which tell many stories of how people have journeyed to and through the region since the founding of Yellowstone National Park in 1872. The Museum features stagecoaches, trains, buses, planes, and snow machines that have transported tourists from around the world.

Year-round activities in the park include hiking, fishing, and shopping in the numerous shops inside the park and West Yellowstone. There is something to do for everyone here.

Come watch a movie, unlike any other movie you have seen in your life. Our Imax movie screen plays movies about the park, wildlife, and other amazing hidden features that are one in a million. Doors open at 8:00 AM every day, and these movies will entertain people of all ages. Imax is the largest motion picture system in the world.

For over 20 years, Blue Ribbon Flies has been helping outfit visiting anglers with the latest fly fishing equipment, information on insects, fly patterns, and the world's largest selection of fly-tying materials. With many rivers to fly fish, Blue Ribbon is the place to start your fly fishing dreams.

Welcome to the Rendezvous Ski Trails, where gold medal grooming and reliable snow come together to create a Nordic skier’s dream. Easily accessible from the town of West Yellowstone, the Rendezvous Ski Trails consist of over 35 kilometers of gently rolling, beautifully groomed trails that wind through tall stands of pine and open meadows. The trail system is located entirely on U.S. Forest Service land and managed by the Forest Service, the West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce, and WYSEF.

Museum open May through Oct in a former train depot featuring artifacts from West Yellowstone history.

Located in Montana, Hebgen Lake is a serene reservoir renowned for its recreational opportunities and stunning mountain vistas. Created by the Hebgen Dam on the Madison River, the lake spans approximately 12 square miles and offers a haven for activities like fishing, boating, and camping along its scenic shores. The lake's proximity to Yellowstone National Park makes it a popular stop for those exploring the region.

Downtown West Yellowstone serves as the gateway to the wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Situated in Montana, this quaint town offers a welcoming atmosphere and a range of amenities for visitors embarking on their Yellowstone adventure. Lined with rustic storefronts, local eateries, and boutique shops, the downtown area exudes a classic Western charm. It serves as a hub for tourists seeking accommodations, dining options, and opportunities to explore the surrounding wilderness.