Yellowstone with Kids: 7 Adventures Your Family Won’t Forget

Embarking on a family adventure in Yellowstone National Park is a journey filled with wonder and excitement! Imagine your kids’ eyes lighting up as they witness the majesty of Old Faithful or spot a bison grazing in the wild. With its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, Yellowstone is the perfect backdrop for unforgettable memories.

Get ready to explore seven thrilling adventures in one of America’s most iconic parks, igniting your family’s spirit of discovery and creating lasting bonds!

Why Visit Yellowstone National Park with Kids?

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Planning a Yellowstone vacation with your family is a fantastic way to introduce your kids to the wonders of nature. Yellowstone isn’t just a destination—it’s a wild, wonder-filled classroom for kids of all ages. This iconic park offers a hands-on adventure in nature, science, and wildlife, from erupting geysers and bubbling hot springs to bison herds and bear sightings.

Whether hiking to a waterfall, spotting animals on a scenic drive, or marveling at Old Faithful, every moment is a chance to unplug and connect as a family. One of the best things about a Yellowstone road trip is the variety of things to do with kids, ensuring that your Yellowstone family vacation will be fun and memorable.

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone

Visiting Yellowstone National Park is best during the summer, from late June to mid-September. This period offers warm weather and fully accessible roads, allowing you to explore the park’s stunning geothermal features and diverse wildlife. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, consider visiting in the spring or fall. Both seasons provide unique opportunities to witness wildflower blooms or vibrant autumn foliage, making your experience even more memorable.

Plan Your Itinerary: Top Things to Do in Yellowstone

Make the most of your Yellowstone adventure with a family-friendly itinerary packed with unforgettable sights and activities. From geyser gazing and wildlife watching to kid-friendly hikes and more, we’ve rounded up the top things to do that everyone will love.

Adventure #1: Exploring the Geysers

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When visiting Yellowstone with kids, it’s best to stick to the most family-friendly geyser areas, where trails are safe, distances are manageable, and there is plenty to see without long hikes! Old Faithful is a must-see—not only because of its iconic, predictable eruptions every 90 minutes but also because the area has plenty of benches and paved boardwalks that make it stroller-friendly.

The Upper Geyser Basin is another great spot, packed with multiple geysers and thermal features within easy walking distance. Midway Geyser Basin is perfect for viewing the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, with a short trail leading to a breathtaking overlook that’s manageable for little hikers.

The Fountain Paint Pot Trail is a favorite for younger kids; it’s a quick, 0.5-mile loop past bubbling mud pots, geysers, and steaming vents. For a quieter experience away from crowds, West Thumb Geyser Basin offers beautiful lakeside views and a relaxed boardwalk path.

Fun idea: To make the adventure even more fun for little ones, consider bringing a printed geyser “Bingo Card” or checklist to turn spotting thermal features into a game.

Adventure #2: Wildlife Watching

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Wildlife watching in Yellowstone with kids is an exciting and educational experience, but it requires some preparation to make it safe and enjoyable for everyone. The park is home to iconic species like bison, elk, bears, wolves, and birds, offering countless opportunities for kids to see animals in their natural habitat. To ensure a safe and successful outing, it’s important to bring a good pair of binoculars, a wildlife guidebook, and a camera to capture the moments.

Always maintain a safe distance—at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from other wildlife like bison and elk. Keep your kids in the car or at a safe distance when observing animals, especially larger ones that can be unpredictable.

The best times for wildlife viewing are early mornings and evenings when animals are most active. Some great spots for wildlife watching with kids include Lamar Valley, Hayden Valley, and the Yellowstone River, where herds of bison roam and you’re likely to see elk, pronghorn antelope, and even the occasional grizzly bear.

Fun idea: Take advantage of Yellowstone’s Junior Ranger Program, which includes activities that help kids learn about the park’s wildlife and ecology.

Adventure #3: Hiking the Family-Friendly Trails

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Hiking the family-friendly trails in Yellowstone is a fantastic way to explore the park’s stunning landscapes while keeping the adventure accessible for little legs and curious minds. The park offers a variety of easy-to-moderate trails that are perfect for families with young children. Many of these trails are short, relatively flat, and well-maintained, making them ideal for a relaxed day outdoors.

Some great family-friendly hikes include the Biscuit Basin Trail, a short, paved loop that takes you past beautiful thermal features and vibrant hot springs. The Gibbon Falls Trail is another easy option, leading to a scenic viewpoint over an 84-foot waterfall. The trail is only half a mile long and mostly flat.

For something even shorter, the West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail is a simple, stroller-friendly boardwalk that offers spectacular views of Yellowstone Lake and its geothermal features. If you’re looking for more of a nature hike, the Fairy Falls Trail is a 1.6-mile out-and-back route that takes you to a stunning 200-foot waterfall. It offers plenty of beauty without being too challenging for younger hikers.

Before heading out, pack water, snacks, and layers to handle Yellowstone’s variable weather. While these trails are easy for families, wildlife can often be spotted along them, so always be prepared to follow safety guidelines and stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from other animals like bison and elk.

Make the most of your Yellowstone adventure with a family-friendly itinerary packed with unforgettable sights and activities. From geyser gazing and wildlife watching to kid-friendly hikes and scenic picnic spots, we’ve rounded up the top things to do that everyone will love.

Fun idea: If your little ones enjoy a good scavenger hunt, bring a list of flora and fauna to spot along the way — it’ll keep them engaged and excited for the adventure!

Adventure #4: Visiting Yellowstone Lake

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Visiting Yellowstone Lake with kids is a wonderful way to experience the park’s beauty while enjoying some fun, family-friendly activities. Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America and offers abundant scenic views, wildlife, and exploration opportunities that even young children can enjoy.

One of the best ways to experience the lake is by strolling along its shores. Several short, easy trails around the lake are available, like the West Thumb Geyser Basin Trail, a stroller-friendly boardwalk offering beautiful lake views and geothermal features.

For a slightly longer walk, the Pelican Creek Nature Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that goes through wetlands and offers the chance to spot wildlife, including birds, beavers, and occasionally even moose. It’s a perfect spot for kids to explore and observe nature.

Fun idea: If your family enjoys boating or fishing, rent a boat from the Lake Yellowstone Hotel or the Bridge Bay Marina, which offers small motorboats, canoes, and kayaks. Fishing is also popular in Yellowstone Lake, and the park offers educational programs for families interested in learning more about the lake’s aquatic life.

Adventure #5: Discovering the Park’s History

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Discovering Yellowstone’s rich history with kids is a fascinating way to learn about the park’s cultural, geological, and ecological significance. From its early Native American presence to the establishment of the first national park in the world, there’s so much for families to explore together. Here’s how you can introduce your kids to the park’s history in fun, engaging ways.

1. Junior Ranger Program: A Fun and Educational Experience

One of the best ways to get kids excited about the history of Yellowstone is by signing them up for the Junior Ranger Program. This program is available at various visitor centers around the park and offers interactive activities that introduce children to Yellowstone’s natural history, wildlife, and cultural heritage.

Kids can complete activities in their Junior Ranger booklet and earn a badge. This hands-on approach keeps them engaged while they learn about important historical events and figures, such as the national park’s creation and the role of Native American tribes in the region’s history.

2. Visit Historic Sites and Landmarks

Yellowstone has many historic sites and landmarks that showcase its unique history. Some family-friendly stops include:

• Fort Yellowstone: Located in the Mammoth Hot Springs area, this former U.S. Army fort offers a glimpse into the park’s history during the early 1900s when soldiers were stationed here to help protect the park from poaching and development. The area includes preserved buildings and exhibits explaining the military’s role in Yellowstone’s history.
• Old Faithful Inn: This iconic log cabin-style lodge, built in 1904, is one of the park’s oldest and most beautiful structures. A visit here gives kids a taste of early 20th-century park architecture. Kids can take a guided tour to learn about its history and design.
• Yellowstone Lake Hotel: This historic hotel by the lake provides a rich backdrop for learning about the early days of tourism in Yellowstone. It’s also a beautiful spot for a family meal or a relaxing afternoon by the water.

Your history buffs will love visiting these spots!

3. The Native American Connection

Before European settlers arrived, Native American tribes lived in the Yellowstone area for thousands of years. Visiting sites like Indian Creek or Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley allows children to learn about the history and culture of the region’s indigenous peoples. The park’s visitor centers often have exhibits about the Native American tribes who historically lived in the Yellowstone area, such as the Shoshone, Crow, and Blackfeet, offering a deeper understanding of their connection to the land.

4. Explore the Geology of Yellowstone

Yellowstone is also an incredible place to teach kids about geology and how the park’s geothermal features came to be. The park sits on top of an active supervolcano, and its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots, are some of the most iconic in the world.

The Yellowstone Geology Walk and the Norris Geyser Basin engage kids in learning about the park’s volcanic past and the forces that continue to shape the landscape. The Visitor Centers also offer exhibits on the park’s geological history, helping kids connect the dots between natural history and the park’s thermal features.

5. Historic Lodges and Museums

Another way to experience the park’s history is to visit historic lodges and museums. The Yellowstone Heritage and Research Center in Gardiner offers exhibits about the park’s history and its role in the creation of the National Park Service. Kids can learn about the park’s establishment in 1872 as the world’s first national park and the important conservation work that followed.

Additionally, stopping by the Museum of the National Park Ranger at the Yellowstone Heritage and Research Center or exploring the Museum of the Yellowstone in West Yellowstone will help kids understand how the park’s history has shaped the management of public lands in the U.S.

6. Historic Railroads and the Early Tourism Era

The railroad’s arrival in the late 19th century brought tourists worldwide to Yellowstone. You can share the story of the Northern Pacific Railway and its role in popularizing travel to the park. Kids will be fascinated by the stories of early tourists traveling in luxury trains to see the park’s wonders.

Adventure #6: Camping Under the Stars

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If you love a good campout, Yellowstone offers all sorts of ways to enjoy a night under the stars.

1. Family-Friendly Campgrounds

Yellowstone has 12 campgrounds, many of which offer easy access to park highlights while providing a family-friendly atmosphere. These campgrounds typically have amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms, making them ideal for families with younger children.

• Madison Campground: Located near the west entrance, this campground is centrally located for exploring the park’s geothermal features, such as Old Faithful and Norris Geyser Basin. It’s close to a stream, which can be fun for kids to explore and observe wildlife. The campgrounds are well-maintained and have easy access to nearby trails and activities.
• Grant Village Campground: Situated near the southern edge of Yellowstone Lake, this campground offers great access to the lake and has nearby ranger programs for families. It’s a peaceful spot for stargazing with plenty of open space for kids to play.
• Bridge Bay Campground: Also near Yellowstone Lake, this campground is a great option for families who want to enjoy lakefront views. During the day, you can take short walks along the shoreline or participate in fishing and boating activities before settling in for an evening of stargazing.
• Mammoth Campground: Located near Mammoth Hot Springs, this is the only campground open year-round in Yellowstone. While it has a bit more of a developed feel with nearby facilities, it’s still a great family spot. Plus, it’s close to historic Fort Yellowstone and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Canyon Campground: Near the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, this campground offers easy access to some of the park’s most dramatic scenery. The area around Canyon provides numerous short, family-friendly hikes with great opportunities for wildlife watching.

2. Backcountry Camping

For families seeking a more adventurous and remote camping experience, backcountry camping in Yellowstone offers the opportunity to immerse yourself fully in nature. This option is great for older kids who enjoy hiking and exploring wilderness areas.

• Backcountry Permits: If you plan camping in the backcountry, you’ll need a backcountry permit from the park, which can be obtained at the Backcountry Office. These permits help protect the park and allow you to choose the best campsites for your family. Some backcountry campsites are located near trails that are manageable for families.
• Popular Backcountry Trails for Families:
  • Lamar Valley: Known for its wildlife viewing, Lamar Valley offers several family-friendly trails that lead to backcountry campsites. If your kids are ready for a more rugged experience, this is a great option to see bison, elk, and wolves.
  • Pelican Valley: This area is a bit more secluded, with accessible trails that lead to serene camping spots near Yellowstone Lake. It’s perfect for families looking for peaceful nights under the stars.

3. Stargazing in Yellowstone

Yellowstone is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, offering some of the best stargazing in the U.S. The park’s high elevation, minimal light pollution, and remote location make it a perfect place to gaze up at the Milky Way, spot constellations, and catch a glimpse of meteor showers.

• Best Stargazing Spots:
  • Madison and Lamar Valley: These areas are wide open with few light sources, making them excellent for stargazing. The rolling plains and mountain backdrop create an incredible setting for watching the night sky.
  • West Thumb Geyser Basin: This location offers an interesting mix of thermal features and wide-open spaces. It’s a quieter spot for those seeking a more intimate experience under the stars.
  • Mount Washburn: For a more elevated view of the night sky, hike to the top of Mount Washburn (a moderate 6.4-mile round trip). During the day, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the park, and at night, you can enjoy breathtaking stargazing opportunities.
• Night Sky Programs: Some park areas, like the Grant Village and Mammoth Hot Springs, host night sky programs where park rangers give stargazing talks and help you identify constellations and planets. These programs can make stargazing fun and educational for kids.

Adventure #7: Exploring the Hot Springs

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Many of Yellowstone’s hot springs are located in areas with boardwalks and viewing platforms, so they are easy and safe for kids to explore. Some of the best spots include:

• Mammoth Hot Springs: The Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces are one of the park’s most iconic geothermal features. The terraced limestone formations, created over thousands of years, are stunning; kids will love the colorful pools. The Boardwalk Trail is an easy walk through the hot springs area. Remember that the pools are hot and dangerous, so always stay on the designated paths.
• Norris Geyser Basin: Norris is the hottest and most active thermal area in Yellowstone, with multiple hot springs, geysers, and fumaroles. The Porcelain Basin is particularly beautiful, with its vivid blue pools and steam vents. While the walk to the Porcelain Basin is longer, it’s a safe and manageable hike for families, and the variety of geothermal features makes it a fascinating stop for kids.
• Upper Geyser Basin: Home to Old Faithful, the Upper Geyser Basin has several hot springs that are easily accessible along the boardwalks, such as Sapphire Pool, which is a beautiful turquoise spring. The area is rich in thermal activity, and while Old Faithful is the main attraction, the surrounding hot springs are just as interesting for kids to observe.
• West Thumb Geyser Basin: Located on the shore of Yellowstone Lake, West Thumb features a mix of geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles. One of the highlights for kids is the Fishing Cone, a geyser where, historically, people would catch fish and cook them in the hot waters—although cooking fish here is no longer allowed.

Safety Tips for Exploring Hot Springs

Although the hot springs in Yellowstone are beautiful and fun to explore, it’s important always to prioritize safety:

• Stay on Designated Paths: Never step off the boardwalks or designated trails. The ground around the hot springs can be fragile, and stepping on it can cause severe burns or injuries.
• Keep Kids Close: Hot springs can reach scalding temperatures of over 190°F (88°C), so always supervise your kids closely and ensure they stay a safe distance from them.
• Teach Kids Not to Touch: While the springs may look inviting, the water is dangerous and can cause severe burns. Teach kids to admire the colors and formations from a safe distance.
• Respect the Environment: Yellowstone’s geothermal features are delicate ecosystems. Don’t throw anything into the hot springs or disturb the areas around them.

Renting Hiking Gear for Kids and Pets

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Instead of lugging around your gear or spending top dollar on something you may only use a few times, consider renting with BabyQuip. Our specialized hiking baby carriers, rugged all-terrain strollers, and kid-friendly hydration packs are perfect for Yellowstone’s challenging landscapes and unpredictable weather conditions.

For pet owners, BabyQuip also offers hiking-specific pet gear, such as collapsible water bowls, portable pet tents, and durable hiking harnesses. This ensures your furry companion is comfortable and ready to join your adventure.

Tips for Visiting Yellowstone with Your Family

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Planning a trip to Yellowstone with kids? These practical tips will help you stay safe, beat the crowds, and make the most of your family’s adventure in the great outdoors.

1. Plan and Set Expectations. Create a flexible itinerary to avoid rushing between sites. Research kid-friendly activities like ranger programs, scavenger hunts, and nature walks.
2. Keep Safety in Mind. Stay on marked trails, especially around geothermal features. Keep a safe distance from wildlife (100 yards from bears/wolves, 25 yards from other animals). Be aware of changing weather conditions and pack layers.
3. Choose Easy and Scenic Trails. Look for short, well-maintained trails like:
   1. Fountain Paint Pot Trail (0.5-mile loop)
   2. Boardwalk Trails at Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, and West Thumb Geyser Basin
   3. Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail (easy with scenic views)
4. Pack Wisely. Bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, water bottles, and snacks. Pack kid-friendly snacks like granola bars, fruit, and trail mix. For babies, bring a stroller for flat areas, baby carrier for hiking, portable changing station, and wet bag. Use child carrier backpacks for more difficult trails.
5. Be Prepared for Long Drives. Bring entertainment like books, games, music, and travel-friendly toys. Stop for frequent breaks at rest areas and scenic overlooks.
6. Stay in Family-Friendly Accommodations. Reserve accommodations early (lodges or campsites within the park). Choose campgrounds with family-friendly amenities (bathrooms, picnic tables). Consider staying at lodges like Old Faithful Inn or Lake Yellowstone Hotel.
7. Take Advantage of Ranger Programs. Sign kids up for the Junior Ranger Program to complete activities and earn a badge. Attend ranger-led walks and talks that are family-friendly.
8. Bring the Right Footwear and Gear. Ensure everyone has comfortable, sturdy shoes.
   For water and geothermal areas, bring water shoes for kids.
9. Be Prepared for Wildlife Encounters. Teach kids how to safely observe wildlife from a distance. Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing. Educate kids about the park’s animals and their role in the ecosystem.

These tips will help you have a smooth and enjoyable trip to Yellowstone with kids.

FAQs: Yellowstone with Kids

What are the best adventures for families visiting Yellowstone with kids?

When planning your trip to Yellowstone, there are numerous adventures your family won’t forget. Some of the top activities include exploring the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, taking a scenic drive around Yellowstone Lake, visiting the West Thumb Geyser Basin, and spotting wildlife along the Yellowstone River. Additionally, you can enjoy ranger-led programs designed for kids in Yellowstone, ensuring an educational and fun experience.

How can we prepare for a family vacation to Yellowstone?

Preparation is key to making the most of your Yellowstone National Park experience with kids. Start by creating a Yellowstone National Park itinerary with must-see attractions and activities. Pack essentials like snacks, water, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for changing weather conditions. Additionally, consider downloading maps and information about things to see in Yellowstone before your visit to ensure a seamless adventure.

What is the best time to visit Yellowstone with kids?

The best time to visit Yellowstone is between late spring and early fall, specifically from May to September. The weather is generally mild during these months, and most attractions are open. Additionally, this timeframe allows for more wildlife sightings and access to various things to do in Yellowstone, making it perfect for families traveling with young kids.

Are there any hikes in Yellowstone that are suitable for families?

Several family-friendly hikes in Yellowstone are perfect for families with young kids. Some popular options include the Mystic Falls Trail, which is about 2 miles round trip and offers stunning views, and the Geyser Basin Trails, which are generally flat and easy to navigate. Always check the difficulty level of each hike and ensure that it fits your family’s comfort level.

Conclusion

As you enter the park, get ready for an unforgettable Yellowstone trip with your kids! This adventure is not just about seeing stunning landscapes; it’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime. When planning a trip to Yellowstone, consider staying near the park to explore the best of the best.

Don’t forget to map out your road trip itinerary, which includes all the must-see areas of Yellowstone. Your family will fall in love with the magic of Yellowstone for kids—it’s time to hit the road!