Here is how to spend a day in Yellowstone, built from the hikes and activities the National Park Service lists and the time it says each takes. Times are for the activity itself; add time for driving, parking and shuttles between stops, and swap anything that is closed or out of season.
Day 1
About 6.5 hours of listed activity time.
Start at Albright Visitor Center for maps, current trail conditions and ranger advice.
Morning
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone (1 to 2 hours). Look out across the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone or take in the beauty of the Yellowstone River and its waterfalls.
Afternoon
- Abandoned Railroad Bed Bike Trail (2 to 4 hours). An abandoned railroad bed located near the north entrance of Yellowstone makes a beautiful bike trail. (best in summer, fall)
- Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail (1 to 3 hours). Hike to a high mountain meadow for a commanding view of the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake and the distant Absaroka Mountains. (best in summer, fall)
Make it work
- When to go: May, June, August and September. See the best time to visit.
- Where to stay: 12 campgrounds and 10 lodges in the park; see camping and lodging.
- Before you go: check today’s alerts and read know before you go. More ideas: all things to do.
Today at Yellowstone
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Checking park alerts…
Alerts: National Park Service, checked hourly. Forecast: National Weather Service, for Albright Visitor Center. Always confirm on the official park site before you set out.
Sources
- National Park Service: things to do in Yellowstone National Park (Data API, public domain)
Last checked 1 November 2026.