Best Things to Do in Yellowstone with Kids
Yellowstone National Park stands as one of America’s most family-friendly destinations, offering an unparalleled combination of natural wonders, educational opportunities, and adventure. Spanning 3,472 square miles across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, this UNESCO World Heritage Site provides families with incredible experiences and life long memories. Here is what to expect when visiting Yellowstone with kids.
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Know Before You Go
Park entrance fees are $35 for private vehicles and are valid for seven consecutive days. Fourth graders and their families can enter free with the Every Kid Outdoors Annual Pass. Visitors are required to stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from all other wildlife.
Our Top 5 Family Activities in Yellowstone
1. Lone Star Geyser
While Old Faithful draws massive crowds, Lone Star Geyser offers families an up-close, personal encounter with one of nature’s most spectacular displays.
To reach the geyser, you’ll begin with a 2-mile hike or bike ride each way. The geyser erupts approximately every 3 hours with 30 minutes of continuous eruption. Unlike Old Faithful’s massive crowds, Lone Star offers a more intimate experience.
We recommend packing a picnic lunch and blankets for comfortable waiting, and arrive early in the day for cooler temperatures. Bring plenty of water and snacks for the 4-mile round trip journey.
There are no barriers around the geyser, so constant supervision of children is mandatory. The crystal-clear stream nearby is a good distraction while families are waiting for the eruption. This is one of our favorite things to do in Yellowstone with kids!
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat and crowds.
2. Boiling River
Don’t forget to pack your swimsuits and swim shoes for Yellowstone! If you do you will be able to experience the uniqueness of the Boiling River. The River is a combination of the cold water from Gardner River combining with a hot spring.
If you hang out in the right place the water is a nice warm temperature. Perfect for just hanging out – think natural hot tub. Then if you get closer to the hot spring waters it is HOT and away from the hot springs it is cold!
Be aware that the water has a strong current and requires adult supervision at all times. Rock formations typically indicate safe soaking areas, but you should always hold children’s hands when entering and exiting. Be sure to check current park conditions, as access can be restricted during high water periods.
3. Lodge Porch
Located near Lake Hotel (not inside the hotel itself), this wooden porch features classic rocking chairs with panoramic views of Yellowstone Lake.
Grab your beverages inside the lodge and settle into rocking chairs on the expansive porch to watch the “reverse sunset” as evening light illuminates the mountains behind Yellowstone Lake. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound here, particularly bison sightings. Sometimes you just want to sit down and relax!
Insider Tip: Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset for the best seating and optimal lighting conditions.
4. Family friendly hiking adventures
I am telling you it is worth it to go on a hike in Yellowstone with kids. The park is usually super busy but if you just go on a hike a mile off of the main road you can sometimes be the only person there! It is crazy the difference compared to the craziness of places like Old Faithful.
Yellowstone’s hiking trails offer families the chance to escape crowds and experience the park’s wilderness intimately.
Mount Washburn: The Ultimate Family Challenge
This 6-mile round trip hike offers moderate to challenging terrain but rewards families with 360-degree views from the top of the mountain’s storm lookout shelter. We hiked Mount Washburn with young kids (our kids were 7, 5, 5 and 3) so I know it is possible!
We recommend starting early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms and pack plenty of water. Bring snacks and lunch, layer clothing for temperature changes, and allow 4-6 hours for the complete experience.
Storm Point Trail: Perfect for Younger Families
At 2.3 miles round trip with easy to moderate difficulty, Storm Point Trail features an old-growth forest walk with stunning lake views. It’s ideal for families who want a gentler hiking experience. You will aslo have an amazing view of the lake from the Storm Point lookout.
5. Grand Prismatic
This is Yellowstone’s largest hot spring and the third-largest in the world. Grand Prismatic Spring displays a stunning rainbow of colors created by heat-loving bacteria.
The main boardwalk provides close-up views but can be crowded, while the Overlook Trail offers a 0.8-mile hike to an elevated viewpoint with the best photography opportunities and full-spring perspective.
Be sure to hold your kids’ hands and make sure no one is wearing hats (they will most likely blow off).
Additional Family Activities in Yellowstone
Junior Ranger Program
Children can participate in the park’s Junior Ranger program, using identification skills for elk, bison, and bears, making their visit both educational and engaging.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Horseback riding is available from Roosevelt Corrals. Advance reservations are essential during busy summer months.
Visitor Centers and Educational Programs
There are visitor centers throughout the park that offer interactive exhibits, films, and ranger-led programs specifically designed for families.
Essential Safety Information
Wildlife: The National Park Service requires visitors to maintain specific distances from wildlife for both human and animal safety. Stay 100 yards away from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from all other wildlife including bison, elk, and deer.
Thermal Features: Never leave designated boardwalks or trails, and supervise children at all times near hot springs and geysers. Water temperatures can exceed 200°F and cause severe burns, while thermal ground can be thin and unstable.
General Park Safety: Weather can change rapidly so pack layers, carry bear spray in bear country, stay hydrated at Yellowstone’s 8,000+ foot elevation, and inform someone of your hiking plans.
Best Times to Visit with Families
Summer is the peak season for Yellowstone. With it comes the warmest weather but the largest crowds. Typically all facilities and roads are open.
Spring and fall offer fewer crowds and moderate weather, but some facilities may be closed. Wildlife tends to be more active during these times.
Winter is challenging but do-able. Limited access to some attractions provides unique experiences like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. However most roads are closed to regular vehicles.
We recommend planning a 4 to 5 day stay to see the highlights of Yellowstone with kids. There are several in the park lodges, or you can book a stay in one of the nearby towns – Gardiner, Cody, or West Yellowstone.
Why Visit Yellowstone National Park with Kids
Yellowstone National Park offers families an opportunity to connect with nature, learn about conservation, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The activities we shared are just the beginning of what this incredible park has to offer families.
The key to a successful Yellowstone family adventure lies in proper planning, realistic expectations, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected moments that make family travel so rewarding.
Whether you’re watching a geyser erupt, soaking in natural hot springs, or hiking to a mountaintop vista, Yellowstone provides the perfect backdrop for families to discover nature together.
For more detailed information about current park conditions, fees, and regulations, visit the official National Park Service website at nps.gov/yell. Always check current conditions before your visit, as weather and wildlife can affect access to certain areas.
About the authors: Bryanna and Craig of Crazy Family Adventure document their full-time family travel adventures, sharing practical tips and inspiration for families looking to explore America’s national parks and beyond. Their firsthand experience and honest insights help families plan successful outdoor adventures with children of all ages.
Looking for more things to do in Yellowstone? Don’t miss our post on planning a family vacation to Yellowstone National Park and what not to miss on a Yellowstone family vacation with teens.
