There’s a lot to do at Yellowstone National Park for families. From gushing geysers to cookouts, your kids will never be bored. Think Yellowstone is just about hiking and picnics? Think again!
See Old Faithful & the Grand Prismatic
Two of the most amazing sights in the world are located at Yellowstone: Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic. Old Faithful is very impressive no matter what time of year you visit it. It most easily viewed by taking the boardwalk path of the Upper Geyser Trail. The Grand Prismatic Spring is around 300 feet in diameter and is the largest natural hot spring in the U.S. It’s 160 degrees Fahrenheit and features water that changes color throughout the year. During the summer it tends to be orange and red and during the winter it’s often green. You can see it by hiking the .8 boardwalk loop or even by view it on a helicopter tour.
Become a Junior Ranger
Kids love the Junior Ranger program at Yellowstone National park. They have to attend this short program and get to go on a hike in the park. Upon completion they will get an activity book and a Junior Ranger patch. Both make nice mementos to remember the experience.
Go Horseback Riding
One of the most popular activities for families to take part in when they are at Yellowstone is horseback riding. Riders can go through valleys and see some of the wildlife that call the park home. Riders generally have to be at least 8 years old and 48 inches tall.
Attend an Old West Cookout Dinner
If you want to see what an old west dinner was like, then you must attend this event. Participants ride in a stagecoach to the sight where dinner is being prepared. During the meal diners are entertained by music and wranglers. The meal includes steak, a variety of sides and dessert. This event is suitable for practically any age.
White Water Rafting
White water rafting in Yellowstone is something you won’t forget. Participants are taken in a raft down the Yellowstone river with a guide that provides an entertaining and safe time. There are half day and full day trips available and this activity is best suited for older children. Currently the river is closed because of an issue with parasites killing native fish. To give the fish time to recover, no more rafting trips are taking place this year. Rafting should be allowed again in the late spring.
Visit the Old Faithful Inn
This hotel is one of the largest log built structures in the world. It allows for a great view of Old Faithful and first opened in 1904. The construction is very unique with its rustic feel and large 500-ton stone fireplace located in the lobby. If you want to visit Yellowstone National Park, but don’t necessarily want to camp, then this is a great place to stay at.
