How to Yellowstone with Kids.

Yellowstone National Park is a must-visit destination for families looking to explore the great outdoors. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife, it’s no wonder that Yellowstone is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. But planning a trip to Yellowstone with kids can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not sure where to start.

Fortunately, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in Yellowstone. From hiking to wildlife watching, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your guide on how to Yellowstone with kids:

My kids gagging at the small of Dragon's Mouth Spring. — The boys enjoying the smells from Dragon’s Mouth Spring

Go on a Hike

Yellowstone has over 900 miles of hiking trails, so there is something for hikers of all ages and abilities. Some of the most popular hikes for families include the Old Faithful Geyser Loop Trail and the Mud Volcano Trail Head. My Kids enjoyed the Mud Volcano Trail as it was the smelliest and stinkiest spot in all of Yellowstone. You must stop and see the Dragon’s Mouth Spring, and you will remember the smells for years to come. Do keep in mind this is a steep trail and includes steps. Make sure to download the National Park Service App and download Yellowstone before entering the park. This way, you can read along and learn all the facts about each location.

Visit the Geysers

Yellowstone is famous for its geysers; kids will be fascinated by these natural wonders. Old Faithful is the most famous geyser in the park. Still, there are many others to explore, some of our favorites being the Beehive Geyser and Castle Geyser which are all in the same walking loop as Old Faithful.

Our 8 year old standing in from of the Castle Geyser in Yellowstone National Park — Corbin standing in front of the Castle Geyser in Yellowstone National Park

See the Waterfalls

Yellowstone has some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country, and taking a hike to one of them is a great way to experience the park’s natural beauty. The hikes are generally easy, so they’re perfect for families with kids of all ages. On the South Rim of The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, you will find that Artist Point trailhead is a perfect location to view the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and the upper falls. Along the same road is the Clear Lake trailhead. There is a vast parking lot, some restrooms, and a great lookout to the lower falls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

View of the waterfall from Artist Point at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. — View from Artist Point at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

See the wildlife

Yellowstone is home to various wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, and wolves. Take a guided wildlife tour, or keep your eyes peeled as you explore the park.

Go Fishing

Yellowstone has some of the best fishing in the world, and kids will love catching trout in the park’s many rivers and streams. Visit the Yellowstone National Park Lodges website to learn more.

Corbin and his Cousin standing at a view point to Yellowstone Lake — Visiting Yellowstone Lake

Attend a Ranger Program

The park rangers offer a variety of programs for kids, including ranger-led hikes, talks, and campfire programs. Make sure you stop to grab your kids a Junior Park Ranger book which you can read more about it here in our post How to Plan a Trip to Yellowstone National Park.

No matter what you choose to do in Yellowstone, your kids will have a memorable experience in this incredible national park.