Yellowstone Day Tours Blog

Yellowstone receives roughly 4.5 million visitors annually, and many of them spend most of their time in the same handful of spots. Knowing where to go, when to arrive, and what to watch for once you’re there makes the difference between a good vacation and one you’ll be talking about for years. If you want to make the most of your visit, start with these 10 must-see spots in the park. We’ll share tips from our guides to help you avoid the crowds, pick the best viewing time,

Yellowstone is open for the 2026 season! The West Entrance and North Entrance are welcoming visitors now, with more roads opening throughout May. Spring is prime time in the park — grizzlies are emerging from hibernation, bison calves are hitting the ground, and Lamar Valley wolves are active. Geothermal steam columns rise dramatically in the cool air, and the waterfalls are running at full force. Come explore — our guides know exactly where to take you.

Not sure which Yellowstone tour to choose? Yellowstone Day Tours has a variety of options, including wildlife safaris, winter wolf tours, and scenic loops. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you find the perfect fit.

Every April and May, Yellowstone wakes from its wintry slumber. Grizzlies emerge from hibernation, bison calves nicknamed "red dogs" take their first wobbly steps, and wolves hunt aggressively to feed growing litters. Spring floods the landscape with newborn wildlife and raw, unscripted moments — making it one of the most dramatic and rewarding times to experience the park.

Photo by Yellowstone Day Tours owner and guide Brian McCooey While 64% of visitation in Yellowstone occurs between June and August, some of the best wildlife, weather, and foliage can be found in the ‘shoulder season.’ In May and early June, cool weather and hunger after a long winter means wildlife is very active. This is a great time of year to see bears emerging from hibernation with cubs, elk moving in large herds from their winter range to summer feeding grounds, and pre