20 Jaw-Dropping Natural Wonders You Have to See in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonderland, brimming with stunning geological features, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. As the first national park in the world, it has captivated visitors with its diversity and beauty.

Whether you’re marveling at its colorful hot springs, feeling the power of erupting geysers, or exploring its towering canyons, Yellowstone is a treasure trove of unforgettable natural wonders. Here are 20 must-see natural wonders you can’t miss when visiting this iconic park.

Old Faithful Geyser

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Old Faithful is the most famous geyser in Yellowstone, and for good reason. This natural wonder erupts approximately every 90 minutes, shooting hot water and steam up to 185 feet into the air.

It’s a must-see for every visitor and one of the park’s most reliable spectacles, drawing crowds from around the world.

Grand Prismatic Spring

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The Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the U.S. and the third-largest in the world. Its brilliant colors—shades of blue, green, yellow, and orange—are created by heat-loving bacteria that thrive in the extreme conditions.

A boardwalk around the spring allows visitors to get a closer view of its vibrant beauty.

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Mammoth Hot Springs

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Mammoth Hot Springs is a collection of hot springs that have created terraces of limestone deposits over thousands of years. The area is continually changing, as the hot springs and the travertine terraces evolve and shift.

The ethereal white formations are a striking contrast to the surrounding greenery.

Yellowstone Lake

Norm Erikson Storm Point Yellowstone Lake
Image Credit: Norm Erikson/Flickr

Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-altitude lake in North America, spans over 130 square miles. It offers stunning views, opportunities for boating, and the chance to spot wildlife along its shores.

The lake is also a hotspot for geothermal activity, with hot springs and fumaroles near its edges.

Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River

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The Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River is one of the most dramatic and iconic features in the park. At 308 feet, it’s nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls.

The waterfall is a stunning sight, especially when viewed from the Artist Point overlook, where you can catch its full majesty framed by the surrounding canyon.

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Norris Geyser Basin

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Norris Geyser Basin is the hottest and oldest geothermal area in Yellowstone. It’s home to several geysers, including the world’s tallest active geyser, Steamboat Geyser, which can erupt as high as 300 feet.

The basin also features colorful hot springs and fumaroles, making it a geological wonder.

Lamar Valley

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Lamar Valley is one of the best places in Yellowstone to view wildlife in its natural habitat. Known as the “Serengeti of North America,” the valley is home to bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears.

Its wide, rolling meadows provide a perfect backdrop for animal sightings.

Hayden Valley

Mike Goad Bison Hayden Valley Yellowstone National Park
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Hayden Valley is another prime wildlife viewing area in Yellowstone. It offers expansive views of the Yellowstone River and is frequently visited by bison, deer, and waterfowl.

In the early morning or late evening, you may even spot wolves hunting or bears foraging.

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Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

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The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a spectacular 20-mile-long canyon carved by the Yellowstone River. With its towering cliffs and vibrant colors—ranging from yellow and red to deep orange—this natural wonder rivals the Grand Canyon in its beauty and geological significance.

Black Sand Basin

James St. John Black Sand Basin in Yellowstones Upper Geyser Basin
Image Credit: James St. John/Flickr

Black Sand Basin is a striking geothermal area known for its dark, almost black hot springs. The basin features several brightly colored springs, including the vivid Sapphire Pool, and is one of the quieter, less-crowded geothermal areas in the park, making it a peaceful stop for visitors.

Gibbon Falls

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Gibbon Falls is a picturesque waterfall located on the Gibbon River. It cascades 84 feet down a series of rock formations, making it a beautiful spot for photography and quiet reflection.

The falls are easily accessible from the road and are a lovely stop while exploring the park.

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Fountain Paint Pots

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The Fountain Paint Pots are a unique collection of geothermal features in the park, including mud pots, geysers, and hot springs. The area’s vibrant colors, caused by the different minerals in the water, resemble a painter’s palette, making it a fascinating place to visit.

Mount Washburn

Petr Maly Mount Washburn trail Yellowstone
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Mount Washburn is a popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Yellowstone. The summit stands at 10,243 feet and provides a bird’s-eye view of the park’s landscapes, including the Lamar Valley, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and the surrounding mountains.

West Thumb Geyser Basin

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Located on the edge of Yellowstone Lake, the West Thumb Geyser Basin features several geothermal features, including hot springs, fumaroles, and the unique Abyss Pool, which has the deepest water of any hot spring in the park. The basin’s lakeside location adds a tranquil atmosphere to the experience.

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The Petrified Tree

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The Petrified Tree is an ancient tree that has been turned to stone over millions of years through a process called silicification. Visitors can view the tree’s fascinating remnants in the park’s Petrified Forest, offering a glimpse into the area’s distant past.

Thermal Features of the Upper Geyser Basin

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The Upper Geyser Basin is home to a variety of geothermal features, including the famous Old Faithful. Besides this iconic geyser, the area contains numerous hot springs, fumaroles, and smaller geysers, such as Castle and Beehive, making it a must-see for geothermal enthusiasts.

Beryl Spring

Dave Coppedge Beryl Spring
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Beryl Spring is one of the most striking geothermal features in Yellowstone, with its vivid turquoise waters and surrounding mineral deposits. Its clear, bright blue color contrasts with the surrounding landscape, making it a favorite among photographers.

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Terrace Springs

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Terrace Springs, located near the Norris Geyser Basin, is a peaceful spot with colorful hot springs surrounded by lush vegetation. The area is a perfect example of how Yellowstone’s geothermal activity creates fascinating landscapes that evolve over time.

Shoshone Geyser Basin

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Shoshone Geyser Basin is one of the park’s more remote geothermal areas, making it a great place to experience Yellowstone’s natural wonders in a less crowded environment. It’s home to several hot springs and geysers, including the impressive Shoshone Geyser.

Lower Geyser Basin

Laura Downey Yellowstone Lower Geyser Basin
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The Lower Geyser Basin is home to several fascinating geothermal features, including the Great Fountain Geyser, which erupts regularly in dramatic displays. The area’s mud pots and hot springs add to its appeal, making it a captivating stop for visitors exploring Yellowstone.

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