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The nation’s first national park, Yellowstone, is impressive in each of the four seasons and fall is no exception. With the forests changing color, wildlife on the move and fewer crowds, autumn offers a unique travel experience. Here are the top reasons you need to visit Yellowstone National Park this fall.
The elk rut takes center stage
Eerie bugles echo across mountain valleys and meadows during the fall as bull elk battle to protect their harems. Charging at one another, locking antlers, and showcasing their strength let the bulls mark their territory. It’s an amazing sight, but it isn’t the only wildlife viewing in and around Yellowstone. This is also a great time to see bison, bears, and wolves preparing for the approaching winter.
Grab your bike or boots and hit the trail!
Hundreds of miles of trails weave through the millions of acres of public land surrounding West Yellowstone. Mountain biking, road cycling, and hiking will take you through forests transforming from vibrant green to vivid orange, red, and gold. And, don’t forget the Old Faithful Cycle Tour on Sept. 29. This 60-mile ride is an amazing way to see the park!
Heart of fly fishing in the Rocky Mountains
Blue-ribbon trout streams and deep mountain lakes beckon experienced and novice anglers alike. Brown and rainbow trout are migrating up the rivers to spawn, and fall offers the chance to hook them as well as the famous Hebgen Lake gulpers.
Learn about animals who make Yellowstone their home
Right next to the West Entrance to the park, the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is an animal sanctuary featuring live grizzly bears, wolves, and raptors. Listen to a Ranger Talk, visit the world-class bear museum, and, of course, watch the bears and wolves in their natural habitats. There is even a coupon for discounted admission here: https://www.destinationyellowstone.com/50%C2%A2-off-admission-at-the-grizzly-and-wolf-discovery-center/.
Soak up the charm of West Yellowstone
(www.destinationyellowstone.com). The streets are filled with cafés, pizza parlors, steakhouses, museums, and unique shops sure to delight. The Yellowstone Nature Connection features outdoor educational programs focusing on the history and importance of fires in nature. And, you won’t want to miss the Yellowstone Giant Screen theater, especially the daily showing of Yellowstone. All of this and more is waiting for you in and around West Yellowstone during a season when the crowds are smaller, but the sights are just as awe-inspiring. Still not sure? Fall features a free admission day to Yellowstone National Park – September 22 (National Public Lands Day).
Shouldn’t this be the year you experience the best of Yellowstone?
