Best Things to Do in and Around Yellowstone’s North Entrance

Yellowstone’s North Entrance, marked by the iconic Roosevelt Arch, offers a gateway to some of the park’s most breathtaking sights and one-of-a-kind wildlife encounters. From steaming geothermal wonders to trails teeming with natural beauty, this region showcases the park’s incredible landscapes. Beyond the entrance, nearby adventures call to outdoor enthusiasts, with thrilling rafting trips, horseback rides through rugged wilderness, soothing hot springs, and serene glamping sites that balance comfort with the great outdoors. Whether you’re exploring the heart of the park or its surrounding wonders, this guide will ensure your journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

Things to Do in Yellowstone North

1. Take a photo at the Roosevelt Arch

No visit to Yellowstone’s North Entrance is complete without snapping a photo at the iconic Roosevelt Arch. This towering structure marks the entrance to the park and is practically a required picture stop to show you’ve made it! The cornerstone was laid by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903, and its inscription, “For the benefit and enjoyment of the people,” beautifully captures the spirit of Yellowstone. It’s the perfect start to your adventure.

2. See geothermal features at Mammoth Hot Springs

For those drawn to Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, Mammoth Hot Springs is an absolute must-see. Its intricate limestone terraces, shaped like giant steps, are formed by mineral-rich hot water that’s been bubbling and sculpting for thousands of years. This ever-changing natural artwork is a dream for photographers and a favorite for nature enthusiasts. While the steaming water might look inviting, soaking here isn’t allowed — but don’t worry, there are other spots nearby for a relaxing dip. Stroll the boardwalks and let the beauty of this geothermal marvel take your breath away.

3. Tour Historic Fort Yellowstone

As you journey through Yellowstone, a stop at Fort Yellowstone offers a fascinating glimpse into the park’s early days. This former military post played a key role in protecting the world’s first national park and preserving its treasures for future generations. Many of the buildings from the Army era are still standing, now serving as park headquarters or housing for National Park Service employees.

4. Hike the Beaver Ponds Trail or Bunsen Peak Trail

Exploring a park like Yellowstone is all about soaking in its natural beauty, and there’s no better way to do that than by hitting the trails. The Beaver Ponds Trail offers a peaceful loop through shady forests, open meadows filled with sage, and groves of fir and aspen trees, leading to calm ponds where you might spot muskrats, water birds, and even signs of busy beavers.

If you’re up for more of a challenge, the Bunsen Peak Trail takes you to the top of a striking mountain. From the summit, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Swan Lake Flats, the Gallatin Mountain Range, and the Mammoth Hot Springs area.

5. Watch wildlife in the Lamar Valley

Known as the “Serengeti of North America”—a nod to Africa’s wildlife-rich plains—Lamar Valley is considered the best place in Yellowstone to see wildlife. Its wide-open meadows and grasslands, shaped by the Lamar River, provide ideal habitats for a diverse range of animals, including bison, elk, pronghorn, wolves, and even bears.

For the best wildlife-watching experience, aim to arrive at dawn or dusk when animals are most active. Being in the valley before sunrise gives you the highest odds of spotting these incredible creatures. Be sure to bring binoculars or a spotting scope, as many animals are hard to spot with the naked eye.

6. Enjoy the views at Calcite Springs Overlook and Tower Falls

Yellowstone’s awe-inspiring views and captivating waterfalls are highlights of any visit. At Calcite Springs Overlook, the Yellowstone River carves through towering volcanic cliffs, creating a dramatic landscape enhanced by the steam vents rising from the hot springs below. It’s a striking display of nature’s power and beauty.

Just a short distance away, Tower Falls adds to the wonder with its 132-foot drop, cascading down rugged cliffs framed by unique rock spires. The nearby trails provide even more chances to marvel at the scenery, with vantage points to feel the mist and hear the thunderous roar of the falls.

7. Stroll through Norris Geyser Basin

If you’re looking for Yellowstone’s most intense geothermal experience, Norris Geyser Basin is the place to be. As the park’s hottest and most dynamic thermal area, it’s a landscape alive with steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and brilliantly colored pools. Beneath its surface, temperatures often exceed 200°F, making it one of the most extreme environments in the park.

At the heart of this geothermal marvel is Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world, capable of erupting over 300 feet into the air. As you stroll along the boardwalks, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world, where the raw energy of the earth is on full display.

Things to Do Near Yellowstone North

1. Float or raft the Yellowstone River

Few experiences showcase Yellowstone’s wild beauty quite like a trip down the Yellowstone River. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of whitewater rafting or savoring the serenity of a peaceful float, Yellowstone Raft Company offers an adventure tailored to everyone’s style.

Thrill-seekers can take on Class II and Class III rapids as they navigate the historic Yankee Jim Canyon and the breathtaking Tom Miner Basin. With 8-mile or 18-mile options, the trip is packed with rugged scenery and remarkable landmarks unique to this region.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, a scenic float brings stunning views of Electric Peak and landmarks such as Boiling Beach, La Duke Hot Springs, and the Devil’s Slide. Drift through gentle stretches of the river, encounter wildlife, and uncover the rich history of the area. Every mile of the journey promises connection, awe, and memories your group will treasure long after the adventure.

2. Go horseback riding in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness

For a classic Montana experience, head to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and explore its mountain terrain on horseback. Guided by professional wranglers, these rides offer a memorable way to connect with the striking landscapes while riding well-trained horses.

A one- or two-hour trail ride is the perfect introduction, offering peaceful paths that wind through the captivating scenery. For an extra layer of adventure, choose the cowboy cookout option, where the ride ends with a hearty steak dinner around a campfire under Montana’s expansive sky. You can also elevate the experience by combining your trail ride with a whitewater rafting trip, blending the tranquility of horseback riding with the thrill of the river. Whichever you choose, these adventures promise cherished moments and an authentic taste of Montana’s wild beauty.

3. Soak in the hot springs at Yellowstone Hot Springs

After a day of exploring, there’s no better way to relax than by soaking in the mineral-rich waters of Yellowstone Hot Springs. Just eight miles north of Yellowstone’s North Entrance, this peaceful retreat features naturally heated pools with a continual flow-through system, ensuring fresh mineral water for every soak. Spanning 4,000 square feet, the pools offer a serene setting to unwind while enjoying breathtaking views of Montana’s big sky and the occasional sight of eagles gliding above. The mineral waters soothe the skin and provide relief for tired muscles, leaving you refreshed and ready for whatever adventure comes next.

4. Go glamping in luxurious Yellowstone tipis

For a stay that’s as iconic as the park itself, try glamping in a luxurious tipi just a mile north of the Roosevelt Arch. Once used by Native Americans as portable shelters for living in the wild, tipis bring a sense of connection to history and the outdoors. At Yellowstone Tipis, this iconic design has been elevated into a one-of-a-kind glamping retreat, where rustic charm meets modern comforts.

For kids, sleeping in a tipi feels like stepping into a real-life adventure, blending the thrill of the outdoors with the warmth of cozy amenities. Inside, you’ll find spacious interiors, soft bedding, and a tranquil escape surrounded by Montana’s breathtaking wilderness. Pair your stay with a river trip through Yellowstone Raft Company for a full day of excitement, and enjoy discounts when you book both. Whether you’re waking to the sounds of nature or gazing at stars under Montana’s expansive sky, this glamping experience offers memories you’ll treasure forever.

5. Hike one of the trails in the Custer Gallatin National Forest

For hiking enthusiasts, there’s even more to explore just outside Yellowstone in the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Trails like Bear Creek Trail and Pine Creek Falls offer stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and sweeping mountain views. The fresh mountain air and the thrill of seeing these unbelievable landscapes make every step a joy. Bring your camera—you’ll want to capture the cascading falls and the vibrant scenery along the way.

Plan Your Yellowstone Adventure

Whether you’re exploring the geothermal wonders of Mammoth Hot Springs, rafting the Yellowstone River, or glamping under a star-filled sky, Yellowstone’s North Entrance and its surroundings offer something for every traveler. Let Yellowstone Raft Company make your trip even more extraordinary with river excursions, horseback riding adventures, and a stay in luxurious tipis. Your adventure awaits — start planning your Yellowstone escape now.