West Yellowstone, Montana

The Yellowstone Supervolcano is one of the most active geothermal areas on earth with more hot springs than anywhere else on the planet. The walls of the massive caldera of often hidden under snow and forest, but in places like Firehole Canyon you can see the Firehole River cut through massive la...

The Firehole River is one of the most unique trout-fishing rivers in the world, behaving in a manner unlike any other river in the Rockies due to the unique geothermal features found all along the length of the river. It is not known as a big-fish river but they are plentiful, with sizes averagin...

Big Springs is the headwaters of the Henry's Fork of the Snake River. Producing 120 million gallons of water per day, the spring forms wide and crystal-clear pools filled with trout (no fishing allowed). A paved trail leads to historic Johnny Sack's cabin, which is open for tours during the summe...

Tucked between Yellowstone and the Grand Teton National Parks sits Island Park, Idaho – and the best way to experience it is getting thrown around the inside of an UTV, kicking up dust, cranking corners and cruising the land. There are multiple vendors in town that offer rentals, and they wil...

Hebgen Lake is a beautiful lake, just outside of Yellowstone National Park. With 21 square miles of surface, there's plenty to fish.A favorite place to access the lake for ice fishing is by Kirkwood Resort and Marina. There's easy parking, and you can just walk right out on the lake. The locals t...

During the day this spot will be packed with people. Come back here at night time to get some beautiful night sky photography with the amazing hot springs and geysers in the foreground, without the crowds.If you are new to night photography, you can read my adventure on Mormon Row where I explain...

Gibbon Falls is a stunning, 84-foot waterfall in Yellowstone National Park. The falls are located just off the side of the Yellowstone Grand Loop Road, between Madison Junction and Norris Junction, making it a great place to stop and stretch your legs. There is a pullout with easy parking and inf...

Mystic Falls is located in the Biscuit Basin area of Yellowstone National Park. Biscuit Basin’s parking lot is approximately 2 miles north of Old Faithful along Grand Loop Road. Start your hike along the Biscuit Basin boardwalk. The boardwalk provides access to several thermal features includin...

Beryl Spring, so named for its aquamarine-like color, is one of the hottest springs in all of Yellowstone and is an easy stop off the Grand Loop Road about 17 miles west of Canyon Village. There is a large parking area and a elevated walkway providing viewing access. Under no circumstances should...

This out-and-back hike to the highest point in the Centennial mountains of Idaho and Montana skirts the continental divide and provides stunning views of both states.  From U.S. Highway 20, Sawtell Peak Road heads west, winding back and forth up the south side of Sawtell Peak.  Because there is a...

Lone Star Geyser gets its name from being one the most isolated major geysers. The trailhead begins just south of Old Faithful, along the Loop Road. This trail follows the Firehole River for 2.5 miles along an old service road, through a mix of wooded areas and open meadows. Wildlife spotting is ...

Don't be confused by Island Park Dam or the map location "Henry's Fork." This little spot is right on the actual fork in the river, but since most people don't know about it, you'll probably have it all to yourself! Once you park, walk down to the dam bridge. From there you can take in the scener...

The trailhead for Ice Lake starts at a small parking area along the Norris-Canyon Road, at around 8,000 feet elevation.The trail is very flat, with no noticeable elevation gain. This is a very family friendly hike, perfect for kids introduction to backpacking with such a short hike in.You'll noti...

Located at 6,100 feet above sea level, Harriman State Park (also called "the Ranch") is renown for it's fly fishing along the Henry's Fork. Whether you bring a fly rod or not, this scenic loop through the park is a delight for hikers of all abilities.Make a stop at park headquarters to pay the en...

The River Ranch Loop trail is a great snowshoe trail for families or beginners, since it has relatively few small hills. The trail runs for about 2.5 miles. There are also multiple state cabins/houses along the trail, including the Jones House, where you can take a break and warm up inside by the...

Harriman State Park offers two yurts that are tucked just inside of the park entrance: Cygnet and Wyethia. With the exception of ADA accessibility, they are both identical in size and amenities. Cygnet is the first Yurt on your right side as you pull down the drive, and Wyethia is a few hundred f...