Driving Yellowstone’s Lower Loop is the perfect way to explore Yellowstone’s geothermal features and diverse landscapes. Whether you’re interested in witnessing the powerful eruption of Old Faithful, gazing at the vibrant colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring, or spotting wildlife in Hayden Valley, there’s something for everyone along this 96-mile scenic route. Here’s everything you need to know about driving the Yellowstone Lower Loop, including 10 can’t miss stops and 7 fun hikes along the way!

What is the Yellowstone Lower Loop?

Driving is one of the best and most popular ways to explore Yellowstone National Park. Grand Loop Road is the main road through Yellowstone that connects the park's main attractions. It forms Yellowstone’s “Grand Loop,” a figure-8 through the park that includes an “Upper Loop” and a “Lower Loop.” The Upper Loop provides access to sights like the Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Fall, and Dunraven Pass, and offers easy detour access to the famous Lamar Valley (the best place in Yellowstone for wildlife watching).

Yellowstone’s Lower Loop, on the other hand, is a scenic drive through the lower or more southern sections of Yellowstone National Park, connecting destinations such as Norris Geyser Basin, Canyon Village, Lake Village, West Thumb, and Madison Junction. Driving the Lower Loop is the best way to see Yellowstone’s other most popular landmarks, like Artist Point, Hayden Valley, Yellowstone Lake, Old Faithful Geyser, and the Grand Prismatic Spring.

Yellowstone’s Lower Loop is generally the more popular loop to drive, as it passes by many geyser basins, geothermal features, Yellowstone Lake, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. However, Yellowstone’s Upper Loop is generally a more scenic drive and better for wildlife watching—so both are must-dos when visiting Yellowstone National Park.

How many miles is Yellowstone’s Lower Loop?

Yellowstone’s Lower Loop is approximately 96 miles long and takes about 2.5 hours to drive without stops and traffic. However, we highly recommend giving yourself a full day to explore the Lower Loop as you’ll want to make plenty of stops along the way.

Yellowstone’s Lower Loop is known for its geysers and hot springs, including the famous Old Faithful Geyser, as well as stunning views of Yellowstone Lake and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Plan for at least a half day but ideally one full day to explore Yellowstone’s Lower Loop, so you can stop at all of the iconic viewpoints and attractions along the way.

Yellowstone Lower Loop Map

Yellowstone’s Lower Loop passes attractions such as the Norris Geyser Basin, Grand Prismatic Spring, Old Faithful Geyser, the West Thumb Geyser Basin, and Hayden Valley, as well as Artist Point and the Brink of the Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. This section of the park is known for its geysers and hot springs, as well as stunning views of Yellowstone Lake and Yellowstone Canyon.

Here’s a 1-day itinerary for driving Yellowstone’s Lower Loop.

From Canyon Village, take North Rim Drive to the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, then enjoy the Artist Point Overlook on South Rim Drive.

Continue driving through Hayden Valley, stopping at various pull-offs for scenic views and wildlife watching. Hop out of your car at the West Thumb Geyser Basin for amazing views of Yellowstone Lake.

After walking the trails at West Thumb Geyser Basin, continue driving the “Grand Loop” to the Upper Geyser Basin (Old Faithful). Old Faithful eruptions happen approximatley every 90 minutes. Stop at the Old Faithful Visitor Center to check the next approximate eruption. If it's soon, hang out and grab a spot to watch. Otherwise, explore the Upper Geyser Basin or even head to the Biscuit Basin, Black Sand Basin, or Kepler Cascades while you’re waiting.

Next, drive to the Fairy Falls Trailhead. Hike to the Grand Prismatic Overlook for a birds-eye view of the famous Grand Prismatic Spring, then walk the boardwalk at the Midway Geyser Basin for a closer look.

End your day exploring Yellowstone’s most dynamic geyser basin, Norris Geyser Basin, and remember, always keep your eyes peeled for wildlife when driving in Yellowstone! If you see cars pulled over on the side of the road, there's probably something nearby.

Is it worth driving Yellowstone’s Lower Loop?

It’s absolutely worth driving Yellowstone’s Lower Loop! If you only have one day in Yellowstone, we recommend driving both the Lower and Upper Loops, which together form Yellowstone’s Grand Loop. (Grand Loop Road is the main road through Yellowstone and the most scenic route through the park.)

If you have two days in Yellowstone, we recommend driving the Lower Loop one day and the Upper Loop the next. If you have more than two days, you could easily spend two days exploring the sights, hikes, and attractions along Yellowstone Lower Loop alone. (We like to spend one day exploring the geyser basins on the west and one day in Yellowstone Canyon on the east.) There’s so much to do and see along Yellowstone’s Lower Loop!

Where does Yellowstone’s Lower Loop start and end? Is driving clockwise or counterclockwise better?

Yellowstone’s Lower Loop does not have a fixed starting or ending point, as it can be accessed from any of the five entrances around the park. However, the closest entrances to Yellowstone’s Lower Loop include the West Entrance (West Yellowstone, MT), the East Entrance (Cody, WY), and the South Entrance (near Grand Teton National Park).

If you’re staying near the North Entrance (Gardiner, MT) or the Northeast Entrance (Cooke City, MT), you can follow Grand Loop Road through the park to Yellowstone’s Lower Loop, picking it up near either the Norris Geyser Basin or Canyon Village. And if you’re staying inside the park at Canyon Village, Old Faithful, Lake Village or nearby campgrounds, you can pick up Yellowstone’s Lower Loop at whichever access point is closest to you.

Yellowstone’s Lower Loop is simply a segment of Yellowstone’s “Grand Loop,” which follows Grand Loop Road, the main road through Yellowstone National Park. This is the road you’ll drive to get to the majority of Yellowstone’s top attractions and destinations. The Grand Loop forms a figure-8 through the park, so you can start and end your journey wherever is closest to you.

Because the Lower Loop is a loop, you can follow it clockwise or counterclockwise depending on which attractions you’re most interested in seeing.

If you’re staying in Madison Campground or West Yellowstone, MT, the closest starting point is Madison Junction. From there, you can head clockwise toward Norris Geyser Basin and then Canyon Village, or you can head counterclockwise toward the Lower, Midway, and Upper Geyser Basins. (The Grand Prismatic Spring is located in Midway Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Geyser is located in the Upper Geyser Basin.) Our recommendation is to head clockwise, so you beat the crowds at Canyon Village and get to Hayden Valley, one of the best places for wildlife watching in Yellowstone, earlier in the day. We also love exploring the geyser basins at sunset, as the lighting at the Midway Geyser Basin especially is gorgeous in the evening.

If you’re staying in Gardiner or Mammoth Hot Springs, the closest starting location is the Norris Geyser Basin. From there, we recommend driving clockwise to Canyon Village.

If you’re staying in or near Roosevelt Lodge or Cooke City, the closest starting location is Canyon Village. Explore here first then make your way clockwise to Hayden Valley, then Yellowstone Lake.

If you’re staying in Cody, WY, or Lake Village, the closest starting location is Lake Village on Yellowstone Lake. We recommend driving counterclockwise through Hayden Valley to Canyon Village.

If you’re coming from Grant Village or Yellowstone’s South Entrance, the closest starting location is West Thumb. Enjoy gorgeous sunrises over West Thumb Geyser Basin, then you can’t really go wrong driving in either direction. Head counterclockwise toward Hayden Valley and Canyon Village if you’re most excited about wildlife watching or canyon views… or head clockwise if you want to beat the crowds for an Old Faithful eruption or views of the Grand Prismatic Spring. (We’re partial to the Grand Prismatic Spring just before sunset, so we’d drive counterclockwise and head to Hayden Valley and Canyon Village first. However, Old Faithful is probably the most popular attraction in the park so if you’re visiting during busy summer months, head here first thing.)

If you’re staying in Old Faithful, start there and then drive clockwise to the Grand Prismatic Spring and beyond. Hang out in Hayden Valley around dusk to maximize your chances of seeing wildlife.

Where should I stay to drive Yellowstone’s Lower Loop?

You can drive Yellowstone’s Lower Loop regardless of where you stay within or outside of the park. And since you’ll want to drive Yellowstone’s Upper Loop during your trip as well, it’s generally best take in more than just your proximity to Yellowstone Lower Loop when thinking about where to stay.

With that said, if you’re most excited about seeing the attractions on Yellowstone’s Lower Loop, then the closer you are to the lower portion of Grand Loop Road, the more time you’ll have for exploring. Just remember that even those staying in Mammoth Hot Springs, Gardiner, and elsewhere in northern Yellowstone can easily take a day trip to the Lower Loop.

Our recommendation for the best experience of Yellowstone’s Lower Loop is to stay in either Canyon Village or Old Faithful. We’re partial to Canyon Village because it’s arguably the most centrally located area in the entire park—sitting on both Yellowstone’s Lower Loop and Upper Loop— is close to Hayden Valley, a great spot for wildlife watching (which is something we personally love doing in Yellowstone). However, Old Faithful is closer to the Grand Prismatic Spring—and Grand Teton National Park if you’re planning to visit both in one trip—so you can’t go wrong either way.

Best Time of Year to Drive Yellowstone’s Lower Loop

We’ve driven through Yellowstone in every season. Winter is a true wonderland, but isn’t best for Yellowstone’s Lower Loop because the road is closed to private vehicles. Spring is baby animal season in Yellowstone (hello, bear cubs and wolf pups!), but rolling road openings keep sections of Yellowstone’s Lower Loop closed.

For this reason, late May through October is the best time of year to drive Yellowstone’s Lower Loop.

Plan your trip between mid-May and Memorial Day for fewer crowds and phenomenal wildlife watching. Bring your patience and plan your trip for those warm days in late summer for the best views of the Grand Prismatic Spring. For the most comfortable hiking temperatures, plan your trip for October.

Click the link below for more information on the best (and worst) times to visit Yellowstone National Park.

When is Yellowstone Lower Loop open?

Yellowstone National Park is open 24/7, but certain roads and entrances close seasonally—including Yellowstone Lower Loop.

Yellowstone’s Lower Loop typically opens to vehicle traffic in mid-April, but exact opening dates can vary each year due to weather conditions and snowpack levels. During the spring, rolling road openings occur, allowing access to various sections of the loop as they become passable, starting with the West Entrance to Old Faithful and Madison Junction to Canyon Village.

By late May, most of the Lower Loop is usually fully open, providing access to major attractions like the Grand Prismatic Spring and Yellowstone Lake. Conversely, the Lower Loop generally closes on October 31st, as the park prepares to transition into its winter season. During winter, the only way to access Yellowstone Lower Loop is by snowmobile or snowcoach travel.

10 Best Things to Do and See Along the Yellowstone Lower Loop

Here are ten of the best overlooks, hikes, and places to stop along Yellowstone’s Lower Loop. We’re sharing these as though you’re driving clockwise from Canyon Village, so it’s easier to follow along. (We designate our favorite stops with asterisks.)

1. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone (Artist Point and Brink of the Lower Falls)*

Short detours from the Lower Loop, the North and South Rim Drives in the Canyon Village area offer some of the best views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The North Rim Drive features iconic overlooks like the Grand View Point and the Brink of the Lower Falls, where you can get close to the waterfall's edge. The South Rim Drive provides access to the famous Artist Point, offering stunning panoramic views of the canyon and the Lower Falls. Both drives are short but packed with incredible scenery, making them essential stops for any visit to the park.

Artist Point offers one of the most iconic views in Yellowstone, overlooking the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the Lower Falls. The viewpoint provides a breathtaking panorama of the canyon’s vibrant yellow and red walls, carved by the Yellowstone River over thousands of years. It’s a popular spot for photography and a great place to appreciate the park’s dramatic geology.

2. Hayden Valley

Hayden Valley is one of the best places in Yellowstone to see wildlife, such as bison, elk, and sometimes wolves and bears. The valley’s wide, grassy expanses are ideal for grazing animals, and the Yellowstone River meanders through the area, attracting waterfowl and other bird species. Early morning and late evening are the best times to visit, as animals are most active during these hours. The valley’s open vistas also make it a great spot for photography, with the potential for capturing animals against the backdrop of distant mountains and meadows. There are several pullouts along the road where you can safely watch and photograph wildlife without disturbing them.

3. Mud Volcano

The Mud Volcano area is known for its bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and the unique Dragon’s Mouth Spring, where steam and water surge from a cave with a roaring sound. The boardwalk trail takes you past these fascinating features, showcasing the park’s volcanic activity up close. The smell of sulfur and the sight of boiling mud make this a sensory experience unlike any other in the park and the Mud Volcano area is a great place to learn about the park’s active volcanic system. It’s a short but intriguing stop that offers a glimpse into the more volatile aspects of Yellowstone’s geology.

4. Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America, and its vast expanse of water offers a serene contrast to the park’s geothermal areas. The lake’s shores are great for picnicking, fishing, and boating, with several marinas and launch points available. Kayaking or taking a scenic boat tour is a wonderful way to explore the lake and view the surrounding mountains and forests. The West Thumb Geyser Basin, located on the lake’s western shore, features hot springs and fumaroles right along the water’s edge, making it a unique spot to witness the interaction between geothermal activity and the lake. The calm waters and scenic backdrop make Yellowstone Lake a peaceful stop on the Lower Loop.

5. West Thumb Geyser Basin

West Thumb Geyser Basin is a beautiful area where geothermal features meet the waters of Yellowstone Lake. This basin is home to geysers, hot springs, and mud pots, some of which are located underwater. The boardwalk trails lead you past colorful springs like Abyss Pool and Fishing Cone, offering stunning views of both the thermal features and the lake. The setting is especially beautiful in the morning light or at sunset, when the colors of the springs are reflected in the lake’s calm surface. It’s a relatively small but very photogenic area, perfect for a short stroll and unique photos.

6. Old Faithful Geyser (Upper Geyser Basin)

Old Faithful is perhaps Yellowstone’s most famous attraction and a must-see on the Lower Loop. This iconic geyser erupts approximately every 90 minutes, shooting water and steam up to 180 feet in the air. Watching an eruption is a fun experience, and the surrounding Old Faithful Historic District offers additional attractions like the Old Faithful Inn and the visitor center. It’s also a great starting point for exploring nearby geyser basins, such as the Upper Geyser Basin, Biscuit Basin, and Black Sand Basin. Old Faithful’s predictability makes it accessible to visitors of all ages, and the boardwalks around the area provide safe and easy viewing.

7. Grand Prismatic Spring (Midway Geyser Basin)

Grand Prismatic Spring is Yellowstone’s largest hot spring and one of its most colorful attractions. Located in the Midway Geyser Basin, it’s famous for its vibrant rings of orange, yellow, and blue, created by different heat-loving bacteria. A short boardwalk trail allows you to view the spring up close, but for a truly stunning perspective, hike the nearby Fairy Falls Trail for an aerial view. The spring’s vivid colors are best seen on a sunny day, when the contrast between the bright hues and the surrounding landscape is most striking. This area does get crowded as nearby parking lots are small, so visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can provide a more peaceful experience.

8. Lower Geyser Basin

The Lower Geyser Basin includes attractions like Fountain Paint Pot and Great Fountain Geyser. The Fountain Paint Pot area features a variety of geothermal features, including boiling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and erupting geysers. It’s a great place to learn about the different types of geothermal activity present in the park. Great Fountain Geyser, located along Firehole Lake Drive, is one of the park’s largest predictable geysers and offers spectacular eruptions that can last for over an hour. The basin’s easy-to-walk boardwalks and diverse features make it a fun and accessible stop for families and those interested in geology. The ever-changing nature of the features means you can see something new each time you visit.

9. Artist Paintpots

Artist Paintpots is a colorful geothermal area featuring boiling mud pots and hot springs with vibrant mineral deposits. The short trail to the paintpots takes you through a forested area, offering a different perspective on the park’s geothermal features. The mud pots here are constantly changing, creating new patterns and shapes as they bubble and churn. It’s a quieter stop compared to some of the larger basins, making it a great place to enjoy the unique sights and sounds of Yellowstone’s geothermal activity. The area’s name reflects the array of colors on display, which resemble an artist’s palette.

10. Norris Geyser Basin

Norris Geyser Basin is the hottest and most dynamic geyser basin in Yellowstone. It’s home to Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world, which can erupt up to 300 feet high. The basin features a variety of geothermal features, including hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots, all in a surreal, otherworldly landscape. Walking the boardwalks through the Porcelain Basin and Back Basin areas gives you an up-close look at these powerful forces of nature. Norris is also one of the oldest geyser basins in the park, with geothermal activity dating back thousands of years.

This is just a starting point, as there’s so much more to see along Yellowstone’s Lower Loop! Take your time to explore and stop at all the overlooks and attractions that catch your interest. For example, Biscuit Basin is home to the stunning Sapphire Pool, one of Yellowstone's most beautiful blue pools, and the Jewel Geyser, which erupts every 7-10 minutes. At Black Sand Basin, you’ll find the vibrant Emerald Pool, Rainbow Pool, Sunset Lake, and the Cliff Geyser, which puts on a show every few minutes. Kepler Cascades is a beautiful quick stop if you’re waiting for Old Faithful to erupt. Although swimming in Yellowstone is limited due to cold lake temperatures and dangerous hot springs, the Firehole Swim Area opens around mid-summer and is a popular spot to cool off two miles south of Madison Junction on Firehole Canyon Drive. With so much to explore, be sure to take advantage of every opportunity to see more of Yellowstone’s natural wonders.

3 Great Places for Wildlife Watching on Yellowstone Lower Loop

Here are some of the best places for wildlife watching along the Yellowstone Lower Loop. For those interested wildlife watching, be sure to also drive Yellowstone’s Upper Loop and spend time in Lamar Valley.

1. Hayden Valley

Hayden Valley is one of the best wildlife watching locations in Yellowstone, known for its expansive meadows and proximity to the Yellowstone River. Visitors can often spot herds of bison grazing in the valley, especially during the spring and fall months. In addition to bison, the valley is home to elk, coyotes, and even the occasional bear. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit for optimal wildlife sightings, as animals are more active during these cooler hours. Birdwatchers will also enjoy the area, with opportunities to see ospreys, trumpeter swans, and various waterfowl.

2. Roadside Meadows (Bears)

When driving Yellowstone’s Lower Loop, keep an eye out for bears in the roadside meadows, especially during the spring and fall. Bears often come down from the higher elevations to forage for food, making these open areas prime spots for sightings. The meadows between Madison and Old Faithful, as well as around Hayden Valley, are known for bear activity. Additionally, the Old Faithful area is a surprisingly good place to spot wolves in the winter, as packs have been observed hunting in the geothermal-rich regions that remain snow-free. Remember to keep a safe distance and use binoculars or a scope to enjoy these incredible animals without disturbing them.

3. Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake is not only a beautiful scenic area but also a prime location for spotting wildlife. Along its shores, visitors might see bison, elk, and waterfowl, particularly during the warmer months. The lake’s surroundings are home to a variety of birds, including eagles and ducks, making it a great spot for birdwatching. Summer is the best time to visit, as the wildlife is more active and accessible. Fishing enthusiasts might also catch glimpses of moose near the water’s edge, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Otters have also been spotted swimming in Yellowstone Lake near the West Thumb Geyser Basin.

7 Scenic Hikes Along Yellowstone Lower Loop

Here are seven scenic hikes along Yellowstone’s Lower Loop, each offering unique views and experiences.

1. Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake, and South Rim Trail

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone offers some of the park's most breathtaking views, with its dramatic cliffs and stunning waterfalls. The Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake, and South Rim Trail is a moderate 5-mile loop near Canyon Village and is one of the best hikes in Yellowstone. Along the way, you’ll pass Clear Lake, an alpine lake with clear waters and peaceful surroundings, and Ribbon Lake, a quieter lake offering a more secluded experience. Hike counterclockwise, and don’t forget to stop at the Artist Point Overlook for one of the best views in the park.

2. Brink of the Lower Falls Trail

The Brink of the Lower Falls Trail is a short but steep hike that brings you right to the edge of the stunning Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River. This trail is about 0.7 miles one way and offers dramatic views of the 308-foot waterfall as it cascades into the canyon below. The trail can be challenging, with some steep sections, but the breathtaking views make it worth the effort. It's particularly beautiful in the spring when the water flow is at its peak. This hike is a great way to experience the power and beauty of Yellowstone's waterfalls up close.

3. Storm Point Loop

The Storm Point Loop is a 2-mile trail that takes you along the shores of Yellowstone Lake and through diverse landscapes, including forests and meadows. This easy to moderate hike provides stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountain ranges. Along the trail, you can observe various wildlife, such as birds and small mammals, and enjoy the tranquility of the area. The loop is particularly beautiful in the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is perfect for photography. The variety of landscapes and serene atmosphere make this hike a great choice for all skill levels.

4. Avalanche Peak

If you’re looking for a moderately challenging hike in Yellowstone, consider Avalanche Peak. Starting from the East Entrance Road, this trail ascends steeply to reach Avalanche Peak, where the summit provides breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness, including the Yellowstone Plateau, the Absaroka Range, and the eastern edge of the park. The approximately 4.5-mile trail is best hiked from mid-July through September. (There may be snow at the peak in September, but conditions are generally still good for hiking. Check up-to-date conditions on AllTrails or trailhead signs.)

5. Elephant Back Mountain Trail

The Elephant Back Mountain Trail is a moderately strenuous hike that offers stunning views of Yellowstone Lake and the surrounding mountains. This 3-mile round-trip trail ascends through a forested area before reaching the summit, where panoramic vistas await. The hike is particularly rewarding at sunrise or sunset when the landscape is bathed in golden light. Along the way, hikers may encounter various wildlife, including deer and small mammals. The unique geological features and beautiful vistas make this trail a favorite for photographers and nature lovers.

6. Lone Star Geyser Trail

The Lone Star Geyser Trail is a 4-mile round-trip hike that leads you to one of Yellowstone's more accessible geysers, known for its impressive eruptions. The trail follows a scenic path along the Firehole River, offering a peaceful hiking experience. Lone Star Geyser erupts approximately every three hours, providing an excellent opportunity to see this natural phenomenon. The hike is relatively flat, making it suitable for families and casual hikers. As you walk, you may spot wildlife such as otters and various birds near the riverbanks.

7. Fairy Falls Trail (Grand Prismatic Overlook)

September is a great time to hike Fairy Falls as the crowds thin out, especially after Labor Day. The trail is lower in elevation, so it’s less likely to be affected by snow. You’ll also get a great birds-eye view of the Grand Prismatic Spring from an overlook, and the waterfalls are still running strong after the summer months. We recommend saving this hike for the warmest, calmest, sunniest afternoon of your trip when Yellowstone’s most colorful attraction is at its absolute best.

Is Yellowstone Lower Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, driving Yellowstone’s Lower Loop is dog-friendly. Dogs are allowed on the roads in Yellowstone National Park and at many overlooks, pull-offs, and parking lots. However, there are no dog-friendly trails in Yellowstone National Park, so keep that in mind if you plan to bring your pet into the park.

Plan Your Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Plan the ultimate Yellowstone vacation with our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide! With insider tips, detailed maps, and tailored itineraries for each season, ensure you never miss out, whether you’re enjoying water sports in the summer or spotting wildlife in the spring. Crafted from personal experience over 9 years, our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide is packed with expert advice for experiencing the best—and less-traveled—parts of Yellowstone National Park. Remove the overwhelm of planning a vacation to America’s first (and one of its largest) national parks and make the most of your visit with our comprehensive, easy-to-use travel guide!

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