Yellowstone Lower Loop: Itinerary, Map, and 10 Best Stops
Driving the Lower Loop is one of the best ways to experience Yellowstone National Park’s iconic geothermal features, wildlife, and landscapes all in one day.
This 96-mile route takes you past many of the park’s most famous sights: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Hayden Valley, Yellowstone Lake, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Whether you're chasing geysers, soaking in views, or hoping to spot a bison or two, the Lower Loop delivers.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your route, including 10 of the best stops to make and 7 fun hikes to stretch your legs along the way.
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P.S. Want all our best Yellowstone tips in one place? Check out our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide. It’s packed with maps, itineraries, and everything you need to explore Yellowstone in every season!
What is the Yellowstone Lower Loop?
Yellowstone’s Lower Loop is the southern half of the park’s main driving route. The Lower Loop covers about 96 miles and provides access to some of the most iconic sights in the park: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake, Hayden Valley, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Driving the Lower Loop is one of the best and most popular ways to explore a variety of Yellowstone’s thermal features in one day.
The Grand Loop
The full driving route through Yellowstone is called the Grand Loop and is divided into two main sections: the Upper Loop (north) and the Lower Loop (south). The Upper Loop features highlights like Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Fall, and Dunraven Pass—and offers easy access to Lamar Valley, Yellowstone’s top wildlife-watching destination. The Lower Loop, meanwhile, delivers Yellowstone’s greatest geothermal hits and scenic lake (and canyon) views.
Yellowstone road map highlighting the Lower Loop
How many miles is Yellowstone’s Lower Loop?
Yellowstone’s Lower Loop is about 96 miles long and takes roughly 2.5 hours to drive without stops or traffic. But trust us, you’ll want to take your time. This loop is packed with can’t-miss sights, from erupting geysers and steaming hot springs to the sweeping views of Yellowstone Lake and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. While you could drive it in half a day, we recommend setting aside a full day so you can explore at a relaxed pace and stop at all the iconic viewpoints, geyser basins, and scenic pullouts along the way.
1-Day Itinerary and Map of Yellowstone’s Lower Loop
Yellowstone’s Lower Loop takes you past some of the park’s biggest highlights, including Grand Prismatic Spring, Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and Yellowstone Lake. It’s geyser country, with hot springs, scenic views, and wildlife sightings around every curve.
Here’s how we recommend spending one full day on the Lower Loop:
Start at Canyon Village: Kick off your day with a visit to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. First, drive North Rim Drive to hike the short Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, where you’ll get an up-close look at the powerful waterfall crashing below. Then head over to Artist Point via South Rim Drive for one of the most iconic viewpoints in the entire park.
Continue south through Hayden Valley: This is one of the best places in Yellowstone to spot wildlife, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Bison, elk, wolves, and even bears are often spotted here. Be sure to stop at the pullouts and take your time—this stretch is about the journey and the views.
Stretch your legs at West Thumb Geyser Basin: Located on the edge of Yellowstone Lake, this boardwalk trail features colorful hot springs and bubbling pools with a stunning lake backdrop. It’s a great mid-morning stop before heading deeper into the geothermal heart of the park.
Make your way to Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin: This area is home to the most famous geyser in the world, and dozens more! Stop at the Old Faithful Visitor Center to check the predicted eruption times. If one is coming up soon, grab a spot to watch. If not, take the time to explore the surrounding trails. You can walk to Geyser Hill, or take a short drive to Biscuit Basin, Black Sand Basin, or Kepler Cascades while you wait.
Next up: Grand Prismatic Spring: Head north to the Fairy Falls Trailhead and hike to the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook for an unforgettable birds-eye view. Then double back and walk the boardwalks at Midway Geyser Basin to experience the thermal features up close.
End your day at Norris Geyser Basin: This is the most active and unpredictable geyser basin in the park. You’ll find steaming vents, colorful pools, and the world’s tallest active geyser, Steamboat Geyser, which erupts irregularly but is still fascinating to see even when it's quiet.
A few final tips: Keep your camera handy and your eyes peeled for wildlife, especially near Hayden Valley and between geyser basins. If you see a bunch of cars pulled over, there’s a good chance something wild is nearby. Just remember to stay in your vehicle and keep a safe distance.
Where does Yellowstone’s Lower Loop start and end?
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.
Because the Lower Loop is a loop, you can follow it clockwise or counterclockwise depending on which attractions you’re most interested in seeing.
For example, 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.
Driving times from various Yellowstone entrances to their closest point on the Lower Loop.
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 likely want to drive Yellowstone’s Upper Loop during your trip as well, it’s helpful to think about being either centrally located in the park as a whole… or located closest to whatever is at the top of your trip wish-list.
For example, if you’re most excited about seeing the attractions on Yellowstone’s Lower Loop, then we recommend staying on the lower loop in places like Canyon Village or Old Faithful. However, if you’re most interested in seeing wildlife, prioritize staying along Yellowstone Northern Range, in places like Mammoth Hot Springs or Gardiner, and then take a day trip to the Lower Loop.
RTL Tip: If you’re picking between Canyon Village and Old Faithful, we’re partial to Canyon Village because it’s arguably the most centrally located area in the entire park. It sits on both Yellowstone’s Lower and Upper Loops, plus is close to Hayden Valley, another great spot for wildlife watching. That said, 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!
10 Best Things to Do and See Along the Yellowstone Lower Loop
Here are ten of the best 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)*
Just off the Lower Loop, North Rim Drive and South Rim Drive in the Canyon Village area lead to some of the best views in Yellowstone. These short detours take you along the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, offering up-close and panoramic views of the dramatic, colorful gorge.
North Rim Drive includes stops like Grand View Point and the Brink of the Lower Falls, where you can stand near the edge of the waterfall and even feel the mist on your face. South Rim Drive takes you to Artist Point, one of the most photographed spots in the park. From this overlook, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the canyon’s vibrant yellow and red walls and a head-on look at the Lower Falls in all its glory.
Both rim drives are quick to explore but packed with scenery, making them essential stops on any Lower Loop itinerary. Whether you're snapping photos or just soaking it all in, this is one part of Yellowstone that truly lives up to the hype.
Artist Point
2. Hayden Valley*
Hayden Valley is one of the top wildlife-watching destinations in Yellowstone. This wide, grassy expanse is home to bison, elk, waterfowl, and even predators like wolves and bears. The Yellowstone River winds through the valley, drawing birds and other wildlife to its banks, especially in the early morning and late evening when animal activity peaks.
With its open meadows and distant mountain views, Hayden Valley is also a favorite spot for photography. The landscape provides a stunning backdrop for wildlife sightings, whether you're catching a herd of bison crossing the road or spotting a pack of wolves in the distance.
There are several pullouts along the road where you can safely stop to watch or photograph wildlife. Just remember to stay in your vehicle or maintain a safe distance, and never approach animals. Patience and a good pair of binoculars can go a long way in Hayden Valley!
3. Mud Volcano
The Mud Volcano area is one of Yellowstone’s most dramatic geothermal zones, known for its bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and the unforgettable Dragon’s Mouth Spring, a cave where hot water and steam surge out with a deep, rumbling roar. It sounds like something out of a fantasy novel and smells exactly like sulfur.
A short boardwalk trail loops through the area, giving you a close-up look at the park’s volcanic power in action. From hissing fumaroles to boiling pools of mud, this stop is a full sensory experience and a great place to learn more about Yellowstone’s active underground system.
It’s a quick but fascinating detour that offers a glimpse into the more volatile side of the park’s geology… and a reminder that you’re standing on top of a supervolcano.
4. Yellowstone Lake
Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America, and its vast, glassy surface offers a peaceful contrast to the bubbling, steaming geothermal areas nearby. The lake’s shoreline is perfect for picnicking, fishing, or simply soaking in the views, and several marinas and boat launches make it easy to get out on the water. Whether you choose to kayak, fish, or join a scenic boat tour, the lake provides a unique perspective of Yellowstone’s beauty, with mountain peaks and dense forests surrounding the shoreline.
5. West Thumb Geyser Basin*
One of the most fascinating places to experience Yellowstone Lake is West Thumb Geyser Basin, located right along the lake’s western edge. Here, colorful hot springs and steaming fumaroles sit just feet from the water, creating a surreal blend of fire and ice. The boardwalk trails lead you past colorful springs like Abyss Pool and Fishing Cone, and 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.
West Thumb Gesyer Basin
6. Old Faithful Geyser (Upper Geyser Basin)*
Old Faithful is Yellowstone’s most famous geyser, and a must-see stop along the Lower Loop. Erupting approximately every 90 minutes, this iconic geyser launches water and steam up to 180 feet in the air, delighting visitors of all ages with its power and predictability.
The surrounding Old Faithful Historic District offers plenty to explore before or after an eruption. Visit the historic Old Faithful Inn, browse the exhibits at the visitor center, or grab a snack and check eruption predictions inside.
This area also makes a great base for exploring nearby geothermal hotspots like the Upper Geyser Basin, Biscuit Basin, and Black Sand Basin, all connected by easy boardwalk trails. With well-maintained paths, reliable eruption times, and several nearby attractions, Old Faithful is both accessible and unforgettable.
7. Grand Prismatic Spring (Midway Geyser Basin)*
Grand Prismatic Spring is Yellowstone’s largest hot spring and one of its most iconic sights, known for its brilliant rings of blue, green, yellow, and orange. Located in the Midway Geyser Basin, this colorful thermal feature gets its vivid hues from heat-loving bacteria that thrive in the hot water.
You can view the spring up close by walking the boardwalk through Midway Geyser Basin, but for the best perspective, we highly recommend hiking the Fairy Falls Trail to the Grand Prismatic Overlook. From above, you’ll get a stunning view of the spring’s full shape and vibrant colors, especially striking on a sunny day when the steam lifts and the contrast pops.
This is one of the most photographed spots in the park, so expect crowds, especially mid-day. The parking lots are small and fill quickly, so visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a calmer experience and better light. (We especially love the hour before sunset.)
The Grand Prismatic Spring © [Kamchatka] via Canva.com
8. Lower Geyser Basin*
The Lower Geyser Basin is one of the most fascinating geothermal areas in Yellowstone, and Fountain Paint Pot* is one of our absolute favorite stops. This spot is unique because it’s one of the only places in the park where you can see all four of Yellowstone’s major thermal features in one short walk: mud pots, hot springs, fumaroles, and geysers.
The bubbling, colorful mud pots are especially fun to watch, and the trail takes you past steaming vents, vibrant pools, and small geysers that erupt with surprising force. It’s a quick but incredibly rewarding boardwalk loop and a great place to learn how Yellowstone’s geothermal systems work together.
Just down the road, along Firehole Lake Drive, you’ll find Great Fountain Geyser, one of Yellowstone’s largest predictable geysers. Its towering eruptions can last for over an hour and are truly spectacular to witness.
9. Artist Paintpots
Artist Paintpots is a colorful and often overlooked geothermal area that offers a quieter, more serene experience compared to Yellowstone’s larger basins. The short trail to the paintpots winds through a forested section of the park before opening up to a hillside filled with bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and brightly colored hot springs.
The mud pots here are in constant motion, creating shifting patterns and playful plops that are both mesmerizing and strangely soothing. The vibrant reds, oranges, and whites scattered across the landscape give the area its name, like an artist’s palette spilled across the earth.
Because it’s a little less crowded, Artist Paintpots is a great stop for those looking to enjoy Yellowstone’s geothermal activity at a slower pace.
10. Norris Geyser Basin
Norris Geyser Basin is Yellowstone’s hottest, most acidic, and most dynamic geothermal area—an ever-changing landscape that feels like another planet. It’s home to Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world, which can erupt up to 300 feet high when it decides to blow. While eruptions are unpredictable, the geyser regularly steams and splashes, making it worth a stop whether it’s erupting or not.
The basin is divided into two main sections: Porcelain Basin, with its milky pools and hissing steam vents, and Back Basin, where you’ll find colorful hot springs and quiet trails through lodgepole pines. Both areas are connected by boardwalks that take you deep into the heart of Yellowstone’s geothermal power.
Norris is also one of the park’s oldest thermal areas, with activity dating back thousands of years. Its unpredictable nature and raw intensity make it one of the most fascinating—and sometimes eerie—stops along the Lower Loop.
3 Great Places for Wildlife Watching on Yellowstone Lower Loop
Here are three of the best places for wildlife watching along Yellowstone’s Lower Loop. If you’re especially interested in wildlife watching, be sure to also drive Yellowstone’s Upper Loop and spend time in Lamar Valley.
1. Hayden Valley
This wide, open valley is known for its sweeping meadows, rich ecosystem, and easy visibility, making it a favorite for both first-time visitors and seasoned wildlife watchers.
Bison are the most common sight here, especially in spring and fall, when large herds graze near the road and sometimes even block traffic (Yellowstone traffic jams are often caused by bison, not cars!). Elk, coyotes, wolves, and the occasional black bear or grizzly also frequent the area, especially during the cooler hours of early morning or late afternoon.
Birdwatchers will love Hayden Valley too. The Yellowstone River runs through it, drawing in ospreys, trumpeter swans, and other waterfowl throughout the warmer months.
There are several scenic pullouts along the road where you can safely park, scan the landscape with binoculars, and watch quietly from a distance.
2. Roadside Meadows
As you drive the Lower Loop, especially in spring and fall, be sure to scan the roadside meadows for bears. These open areas provide rich foraging ground when bears descend from higher elevations looking for food. Prime bear-watching zones include the meadows between Madison and Old Faithful and the wide-open stretches near Hayden Valley.
While bear sightings are more common in spring and fall, winter brings its own surprise: wolves. The Old Faithful area is actually a good place to spot wolf packs in colder months, as geothermal activity keeps parts of the ground snow-free and easier for hunting.
3. Yellowstone Lake
Yellowstone Lake isn’t just a beautiful place to relax—it’s also a great spot for wildlife watching. During the summer, the shoreline attracts bison, elk, and a variety of waterfowl, especially in the quieter early morning and late evening hours. Bald eagles, ducks, and other birds can often be spotted along the lake, making it a peaceful and rewarding spot for birdwatchers.
If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a moose feeding near the water’s edge or see otters playing near the West Thumb Geyser Basin.
7 Best Hikes Along Yellowstone’s Lower Loop
Looking to stretch your legs between scenic stops? Yellowstone’s Lower Loop offers incredible hiking trails with views of waterfalls, lakes, geysers, and even the park’s most famous hot spring. Here are seven of the best hikes along the Lower Loop, with something for every interest and skill level.
1. Wapiti, Clear Lake, Ribbon Lake, and South Rim Trail
Distance: ~5-mile loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Canyon Village area
This scenic loop is one of the best ways to explore the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Hike past bubbling thermal features, quiet alpine lakes, and canyon-edge views all in one route. Highlights include Clear Lake, a serene, glassy blue lake surrounded by forest, and Ribbon Lake, a quieter, more secluded spot. Hike the loop counterclockwise for the best flow, and be sure to stop at Artist Point for one of the most iconic overlooks in the park.
2. Brink of the Lower Falls Trail
Distance: ~1.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Short but steep
Location: North Rim Drive, Canyon area
This powerful little trail brings you right to the edge of Yellowstone’s 308-foot Lower Falls. It’s a short hike with big payoff, offering one of the most dramatic waterfall views in the park. The trail descends via switchbacks and can be strenuous on the return, but it’s well worth the effort, especially in spring when water levels are high.
3. Storm Point Loop
Distance: ~2.3-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Location: East of Fishing Bridge
This easy, family-friendly loop circles through open meadows and lodgepole pine forest before emerging at Storm Point, a beautiful bluff overlooking Yellowstone Lake. You’ll enjoy a peaceful walk with chances to see wildlife like marmots, bison, or waterfowl. It's especially lovely in the early morning or golden hour, when the light makes the lake sparkle.
4. Avalanche Peak
Distance: ~4.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Location: East Entrance Road
Ready for a challenge? This steep trail climbs over 2,000 feet to the summit of Avalanche Peak, offering panoramic views of the Yellowstone Plateau and Absaroka Range. It’s best hiked from mid-July to September once the snow has melted—though you may still encounter patches of snow later in the season. Check trail conditions before heading out, and come prepared for rapid weather changes at higher elevation.
5. Elephant Back Mountain Trail
Distance: ~4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Near Lake Village
This short but rewarding trail climbs through a shaded forest to a scenic overlook with sweeping views of Yellowstone Lake and the surrounding mountains. The trail is especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset, when the landscape is lit with soft golden light. It’s a great option if you’re staying near the lake and want a moderate hike with big views.
6. Lone Star Geyser Trail
Distance: ~5.3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Location: Near Old Faithful
This peaceful, mostly flat trail follows an old service road along the Firehole River to Lone Star Geyser, a cone geyser that erupts roughly every 3 hours. It’s a quieter, less crowded way to see a geyser in action. The walk is lovely, with wildflowers and wildlife along the river, and is great for families or anyone looking for a gentle, scenic hike.
7. Fairy Falls Trail (Grand Prismatic Overlook)
Distance: ~5 miles round trip for the full trail, ~1.2 miles round trip to Grand Prismatic Overlook
Difficulty: Moderate
Location: Midway Geyser Basin
If you want the best view of Grand Prismatic Spring, this is the hike. Start with a short climb to the overlook for a stunning birds-eye view, then continue on to Fairy Falls, a graceful 200-foot waterfall tucked in the forest. September is a great time to hike here as crowds have thinned, and the trail is usually still snow-free. Aim to go on a sunny, calm afternoon, when Grand Prismatic is at its most vibrant.
❓FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Driving Yellowstone’s Lower Loop
Is it worth driving Yellowstone’s Lower Loop?
Yes, absolutely. Yellowstone’s Lower Loop is packed with iconic sights like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Hayden Valley, Yellowstone Lake, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. If you only have one day in the park, driving the Lower Loop—or even better, the full Grand Loop—is the best way to experience the highlights.
With two days in Yellowstone, we recommend driving the Lower Loop one day and the Upper Loop the next. If you have more time, the Lower Loop alone is worth at least two days. We like to spend one day exploring the geyser basins on the west side and one day exploring Yellowstone Canyon and Hayden Valley on the east side.
Can you drive the Lower Loop in one day?
Yes, you can. The full loop is about 96 miles and takes roughly 2.5 hours to drive without stops. But you’ll want to stop often, so plan for a full day. With an early start, you can visit all the major stops in one unforgettable day.
Which direction should you drive the Lower Loop?
You can drive it either way, but we recommend going clockwise starting from Canyon Village. This route takes you through Hayden Valley earlier in the day when wildlife is most active, positions you near Old Faithful around lunchtime, and brings you to Grand Prismatic Spring in the warmer part of the afternoon when the steam has lifted and the colors are at their brightest.
When is Yellowstone’s Lower Loop open?
The Lower Loop usually opens to vehicles in mid-April. The loop open in phases, starting with sections like the West Entrance to Old Faithful and Madison Junction to Canyon Village. By late May, most of the loop is fully open.
The loop usually closes on October 31, as the park transitions to its winter season. During winter, the Lower Loop is closed to regular vehicles and can only be accessed by snowmobile or snowcoach tours.
What’s the best time of year to drive the Lower Loop?
The best time to drive the Lower Loop is late May through October. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Mid-May to Memorial Day is ideal for fewer crowds and active wildlife.
Late summer brings the clearest views of Grand Prismatic Spring.
October is great for comfortable hiking weather and fall color.
Are there other stops worth seeing along the Lower Loop?
Yes, so many! The Lower Loop is packed with iconic landmarks, but some of our favorite stops are the lesser-known gems just off the main route. Here are a few to keep on your radar:
Biscuit Basin is home to the brilliant Sapphire Pool, one of the most beautiful blue hot springs in the park. You’ll also find Jewel Geyser, which erupts every 7 to 10 minutes and often surprises visitors with its reliability and charm.
Black Sand Basin, just down the road, features colorful thermal features like Emerald Pool, Rainbow Pool, Sunset Lake, and Cliff Geyser, which erupts frequently right next to Iron Spring Creek.
Kepler Cascades is a quick but scenic stop if you’re waiting for Old Faithful to erupt. It’s an easy pull-off and well worth a few minutes.
Looking to cool off? While swimming is very limited in Yellowstone due to cold lake temps and dangerous thermal areas, the Firehole Swim Area opens around mid-summer. Located about two miles south of Madison Junction on Firehole Canyon Drive, it’s one of the few places where swimming is permitted.
This is just the beginning—there’s so much to see along the Lower Loop. Be sure to take your time and stop at any overlooks, trails, or attractions that catch your eye. Some of Yellowstone’s most memorable moments happen between the major landmarks.
Are dogs allowed on the Lower Loop?
Yes, dogs are allowed on Yellowstone’s Lower Loop, but with strict rules. Pets must be kept on a leash at all times and are only allowed in developed areas, parking lots, and within 100 feet of roads and campgrounds. Pets are not allowed on trails, boardwalks, or in any thermal areas, which includes much of what you’ll see along the Lower Loop.
If you’re road tripping with your dog, the Lower Loop is still enjoyable from the car, at overlooks, and in picnic areas. Just be mindful of temperatures and never leave pets unattended in your vehicle. If you want to get out and hike or explore the geyser basins, it’s best to have a plan for pet care or take turns while one person stays with your dog.
Are there restrooms along the Lower Loop?
Yes. Major areas like Old Faithful, Canyon Village, Madison Junction, Grant Village, Norris, and West Thumb all have restrooms. Most geyser basins and popular trailheads also have either restrooms or vault toilets.
Is there cell service on the Lower Loop?
Cell service is limited throughout the park. You might get a signal in areas like Old Faithful, Canyon Village, or Grant Village, but most of the loop has little to no service. Be sure to download your maps and directions before you enter 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 & counting, 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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