Wildlife and driving

Pass, is about 3 miles each way, but it’s less steep than the Chittenden Road option. Take the same route down; the parking lots for each trailhead are 6 miles apart.

Views along the way and at the top are magnificent. In the distance, you can glimpse Yellowstone’s version of Grand Canyon, a gorge formed by the Yellowstone River. A fire lookout tower with an observation deck is at the top.

Outside visitor centers and lodging areas, Yellowstone doesn’t have many vendors, so take food and water on your hikes.

Grand Canyon

Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon is worth its own visit. There are several long or short hikes to choose from, along either side of the canyon.

If you’re pressed for time, drive to the Upper and Lower Falls and view the rapids before a pair of drops into the canyon. For both falls, use paved overlooks or take short hikes for closer views.

Visit the Upper Falls in the afternoon for a chance to see rainbows.

Yellowstone is home to bison, moose, elk, bighorn sheep, wolves and grizzly bears. If you want to see a certain type of animal, ask at visitor centers where and when to go. Cars stopped or parked haphazardly along a road usually means that there is something worth seeing. You can’t miss the bison herds, but for other creatures, you might need binoculars.

Bear attacks are rare, but especially if you’re camping or hiking, read about bear safety at www.nps.gov/yell/ planyourvisit/bearsafety. htm.

Biking and boating

You can bike along the Grand Loop on your own bike or by renting one near Old Faithful. There are boating and fishing opportunities as well; permits are required.