The upper and lower loops of Yellowstone National Park form the iconic figure-eight road system that allows visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and attractions. The Upper Loop covers the northern part of the park, including Mammoth Hot Springs and the Lamar Valley, while the Lower Loop encompasses famous sites like Old Faithful and Yellowstone Lake. Together, these loops offer a complete Yellowstone experience, showcasing geothermal wonders, wildlife habitats, and breathtaking scenery.
What Are the Key Attractions on the Upper Loop?
The Upper Loop of Yellowstone National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders and wildlife viewing opportunities. Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:
Morning Exploration
- Mammoth Hot Springs
- Location: North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park
- Time: 1-2 hours
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Features:
- Mammoth Terraces
- Historic hotel
- Fort Yellowstone
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Tower-Roosevelt Area
- Distance from Mammoth: Approximately 25 miles (30-40 minute drive)
- Stops along the way:
- Undine Falls
- Wraith Falls (short hike)
- Scenic Blacktail Plateau Drive
Wildlife Viewing in Lamar Valley
- Location: East of Tower-Roosevelt
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Best times for wildlife: Early morning and dusk
- Animals you might see:
- Bison
- Wolves
- Bears
- Elk
Afternoon Adventures
- Tower Falls
- Location: South of Tower-Roosevelt
- Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
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Feature: 132-foot waterfall with unique rock columns
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Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- Location: South of Tower Falls
- Time: 1-2 hours
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Highlights:
- Upper Yellowstone Falls
- Lower Yellowstone Falls
- The grand canyon itself
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Norris Geyser Basin
- Location: West of the Grand Canyon
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Features:
- Hottest and oldest thermal area in Yellowstone
- Steamboat Geyser
What Are the Best Scenic Drives on the Lower Loop?
The Lower Loop of Yellowstone offers some of the most iconic views and attractions in the park. Here are the best scenic drives to experience:
Grand Loop Road (Lower Loop)
- Starting point: Madison Information Station
- Direction: Drive south to Old Faithful
- Key attractions:
- Old Faithful geyser
- Upper Geyser Basin
- Grand Prismatic Spring
West Thumb to Lake Village
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | Approximately 20 miles |
| Drive time | 30-40 minutes |
| Highlights | Yellowstone Lake, West Thumb Geyser Basin |
| Road conditions | Generally well-maintained, can be crowded in peak season |
| Parking | Available at various viewpoints and attractions |
Canyon Village to Fishing Bridge
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | Approximately 25 miles |
| Drive time | 40-50 minutes |
| Highlights | Yellowstone River, Mud Volcano area, Hayden Valley |
| Road conditions | Well-maintained, potential wildlife-related traffic delays |
| Parking | Available but limited during peak season |
What Are the Top Hiking Trails in the Upper Loop?
The Upper Loop offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels. Here are some of the best:
- Wraith Falls Trail
- Length: 1 mile round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Elevation change: Minimal
- Trailhead: Near Tower-Roosevelt Junction
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Feature: 79-foot waterfall
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Mount Washburn Trail
- Length: 6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation change: Approximately 1,400 feet
- Trailhead: Near Dunraven Pass
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Features: Panoramic views, potential wildlife sightings
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Bunsen Peak Trail
- Length: 4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation change: Approximately 1,300 feet
- Trailhead: Near Mammoth Hot Springs
- Features: Historic fire lookout tower, scenic views
Where Are the Best Wildlife Viewing Spots in the Lower Loop?
The Lower Loop of Yellowstone is renowned for its wildlife viewing opportunities. Here are the top locations and tips for spotting animals:
Prime Viewing Locations
- Hayden Valley
- Known for: Grizzly bears, wolves, elk
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Best time: Early morning or late afternoon
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Madison River
- Known for: Elk, bison, birds
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Tip: Look for animals near the water’s edge
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Lamar Valley (technically part of the Upper Loop but accessible from Lower Loop)
- Known for: Bison, wolves, bears, elk
- Best time: Dawn or dusk
Wildlife Viewing Safety Tips
- Maintain safe distances:
- 100 yards for bears and wolves
- 25 yards for other animals
- Use binoculars or telephoto lenses for close-up views
- Stay in designated areas and follow park guidelines
What Are the Must-See Geothermal Features on Both Loops?
Yellowstone’s geothermal features are a major draw for visitors. Here are the must-see attractions on both loops:
Upper Loop
- Mammoth Hot Springs
- Unique travertine terraces
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Constantly changing formations
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Norris Geyser Basin
- Steamboat Geyser (world’s tallest active geyser)
- Porcelain Basin and Back Basin
Lower Loop
- Old Faithful
- World-famous predictable geyser
-
Erupts approximately every 90 minutes
-
Grand Prismatic Spring
- Largest hot spring in the United States
-
Known for its vibrant colors
-
West Thumb Geyser Basin
- Geothermal features on the shore of Yellowstone Lake
- Unique combination of lake and thermal features
How Should I Plan My Visit to Both Loops?
Planning a visit to both the upper and lower loops of Yellowstone National Park requires careful consideration. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Upper Loop
- Morning: Mammoth Hot Springs and Tower-Roosevelt area
- Afternoon: Lamar Valley for wildlife viewing
- Evening: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Day 2: Lower Loop
- Morning: Old Faithful and Upper Geyser Basin
- Afternoon: Grand Prismatic Spring and Hayden Valley
- Evening: Yellowstone Lake area
Tips for a Successful Visit
- Start early to avoid crowds and increase chances of wildlife sightings
- Pack layers, as weather can change quickly
- Bring plenty of water and snacks
- Fill up on gas before entering the park
- Download offline maps, as cell service is limited
By exploring both the upper and lower loops of Yellowstone National Park, visitors can experience the full range of natural wonders this iconic park has to offer. From geothermal marvels to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, Yellowstone’s figure-eight road system provides an unforgettable journey through one of America’s most treasured national parks.
References:
1. Yellowstone Scenic Tours: Upper Loop Guided Tour
2. Teton Tour Guides: Yellowstone Upper Loop
3. Yellowstone Park Net: Upper Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone