National Park & Nature

Yellowstone Lake

📍 Yellowstone Lake, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA

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Introduction

Yellowstone Lake is located in the southeastern part of Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming, at an elevation of about 2,357 meters. It is the largest high-altitude lake in North America and the largest body of water in Yellowstone. The lake covers about 352 square kilometers with a maximum depth of 120 meters, formed by glacial retreat about 14,000 years ago. Yellowstone Lake is the source of the Yellowstone River, which flows north and eventually joins the Missouri River. The lake includes sub-regions like West Thumb, Mary Bay, and Pelican Valley. West Thumb is near Old Faithful, with hydrothermal vents on the lake floor creating "Fishing Cone" bubble phenomena. The lakeshore is habitat for grizzly bears, bison, elk, pelicans, and loons, making it an excellent place for wildlife viewing and lake scenery in Yellowstone.

✨ Highlights

Largest High-Altitude Lake

2,357m elevation, 352 sq km, stunning scale

West Thumb Hydrothermal

Lake floor vents create 'Fishing Cone' bubble phenomena

Wildlife Viewing

Habitat for grizzly bears, bison, elk, pelicans

Yellowstone River Source

Source of Yellowstone River, the park's largest water system

Glacial Relic

Glacial lake formed by retreat 14,000 years ago

Fishing Bridge and Shore

Historic Fishing Bridge and lakeshore for strolling

🛈 Practical Info

→Hours：Mainly May-October, most roads closed in winter

→Admission：Yellowstone $35/vehicle, 7-day pass

→Duration：Half day

→Address：Yellowstone Lake, Yellowstone National Park, WY

→Transport：Drive within park, about 30 minutes from Old Faithful

→Note：Bear country, carry bear spray at all times

💡 Tips

• Bear country, carry bear spray and travel in groups

• Summer boat rental and fishing require park fishing permit

• Fishing Cone and lake hydrothermal features at West Thumb are unique

• Early morning and evening best for wildlife viewing

• Lakeshore cool even in summer, bring warm jacket

• Combine with Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Yellowstone Lake?

Bear country, carry bear spray and travel in groups Summer boat rental and fishing require park fishing permit

Information on this page is compiled from public sources. Opening hours, ticket prices and other details may change — please verify with official sources before your visit.