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National Park & Nature

Yellowstone Lake

📍 Yellowstone Lake, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA
Yellowstone Lake
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4.2/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
USA, Wyoming
Category
National Park & Nature
Duration
2-4 hours
Address
Yellowstone Lake, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190, USA
Coordinates
44.4203, -110.5361

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

1
Largest High-Altitude Lake
2,357m elevation, 352 sq km, stunning scale
2
West Thumb Hydrothermal
Lake floor vents create 'Fishing Cone' bubble phenomena
3
Wildlife Viewing
Habitat for grizzly bears, bison, elk, pelicans
4
Yellowstone River Source
Source of Yellowstone River, the park's largest water system
5
Glacial Relic
Glacial lake formed by retreat 14,000 years ago
6
Fishing Bridge and Shore
Historic Fishing Bridge and lakeshore for strolling

🛈 Practical Info

→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
→Opening Hours:All day
→Ticket Information:Yellowstone $35/vehicle, 7-day pass
→Transportation:By car

💡 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

What are the opening hours of Yellowstone Lake?

All day

How much is the admission for Yellowstone Lake?

Yellowstone $35/vehicle, 7-day pass

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

How long should I spend at Yellowstone Lake?

A typical visit takes 2-4 hours.

Ticket prices, schedules and opening hours are for reference only; please follow the official announcement.

Trips featuring Yellowstone Lake

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📰 Guides for Yellowstone Lake

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