If you’re looking for fun things to do in Island Park, ID and Yellowstone National Park then we’ve got some great ideas, no matter which season you visit! With a plethora of fun activities, incredible sights to see, and so much more, there’s no wonder that so many come back again and again to discover the beauty and charm.
Cool Fun Awaits In Winter
Did you know: Island Park and the West Yellowstone area have earned the nickname “Snowmobiling Capital of the World!” Once you visit, it will be easy to see why. You’ll be amazed at the landscape and the miles and miles of trails. It’s the perfect destination for those who are fans of endless exploring in fresh powder! Plus, there are several snowmobiling tours and guides if you’re a novice and looking to learn more.
For those who love fur babies, the Dog Sled Race is also held here during winter. It is an exciting experience with events for mushers, spectators, and all kinds of dogs! This is one of the only spots to view this within the United States as well.
Spring Has Sprung … Fun New Activities
As the snow begins to melt, new activities abound in the area! Put your worries away and get ready for some fun. In the area, you will love trying your hand at some world-class fishing, ATV riding through unique terrain, horseback riding, boating, white water rafting….the list goes on and on!
Yellowstone National Park is America’s first national park, established in 1872. Some of the wildlife living within the park are grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk. Yellowstone National Park is also where you will find Old Faithful and a collection of the world’s most extraordinary geysers and hot springs, as well as Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon.
If you plan on going geyser-watching and you are with your kids, have their eyes peeled for bald eagles in the trees and trumpeter swan on the river. The spotting doesn’t usually get good until about 6 or 7 miles in, where the Madison River starts running right beside the road. You will also likely see elk and bison!
Summer Sun and FUN!
Around July, a round of activities are available leading up to the Fourth of July. It includes a hot air balloon rally, craft fair, antique show, rodeo, parade, community breakfasts, barbecues, and of course, fireworks! This 4-day event is perfect for families and good bonding activity for the whole family!
What better way to start a fishing season than with an excellent hot breakfast of pancakes with syrup and butter, hash browns, sausage, and various beverages?! Best of all, it’s FREE! This is an annual event from 6 a.m. – 1 p.m. the Friday before the fishing season begins. Anyone is invited to participate in this free breakfast paid for by the St. Anthony Chamber of Commerce. There is also a program and special guests for the kids like Woodsy Owl and Smokey Bear.
FALL for Yellowstone and Island Park
With thinning crowds and colorful foliage, fall is a spectacular time to visit Yellowstone. Plus, many of the park’s iconic animals tend to be more visible in the autumn, when cooler temperatures prompt them to move to lower elevations.
While Yellowstone can’t claim New England’s fall foliage fame, the park’s landscape does dazzle with golden aspens, yellow grasses, and red-leafed shrubs. In a typical year, the peak time for viewing color in the park is from the last week of September through the first week of October. Some of the most colorful spots are Mammoth Hot Springs, the Lamar Valley, Blacktail Plateau Drive, and Lewis River near the falls and the Lewis River Canyon.
Hiking a trail is a great way to enjoy panoramic views of the fall foliage. Just make sure you’re prepared for widely varying temperatures or inclement weather. Bicycling enthusiasts can also take advantage of Yellowstone’s fall bike season, which begins when park roads close in early November.
There are so many amazing things to do in Yellowstone and Island Park all year round – it’s worth visiting multiple times! We’re here to help you plan your escape! So pick out your favorite Kabino to serve as home base…and let the fun begin!
