Things To Do
Yellowstone National Park
Short visit (2–4 hrs): Visit Old Faithful (~45–60 min from West Yellowstone). Eruptions happen about every 90 minutes—check times at the visitor center or online. Half-day: Pair Old Faithful with Grand Prismatic Spring or explore nearby geyser basins. Full day: Drive the Grand Loop for waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic views. Tips: Enter via West Entrance, allow extra time for traffic, wear comfy shoes, and bring water + layers.
Fishing in the Area
If you’re coming early or staying a bit longer, this is world-class fly fishing country. Just west of town, Island Park is a beautiful area known for easy river access, scenic views, and some of the best trout water around. The Henrys Fork and Madison River are two of the most popular nearby rivers, offering great fishing for both beginners and experienced anglers. If you’re interested in getting out on the water, Blaine will likely be fishing somewhere nearby so feel free to reach out for recommendations or come join!
Exploring Town: Bars, Gaming & Main Street
One of our favorite things about West is how laid back it is. We love grabbing a drink, hopping between bars, and throwing a few dollars in the machines hoping we hit it big (still waiting…) A lot of the bars have gaming machines, so you can sip something and casually test your luck as you go. If you want a lively stop, check out Wild West, Buffalo Bar or Bullwinkle's Saloon & Eatery—a go-to for drinks, food, and a little friendly competition.
Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center
If you want to get up close with some of Yellowstone’s most iconic wildlife (without needing binoculars or a ton of luck), check out the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center right in town. It’s a laid-back, walkable spot where you can watch grizzlies, wolves, and otters do their thing—sometimes even hearing the wolves howl in the evening. Most of the animals here can’t survive in the wild, so the center gives you a rare chance to see them up close while learning about the Yellowstone ecosystem. It’s a fun, easy stop between adventures (and your ticket is good for two days), whether you’ve got kids with you or just want a guaranteed wildlife sighting.
Madison Arm Resort
If you’re looking to sneak away from the crowds for a bit, head out to Madison Arm Resort & Marina. It’s tucked down a gravel road on the edge of Hebgen Lake, and the drive alone makes it feel like you’ve found something a little off the radar. Once you’re there, it’s all about lake views, mountain backdrops, and that quiet, wide-open Montana vibe. Grab a drink, hang by the water, or just watch the sunset over the lake. If you’re into fishing, boating, or just want a more laid-back alternative to the park for an afternoon, this is a favorite escape just outside of town.
Earthquake Lake Visitor Center
If you’re up for a scenic drive with a little history mixed in, head from West Yellowstone toward Quake Lake Visitor Center. The drive itself is beautiful—following the Madison River with wide-open views, cliffs, and chances to spot wildlife along the way. It’s an easy, peaceful cruise that feels worlds away from the busier park roads. Quake Lake tells the story of the massive 1959 Hebgen Lake Earthquake, when a landslide blocked the river and created the lake almost overnight. At the visitor center, you can learn about the event and then step outside to take in the stillness of the lake and the mountain that slid into it—it’s equal parts sobering and fascinating. It’s a quick trip that’s well worth it if you want something a little different from the usual Yellowstone stops.
Yellowstone Shortline Trail
Today, meandering through Custer Gallatin National Forest along the South Fork of the Madison River from West Yellowstone to the Montana-Idaho State Line, the nine-mile, non-motorized Yellowstone Shoreline Trail boasts three beautiful bridges and interpretive signs every mile. One user describes it as “A truly magical escape into the forest, just minutes from town. A rolling and strolling museum.” The trail has already proven to be a coveted gem for the community, with us from all ages and abilities. Every day, from sunrise to sunset, there are dozens of residents walking or riding the trail, as well as school groups and athletes in training. A Forest Service trail counter tallied 1,500 users in May, 2,000 in June, and 3,000 in July.