When you’re dreaming up a national park trip, two heavy-hitters usually rise to the top: Yellowstone and Yosemite.
They’re both legendary for a reason—but they’re legendary in totally different ways. So if you’re stuck choosing between geysers and wildlife or granite cliffs and waterfalls, you’re in the right place.
Yosemite vs. Yellowstone: Side by Side Travel Guide
This side-by-side guide breaks down what makes each park special, what you’ll actually do there, and which one fits your travel style best. Whether you’re craving Yellowstone’s steamy, otherworldly landscapes or Yosemite’s dramatic stone-and-water scenery, let’s help you pick the park you’ll be talking about for years.
Location and Overview
Yellowstone
Yellowstone is massive—over 2.2 million acres—and it sprawls across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. It’s widely considered the world’s first national park, set aside to protect landscapes and natural features found nowhere else. In many areas, the ground itself steams and bubbles, with geysers, hot springs, and mud pots scattered across the park.
Yellowstone’s biggest claim to fame is its geothermal activity. You’ll find Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Springs, bubbling mud pots, and plenty of steaming vents that make the whole landscape feel a little… unreal.
Underneath it all is the Yellowstone Caldera, a huge volcanic system that helps power all those hydrothermal features.
But Yellowstone isn’t just geysers. The scenery changes constantly—mountains, rivers, forests, broad valleys, and giant lakes. One of the most jaw-dropping areas is the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where waterfalls crash through bright yellow cliffs. And if wildlife is on your wishlist, places like Lamar Valley are where Yellowstone really shines.
Yosemite
Yosemite is in California’s Sierra Nevada and covers about 747,956 acres. It’s smaller than Yellowstone, but it packs a lot into a relatively tight area.
Yosemite is best known for its granite landmarks—El Capitan, Half Dome, and the cliff-lined Yosemite Valley. Add in the park’s famous waterfalls (especially Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest in North America), and it’s easy to see why people fall hard for this place.
Outside the Valley, you’ve still got plenty to explore: high-country scenery in Tuolumne Meadows, big trees in Mariposa Grove, plus meadows, forests, and quieter corners that feel worlds away from the main viewpoints.
Both parks offer amazing opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife spotting. However, which one suits your preferences and interests better?
In this article, we will compare Yosemite and Yellowstone - examining what makes each unique, and what each park offers.
Wildlife and Biodiversity
Yellowstone
Shutterstock Image
If wildlife is high on your list, Yellowstone is hard to beat. Between bison, elk, wolves, grizzlies, and birds like bald eagles, it’s basically a choose-your-own-adventure animal spotting trip.
Lamar Valley is the go-to place for sightings (people don’t call it “America’s Serengeti” for nothing). And at certain times of year, you might even catch the park’s herds on the move.
Yosemite
Shutterstock Image
Yosemite isn’t as famous for wildlife as Yellowstone, but you can still see plenty—especially if you’re out early or away from the busiest areas. It’s common to spot mule deer (sometimes right in Yosemite Valley), and you might also see coyotes, bobcats, and birds of prey like hawks, falcons, and eagles.
Black bears live in the park too—so it’s worth following food storage rules and keeping your distance if you’re lucky enough to see one
Activities and attractions
Yellowstone
Shutterstock Image
Yellowstone is the kind of park where you can pack a full itinerary—or keep it simple and still have an amazing time. Hiking is a big draw, with 900+ miles of trails ranging from easy boardwalk strolls in geothermal areas to full-on backcountry routes.
If you like being on the water, Yellowstone also delivers. Yellowstone Lake and several of the park’s rivers are popular for boating, kayaking, and fishing (just make sure you check current conditions and any required permits or regulations before you go).
If hiking isn’t your main focus (or you just want an easier day), Yellowstone is perfect for scenic drives and wildlife watching. The Grand Loop Road connects many of the park’s biggest highlights, including viewpoints for the Upper and Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River.
Wildlife spotting can be as simple as driving slowly and pulling into safe turnouts—though guides can be helpful if you want a better shot at seeing wolves or bears. And if you want more context beyond the views, Yellowstone also offers ranger-led programs, and exhibits at its visitor centers throughout the park.
Yosemite
Shutterstock Image
Yosemite is one of those parks where you can go full adventure mode—or keep things easy and still have an incredible day. Hiking is the main event, with everything from short, scenic walks in the Valley to all-day climbs and backcountry routes.
If you only do one classic hike, make it the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall. It’s popular for a reason: big waterfall energy, great views, and that “I can’t believe this is a trail” feeling (just expect crowds in peak season).
Yosemite is also famous for rock climbing, especially on its iconic granite walls like El Capitan—even if you’re not climbing, watching climbers from the Valley is pretty wild. Learn more about the rock climbing opportunities and requirements in the park here.
Prefer a slower pace? Yosemite has plenty of ways to sightsee without grinding out miles: scenic drives, meadow walks, and wildlife watching. You can also mix in water time—swimming, fishing, and rafting depending on the season and location.
And if you want more of a “vacation day” feel, Yosemite Valley is great for low-key activities like biking and horseback riding. In winter, the park can shift into snow mode too, with options like snowshoeing and ice skating.
Finally, like Yellowstone, Yosemite has its own wealth of ranger programs and family-friendly events. Find information about upcoming Yosemite events and programs here.
Accommodation Options
Yellowstone
Image from Flickr by Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone has plenty of ways to stay inside the park, whether you’re a tent-and-cooler person or you want a real bed at the end of the day. The park has 12 campgrounds with 2,000+ sites, but many are seasonal, and summer spots go fast—so reservations are strongly recommended. Check here to see an overview of each Yellowstone campsite and find where to book.
If camping isn’t your thing (or you’re mixing in a few “comfort nights”), Yellowstone also has a range of in-park lodges and hotels, from classic historic properties to more modern options. Just know that in-park lodging often sells out early, especially for peak season, so booking ahead makes a big difference. Take a look at this page to learn more about what’s offered in Yellowstone.
Yosemite
Shutterstock Image
Yosemite has a little bit of everything when it comes to lodging—whether you want to camp, sleep in a tent cabin, or stay somewhere iconic. The park has 13 campgrounds with 1,400+ sites, including options for tent and RV camping. Like Yellowstone, spots fill up quickly in summer, so reservations are strongly recommended. . Check here for more Yosemite reservation info.
If you’re hoping to camp in the backcountry, you’ll need a wilderness permit, which you’ll book through Yosemite’s wilderness reservation system. Backcountry Camping information can be found here.
Not into traditional camping? Yosemite also has lodges, hotels, cabins, and even canvas tent cabins that give you that “camping feel” without roughing it as much. And if you want the classic splurge stay, The Ahwahnee in Yosemite Valley is the park’s most famous historic hotel—great if you’re looking for comfort with a side of old-school Yosemite charm.
Find more information on lodging in Yosemite here.
Shaka Guide Tours
Good news, guys! We've got high-quality, turn-by-turn audio tours for both parks!
Yellowstone
Shaka Guide has a highly-rated self-guided audio tour for Yellowstone National Park--with more than 400 audio points and hitting 110 tour stops, this tour has days of stops, stories, and activities.
This definitely isn’t one to miss! Learn more about Shaka Guide's Yellowstone tour here.
Yosemite
But, hey! We can't froget the self-guided audio tour for Yosemite National Park--with 178 audio points and hitting 30 tour stops, this tour makes sure you don’t miss a thing.
With turn-by-turn directions and fascinating stories detailing everything from the geology of the Sierra Nevadas, to the story of the founding of the park, this tour is never boring. Learn more about Shaka Guide's Yosemite National Park tour here.
But, ya' know....Why do one, when you can do both? Both Yellowstone and Yosemite National Park offer a wealth of natural wonders and outdoor experiences...combine them for one epic summer road trip!
Which park is Right for You, Yosemite or Yellowstone?
Yellowstone's colorful geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and fascinating geology make it a prime destination for those seeking an otherworldly adventure.
Yosemite's towering granite cliffs, majestic waterfalls, and pristine wilderness provide a dramatic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and photographers alike.
When deciding between the two parks, it’s ultimately up to preference. I mean, after all, they both have a lot to offer...and you're not gonna' leave disappointed.
Yellowstone is the perfect choice for those captivated by vibrant geothermal features and the opportunity to explore for days on end.
On the other hand, Yosemite is the ideal destination for those drawn to towering cliffs, breathtaking waterfalls, and the cool crisp air of alpine country.
Wherever your journey takes you, just be sure to bring along your Shaka Guide to make it the trip of a lifetime!
Yosemite vs. Yellowstone FAQs
Which park should I visit if I can only choose one?
Pick Yellowstone for geysers, hot springs, and big wildlife. Pick Yosemite for granite cliffs, waterfalls, and classic mountain scenery.
Which park is bigger?
Yellowstone is much larger (over 2.2 million acres across WY/MT/ID). Yosemite is smaller (~748k acres), but its highlights are more concentrated.
Which park is better if I don’t want to drive a ton?
Yosemite. Yosemite Valley puts many of the biggest sights close together. Yellowstone is spread out into multiple regions, so driving is part of the experience.
How many days do I need?
For Yellowstone, aim for 3–5 days (more if you want to slow down). For Yosemite, 2–4 days is a great first trip.
What are the top “first timer” must-sees?
Yellowstone: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone (Upper/Lower Falls), Lamar Valley.
Yosemite: Tunnel View, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan viewpoints, Mist Trail to Vernal/Nevada Falls.
Which park is better for wildlife?
Yellowstone, no contest—especially Lamar Valley (aka “America’s Serengeti”). Yosemite has wildlife too, but it’s not the main reason most people go.
What’s the best time of day to see animals?
Early morning and sunset—in both parks. In Yellowstone, these times are especially good in Lamar and Hayden valleys.
Which park is better for hiking?
It depends on what you want. Yellowstone has tons of variety (boardwalk strolls to backcountry). Yosemite has more big “wow” payoffs—waterfalls, granite views, and iconic climbs.
Do I need permits to hike?
For day hikes, usually no. For overnight/backcountry camping, yes—especially in Yosemite (wilderness permits).
Which park is better for families?
Both are great. Yellowstone is amazing for short, high-reward stops and wildlife. Yosemite is great for easy Valley sightseeing and shorter hikes with huge views.
Which park has worse crowds?
Yosemite Valley can feel packed mid-day in summer. Yellowstone’s crowds spread out more, but the big geothermal areas still get busy.
Is camping hard to book?
Yes—both parks fill quickly in peak season. Book early, be flexible, or consider staying just outside the park.
Which park is better if I only care about waterfalls?
Yosemite. Waterfalls are one of its signature features, especially in spring/early summer.
Which park is better if I’m obsessed with geysers and hot springs?
Yellowstone. That’s the main event.
Can I do both in one trip?
Yes—if you have enough time and like road trips. Yellowstone pairs naturally with Grand Teton, while Yosemite pairs well with other Sierra Nevada stops.
Ellie Lewis is currently studying Journalism at BYU with a minor in Editing & Publishing. Born and raised in San Diego, Ellie has always had an interest in storytelling and all forms of media creation.
At Shaka Guide, she's a true jack of all trades—contributing to everything from simulating tours and writing articles to managing content logistics and data organization. Ellie’s travel bucket list remains... long.
Like this article? Share it on Pinterest!
Ready to take the tour? Check out Shaka Guide's Yellowstone National Park Tour and Yosemite National Park Tour!
We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.
For more detailed information to help you plan, check out our Yellowstone and Yosemite Articles below!
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK:
7-Day Yellowstone National Park Itinerary
3-Day Yellowstone National Park Itinerary
Yellowstone National Park: Know Before You Go
The Best Hikes at Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park vs Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone and Grand Teton Two Days Itinerary
Things to Do At Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone Hot Springs and Where to Find Them
Best Waterfalls in Yellowstone National Park
What state is Yellowstone National Park in?
Driving from Mount Rushmore to Yellowstone
YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK:
Know Before You Go: Yosemite National Park
Shaka Guide's Yosemite National Park Itinerary
Lake Tahoe To Yosemite: The Only Guide You'll Need
Hikes and Trails in Yosemite National Park
Where to Stay In Yosemite National Park
Yosemite Valley Shuttle Service Guide
Getting To Yosemite National Park
Epic Things To Do in Yosemite National Park