Tucked away from the crowds and the more frequented pathways of Yellowstone National Park, the East Entrance offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes the park has to offer. Known for its remarkable views and less traveled roads, the East Entrance is not just a passage into the park—it’s a portal into a quieter, wilder Yellowstone. This entrance provides a unique opportunity to experience the park’s vast beauty in solitude, making it a cherished route for those in the know.
For adventurers looking to explore this less-trodden side of Yellowstone, Old Faithful RV Park presents the perfect starting point. Strategically located to give easy access to both the iconic attractions and the hidden corners of the East Side, the park combines the convenience of top-notch RV camping facilities with the allure of nature’s untouched beauty. Pet-friendly accommodation and a range of outdoor activities available right from your doorstep make it an ideal base camp for families, solo travelers, and everyone in between.
From Old Faithful RV Park, visitors can embark on a journey of discovery, where the vibrant geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and the majestic landscapes of Yellowstone unfold in an array more vivid and intimate than found anywhere else in the park. Join us as we delve into the hidden gems and secret wonders accessible from Yellowstone’s East Entrance—a side of the park waiting to be explored.
The Allure of the East Entrance
Yellowstone’s East Entrance is celebrated as the most scenic and least frequented of all the park’s gateways, providing an awe-inspiring introduction to the park’s natural wonders. As you approach from Cody, Wyoming, the drive itself is a preview of the majesty that lies ahead. The route traverses the rugged Shoshone National Forest, showcasing a dramatic landscape shaped by eons of volcanic activity and glacial erosion, which carves out steep canyon walls and towering rock formations along the highway.
Geologically, the area is a showcase of the Earth’s raw power. The East Entrance road winds through areas rich in volcanic history, evident from the layered basalt and andesite formations that dominate the vistas. Alongside these ancient rocks, you’ll encounter expansive forests that stretch towards the horizon, broken only by the occasional meadow or river valley. This part of Yellowstone is less developed, which allows for an experience that feels more connected to the wild, untouched aspects of the park.
One of the most striking features near the East Entrance is the impressive Sylvan Pass. At an elevation of 8,524 feet, the pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding Absaroka Mountains, which are often capped with snow well into the warmer months. The pass itself is a marvel of park engineering, providing access through what was once an impassable barrier, and it serves as a fitting entry point to the wonders of Yellowstone.
This entrance’s relative tranquility also means that visitors can enjoy these geological and natural features without the crowds that are often found at more popular park entrances. The drive to and from Cody is particularly noted for its scenic beauty and is often recommended as a must-do for photographers and nature lovers alike. With each mile closer to Yellowstone, the landscape seems to grow in grandeur, making the journey through the East Entrance a profound reminder of the vastness and beauty of the American wilderness.
Must-Visit Hidden Gems
Tower Fall: Located just a short journey from the East Entrance, Tower Fall is one of Yellowstone’s jaw-dropping natural features. This 132-foot waterfall is named for the towering rock pinnacles at its brink. The accessibility of the falls makes it a popular spot, yet it remains less crowded than more central attractions in the park. A well-maintained trail leads to a viewpoint near the base of the falls, allowing for an easy and rewarding hike. In the early morning light or late afternoon, the play of light on the water and rocks makes for spectacular photo opportunities.
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone: This breathtaking canyon is a highlight for any visitor with its dramatic views, particularly from places like Artist Point and Lookout Point. However, lesser-known spots along the North Rim and South Rim trails offer equally stunning vistas without the worry of groups of tourists. These trails wind along the rim, providing numerous overlooks where you can enjoy the expansive views of the canyon and the Yellowstone River flowing below in relative solitude. The vibrant colors of the canyon walls, especially during sunrise and sunset, enhance the surreal beauty of this landscape.
Mud Volcano Area: Just north of Lake Village, the Mud Volcano area presents a bizarre landscape of bubbling mud pots and hissing steam vents. This hydrothermal area showcases some of the park’s most acidic springs, and features such as Dragon’s Mouth Spring and Mud Volcano give visitors a glimpse into the powerful geological forces at work under Yellowstone. The area’s boardwalks are well-designed for an easy walk, letting you safely explore this alien terrain up close.
Avalanche Peak: For those who crave a more vigorous adventure, the hike to Avalanche Peak should not be missed. The trailhead is conveniently located a few miles east of the East Entrance, making it an excellent day trip for those staying at Old Faithful RV Park. This challenging 4.5-mile round trip hike ascends over 2,100 feet, but it rewards hikers with views of the Absaroka Mountains and Yellowstone Lake. Due to the high elevation, the trail is typically free from snow only from July through September.
Planning Your Visit
Choosing the best time to visit Yellowstone’s East Side can greatly enhance your experience, as each season offers unique beauty and opportunities for wildlife observation. Spring and early summer are ideal for those eager to witness the park’s renewal, with wildflowers blooming and newborn wildlife making their first appearances. The cooler temperatures and thinner crowds provide a quiet setting for exploration.
Late summer and early fall are perhaps the most visually striking times to visit, as the foliage begins to change, painting the landscape in vibrant hues of gold, orange, and red. This period also aligns with the mating seasons for many of Yellowstone’s iconic species, such as elk and bison, offering spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities.
Winter transforms Yellowstone into a serene, snowy wonderland, perfect for those seeking solitude and the stark beauty of snow-covered landscapes. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing have become the best ways to explore the quieter corners of the park, with the East Entrance remaining accessible for most of the winter season.
Old Faithful RV Park serves as an excellent base camp for these seasonal adventures. Located just a short drive from the East Entrance, the park offers a range of amenities that cater to both summer and winter visitors. With full RV hookups, pet-friendly policies, and proximity to major attractions, it provides a comfortable and convenient home away from home. The park’s strategic location allows easy access to both well-known attractions and hidden gems, ensuring that your stay is as engaging and diverse as the park itself.
When planning your visit, consider booking your stay at Old Faithful RV Park well in advance, especially during the peak summer months. This ensures you have the perfect spot from which to launch your Yellowstone adventures. The park staff are also a great resource for local tips and can help you plan day trips to ensure you see the best of what the East Side has to offer.
Escape the Crowds: Embrace the Tranquility of Yellowstone’s East Side
By venturing beyond the more popular spots, you can discover the tranquility and untouched natural beauty that this side of the park holds. The East Entrance is not only a path less traveled but a journey into the heart of Yellowstone’s wild majesty. Here, you can enjoy the peacefulness of lesser-known trails, the thrill of unique geothermal features, and the chance to witness wildlife in its natural habitat without the usual crowds.
Staying at Old Faithful RV Park maximizes your experience, providing a comfortable and convenient basecamp that is just as equipped for the adventurous spirit as it is for those seeking relaxation in nature’s lap. With its strategic location, excellent facilities, and direct access to the East Side’s hidden gems, the park is an ideal choice for anyone looking to explore Yellowstone in depth.
As you plan your trip to Yellowstone, consider all that the East Side has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to see the park’s famous sights or a seasoned traveler looking for new paths to tread, the East Entrance promises a journey filled with discovery and wonder. Make Old Faithful RV Park your home away from home, and let the adventures begin!