There are so many things to do when you are visiting not only Yellowstone but the surrounding areas like Island Park. Many people that visit Yellowstone National Park end up staying in Island Park and doing various activities while they are here. I am here to tell you some of those activities that people enjoy the most.
1. Mesa Falls
One of the prettiest and most popular places to see while you’re in the area is Mesa Falls. It is such a beautiful and magnificent waterfall. It is also a really popular spot to get engaged lol. One of my best friends actually go engaged there and I was able to photograph it. Let me tell you it is very picturesque for any moment like that.
2. Johnny Sacks
Visit Johnny Sacks Cabin and feed the beautiful fish that like to hangout underneath the bridge. Johnny Sack’s was an early settler of Island Park and his honored for his wonderful craftsmanship involved with building a cabin in the 1930’s. There are a few walking trails around that area that are beautiful to explore also. Just a heads up if you decide to go there is that there is no wading or getting in the water allowed. Please also do not feed the fish anything but the fish food provided (remember to bring quarters) and keep the area clean by not leaving any trash.
3. Horseback Riding
Go on a horseback ride @ Eagle Ridge Ranch in Island Park. I have been horseback riding many times at Eagle Ridge and it is always such a fun time. The views are beautiful and riding a horse just makes it that much more fun. You can book a horse ride with them through this link. If you click on that link it will bring the the page that tells you all about pricing and the different horse ride option that they have. It is seriously a fun time!
4. Harriman State Park
Explore Harriman State park. Harriman offers 22 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horse riding trails. One option would be to rent an e-bike through this link and you can explore all the awesome trails that way.
5. Shop in West Yellowstone
Shop and eat in West Yellowstone. There are so many shops in West to get all your Yellowstone Souvenirs and apparel. I am local and I love going there often to get some ice cream and some cute shirts or sweaters.
6. Yellowstone Zipline
Be adventurous and hangout at the Yellowstone Zipline Adventure Park. There are 1,000 feet of ziplining thrills as well as a giant ropes course. To be honest this is one that I haven’t tried quite yet. It is on my list of things to do. There are different options for different ages of kids from age 4 and up.
7. See a Theatre Show
Another fun thing in West Yellowstone is going to see a family friendly theatre show at The Playmill. Not going to lie this is one of my favorite activities. The Playmill Players rehearse intensely to bring you the most professional and enjoyable show. Definitely recommend! There is also Yellowstone Playhouse in Island Park by Henry’s Lake and their shows are hilarious. Just think of a play plus a comedy show all mixed into one! Another awesome thing about their shows is it can be dinner and a show. They serve delicious prime rib (my personal favorite), homemade mac and cheese, or Italian breaded chicken.
8. Visit Wade Lake
I’m really going to give away a secret here, but visit Wade Lake, Montana for a day. It is gorgeous and the water is a clear blue color. It is about and hour drive but it is the prettiest lake to hangout and swim at for the day. Just don’t forget life jackets! They also only have a limited amount of kayak/paddleboards rentals per day.
9. Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center
Visit the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone. You will be guaranteed to see both grizzly bears and wolves while you’re there. It is such a great place for kids to see animals.
10. Float the Mack’s Inn River
My final suggestion is to float the river at Mack’s Inn. It’s a perfect activity for a hot day! Just be sure that you go on a day that is warm and sunny. I have seen too many people get on the river right before a huge thunderstorm and it is not the best experience at the point, so just be sure it will be good weather and it will be so fun!
I hope these suggestions will help you out in planning your vacation to this beautiful area!
