Yellowstone Lake

Sitting in the heart of Yellowstone National Park is Yellowstone Lake, the park's largest body of water and the largest freshwater lake above 7,000 feet in North America. First visited by Lewis and Clark's scout, John Colter, in the early 1800s, Yellowstone Lake has since been a popular destination among anglers and boaters. Take advantage of your time at Yellowstone Lake to come face to face with some of the park's animal residents, including bison, bald eagles, bears and moose. During the winter, many animals trek to the more shallow areas of the lake's southern shores, which don't freeze due to the West Thumb's geothermic activity beneath the surface. However, most of the lake freezes over by early December and can stay that way until early June.

Yellowstone Lake is easily accessible from both the East and West Entrances. The lake is flanked by two villages -- Grant Village and Lake Village -- which feature visitor's centers and eateries.

Check Yellowstone's website for specific opening and closing dates of facilities, plus operating hours.