Not only is West Yellowstone a gateway to the United State's first national park, but it is a major hub for outdoor recreation. World-class fishing holes, epic hiking, and mountain biking trails are easy to find. There seems to be an outfitter on every corner than can take you on guided tours--including whitewater rafting in the summer and snowmobile and sled dog tours in the winter. Seeking extra thrills? Try the local zipline and aerial adventure course. West Yellowstone is also home to the Grizzle and Wolf Discovery Center. Here, you can get an upclose look at these impressive creatures and check them off your list if you didn't manage to see them in the wilds of Yellowstone.

For many, fall is the best time to visit West Yellowstone. Foliage erupts in color and you're most likely to see wolves, grizzlies and other favorites as the wildlife gears up for winter months. Elk and moose will be in rut with males calling for mates and settling rivalries. Bears will be out and about as they gorge themselves to put on pounds to prepare for hibernation. Tourist season winds down substantially in the fall, so you won't be fighting crowds nearly as much. You'll also have an easier time getting a front-row seat at any attraction around town or in Yellowstone National Park.

Summer in West Yellowstone is a prime season for recreation with easy access to hiking, mountain biking or cycling, and world-famous fly fishing. You can book bus or white-water rafting tours, view wildlife around the outskirts of town or get up close and personal at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. For those seeking thrills, don't miss the Zipline and Adventure Park ropes course. You'll also be minutes away from Yellowstone National Park's west entrance with its quick access to the park's top thermal features. After days full of adventure, you can browse shops and enjoy local cuisine and breweries around town.