YELLOWSTONE
NATIONAL PARK
park information
When the first visitors to Yellowstone tried to report what they saw, news magazines responded, “Thank you, but we do not print fiction.” Peppered with colorful hot springs, mudpots, and breathtaking waterfalls, it is easy to understand how one might think it otherworldly. Nothing else on Earth is quite like Yellowstone--and there is something for everyone, from children to grandparents.
"For the benefit and enjoyment of the people"
Established in 1872 and located primarily in Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park was America's first national park. To this day, Yellowstone remains one of the country's most popular national parks with millions of annual visitors. Yellowstone spans almost 3,500 miles, and extends into parts of Montana and Idaho, making it one of the largest national parks in the US.
Yellowstone National Park sits on top of a dormant volcano and is home to more geysers and hot springs than any other place on earth. Wonders abound at this truly unique national park, from sites like the Yellowstone Grand Canyon to wildlife like America’s largest buffalo herd, grizzly bears, and wolves. Approximately 50 percent of the world’s hydrothermal features are at Yellowstone National Park, creating an effect that makes the ground appear to be on fire. The most famous of all the geysers is Old Faithful, one of the most popular and recognized natural wonders in the United States.
In addition to its numerous geological features, Yellowstone National Park also has plentiful wildlife. Yellowstone is home to the oldest and largest bison herd in the United States, along with wolves, elk and grizzly bears. The wildlife is a huge draw for photographers who visit the park to capture Yellowstone animals in their natural habitat. Fishermen travel to Yellowstone for the opportunity to catch the highly sought after native cutthroat trout, as well as other non-native trout species.
wildlife
Because of the park’s high elevation, Yellowstone weather varies dramatically from season to season, and even day to day. You may find snow in the summer months or 80 degree temperatures in the fall.
camping
Most of the guided Yellowstone tours span multiple days, given the park’s size. Be advised that weather can restrict what you are able to see and how you travel to different park areas. There are 12 sites available for camping at Yellowstone. Visitors wishing to hike in to a campsite may utilize a designated "backcountry" camping area. As bears are a primary concern when camping in Yellowstone, food poles are provided at most campsites. Bear safety tips include not packing foods with strong odors and changing out of clothes worn while cooking meals. When traveling or camping in the park, bring a Yellowstone National Park map and ask Yellowstone park rangers for additional safety tips.
