Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, drawing over 4 million visitors per year. Established in 1872, it was the first national park in the U.S. and is known for its wildlife, geothermal features, and incredible natural scenery.
Planning Your Yellowstone Vacation
When planning a trip to Yellowstone, there are a few key things to consider:
When to Visit
The best times to visit Yellowstone are in the spring (May-June) and fall (September-October). Summers are bustling with throngs of people, while winters bring a chilly ambiance and constrained availability. Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds while allowing access to most of the park.
Where to Stay
Yellowstone has a variety of lodging options both in and around the park. This includes hotels, cabins, RV parks, and campgrounds. Staying in or near the park allows easy access to attractions. Those looking for more amenities may consider staying in nearby gateway towns.
What to Do and See
Yellowstone has an abundance of sights and activities:
Geysers and thermal features - The park has over 10,000 hydrothermal features including geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles. Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring are must-sees.
Wildlife viewing - Spot bears, wolves, bison, elk, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife in their natural habitats. The Hayden and Lamar Valleys provide incredible opportunities for sightseeing.
Hiking - Over 900 miles of hiking trails ranging from short walks to backcountry treks. Popular trails include Avalanche Peak, Fairy Falls, and Beaver Ponds.
Boating - Enjoy activities like kayaking and fishing on Yellowstone Lake, the largest high elevation lake in North America.
Sightseeing - Drive through the park stopping at attractions like the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Yellowstone Lake.
History and Geology of Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park spans 3,472 square miles over Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. The park has a long history and fascinating geological features:
Native Americans and Early Explorers
Native American tribes including the Nez Perce, Crow, and Shoshone inhabited the Yellowstone region for over 11,000 years before European exploration began in the early 1800s.
National Park Establishment
In 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act into law, establishing the area as the first U.S. national park. This ensured the protection of Yellowstone's resources and wildlife.
Geysers and Volcanic Activity
Yellowstone sits on top of a massive supervolcano which fuels the park's geysers and hot springs. The area has over 300 geysers, the majority of the world's total. This geothermal activity is a product of the volcano.
Natural Beauty and Ecosystems
From mountain ranges to roaring rivers to lush forests, the park contains diverse natural beauty and supports an incredible range of wildlife and plant species. Preserving this environment was the founding purpose of Yellowstone.
Visiting Yellowstone's Iconic Sites and Attractions
To make the most of your visit to Yellowstone, it's best to prioritize the park's most famous and important attractions.
Old Faithful Geyser
No trip to Yellowstone would be complete without visiting its most famous geyser, Old Faithful. Erupting every 60-110 minutes, crowds gather to witness this predictable and impressive natural spectacle that shoots water 180 feet in the air.
Grand Prismatic Spring
Yellowstone's largest hot spring, the Grand Prismatic Spring is the third largest in the world. The park's most beautiful attraction is undoubtedly its stunning multicolored hues of blue, green, yellow, and orange, which are created by microbial mats.
Yellowstone Lake
This alpine lake is one of the largest high elevation lakes in North America at 132 square miles. With over 100 species of birds and an abundance of recreation, it's a scenic spot to boat, fish, or enjoy a lakeside picnic.
Wildlife in Lamar and Hayden Valleys
Lamar and Hayden Valleys offer prime wildlife viewing and are home to massive bison herds. Spot wolves, bears, elk, bighorn sheep, and more here with either guided tours or self-guided drives.
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
The canyon stretches over 20 miles long and up to 1,200 feet deep, showcasing two iconic waterfalls. Check out views from overlooks or hike down into the colorful canyon for an up-close perspective.
Yellowstone undoubtedly has something incredible to offer, regardless of your interests. From scenic vistas to unique geothermal formations and abundant wildlife, Yellowstone's diversity and preservation of nature provides an unforgettable national park experience. Use a reputable company like Property management Yellowstone to help arrange the details of your Yellowstone vacation. With good planning, you'll be set to explore the park and make amazing memories. Let the adventure begin!
