Located largely in the northwestern corner of the state of Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park is a vast and stunning wilderness area. Established in 1872, it was the world’s first national park and is widely considered one of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse places on Earth. To help plan your visit, check out the National Park Service App HERE. In the meantime, here are some of the top things to see and do in Yellowstone Park.
Old Faithful is perhaps the most famous geyser in the world, known for its predictable eruptions that occur every 60-110 minutes. Visitors can watch as the geyser shoots a column of water up to 185 feet in the air.
Grand Prismatic Springs
The Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the most visually stunning features in the park, with a rainbow of colors created by the heat-loving bacteria that thrive in the scorching water. Visitors can view the spring from the boardwalk or take a guided tour to get a closer look.
Yellowstone sits atop a massive volcanic caldera, and visitors can explore the geothermal features that result from this unique geography. The Norris Geyser Basin, located in the park’s northwest corner, is home to some of the park’s most active geysers, including Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest.
Travelers will discover some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the world, with options for all skill levels. The park is home to over 900 miles of trails, including the famous Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and the Yellowstone River Trail.
Keep your camera handy for photos of a wide variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, elk, bison, and moose. Visitors can take guided tours or venture out on their own to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats. You will also find excellent fishing opportunities, with some of the best trout fishing in the world. Guests can fish in the park’s rivers and streams, but they will need to obtain a fishing license and adhere to strict catch and release regulations.
Wildlife
This national park also features a variety of ranger-led programs, including guided hikes, campfire talks, and wildlife viewing tours. These programs offer a unique opportunity to learn more about the park’s history, ecology, and wildlife from experienced professionals.
For travelers wishing to stay, there is a range of lodging options, from cozy cabins to luxurious lodges. You can also choose to camp in one of the park’s many campgrounds, and fully immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty.
Whether you are interested in geothermal features, wildlife viewing, hiking, or simply enjoying the park’s natural beauty, Yellowstone has something for everyone.