Yellowstone
60 mi N of Jackson, WY
1872
Established:
Size:
2,219,791 acres
Visitors:
4,501,382 in 2023
Summary
Yellowstone National Park, situated primarily in Wyoming but also extending into parts of Montana and Idaho, is a true natural wonderland. It's not only the first national park in the world but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yellowstone is famous for its geothermal features like geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pots, with the iconic Old Faithful being the star attraction. The park's diverse landscapes include forests, canyons, rivers, and alpine meadows, providing habitats for a wide range of wildlife, including bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves. Visitors can explore a network of hiking trails, go wildlife watching, or enjoy activities like camping, fishing, and boating. Yellowstone's stunning beauty and unique geology make it a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Wildlife
Yellowstone National Park is renowned for its rich and diverse wildlife. The park is home to a remarkable array of animals, including iconic species such as bison, elk, and grizzly bears. Additionally, visitors may encounter wolves, moose, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats, among others. Yellowstone's varied habitats, ranging from forests to meadows to rivers, support a thriving ecosystem that sustains a wide variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers are treated to sightings of bald eagles, ospreys, and numerous other bird species. Exploring Yellowstone provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and offers a glimpse into the natural beauty and ecological richness of this iconic park.
Sounds of the Park
Things to Do
In the summer, visitors at Yellowstone National Park can hike, camp, ride on horseback, or go fly fishing. In the winter, visitors can go snowmobiling. Year round, visitors can visit Yellowstone's geysers, including the famous Old Faithful.
When to Visit
Yellowstone National Park has a continental climate with warm to hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Precipitation, especially rain, is uncommon year round. Crowds peak in the summer. As a result, the best time to visit, taking into account both crowds and weather, would be late spring (May) or early fall (September).
Ties to Stephen Mather
Yellowstone National Park has a Stephen Mather plaque located at the Madison Information Station.
Fun Fact
Since 2000, Old Faithful geyser has erupted every 44 minutes to 2 hours.