Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park: First National Park in the World

Nestled atop a volcanic hotspot and spanning across the states of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone National Park is the crown jewel of the American wilderness. Established in 1872, it holds the distinction of being the first national park in the world. With its kaleidoscope of geothermal wonders, diverse wildlife, vast forests, pristine rivers, and awe-inspiring landscapes, Yellowstone represents nature at its most raw and unfiltered.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park Location

Yellowstone National Park is primarily located in the U.S. state of Wyoming, although it also extends into Montana and Idaho. The park's vast expanse covers parts of these three states in the western United States. Here's a more detailed breakdown of its location:

Wyoming: The majority of Yellowstone National Park, including its most famous geothermal features like Old Faithful and the majority of the park's attractions, lies within the state of Wyoming.

Montana: The northern part of the park extends into Montana. This region includes areas like the Lamar Valley, which is known for its wildlife viewing opportunities.

Idaho: A small portion of the park's western boundary crosses into Idaho, but the Idaho section is relatively small and less visited compared to the portions in Wyoming and Montana.

Yellowstone National Park Map

Yellowstone National Park Area

Yellowstone National Park covers a vast area of approximately 2.2 million acres (3,468.4 square miles or 8,987 square kilometers), which includes lakes, valleys, rivers and mountain ranges. It is one of the largest national parks in the United States and is known for its expansive and diverse landscapes. 

Approximately 96% of Yellowstone National Park's land area is located within the state of Wyoming. About 3% of the park extends into Montana, primarily in the northern part, and the remaining 1% of the park's area stretches into Idaho in its westernmost region. 

This tri-state configuration makes Yellowstone one of the few national parks in the United States that spans multiple states. Each of these regions offers unique landscapes, geothermal features, and wildlife viewing opportunities, contributing to the park's diverse and remarkable natural beauty.

Yellowstone National Park

Human History and Cultural Significance

The Yellowstone region has been inhabited for at least 11,000 years by Native American peoples, including the Shoshone, Crow, Blackfeet, Nez Perce (Nimíipuu), and Lakota Sioux. These communities hunted, gathered, and traveled through the area long before European explorers arrived.

In 1807, John Colter, a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, became the first known white man to describe Yellowstone’s geothermal features, which were initially dismissed as fanciful exaggerations. Subsequent expeditions in the late 19th century led to public awareness of Yellowstone’s wonders and ultimately its designation as a national park.

The park also preserves numerous historic structures, including Old Faithful Inn (completed in 1904), one of the largest log structures in the world and an iconic example of rustic architecture.

A Land of Fire and Water: Geothermal Marvels

Yellowstone sits atop one of the largest active volcanic systems on Earth. Its geothermal features are unparalleled, with more than 10,000 thermal phenomena including geysers, hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots. Nearly half of the world’s known geysers are found here, making it the planet’s most active geyser field.

Among the park’s famous geothermal features is Old Faithful, renowned for its relatively predictable eruptions, shooting boiling water up to 180 feet (55 meters) into the air approximately every 90 minutes. The Grand Prismatic Spring, with its vivid rainbow-like colors caused by heat-loving microbes, is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third-largest in the world. Other notable geysers include Castle Geyser, Daisy Geyser, and Steamboat Geyser, the latter being the tallest active geyser on Earth.

Old Faithful

Grand Prismatic Spring

Mammoth Hot Springs

Hot Spring in Yellowstone National Park

Fumaroles in Yellowstone National Park

Fumaroles in Yellowstone National Park

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Waterfalls

Carved by the Yellowstone River, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a breathtaking gorge stretching over 20 miles (32 km) long, plunging to depths of more than 1,200 feet (366 meters). Its vibrant yellow, red, and orange walls are a result of hydrothermal alteration of the volcanic rocks. Visitors are captivated by the canyon’s iconic waterfalls—the Upper Falls (109 feet or 33 meters high) and the Lower Falls (308 feet or 94 meters high), the latter being nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls.

Scattered across the park are other spectacular waterfalls, including Tower Fall, Undine Falls, Wraith Falls, and the lesser-known but equally beautiful Crystal Falls and Cave Falls.

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Yellowstone River in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone River in Yellowstone National Park

Geology and the Yellowstone Caldera

The park lies atop the Yellowstone Caldera, a supervolcano that last erupted about 640,000 years ago. While catastrophic eruptions are rare, the region experiences frequent small earthquakes—over 1,000 tremors annually—due to ongoing tectonic and volcanic activity.

Yellowstone’s geological story is written in its mountains, lava flows, petrified forests, and the unique formations seen throughout the landscape. From the rugged Absaroka Range to the volcanic plateaus, the park offers a living classroom for understanding Earth’s dynamic forces.

Mountain in Yellowstone National Park

Wildlife Wonderland

Yellowstone is one of the last nearly intact ecosystems in the temperate zone of the Northern Hemisphere. It provides sanctuary to 67 species of mammals, more than 300 bird species, 16 species of fish, and several amphibians and reptiles.

Large mammals such as grizzly bears, black bears, gray wolves, mountain lions, and coyotes roam freely across the park’s vast wilderness. Yellowstone’s herds of American bison—the largest free-ranging population in the United States—often block traffic as they cross roads. Other ungulates include elk, moose, mule deer, pronghorn, white-tailed deer, and bighorn sheep.

Bird enthusiasts flock to Yellowstone to see bald eagles, golden eagles, peregrine falcons, ospreys, trumpeter swans, sandhill cranes, and an array of waterfowl and songbirds.

Bison in Yellowstone National Park

Bison Herd in Yellowstone National Park

Grizzly Bear in Yellowstone National Park

Gray Wolf in Yellowstone Ntaional Park

Elk in Yellowstone National Park

Elk Deer's Herd in Yellowstone National Park

Ecosystems and Plant Life

Yellowstone’s diverse ecosystems range from lush river valleys to alpine tundra. The park is home to nine species of coniferous trees, including lodgepole pine (which covers about 80% of the forested area), whitebark pine, Engelmann spruce, Douglas fir, and subalpine fir. Quaking aspen and cottonwood groves dot the lower elevations, while meadows bloom with wildflowers like lupine, arnica, and paintbrush in summer.

Notably, Yellowstone hosts three endemic plant species found nowhere else: Yellowstone sand verbena, Yellowstone sulfur wild buckwheat, and Ross’s bentgrass.

Plants in Yellowstone National Park

Plants in Yellowstone National Park

Plants in Yellowstone National Park

Popular Places to Visit in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is home to some of the most iconic natural wonders in the world. Each region of the park offers unique experiences, from erupting geysers and colorful hot springs to wildlife-rich valleys and roaring waterfalls. Here are the must-visit spots that every traveler should include in their Yellowstone itinerary:

1. Old Faithful Geyser

One of the most famous geothermal features in the world, Old Faithful erupts approximately every 90 minutes, shooting steam and water up to 180 feet into the air. The predictability of this geyser makes it a favorite stop for visitors. Surrounding the geyser is the Old Faithful Historic District, including the charming Old Faithful Inn—a rustic lodge built in 1904.

2. Grand Prismatic Spring

Located in the Midway Geyser Basin, the Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the United States. Its vivid colors—bright blue, deep red, orange, and green—are caused by heat-loving microbes that live around the edges of the mineral-rich pool. A short hike to the Fairy Falls overlook offers the best view of its stunning hues from above.

3. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Carved by the Yellowstone River, this breathtaking canyon stretches for 20 miles and reaches depths of over 1,000 feet. The canyon is home to two major waterfalls—the Upper Falls (109 feet) and the Lower Falls (308 feet), the latter being almost twice the height of Niagara Falls. Popular viewpoints include Artist Point, Lookout Point, and Inspiration Point.

4. Lamar Valley

Often referred to as the “Serengeti of North America,” Lamar Valley is one of the best places in Yellowstone to see wildlife. Early morning and evening visits may reward you with sightings of bison herds, elk, coyotes, bears, and the elusive gray wolves. Wildlife watchers and photographers often set up along the road with scopes and cameras.

5. Yellowstone Lake

Covering over 130 square miles, Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America. Its cold, clear waters are surrounded by forested hills and offer opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The Lake Village area features historic lodges and a visitor center with exhibits on the lake’s ecology and geothermal activity beneath the lakebed.

6. Mammoth Hot Springs

Located near the North Entrance, Mammoth Hot Springs features unique travertine terraces formed by calcium carbonate deposits. The formations resemble frozen waterfalls and change constantly due to underground thermal shifts. Nearby is the historic Fort Yellowstone, where early park management and U.S. Army presence helped protect the land in its early years.

7. Hayden Valley

Stretching between Yellowstone Lake and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Hayden Valley is a lush, wide-open area ideal for spotting grizzly bears, bison, elk, and bald eagles. In spring and fall, the valley comes alive with animal activity, making it a prime stop for nature lovers and wildlife photographers.

8. Norris Geyser Basin

The hottest and most active geyser basin in the park, Norris is home to colorful springs, hissing fumaroles, and Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world. The basin features two walking loops—Porcelain Basin and Back Basin—both offering surreal and otherworldly geothermal landscapes.

9. Tower Fall

Tower Fall, a 132-foot waterfall framed by rugged volcanic rock columns, is one of the park’s most photogenic spots. Located near the Tower-Roosevelt area, the viewpoint is easily accessible, and the area is a great stop en route to Lamar Valley.

10. West Thumb Geyser Basin

Set along the shores of Yellowstone Lake, West Thumb Geyser Basin features boiling springs and geysers just inches from the water’s edge. Its location offers a rare chance to see thermal features in close proximity to the lake, with stunning mountain backdrops.

11. Biscuit Basin

Just north of Old Faithful, Biscuit Basin is a compact but colorful geothermal area with a boardwalk loop that showcases bubbling hot springs, vibrant pools, and small geysers. The striking Sapphire Pool is the star attraction here, known for its deep blue waters. A short trail behind the basin leads to Mystic Falls, a scenic 70-foot waterfall surrounded by forest, making it a perfect spot for a light hike.

12. Mud Volcano Area

This bubbling, steaming, and sometimes growling landscape is one of the most active hydrothermal zones in Yellowstone. Located near Hayden Valley, the Mud Volcano Area is home to acidic mud pots and hot springs like Dragon’s Mouth Spring, where steam bellows from a cave with roaring sounds. The entire area smells of sulfur, adding to its eerie, otherworldly feel. It’s a great place to understand Yellowstone’s violent volcanic underworld.

13. Mount Washburn

A favorite among hikers, Mount Washburn offers some of the best panoramic views in Yellowstone. At over 10,000 feet, the summit provides sweeping vistas of the park, including Yellowstone Lake, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and even the distant Tetons on a clear day. Two main trails lead to the summit—one from Dunraven Pass and the other from Chittenden Road—both offering wildflowers, wildlife, and unforgettable scenery.

14. Black Sand Basin

Located just a mile from Old Faithful, this small but vibrant geothermal area is named for its dark volcanic sand. It features colorful hot springs, small geysers, and the beautiful Rainbow Pool. It’s less crowded than its neighboring basins and offers an easy walk with stunning views.

15. Gallatin Range (Bighorn Pass Trail)

For those seeking solitude and mountain scenery, the Bighorn Pass Trail in the Gallatin Range offers a fantastic backcountry experience. You’ll cross streams, wildflower meadows, and alpine forests, with a good chance of spotting elk, moose, or even bears.

Hiking, Camping, and Outdoor Activities

Yellowstone offers over 900 miles of hiking trails, ranging from short boardwalk strolls around geyser basins to strenuous backcountry adventures. Popular hikes include the Uncle Tom's Trail to the canyon's base, the Fairy Falls Trail, and the Mount Washburn hike for panoramic views of the park.

Camping is one of the best ways to experience Yellowstone. There are 12 campgrounds and over 300 backcountry campsites, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the solitude of nature. Activities like fishing, boating, wildlife photography, horseback riding, and winter sports such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing provide year-round opportunities for adventure.

Yellowstone National Park

Visitor Centers and Infrastructure

Yellowstone’s visitor infrastructure includes several visitor centers, such as the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center, Canyon Visitor Education Center, and Albright Visitor Center in Mammoth Hot Springs. The park’s five entrances—North, Northeast, South, East, and West—provide access from surrounding communities like Gardiner, Cooke City, Cody, Jackson, and West Yellowstone.

Lodging options range from historic hotels like Old Faithful Inn and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel to rustic cabins and campgrounds. Devils Garden Campground (in nearby Arches National Park) and Madison Campground are popular choices for campers exploring the region.

Challenges and Conservation

Yellowstone faces ongoing challenges, including balancing visitor access with resource protection, managing invasive species, mitigating the effects of climate change, and preserving fragile geothermal and ecological systems.

The Yellowstone Wolf Restoration Project of 1995 successfully reintroduced gray wolves, reviving a critical predator-prey dynamic that benefits the entire ecosystem. Similarly, efforts to restore native Arctic grayling and westslope cutthroat trout populations reflect the park’s commitment to ecological integrity.

Yellowstone National Park

Planning Your Visit

Yellowstone is open year-round, but the experience varies dramatically with the seasons. Summer brings warm weather and accessible roads, but also large crowds. Spring and fall offer quieter landscapes and great wildlife viewing, especially for bears and elk. Winter transforms the park into a silent, snow-covered wonderland, ideal for wolf watching in the Lamar Valley.

Five entrances lead into the park, with the South Entrance connecting to Grand Teton National Park, offering a seamless journey between two of America’s greatest natural treasures.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone: America's Wild Heart

Yellowstone is more than just a park—it's a symbol of natural wonder, scientific discovery, and cultural heritage. From its geysers to its grizzlies, from its ancient forests to its thundering rivers, Yellowstone is a place that stirs the soul and awakens a deep respect for the natural world.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, Yellowstone promises a journey into the wild heart of America—a place where nature still reigns supreme.

FAQs

Q. Where is Yellowstone National Park?/What state is Yellowstone National Park in?/What city is Yellowstone National Park in?

A. Yellowstone National Park is located primarily in the United States, spanning across the states of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. The majority of the park's land, approximately 96%, is situated within the state of Wyoming. Roughly 3% of the park is in Montana, and the remaining 1% is in Idaho.

Q. How big is Yellowstone National Park?/How many acres is Yellowstone National Park?

A. Yellowstone National Park covers an expansive area of approximately 2.2 million acres (3,468.4 square miles), making it one of the largest national parks in the United States. This vast park spans parts of three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Yellowstone's size, combined with its diverse landscapes, geothermal features, and abundant wildlife, contributes to its status as one of the most iconic and cherished natural treasures in the world.

Q. When was Yellowstone National Park established?

A. Yellowstone National Park became the world's first national park on March 1, 1872, when President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act into law. This historic legislation set aside the park's pristine wilderness, geothermal features, and natural wonders for the enjoyment and benefit of future generations, marking the beginning of the national park system in the United States. Yellowstone's designation as a national park was a significant milestone in the conservation and preservation of natural landscapes and resources.

Q. What river runs through Yellowstone National Park?

A. The Yellowstone River is the major river that runs through Yellowstone National Park. This iconic river originates in Yellowstone National Park's Absaroka Range and flows through much of the park's interior, eventually leaving the park's northeastern boundary.