The Best Reasons To See Yellowstone For Yourself
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Since its creation in 1872, it has seen over 10 million visitors. But it’s not just for the numbers that Yellowstone National Park is such a prominent and popular national park. Hear the best reasons to see this park with your own eyes.
1. What’s Yellowstone National Park All About?
1st National Park
Yellowstone is the first national park in the world to ever be established back on March 1, 1872. This year celebrates the 150th anniversary of Yellowstone as a national park! Being that the park is this old it has so much to offer
Super volcano
The Yellowstone Caldara is considered one of the biggest volcanos in the world. Erupting last over 70,000 years ago. This unique spot has a very diverse ecosystem you want to explore ASAP.
2. Why You Need To See Yellowstone For Yourself
With so much to experience why wouldn’t you want to go and see for yourself?
Wildlife
Yellowstone is the capital of wildlife viewing in the lower 48. It is considered to have the largest concentration of large mammals including bison, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, pronghorn, mile deer, whitetail deer, wolves, black bear, lynx, coyotes, grizzly bear, and wolverines. If you want to see wildlife, here is your sign to come.
Easy access
The park is filled with boardwalks and roads for ease of access. If you want to see it, most likely you will get to it. Be sure to look up and n plan out where you want to go beforehand to avoid any disappointment.
Geological Features of Yellowstone
Yellowstone is full of natural beauty. Because of this, There is so much to see. Here are a few of the geological features worth seeing.
Grand Prismatic Springs
Coming in at the 3rd largest boiling lake in the world, Grand Prismatic Spring is a sight worth seeing. The colors here look unreal. However, it is very real and very colorful.
Old Faithful
Going off every 35 mins – 2 hrs., Old Faithful is easy and a must-see in the park. Usually, you can tell when the geyser is about to go off by the number of people that have gathered. The longer it’s been the more people that gather.
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
This exquisite sight is not to be missed. Come in the early morning or late evening to beat the crowds. A beautiful waterfall drains down into the canyon with a rush of power. Definitely add this one to your list.
Hayden Valley
This is where the Bison roam. The line through Hayden Valley is often long only because the bison’s favorite spot to chill is on the road. This makes for some killer pictures though!
Mammoth Hot Springs
A boardwalk surrounding Mammoth Hot Springs is a great little hike to take to explore this region of the park. formed by soft limestone, the features are ever-changing and are otherworldly.
3. What Things Are There To Do?
Hiking
Yellowstone has some amazing hiking to take advantage of. Listed below are a few of the trails worth seeing.
Fishing In Yellowstone
Anglers can enjoy a day on the water here in Yellowstone. However, permits are required and regulations are in place to protect the local ecology. Follow all the rules and enjoy what might be the most peaceful place on earth to catch a fish.
Horseback Riding
Guided trips as well as private trips are available here at the national park. Trot your way through the vast wilderness and explore the park up close. This is an unforgettable way to experience the park!
Boating
Seeing the park on the water can be a great experience. Get your boat inspected and get out on the water!
4. What Towns Are Nearby Yellowstone?
Gardiner, Montana
This little town with a population of only 880. Gardiner serves as the only year-round entrance into Yellowstone National Park.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
As the Base camp of the south entrance, Jackson Hole has all the things you’d need. It is said to have big city amenities with a small-town feel. Whether you staying here or elsewhere, Jackson Hole is going to be on your list of places to visit.
West Yellowstone, Montana
Sitting directly outside the west entrance is West Yellowstone. This town is geared more towards tourism and restaurants. There is the main grocery store for restocking along with gear stores for your adventures.
5. Where Can I Stay?
Yellowstone is full of places to stay. As seen on the NPS website there are numerous hotels and campgrounds to enjoy. Listed below are just a few of what the park has to offer.
Hotels
Old Faithful Inn
Located near the south entrance of the park, Old Faithful Inn is the largest log structure in the world. The inn was built out of local materials in 1904 directly next to Old Faithful Geyser. This is the most popular lodging in the park so make sure to book early!
Canyon Lodge and Cabins
On the east side of the park lies the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Near that is Canyon Lodge and Cabins. This is a magnificent place to come and spend your evenings. The lodge is open from June through October.
Campgrounds
Fishing Bridge RV Park
This is an RV-only campground due to the number of bears that frequent the area. This should not deter you from staying here though. Fishing Bridge has everything you need to make your RV trip to Yellowstone a success.
Canyon Campground
Having its own store, hot showers and flushable toilets this campground is a treat to stay at Canyon Campground is located near the east entrance and had notable hiking trails nearby. These trails include Cascade Lake, Canyon Rim Trail, and Mount Washburn.
Yellowstone has so much to offer. If it is your first time going to a national park or you are a seasoned traveler, Yellowstone has it all. Come and enjoy beautiful Yellowstone National Park!
