Yellowstone National Park
Written By: Sarah Reish
Our country’s very first National Park is located right here in Wyoming. Six months following the Hayden Expedition, Yellowstone National Park was officially formed. Nathanial P. Langford was the very first (unpaid) Superintendent. In 1916, the National Park Service was passed through congress and approved by the president. Under the newly formed agency, Horace M Albright became superintendent and assistant to Stephen T. Mather the new Director of the National Park Service.
“the headwaters of the Yellowstone River … is hereby reserved and withdrawn from settlement, occupancy, or sale … and dedicated and set apart as a public park or pleasuring-ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people”
- Yellowstone National Park Protection Act
Uniquely Yellowstone
Yellowstone National Park is located on the Yellowstone super-volcano. It is also home to over 10,000 thermal points. The unique ecosystems throughout the park have played a major roll in DNA mapping through living microorganisms in the boiling pools. This led to the ability to unwind DNA strands without them breaking - thus mapping became possible.
Wildlife In Yellowstone National Park
We have see tons of wildlife in Yellowstone. Bison, bear, elk, wolves, swans, cougar, lynx, coyote, badgers, weasels, fox, otters, wolverine, and more call Yellowstone home. Many can be seen while driving through the park. The animals are thriving in the unique ecosystems throughout the park - from the marshlands to the mountain regions. For nature photographers, Yellowstone is a dream location.
Stunning Scenic Views In Yellowstone
Where do you send someone who wants to see a beautiful view in Yellowstone? We probably couldn’t even choose a top three. While Old Faithful is a hotspot with tourists, it is still awe-inspiring to see. Grand prismatic, West Thumb, and Bridal Falls are all uniquely Yellowstone scenic locations that you could never see anywhere else in the world. Choosing a favorite scenic location is impossible. So, plan on a several day visits and explore the park.
Winter Access Into Yellowstone
You can access parts of Yellowstone during the winter months through the North Entrance with access through to the NorthEast entrance. You can also park outside of the gates and hike, snowshoe, cross-country ski, and snowmobile into the park. Much like our trip into the Tetons, Yellowstone offers visitors non-vehicle access for a close and personal experience within the park during the winter months. Be sure to check out the warming huts and available resources during winter hours.
The Details
Check for opening dates as they are dependent upon weather.
Download the free Yellowstone National Park App
Get your day or annual Parks Pass here
National Parks Week
April 17 - 25, 2021 is National Parks Week! Join us as we celebrate the national parks that are right here in Wyoming. Check in with our parks as they will be offering special programs and activities throughout the week. Follow the link to learn about the daily themes scheduled for this year’s week.
Hit the Road
Our parks won’t be fully open, but you can still access them. Be sure to post your favorite photos and adventures in our National Parks. Our social media campaigns will be joining and collaborating with Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Parks in celebrating our local parks during National Parks Week. Be sure to join us and tag us and the parks @YellowstoneNPS, @GrandTetonNPS and @LiveWYldMag. In your post use #LiveWYld and #NationalParkWeek
