Yellowstone The Very First National Park
Written By: Sarah Reish / All Photos By: Live WYld
The world’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“the headwaters of the Yellowstone River … is hereby reserved and withdrawn from settlement, occupancy, or sale … and dedicated and set apart as a public park or pleasuring-ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people”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 seen 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 North East entrance. You can also park outside of the gates and hike, snowshoe, cross-country ski, and snowmobile into the park. 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
Go online to get your day or annual Parks Pass here
National Park’s 150th Celebration
This year, to celebrate, Yellowstone National Park’s social media marketing campaign will have a hashtag of the month. Be sure to follow YNP on social media and share your photos and take part in their hashtag campaign!
Hit the Road!
Yellowstone is wonderful and the history is amazing. Be sure to post your favorite photos of your adventures in Yellowstone National Park on social media. Our social media will be joining Yellowstone National Park in celebrating this year by using their hashtag of the month. Be sure to join us and tag us and YNP, @YellowstoneNPS and @LiveWYldMag don’t forget to use #LiveWYld
