Yellowstone National Park
Location: Alberta, Canada and Montana, United States
Year of Inscription: 1978
Criteria: (vii)to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance;
(viii)to be outstanding examples representing major stages of earth's history, including the record of life, significant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or physiographic features;
(ix)to be outstanding examples representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals;
(x)to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: Yellowstone National Park is a vast and iconic national park located primarily in Wyoming, with portions extending into Montana and Idaho. It is widely regarded as the first national park in the United States. Yellowstone is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and vast wilderness.
Prominent Features:
History: Yellowstone National Park has a rich cultural and natural history. Native American tribes have long-standing connections to the land, and evidence of their presence can be seen in archaeological sites and historical artifacts. In 1872, Yellowstone was established as the first national park in the United States, preserving its unique natural wonders for future generations.
Family-Friendly Activities:
Fun Fact: Yellowstone National Park is home to the largest concentration of geysers in the world, with more than 500 geysers, including the famous Old Faithful, which erupts approximately every 90 minutes.
Entry Fees: Yellowstone National Park charges an entrance fee per vehicle. The fee is valid for seven days and allows entry to both the Wyoming and Montana entrances of the park. The entrance fee is $35 for a private, non-commercial vehicle.
How to Reach It: Yellowstone National Park is accessible by road and air. The closest airports are Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) in Cody, Wyoming, and Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) in Bozeman, Montana. Also Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), or West Yellowstone Airport (WYS). From there, you can rent a car or arrange for shuttle services to reach the park.
From there, you can rent a car or use shuttle services to reach the park.
Major highways, including US-20 and US-89, provide access to different entrances of the park.
There are public transport options available for accessing Yellowstone National Park:
Where to stay: There are several options for accommodation within and near Yellowstone National Park:
Next Stop: Mesa Verde National Park
Year of Inscription: 1978
Criteria: (vii)to contain superlative natural phenomena or areas of exceptional natural beauty and aesthetic importance;
(viii)to be outstanding examples representing major stages of earth's history, including the record of life, significant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or physiographic features;
(ix)to be outstanding examples representing significant on-going ecological and biological processes in the evolution and development of terrestrial, fresh water, coastal and marine ecosystems and communities of plants and animals;
(x)to contain the most important and significant natural habitats for in-situ conservation of biological diversity, including those containing threatened species of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation.
Overview: Yellowstone National Park is a vast and iconic national park located primarily in Wyoming, with portions extending into Montana and Idaho. It is widely regarded as the first national park in the United States. Yellowstone is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and vast wilderness.
Prominent Features:
- Geothermal Features: Yellowstone is famous for its geothermal activity, including the famous Old Faithful geyser and the colorful hot springs such as the Grand Prismatic Spring and the Mammoth Hot Springs.
- Yellowstone Caldera: The park sits atop the Yellowstone Caldera, which is one of the largest active volcanic systems in the world. The caldera's geological wonders include geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.
- Yellowstone Lake: This expansive lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America and offers breathtaking views, boating, and fishing opportunities.
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Carved by the Yellowstone River, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone showcases stunning waterfalls, towering cliffs, and vibrant colors.
- Wildlife: Yellowstone is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, bison, elk, moose, and a variety of bird species. The park provides excellent opportunities for wildlife watching and photography.
History: Yellowstone National Park has a rich cultural and natural history. Native American tribes have long-standing connections to the land, and evidence of their presence can be seen in archaeological sites and historical artifacts. In 1872, Yellowstone was established as the first national park in the United States, preserving its unique natural wonders for future generations.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Wildlife Watching: Children will enjoy spotting wildlife such as bison, elk, and bears in their natural habitats. Ranger-led programs and guided tours provide educational opportunities to learn about the park's wildlife.
- Junior Ranger Program: Yellowstone offers a Junior Ranger Program, where children can engage in fun activities and earn badges by completing educational tasks and attending ranger-led programs.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: The park offers numerous family-friendly hiking trails and nature walks that allow children to explore and appreciate the park's natural beauty.
- Visitor Centers and Museums: Yellowstone has several visitor centers and museums where families can learn about the park's geology, history, and wildlife through interactive exhibits and educational displays.
Fun Fact: Yellowstone National Park is home to the largest concentration of geysers in the world, with more than 500 geysers, including the famous Old Faithful, which erupts approximately every 90 minutes.
Entry Fees: Yellowstone National Park charges an entrance fee per vehicle. The fee is valid for seven days and allows entry to both the Wyoming and Montana entrances of the park. The entrance fee is $35 for a private, non-commercial vehicle.
How to Reach It: Yellowstone National Park is accessible by road and air. The closest airports are Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) in Cody, Wyoming, and Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) in Bozeman, Montana. Also Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), or West Yellowstone Airport (WYS). From there, you can rent a car or arrange for shuttle services to reach the park.
From there, you can rent a car or use shuttle services to reach the park.
Major highways, including US-20 and US-89, provide access to different entrances of the park.
There are public transport options available for accessing Yellowstone National Park:
- Shuttle Buses: Yellowstone operates a comprehensive shuttle bus system within the park during the summer season. The park's free shuttle buses connect various points of interest, including visitor centers, lodges, and popular attractions. This is an environmentally friendly and convenient way to explore the park without having to drive.
- Commercial Buses: There are commercial bus services available that provide transportation to Yellowstone from nearby towns and cities. These buses typically operate during the summer season and offer guided tours or transportation-only options.
Where to stay: There are several options for accommodation within and near Yellowstone National Park:
- Lodges and Hotels: The park has several lodges and hotels located at various points of interest. These include the Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, Canyon Lodge, Grant Village, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. These lodges offer a range of rooms and amenities, providing a comfortable stay within the park.
- Cabins: Yellowstone also offers cabin rentals, which provide a rustic and cozy experience. Cabins are available at various locations, including Mammoth Hot Springs, Roosevelt Lodge, and Canyon Village.
- Campgrounds: For those looking for a more adventurous and budget-friendly option, Yellowstone has several campgrounds. These campgrounds offer both tent and RV camping, with facilities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and fire pits. Some popular campgrounds include Grant Village Campground, Madison Campground, and Bridge Bay Campground.
- Nearby Towns: If you prefer to stay outside the park, there are several towns in close proximity that offer accommodation options. These include West Yellowstone and Gardiner in Montana, and Cody and Jackson in Wyoming. These towns have a range of hotels, motels, cabins, and vacation rentals to choose from.
Next Stop: Mesa Verde National Park