Exploring Yellowstone National Park
America’s national parks are often cited as the country’s best idea, and none exemplify this notion quite like Yellowstone, the world’s first national park. Below are valuable insights for exploring this magnificent destination.
Notes on Exploring Yellowstone National Park
In 1869, Charles Cook recorded the utter amazement of his expedition team upon reaching Yellowstone’s remarkable landscapes. They found themselves at the head of a 20-mile-long, 1200-foot-deep gorge, surrounded by vibrant colors and thermal wonders.
Cook’s journey unfolded amidst tales from fur trappers and prospectors about the park’s unusual geothermal features, including hot waterfalls and petrified forests—a world seemingly untouched in a nation that was already a global superpower. Eventually, the U.S. government recognized the park’s significance when photographic evidence confirmed its breathtaking beauty.
Upon My Arrival
As I approached Yellowstone National Park, I grasped the initial skepticism that some may feel. The landscape of southeastern Wyoming appears uninviting at first, merely a vast expanse of dull plains. However, once I reached northwestern Wyoming, just outside Cody—a city that pays homage to William “Buffalo Bill” Cody—the scenery transformed into majestic canyons and lush forests, especially under the backdrop of a sunset painting the sky.
Upon crossing the entrance, I felt a surge of pride that Yellowstone was designated as the world’s first national park just two years after its wonders were validated. The 1872 Yellowstone Park Protection Act proclaimed it “Withdrawn from settlement, occupancy or sale, for the benefit and enjoyment of the people.”
The Lake Yellowstone Hotel
The historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel, built in 1891, extends over serene waters and embodies the elegance of a bygone era. Designed without modern conveniences like TVs or air conditioning, its charm lies in the nostalgia it evokes. As I wandered its corridors, I reflected on how many guests seek to relive the experiences of those early visitors.
The Explosive Yellowstone
Reaching Yellowstone prior to the railway era was no easy feat, yet the reward—immersing oneself in the park’s bizarre geothermal phenomena—was unrivaled. Home to over half of the world’s geysers, Yellowstone aims to protect these natural wonders from exploitation.
In 1872, the New York Times highlighted the fascination surrounding Yellowstone’s geothermal features. Modern research reveals that the area surrounding Old Faithful, a popular geyser, is a colossal caldera, signifying the presence of a supervolcano. Yellowstone last erupted approximately 640,000 years ago, a fact that adds an element of intrigue during visits.
Old Faithful impressively shoots a plume of hot water high into the sky, while the Norris Geyser Basin and Grand Prismatic Spring present dramatic, otherworldly landscapes marked by vibrant hues and geothermal activity.
Founding the National Park Service
Not until the late 1880s did Yellowstone’s officials recognize the park’s broader ecological treasures, as ancient forests nationwide diminished and bison were nearly eradicated. Remarkably, by the early 1900s, hunters had reduced the bison population to a mere two dozen. However, the National Park Service (NPS) emerged in 1916, dedicated to protecting this incredible landscape.
The NPS now oversees over 400 properties, including 59 national parks, that total more than 84 million acres across the United States, reinforcing America’s commitment to environmental conservation.
Reintroducing the Gray Wolf
Moreover, the gray wolf, which once roamed freely in Yellowstone, was successfully reintroduced in 1995 after near extinction. This restoration played a critical role in balancing the park’s ecosystem, allowing biodiversity to flourish. As of 2016, the park housed nearly 100 wolves within its confines, symbolizing nature’s resilience.
While visitors initially flock to Yellowstone for its famous geothermal activity, many find joy in observing the diverse wildlife. This expansive park serves as a natural theater where one can spot bison, bears, and an array of other species in their natural habitats.
Observing Wildlife
Springtime presents an excellent opportunity to witness baby animals, from grizzly cubs emerging from their dens to bison calves joining their herds. Moreover, elk roam actively throughout the park, with large groups often sighted during the mating season.
To observe wildlife effectively, it’s advisable to follow the crowd; where there are many parked vehicles, wildlife is usually nearby. In just a few days of exploration, I encountered various species, from elk to bison, all seemingly accustomed to their human visitors. Notably, I spotted a bear resting in a tree, reminding me of the diverse ecological tapestry Yellowstone offers.
Yellowstone: The Pocket Planet
Coincidentally, I met Alex and Danielle Sonsini, seasoned national park adventurers, who had embarked on a journey across the country. Their experiences echoed the sentiments shared by many park enthusiasts: that Yellowstone offers an unparalleled escape into nature’s raw beauty.
Incredibly, this pocket planet encompasses a broad range of ecosystems and breathtaking scenery that feels foreign yet familiar, resembling global landscapes in miniature. The diverse weather conditions, ranging from brisk winds to warm sunshine, provide an ever-changing backdrop to this magnificent park.
For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People
On the Sonsinis’ recommendation, I concluded my visit by swimming in the Boiling River, a unique experience where geothermal waters mix with the cold river current. This historic site serves as a refreshing reminder of the park’s volcanic heritage and its commitment to enjoyment for visitors.
Standing in the warm water, I reflected on the park’s mission, “For the benefit and enjoyment of the people.” As I relaxed, it struck me how Yellowstone not only preserves natural wonders but also connects people to the wilderness, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.
Tim Moore traveled to Yellowstone National Park with support from the Wyoming Office of Tourism (visitwyo.gov) and Yellowstone National Park Lodges (yellowstonenationalparklodges.com).
This article was originally published in June 2017 and updated in August 2020.
