Wonders of Yellowstone: Our World's First National Park

Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872 as the first national park anywhere in the world. It comprises a vast wilderness area that draws people from all over the world, who come to enjoy the beautiful scenery as well as the hot springs and geysers. Here is a guide to the park to help you plan your visit when you go on holiday in the United States.

Top Things to See in the Park

Yellowstone is rich in natural features and attractions, and it will be almost impossible to see them all on one trip. However, there are some highlights that you should make a real effort to see.

One of these is the world-famous Old Faithful, Yellowstone's number-one attraction. This huge geyser may not be the biggest or the most regular, but it is the most frequent of the large geysers, erupting on average every 91 minutes. Eruptions can last up to five minutes and can release up to 32,000 litres of water into the air.

Mammoth Hot Springs comprises a complex of springs on a travertine hill that took thousands of years to form. It is near to the Mammoth Hot Springs Historic District, where you will find a number of historic buildings and a Visitor Centre. 

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone may not be as impressive as the Grand Canyon itself, but it is still a beautiful sight to behold. The canyon stretches for 24 miles and reaches depths of up to 370 metres. You will also be able to see Lower Falls, to which you can hike if you want.

Yellowstone Lake is a huge lake in the park that is incredibly beautiful at any time of year, especially with its backdrop of mighty mountains. Cross over Fishing Bridge and look out for the fish below.

Activities in the Park

Many people visit Yellowstone to enjoy outdoor activities. If you are planning a trip to the United States and Yellowstone, click here to find out more about sorting out your visit, and then think about whether you would like to take part in any of the activities in the park.

Some of the most popular include day hiking on the 1,000 miles of trails, front-country and backcountry camping, mountain biking, horseback riding, as well as skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling in the winter.

Discover the Wildlife

Yellowstone is rich in wildlife. Always be careful when you see animals, and remember to keep your distance. If you are on foot, you must stay at least 91 metres from bears or wolves, and 23 metres from other animals. Some of the animals you may spot include:

- Coyotes

- Elk

- Grizzly bears

- Mountain lions

- Grey wolves

- Bobcats

- American Bison

- Moose

When to Go

You can visit Yellowstone at any time of the year, but be warned that some roads are closed during the winter. Some of the roads in the north are open year round, but other entrances and roads may be closed in the winter. See the official page for more details of road closures during the year.

In the peak summer season, the whole park is open to explore. However, one thing to sort out early is your accommodation. You may want to book your stay months in advance to avoid disappointment, and it is the same with campsites. Even for accommodation outside the park, make sure you book early.

In the off-season, from October to May, the park receives fewer visitors but there are not as many options for accommodation, so you should keep this in mind. You will also need a vehicle that can travel in the snow if you want to see all of the park.

Discover Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park is not only the original national park, but it is also one of the best in the United States. If you want to explore a stunning wilderness area during your holiday, plan to spend a day or two in the park and discover this beautiful natural area for yourself.