Yellowstone National Park

About Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park spans nearly 3,500 square miles across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, sitting atop one of the world's largest active volcanic systems. Established in 1872 as the world's first national park, Yellowstone contains over 10,000 hydrothermal features including the iconic Old Faithful geyser and the spectacular Grand Prismatic Spring—the largest hot spring in the United States. The park's diverse ecosystems support the greatest concentration of large mammals in the lower 48 states, including free-roaming herds of bison and elk, as well as grizzly bears and gray wolves that were successfully reintroduced in 1995.

Park Highlights

• Old Faithful Geyser
• Grand Prismatic Spring
• Yellowstone Canyon & Falls
• Mammoth Hot Springs
• Lamar Valley
• Yellowstone Lake

Activities

Wildlife

Visitor Information

Visitor Tips

• Book lodging 6+ months in advance for summer visits
• Arrive at popular attractions before 9am to avoid crowds
• Bring bear spray for hiking
• Allow at least 3 full days to see major highlights
• Check road conditions before traveling in spring/fall

Location

Official Resources