Exploring Yellowstone National Park

Grand Prismatic Spring.

Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872 as the world's first national park. It is one of America's natural treasures and is located primarily in Wyoming, but also has parts extending into Montana and Idaho. It is renowned for its geothermal wonders, diverse wildlife, and extraordinary landscapes. From the iconic Old Faithful geyser to the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone's geothermal features alone are awe-inspiring and attract visitors from all over the world, and that is not even all that the park has to offer.

(Pictured: At the park entrance and Old Faithful Geyser.)

We visited Yellowstone for my birthday in June 2022. We just so happened to visit the park the exact day before it suffered historical flooding and damage, so if the photos look a bit gloomy that is the reason why. Please note that national parks are inherently wild. Nature can be dangerous and you need to plan ahead and accordingly. There are still risks even when you do so, such as the rains the park experienced while we were there. Also note that you should never approach wildlife or venture off the boardwalks in Yellowstone at any time. Also, please leave your pets at home.

Rainbow in Yellowstone following historical rains.

In addition to the geothermal features of Yellowstone, the park encompasses rolling mountains, meandering rivers, and vast forests that provide a home to a variety of wildlife that can also be seen within the park. Visitors can explore the park's numerous trails and hot springs, witness the power of its waterfalls, and marvel at the striking beauty of Yellowstone Lake.

(Pictured: Hot springs such as Grand Prismatic and Silex Spring.)

Grand Prismatic Spring is a mesmerizing natural wonder and worth a stop if you are in the park. Please note that if it is raining, such as when we went, the colors are not very visible. However, it was still worth the stop to see it. The spring boasts (typically) vibrant colors, and it's massive size makes it the largest hot spring in the United States. With hues ranging from deep blue to vivid orange, this geothermal spectacle is a breathtaking sight that showcases the power and beauty of nature. It is located in the Midway Geyser Basin, but there is a great overhead view that can be accessed via the Fairy Falls Trailhead, weather permitting.

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is a stunning natural feature carved by the Yellowstone River over thousands of years. It showcases dramatic cliffs, colorful rock formations, and breathtaking waterfalls. The canyon spans approximately 24 miles long and reaches depths of up to 1,200 feet. Visitors can marvel at the vibrant hues of the canyon walls, particularly the yellow and orange shades of rock that give the park its famous name. The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is a must-see attraction, offering awe-inspiring views and a glimpse into the geological wonders of this massive national park. This was an easy stop as well, you can pull into a parking lot and walk over to a stone wall to view the canyon.

Old Faithful after erupting.

Old Faithful Geyser is one of the most famous natural attractions in Yellowstone National Park. Known for its reliable and predictable eruptions, it has captivated visitors for generations to come. This impressive geyser shoots boiling water and steam high into the air, reaching heights of up to 180 feet. The eruptions occur approximately every 90 minutes, making it a popular spectacle for tourists, and it is located next to a visitor center where you can head inside to learn about the geyser, use the restroom, and escape the elements for a little while. They even have signs letting tourists know when the last eruption was and when they anticipate the next one to occur. Surrounding the geyser is a boardwalk, allowing visitors to witness the eruptions up close while learning about the geothermal wonders of the park. Old Faithful Geyser is a symbol of Yellowstone's unique geology and is a must-see highlight for any visitor to the park. Please do not leave the park without stopping at Old Faithful!

The Artists Paint Pots Trail is a picturesque hiking trail located within the park. This trail takes visitors on a loop through a geothermal wonderland. Along the way, hikers can witness vibrant hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and steam vents. The trail is set up with perfect opportunities to photograph the various hot springs as well. The trail offers unique opportunities to observe the colorful and dynamic geothermal features up close while also admiring the natural beauty these features create. This trail showcases the colorful wonders (and dangers) of Yellowstone's geothermal activity.

(Pictured: Bison and calf; Grizzly bear on hill.)

Yellowstone National Park is also home to a diverse and thriving wildlife population. Visitors to the park can encounter a wide variety species such as grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of bison and elk. The park also boasts a number of rare bird species, including bald eagles and ospreys (if you have a pair of binoculars and would like to go bird watching.) Yellowstone's wildlife is a testament to the park's conservation efforts and provides visitors with unique opportunities to observe and appreciate the natural wonders of the animal kingdom. You could spend all day in the park watching wildlife alone. Lamar Valley is an excellent place to view bison and other wildlife. Please note that herds of bison can cause traffic jams at times, and no matter how peaceful they may seem, keep at least 25 yards away from them at all times. If you see a bear, you'll want to keep about 100 yards away.

On the way to Lamar Valley.

The next time you find yourself yearning for an adventure, plan your trip to Yellowstone National Park. With its unrivaled natural wonders and pristine wilderness, Yellowstone National Park offers an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and anyone else seeking a profound connection with the natural world.