Established on March 1, 1872, Yellowstone National Park is widely considered the first national park in the world. Spanning across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, it covers over 2.2 million acres of diverse landscapes, from high-altitude lakes and deep canyons to jagged mountain ranges.
The park is a global icon of conservation and serves as the centerpiece of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the last nearly intact temperate-zone ecosystems on Earth.
Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872 as the world’s first national park, is a massive 2.2-million-acre wilderness sitting atop a volcanic hot spot. It is world-renowned for its geothermal wonders and for being home to the largest concentration of mammals in the lower 48 states.
Top 10 Places to Visit
These iconic landmarks represent the best of Yellowstone’s geothermal activity, dramatic canyons, and wildlife-rich valleys:
Essential Regulations
To protect both visitors and the fragile ecosystem, the National Park Service enforces strict regulations:
- Wildlife Distance: You must stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from all other wildlife, including bison and elk.
- Hydrothermal Safety: Stay on designated boardwalks and trails. The ground in thermal areas is thin and fragile; stepping off can result in severe burns or death.
- Pets: Pets are prohibited on all trails, boardwalks, and in the backcountry. They must remain leashed and within 100 feet of roads or parking areas.
- Drones: The use of unmanned aircraft (drones) is strictly prohibited within park boundaries.
#1 Thing to Know Before Visiting
Be Bear Aware. Yellowstone is grizzly and black bear country. It is highly recommended that you carry bear spray when hiking, know how to use it, and never hike alone. Additionally, the park is massive—driving between major attractions can take several hours due to low speed limits and frequent “bison jams,” so plan your itinerary strategically.
Yellowstone Fast Facts
Waterfalls: There are approximately 290 waterfalls throughout the park that are at least 15 feet tall.
Size: Over 3,472 square miles, making it larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.
Geology: Home to more than 10,000 hydrothermal features and over 500 active geysers.
Wildlife: Contains 67 species of mammals, the highest concentration in the contiguous U.S.
Location: While 96% of the park is in Wyoming, it also stretches into Montana (3%) and Idaho (1%).