America's first national park is Yellowstone, which was established in 1872. Located in the northwest corner of Wyoming, it features the Old Faithful Geyser and what the National Park Service website refers to as the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone with its spectacular waterfall. Yellowstone can rightly be called the flagship of the nation's park system.
There is a wide spectrum of species in Yellowstone. The Park Service notes particularly grizzly bears, wolves, bison and elk. In the 48 contiguous states, only Yellowstone and Glacier National Park, located on adjacent Montana's border with Canada, can tout the grizzly's presence.
Yellowstone is truly accessible. Key scenic locations can be reached by paved roads that can bring you into close view of wildlife. Additionally, there are abundant trails into the park's backcountry.
The National Park Service website lists bookstores, general stores, campsites, hotels, restaurants, gas stations and medical services among Yellowstone's amenities.
Mountain peaks, geysers, hot springs, pristine streams and virgin forests are the backdrop for the many outdoor pursuits available at Yellowstone.
Yellowstone offers opportunities to learn about Native American culture and the history of the Fort Yellowstone military outpost.
The National Park Service offers resources for planning a visit to Yellowstone or any of the parks in its system. For parks like Yellowstone, located mostly above 7,000 feet in elevation, you should consult these resources to prepare for hazards, such as extreme weather.
