General Information Yellowstone National Park a quick look inside.
In 1871, the federal government got involved when it commissioned Dr. Ferdinand V. Hayden to take a scientific survey of the country. In his troop were also the artist Thomas Moran and landscape photographer William Henry Jackson. The scientific results combined with the stunning imagery captured in Moran's art and Jackson's photography showed the American people that Yellowstone was a place like no other. On March 1, 1872, Congress voted to set aside 2.2 million acres as Yellowstone National Park, named after the sulfurous yellow rocks seen below the falls of the Yellowstone and throughout the park.
Where else but Yellowstone can you pull off an empty highway at dawn to see two bison shaking the earth as they collide and then be caught in a traffic jam because of it? For more than 120 years the first American national park has been full of sights like this, which usually start from its goals: to remain America's preeminent wildlife preserve as well as it's most accessible one.
The most recent event in the park is the fires of the summer of 1988. Above the South entrance, along Lewis River Canyon, a landscape of burned trees to the west seems to suggest a disaster that will alter the park for generations. Then near the North entrance, the multicolored mosaic of burned, untouched, and regenerating areas along the Gallatin Range suggests the idea that fire is essential to Yellowstone's natural cycle.
Viewing wildlife is just one of many activities you might want to jot down on your "Things to Do" list when visiting Yellowstone National Park. You may also want to try a little backcountry hiking, camping, cycling, and horseback riding or join in a ranger-led nature walk. The best way to get started is to jump right in and explore.
With Grand Teton National Park just a short drive north of Jackson Hole a day driving from Jackson Hole to Grand Teton, then on to Yellowstone is one that's easy to do. As well as one you will never forget. The area often gives the impression that you're looking at a painting.
Just a few things to remember while in Yellowstone
Yellowstone's abundant and diverse wildlife are as famous as its geysers. Habitat preferences and seasonal cycles of movement determine, in a general sense. Early morning and evening hours are when animals tend to be feeding and thus are more easily seen. But remember that the numbers and variety of animals you see are largely a matter of luck and coincidence. Check at visitor centers for detailed information. Wild animals, especially females with young, are unpredictable. Keep a safe distance from all wildlife. Each year a number of park visitors are injured by wildlife when approaching too closely. Approaching on foot within 100 yards (91 m) of bears or within 25 yards (23 m) of other wildlife is prohibited. Please use roadside pullouts when viewing wildlife. Use binoculars or telephoto lenses for safe viewing and to avoid disturbing them. By being sensitive to its needs, you will see more of an animal's natural behavior and activity.
If you cause an animal to move, you are too close!
Campsite Reservations Please make your reservations early and/or plans to secure your campsite as early in the day as possible. Campgrounds may fill by early morning, especially during peak season (early July - late August).
First Come, First Served Campsites
There are 12 campgrounds in Yellowstone National Park. Seven of these campgrounds are operated by the National Park Service at Indian Creek, Lewis Lake, Mammoth, Norris, Pebble Creek, Slough Creek, and Tower Fall. Sites at these campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Group Camping
Group camping areas are available at Madison, Grant, and Bridge Bay campgrounds from late May through the closing date for large organized groups with a designated leader such as youth groups or educational groups. The fees range from $45-$75 per night, depending on the size of the group. Advance reservations are required and can be made by writing:
Yellowstone National Park Lodges PO Box 165
Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190 or by calling: 307-344-7311.
Since food and odors attract bears, items such as cooking stoves, utensils, coolers, trash bags, food, and toiletries may not be left outside or in tents or tent trailers, unless they are in immediate use!
|
