Yellowstone National Park, located primarily in northwestern Wyoming, is a unique and fascinating destination known for its geological wonders, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. From its massive size and active volcano to its abundant hydrothermal features and abundant wildlife, Yellowstone is a true natural wonder.
Size and Location
Yellowstone National Park covers an impressive 3,472 square miles (2,221,766 acres), making it larger than the states of Rhode Island and Delaware combined. The park is situated mainly in northwestern Wyoming, with smaller portions in southern Montana and eastern Idaho.
Geology and Hydrothermal Features
Active Volcano
Yellowstone sits atop an active volcano, with one of the world’s largest calderas measuring 45 x 30 miles (72 x 48 km). This volcanic activity is responsible for the park’s many geological wonders.
Earthquakes
The park experiences a high level of seismic activity, with 1,000–3,000 earthquakes occurring annually.
Hydrothermal Features
Yellowstone is home to more than 10,000 hydrothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. The park boasts more than 500 active geysers, which is more than half of all active geysers in the world.
Wildlife and Vegetation
Mammals
Yellowstone is home to 67 species of mammals, including seven native ungulates (hoofed mammals) and two species of bears.
Birds
The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with 285 species of birds, including 150 nesting species.
Vegetation
Yellowstone’s diverse vegetation includes nine species of conifers, over 1,000 native flowering species, and 225 invasive plant species.
Cultural Resources and Facilities
Native American Tribes
There are 26 associated Native American tribes with historical ties to Yellowstone National Park.
Archeological Sites
The park has more than 1,800 known archeological sites, providing insights into the region’s rich cultural history.
Visitor Amenities
Yellowstone offers 11 visitor centers, museums, and contact stations, as well as over 900 historic buildings. The park also has seven NPS-operated campgrounds and five concession-operated campgrounds, with over 1,000 miles of backcountry hiking trails.
Visitation and Budget
Visitation
In 2022, Yellowstone National Park recorded 3.3 million visits, down 32% from the record-breaking year of 2021.
Budget
The park’s budget for Fiscal Year 2022 was $132.2 million, with $94.5 million from federal funding and $28.7 million from other sources.
Other Facts
- Yellowstone was established as the world’s first national park on March 1, 1872.
- The park was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve in 1976 and a World Heritage site in 1978.
Yellowstone National Park is a true natural wonder, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore its geological marvels, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the great outdoors, Yellowstone is a must-visit destination.
References:
– National Park Service. (2023). Park Facts – Yellowstone National Park. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/parkfacts.htm
– Austin Adventures. (n.d.). 10 Fun Facts About Yellowstone National Park. Retrieved from https://austinadventures.com/blog/10-fun-facts-about-yellowstone-national-park/
– Yellowstone. (2023). 10 Great Big Yellowstone Facts. Retrieved from https://www.yellowstone.org/10-yellowstone-facts/
– Yellowstone. (n.d.). Yellowstone National Park Facts. Retrieved from https://www.yellowstone.org/experience/visitor-information/yellowstone-national-park-facts/
– Britannica. (2024). Yellowstone National Park | Facts & History. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/place/Yellowstone-National-Park