Yellowstone National Park

COMPLIMENTARY $3.95 2019/2020 YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO THE PARKS YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

ACTIVITIES • SIGHTSEEING • DINING • LODGING TRAILS • HISTORY • MAPS • MORE

OFFICIAL PARTNERS T:5.375” S:4.75”

WHO’S WHO AT THE PARK WELCOME S:7.375” SO TASTY EVERYONE WILL WANT A BITE. HomeT:8.375” to more than two million acres of lakes, waterfalls, geysers and pan- FUN FACTS oramic vistas, since 1872, the world’s Established: In 1872 Congress passed first national park has hosted millions of legislation making Yellowstone the visitors from around the world who come world’s first national park. to see its renowned natural wonders and Land Area: 2.2 million acres of forests (80 percent), grassland (15 percent) and the diversity of animal life that thrives in water (5 percent). Although 96 percent its wildlife sanctuaries. of Yellowstone National Park is claimed Every season brings special wonders by Wyoming, small portions of the park and the park’s many varied landscapes also lie in Montana (3 percent) and offer a range of exciting experiences for Idaho (1 percent). all ages. Lowest and Highest Elevations: The NPS protects this unique resource 5,282 feet at Reese Creek to 11,358 (which includes six national historic land- feet at Eagle Peak’s summit. marks) and its visitors. The NPS and Number of Plant & Animal Species: concessioners, including Yellowstone The park is home to seven species of National Park Lodges-Xanterra, work conifer trees, more than 1,000 species of native vascular plants, 67 species together to ensure that your visit to Yel- of mammals (including grizzly bears, lowstone is a memorable one. wolves, bison, moose and elk) and more This American Park Network guide is than 320 bird species! provided by Yellowstone National Park Popular Sights: Yellowstone’s geysers Lodges to enhance your appreciation and and hot springs such as Mammoth Hot enjoyment of this magnificent park. It is Springs and Norris Geyser Basin; Yel- made possible by the support of spon- lowstone Lake; waterfalls such as Up- ©2019 Preferred Brands International. reserved. rights All sors whose messages appear inside. per and Lower Falls of the Yellowstone Please respect the park and minimize River; and iconic sights like Gallatin your impact so that its natural resources Range, Hayden Valley, the Grand Can- will be protected and preserved for fu- yon of Yellowstone, Morning Glory Pool and Old Faithful Geyser. ture generations. After all, the parks Popular Activities: Enjoy free ranger-led are for everyone. Enjoy your visit and programs, sightseeing tours, fishing, please come back! boating, wildlife watching, cross-country skiing and horseback riding in the park. Hiking: There are more than 1,000 miles PHOTO of backcountry trails. Roads and facilities take up less than three percent of the park; the rest is wilderness. For more in- TASTY BITE® is all-natural OP! and perfect for the trail. Look Send us your stories and photos formation, please call (307) 344-7381 or for the yellow pouch in the and you could be a part of our guide! visit yellowstonenationalparklodges.com international food aisle.* or nps.gov/yell. tastybite.com Caption *Keep wildlife wild; Don’t feed the animals. | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 1

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Unforgettable Adventures. Welcome 1 American Park Network® publishes OhRanger. com, Oh, Ranger! ParkFinder™ and Oh, Ranger!® What’s New! 4 guides —a collection of visitor guides for public lands all across America­—and operates Oh, Plan Your Visit 6 Ranger! Wi-Fi in parks and public lands. American Park Network is an official partner of the National Forest Foundation, National Parks Conservation Important Numbers 12 Association, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, American Hiking Society and the Lodging & Dining 14 Student Conservation Association.

Publisher & Editor-in-Chief Park Regulations & Safety 18 MARK J. SAFERSTEIN Visitor Services 20 Associate Publisher & Executive Editor Joel S. Saferstein History & Culture 22 Group Sales & Partnerships Director Alex Frenkel Centerfold Map EDITORIAL / PRODUCTION Editors: Monette A. Bailey, Jacqueline Kehoe, Preservation 25 Amanda McConnon, Julie McCool, Danielle Taylor Proofreader: Scott Tabor Things To Do 28 Production Manager: Mario Arce Graphic Designers: Karla Aldana, Dennisse Cruz, Winter Activities 31 Tatiana Hurtado, Yamileth Recinos

DIGITAL Sights To See 33 Technology Manager: Scott Falconer Camping 35 ADVERTISING SALES & MARKETING (212) 581-3380 Nature & Wildlife 37 [email protected] Business Development: Randy Burton, Mary Pat Walking & Hiking 42 Kaleth, Pat Keane, Craig King, Kristi Rummel Operations Manager: Matthew Price Feel-Good Savings. Just For Kids 44 American Park Network 41 East 11th Street, 11th Floor, NY, NY 10003 Photography 46 Heed the call of adventure with great insurance coverage. @OhRanger If You Only Have a Day 48 15 minutes could save you 15% or more on RV insurance. ©2019 APN MEDIA, LLC · All Rights Reserved Oh, Ranger! and American Park Network are registered trademarks of APN Media, LLC.

Cover: Aerial view of Grand Prismatic Spring (Shutterstock)

The publisher of this guide and the advertisers herein are not geico.com | 1-877-434-2678 | Local Office affiliated with, or endorsed by, the National Park Service. For answers to all your questions, FOR MORE INFORMATION go to OhRanger.com Some discounts, coverages, payment plans and features are not available in all states, in all GEICO companies, or Distribution requests in all situations. GEICO is a registered service mark of Government Employees Insurance Company, Washington, DC [email protected] 20076; a Berkshire Hathaway Inc. subsidiary. © 2019 GEICO Oh, Ranger! Wi-Fi™ installation/sponsorship [email protected] 3 PRESERVATION WHAT’S NEW! WE’RE ALL CONNECTED

As a young man, John Muir, the naturalist known as, “Father of the National Parks,” Mark, Joel & Alex – connecting in parks! had an accident that left him temporarily blinded. It changed his life forever. When he science. I often find inspiration in parks. In its regained his sight, he emerged into the light traditional form, yoga was about joining with ever-determined to pursue his dreams of the collective universe. So, too, is Muir’s quote, exploration. Fortunately for the world, Muir’s best illustrated by an example from Yellowstone. trials led him to help move Congress to set When wolves were reintroduced there after a aside Yosemite, one of his many contributions 70-year absence, the rampant elk population to our nation’s preservation movement. could no longer leisurely nibble on willows, graze When faced with adversity, we have but in open meadows or congregate by the rivers. In two choices. We can either rise above our a short period of time, the forests and meadows circumstance or succumb to our demons of began to regenerate. Song birds appeared. doubt, fear, resentment and apathy. While Beavers flourished, building dams, which Muir was lucky to have his sight return, his created habitats for otters, muskrats and ducks. subsequent efforts drew strength from hope, Cooler waters, shaded by more trees, attracted compassion, kindness and love to rise up different species of amphibians and fish. Tree from personal adversity. roots stabilized the river banks, diminished Lately, it feels like we’re all dealing with erosion and even changed the geography of the too many hurdles. Every hour, “breaking” park! Indeed, pick out anything by itself and we news spews forth accounts of tragedy and quickly find that everything is connected. divisiveness. It was with this backdrop that I Now is the time to seek out connection— SOMEWHERE was preparing to teach a restorative yoga class, whether in a park, a yoga studio or anywhere to create a safe environment for my students you find inspiration—to find strength to rise up BETWEEN and provide an hour’s worth of peace and quiet and overcome the obstacles that face us all… to carry out into the world. What theme would capture their imagination and neatly underscore STUNNING our human need for connectedness? When teaching, I try to use examples that marry ancient tradition with contemporary and SURREAL

GET CONNECTED AT YOUR FAVORITE PARKS! VISITUTAH.COM Parks are about enjoying nature, but what if you want to share a great picture or are awaiting an important email? If you’re looking to add connectivity to your park, or if you already have Wi-Fi and would like help adding content or generating sponsor revenues, please let us know at [email protected].

4 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | PRESERVATION PLAN YOUR VISIT if you’re going through

GETTING TO YELLOWSTONE Yellowstone, Park Entrances: Yellowstone is ac- YELLOWSTONE AREA 90 cessible from five major entrances during 15 94 Butte the summer: North (U.S. 89) from Gar- Bozeman Billings 90 84 diner, Montana; West (U.S. 20) from West Norris Livingston 90 191 89 212 Yellowstone, Montana; South (U.S. 89) Big Sky MONTANA Red “ 287 Lodge Gardiner Cooke from Jackson, Wyoming; East (U.S. 20- MONTANA City 310 16-14) from Cody, Wyoming; and North- 87 Yellowstone 296 15 West 14 east (U.S. 212) from Silver Gate and 16 Cody Yellowstone East 20 Entrance Cooke City, Montana. IDAHO South Entrance Ashton 120 Seasonal Road and Entrance Clo- 191 20 89 sures: The North and Northeast entrances Grand 287 Teton NP WYOMING Idaho Jackson are open year-round, as is the road from Falls 26 287 15 26 Gardiner, MT and the North Entrance to Cooke City, MT at the Northeast Entrance. In the winter, visitors must return to Gar- snow vehicles from mid-December through diner to drive back to Interstate 90 and des- mid-March and begin to reopen for wheeled tinations beyond. All other park entrances vehicles in mid-April. you have to and interior roads close to the public at 8 Construction: For current road con- a.m. on Monday after the first Sunday of No- struction and conditions, call the NPS at vember. They reopen to tracked, over-the- (307) 344-2117 or visit nps.gov/yell. stop here.” FEDERAL RECREATIONAL LANDS PASSES • Cody’s #1 attraction on TripAdvisor A federal recreation pass is helpful if you plan to visit many national parks, forests or other federal • Five museums under one roof lands. For information, call (888) 275-8747 or visit store.usgs.gov/pass. five out of five • Live birds of prey Type Cost Availability Details

Annual $80 General Public This one-year pass is available on site, by phone • Close to rodeo, downtown shops, hotels, and restaurants Pass $20 Seniors (62+) or online (see above). • Buy tickets online and save: tickets.centerofthewest.org Senior This lifetime pass is available on site, via mail $80 U.S. residents age 62+ Pass order or online. ID required. Military U.S. active military This one-year pass is available on site. Free Pass and their dependents ID (CAC Card or DoD Form 1173) required. Access U.S. residents with This lifetime pass is available on site or via mail Free Pass permanent disabilities order. ID and documentation required.

Volunteer 250 volunteer service Inquire locally to obtain information about this Free Pass hours with NPS one-year pass. 720 Sheridan Avenue | Cody, Wyoming 82414 | 307-587-4771 6 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | PLAN YOUR VISIT PLAN YOUR VISIT

TRANSPORTATION Rental Car: Cars may be rented at some trance passes to Yellowstone are available PARK NEWSPAPER Air: Commercial air service is available to airports and in major towns near the park. at yourpassnow.com. Pick up a copy of Yellowstone, a free Billings (129 miles), Bozeman (77 miles) and Train: There is no direct rail service NPS publication, at visitor centers and park West Yellowstone (three miles) in Montana; to the park. EVERY KID OUTDOORS entrances. It offers news and current infor- to Jackson (57 miles) and Cody (53 miles) To help engage and create our next gen- mation about park facilities and programs. in Wyoming; and to Idaho Falls (112 miles) ENTRANCE FEES eration of park visitors, supporters and advo- in Idaho. Air service to West Yellowstone The entrance fee is $35 for a private, cates, the Every Kid in a Park initiative was CONTACT INFORMATION is only available in summer. Note: Distances noncommercial vehicle; $30 for a motor- launched in February 2015—and the Every For park information, call the NPS visi- are measured from the nearest park entrance. cycle; or $20 for each visitor 16 and older Kid Outdoors Act was signed into law in tor information line at (307) 344-7381. For Bus: Greyhound serves Bozeman and entering on foot, bike, ski, etc. This fee pro- 2019. The immediate goal is to provide an op- lodging, camping, activity and dining infor- Livingston, Montana, and Cody, Wyoming. vides the visitor with a seven-day entrance portunity for every 4th grade student across mation, contact Yellowstone National Park Gray Line/Alltrans serves West Yellowstone permit. Remember to keep your admission the country to experience their federal public Lodges at (307) 344-7901 (general informa- and offers connecting bus service into the receipt in order to re-enter the park. lands and waters in person. tion); (307) 344-7311 (reservations) or visit park from Jackson via the South Entrance. An annual Yellowstone pass is $70. Visi- All kids in the fourth grade have access yellowstonenationalparklodges.com. Several connections are only offered sea- tors entering Yellowstone’s South Entrance to their own free Every Kid in a Park pass at sonally. Yellowstone National Park Lodges will be traveling through Grand Teton Na- everykidinapark.gov. This pass admits the WEATHER offers shuttle service from Bozeman to tional Park first; separate entrance fees are pass owner and any accompanying passen- Yellowstone’s weather is always unpre- Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel in the winter. charged or Annual Passes may be used at gers in a private non-commercial vehicle to dictable. Storms can come up suddenly, Reserve in advance by calling or (307) 344- both parks. the park. You can obtain the pass by visiting causing a drop in temperature or resulting 7311. Additional bus companies that serve Entrance fees are waived if you have an everykidinapark.gov and you must print it in precipitation. Always wear layers, pack the region include: Karst Stage, Salt Lake Ex- annual or lifetime national park pass. An- and present it at the park. The Every Kid in plenty of water and carry extra clothing press, Wind River Transportation Authority, nual passes are $80; $20 for those 62 and a Park pass is valid until August 31, 2019. when hiking. Express Arrow and Southern Teton Area Rapid older. Senior passes are $80 and do not Transit. expire. Both passes cover the pass owner Tours: Tours of the park are available and three accompanying adults age 16 and DIG DEEPER through Yellowstone National Park Lodges, older There is no fee for children 15 and Just outside of Yellowstone is a world of See Yellowstone and other tour operators. under. Digital annual and seven-day en- ghost towns, scenic drives and welcoming communities waiting to be explored.

GENERAL STORES

Grab a bite to eat or a souvenir at one of 12 Yellowstone General Stores located through- out the park. You’ll find groceries, gifts, ap- parel, sandwiches and tasty grab-and-go items that you can enjoy quickly and get back

to exploring. From retro ‘50s-inspired counter DNC Parks & Resorts service to casual cafeterias, hand-dipped ice cream parlors and self-serve frozen yogurt bars, there are a variety of dining experiences. The stores are also convenient places to rest, refuel and enjoy one-of-a-kind shopping. For ORDER YOUR FREE TRAVEL GUIDE AT more information, call (406) 586-7593 or visit SOUTHWESTMT.COM OR CALL 1.800.879.1159 yellowstonegift.com. VIRGINIA CITY

8 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 9 PLAN YOUR VISIT PLAN YOUR VISIT

ALTITUDE formation hubs, are conveniently located (307) 344-2751 for more information. lake bottom. The Vistor Center, a National Most areas that people visit in the park are near most lodging complexes. Stop by to The Canyon Visitor Education Center Historic Landmark, is open from late May above 7,500 feet. Take time to acclimate— purchase books, maps and other publica- contains a variety of engaging exhibits ex- to early September. Call (307) 344-2450 for drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration tions, and obtain information about how to plaining Yellowstone’s geologic story with more information. from altitude and dry climate. best explore the park. Opening and closing particular focus on the volcano beneath the Norris Geyser Basin Museum & dates vary, but most have shortened hours park. Films are shown throughout the day. Information Station, another National His- WHAT TO WEAR of operation (or are closed) between Septem- The Canyon Visitor Education Center is open toric Landmark, is located in Norris Geyser Always be prepared by dressing in lay- ber and late May. See the park newspaper, from late spring through mid-fall. Call (307) Basin and houses exhibits on geysers, hot ers. Don’t forget a jacket or sweater, rain Yellowstone, for current hours of operation. 344-2550 for more information. springs, mud pots and steam vents. It is open gear, sunscreen and sunglasses. Ranger stations are located in most devel- Exhibits at the Grant Village Vis- mid-May through mid-October. Call (307) oped areas. itor Center tell the story of the 1988 344-2812 for more information. PARK HEADQUARTERS The Albright Visitor Center, located Yellowstone fires. A film about the historic The Museum of the National Park Located at Mammoth Hot Springs, Yel- within the historic Bachelor Officers Quar- fires of 1988 is shown regularly. Located Ranger, located at Norris Campground, is lowstone National Park Headquarters is the ters at Mammoth Hot Springs, has park and on the west shore of Yellowstone Lake, part of the Fort Yellowstone National His- historic site of Fort Yellowstone where, from trip-planning information, a bookstore, exhib- Grant Village Visitor Center is open late toric Landmark District. Exhibits here focus 1886 to 1918, the U.S. Army was in charge its on the park’s history and wildlife, ranger May through early October. Call (307) 344- on the Army era of park administration, as of protecting the park from poachers, vandals, programs, restrooms, and free Wi-Fi. Call 2650 for more information. well as the evolution of the NPS ranger robbers and whatever lawlessness threatened (307) 344-2263 for more information. Located at the north end of Yellowstone profession. The museum is open from late the park and its early tourists. Now the old At the Old Faithful Visitor Education Lake, Fishing Bridge Visitor Center May through late September. Please call army buildings house the park’s administrative Center, park rangers explain and predict houses exhibits about Yellowstone’s birds (307) 344-7353 for more information. offices and the Albright Visitor Center. You can geyser eruptions. Open during summer and and wildlife. A scale model of Yellowstone Madison Information Station/Junior take a self-guided walking tour of the fort. winter seasons, the center is home to exhib- Lake reveals the amazing geology of the Ranger Station, located at Madison Junc- its on hydrothermal features, life in extreme VISITOR CENTERS/RANGER STATIONS environments, volcanic geology and scien- Visitor centers, the park’s main in- tific investigations of these phenomena. Call

YELLOWSTONE FOREVER

Yellowstone Forever is the official edu- park. Through thoughtful cultivation and cation and fundraising nonprofit partner of stewardship, Yellowstone Forever is build- Yellowstone National Park. They partner ing a broad network of philanthropic sup- with Yellowstone National Park to create porters dedicated to preserving the park. opportunities for all people to experience, Yellowstone Forever’s mission of en- enhance and preserve Yellowstone forever. gagement and support through education Educational programming, products and and fundraising will ensure Yellowstone services help people enjoy, understand, remains for generations to come. For and appreciate the wildlife, geology, and more information or to join the com- cultural history of the park, while the op- munity, contact Yellowstone Forever at portunities Yellowstone Forever provides yellowstone.org or call (406) 848-2400. for volunteerism and community relations Follow them on Facebook, Twitter or Ins- develop and engage new stewards for the tagram @ynpforever.

10 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 11 PLAN YOUR VISIT

tion in the Madison Picnic Area, provides The Montana Historical Society in Hel- FindAnother Kind of park information, and Junior Ranger activi- ena, Montana, has exhibits related to Mon- ties. See the park newspaper for dates and tana’s history, culture, art and landscape. hours of operation. For more information, The Museum of the Rockies, in Boze- please call (307) 344-2821. man, houses one of the world’s largest col- Wild Life. The West Thumb Contact Station lections of dinosaur skeletons, permanent provides park information and a book- exhibits on Western history and American store, and also serves as a meeting place Indians, the Martin Children’s Discovery for interpretive walks and talks during Complex and a planetarium. summer. It is open late May through late Interest in fine art and wildlife can be September. For more information call explored at the National Museum of (307) 344-2650. Wildlife Art in Jackson, Wyoming. The West Yellowstone Visitor Infor- The Buffalo Bill Center of the West in mation Center, located just outside the Cody, Wyoming, tells the story of the Amer- park on U.S. 20 in West Yellowstone, is ican West in five museums under one roof, open year-round (weekends in winter). For including The Draper Museum of Natural information, please call (307) 344-2876. History, which takes you on an interactive Note: Check the park app for open and journey through the Greater Yellowstone close dates, as well as descriptions of Ecosystem. At the Buffalo Bill Dam Visi- available services. tor Center near Cody, you can look straight down a 353-foot drop to the Shoshone River. OUTSIDE THE PARK In Pinedale, Wyoming, the Museum of The West Yellowstone Chamber of the Mountain Men focuses on the life of Commerce Visitor Center is located at Jim Bridger and tells the story of other fur 30 Yellowstone Ave. in West Yellowstone. trappers and early explorers.

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Emergency 911

NPS General Information (307) 344-7381 Road Updates (307) 344-2117 Park Tip Line (to report crime) (307) 344-2132 …AFTER NPS Campground Update (recorded message) (307) 344-2114 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, NPS TDD (307) 344-2386 COME TO CODY, WYOMING TO SEE THE MOST FAMOUS BUFFALO OF ALL. NPS Accessibility Coordinator - (307) 344-2314 Sign Language Interpreters for NPS programs (3 weeks in advance) (307) 344-2251 Yellowstone National Park Lodges (Lodging, Dining, Camping/RV Park, Activities) (307) 344-7901

Reservations (307) 344-7311

TDD (307) 344-5395

12 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | Plan your trip today at CodyYellowstone.org or call 1-800-393-CODY PRESERVATION LODGING & DINING SAVE UP TO 20% For your next stay, book direct Reflecting the natural surroundings of lodging and activity reservations for you. Yellowstone, televisions, radios and air con- American Express, VISA, MasterCard, Din- on ChoiceHotels.com and get ditioning are not available at in-park lodging. ers Club, Discover, Carte Blanche and JCB our lowest price guaranteed. WiFi is available for a fee at some lodg- are accepted. ing/dining facilities in the park; free WiFi 1 Roosevelt Lodge Cabins These historic, is available at the Albright Visitor Center in rustic cabins are located in a favorite area ® Mammoth Hot Springs.There is limited cell of Theodore Roosevelt. The Roughrider phone service at Old Faithful, Mammoth, Cabins have wood-burning stoves, but Grant Village, Yellowstone Lake and Canyon no private baths. The Frontier Cabins are areas. heated and have private baths. Roos- Interpretive programs are offered al- evelt Dining Room In keeping with the most every evening during peak season. cowboy atmosphere, specialties include Wheelchair-accessible accommodations mouthwatering baby back ribs, Roosevelt are available on a limited basis. Pets are al- baked beans and crispy fried chicken. Roo- lowed in the park and can stay with guests sevelt Old West Dinner Cookout Ride out in cabin-type accommodations only. There to Yancey’s Hole on horseback or wagon to is a pet fee. All park accommodations are enjoy Western entertainment and a hearty non-smoking. dinner of steak, corn, coleslaw, cornbread Yellowstone National Park Lodges, Yellow- muffins, homemade Roosevelt baked stone’s principle concessioner, offers dining beans, watermelon and fruit crisp. at hotels and lodges in the park, ranging from historic, full-service dining rooms to 2 Canyon Lodge and Cabins Along with casual cafeterias and quick-service outlets. the existing lodge rooms and Western cab- Children’s menus are always available. ins, five new lodges have opened over the Suggested dress is casual. Dinner reserva- past few years. M66 Grill & Lounge Full tions are required at some dining rooms; service restaurant and bar with soup, sal- breakfast and lunch seating is first come, ads, and traditional American fare. Break- first-served. Deli lunches to go are available fast and lunch are first-come, first-served. from dining rooms throughout the park. Dinner reservations required. Canyon Place your order the day before. Quick-ser- Lodge Eatery Quick, hot entrées that are vice options are also available at cafeterias, customizable, with a focus on local ingre- fast food outlets and Yellowstone General dients. Canyon Lodge Ice Creamery Mon- Stores, located throughout the park. tana-made ice cream from Big Dipper Ice Lodging, dining and activity reserva- Cream, out of Missoula. tions are strongly recommended. For reservations, call Yellowstone National 3 Old Faithful Lodge Cabins The historic

Park Lodges at (307) 344-7311 or visit lodge features massive logs and stone Qualifying rates only. Valid only for current Choice Privileges® members. Members must book direct at ChoiceHotels.com/ California-hotels or call 1-888-846-9378. Reservations must be made at least 7, 14, 21 or 30 days in advance, which will vary yellowstonenationalparklodges.com. If pillars and its lobby offers a great view of based on hotel. Rooms at this discount are limited. Off er not available to groups and cannot be combined with any other discount. Consumers who fi nd lower prices must submit claim within 24 hours of booking and at least 48 hours prior to you are already at Yellowstone, front desk Old Faithful geyser. The cabins, grouped arrival. Additional Terms and Conditions Apply. See www.choicehotels.com/deals/best-rate and www.choicehotels.com/deals/ advanced-purchase for details. Choice Hotels reserves the right to change or discontinue this off er at any time. All Choice staff at park lodges can make additional nearby, allow pets. The Frontier Cabins Hotels properties are independently owned and operated. ©2019 Choice Hotels International. All rights reserved.

14 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK |

CHO111-25472 - 2019 R11 American National Parks Print Ad.indd 1 4/30/19 4:42 PM LODGING & DINING LODGING & DINING

have private bathrooms; Budget Cabins do occasional views of elk and bison graz- not. The Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria of- ing nearby. Dinner reservations accepted fers quick meals including hot entrées, deli only in winter. Swing by the Mammoth sandwiches, pastas, salads and grab-and-go Terrace Grill for breakfast sandwiches, items. Want a snack? Visit the Old Faithful fast food, soup, salad and ice cream. Lodge Bake Shop for fresh muffins, ba- gels, sandwiches and ice cream. 7 Grant Village This lodging complex is comprised of six two-story buildings, each 1 2 3 4 Old Faithful Inn A National Historic Land- with 50 rooms. All rooms have private mark that opened in 1904, the inn was baths. The village is situated on the south- built of local logs and stone, adjacent to western shore of Yellowstone Lake, about its namesake geyser. The lobby features a 20 miles from Old Faithful. NPS visitor stone fireplace and a handcrafted clock. A center and Yellowstone Lake are nearby. variety of room types are available. The Old Grant Village Dining Room Enjoy a buf- Faithful Inn Dining Room’s specialties fet breakfast, sandwiches and salads for include beef, pork, seafood, chicken and lunch, and a range of value-priced dinner vegetarian options. Buffet also available. items. Reservations required for dinner. Reservations required for dinner. Bear Paw Grant Village Lake House Enjoy casual Deli is perfect for on-the-go options—sand- dining and a great lake view. 4 5 wiches, salads and ice cream for the road. 8 Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins 5 Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins (not shown) Designated a National His- Open summer and winter, this award-win- toric Landmark in 2015, this property is ning hotel boasts 100 lodge rooms, while a Colonial Revival masterpiece. Facilities nearby Frontier and Western Cabins of- include classically appointed hotel rooms fer modern cabin-style accommodations. and comfortable cabins. All have private All have private baths. Obsidian Dining baths. Lake Hotel Dining Room Specialty Room Beautiful custom chandeliers accent sandwiches and entrée salads are served this dining room where hearty meals are at lunch, while dinner includes fresh and served. Dinner reservations are required savory entrees. Menu focuses on local and in the winter. Geyser Grill Breakfast sand- sustainable cuisine. Dinner reservations re- wiches, burgers and deli selections. quired. Lake Hotel Deli Sandwiches, soup, 6 7 snacks, desserts and Starbucks coffee. 6 Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and KEY Cabins Completed in the 1930s, the historic 9 Lake Lodge Cabins (not shown) The Breakfast Lobby bar Interpretive Sightseeing Tours hotel’s Map Room contains a large, wooden lodge’s porch affords a rocking-chair view Lunch Stage Coach Rides Post Office map of the United States made of 15 types of shimmering reflections of the moun- Dinner Guided Trail Rides Wheelchair Access of wood from nine countries. Recently ren- tains on Yellowstone Lake. There are also ovated facilities include hotel rooms and two cozy fireplaces in the lodge. Cabins Open in winter General Store Espresso service cabins with private baths. The first four-star with private baths are grouped nearby. The Reservations required ATM Medical Clinic green restaurant in the National Park sys- Lake Lodge Cafeteria offers hot entrees, Lounge Public Laundry Service Station tem, the Mammoth Hotel Dining Room salads, sandwiches and to-go items. RESERVATIONS (307) 344 -7311 yellowstonenationalparklodges.com is known for its value-priced entrees with

16 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 17 PRESERVATIONPARK REGULATIONS PARK REGULATIONS & SAFETY due to extremely cold temperatures and Heed park rangers’ warnings about areas to & SAFETY the risk of hypothermia. avoid and be alert, even in your car and espe- cially on windy days. Make the most of your visit by planning tering Yellowstone’s waters. NPS staff will TECHNICAL CLIMBING ahead and becoming acquainted with these conduct required AIS inspections seven days Park mountains are not well suited for GEYSERS AND SCALDING WATER safety precautions and park rules. per week at the Bridge Bay and Grant Vil- climbing due to loose and broken rock. For All thermal pools are near or above boil- lage boat ramps and at the South Entrance your safety, climbing is discouraged. Climb- ing temperature. Venturing off marked trails PARK REGULATIONS Ranger Station. Boats intended for use on ing in Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon is illegal. or boardwalks is hazardous and prohibited; Carefully read park regulations listed here, Lewis Lake must be inspected at Grant Vil- the thin crusts around thermal features may in park newspapers and posted at visitor cen- lage or the South Entrance before launching. VANDALISM suddenly break. Scalding hot water inflicts ters and ranger stations. It is illegal to deface, damage or remove serious and possibly fatal burns. Keep small PERMITS any plants, animals or minerals. With your children safe in these areas. DRONES Permits are required for boating, fishing, help, Yellowstone can be protected. Drones are strictly prohibted in the park. overnight hiking or camping in the backcoun- GIARDIASIS try. Permits are available from visitor centers WILDLIFE Giardia lamblia is present in streams FIREARMS or ranger stations. To ensure safety, read the Feeding wildlife is strictly prohibited. Do and lakes at Yellowstone, and renders wa- Firearms regulations vary by park. Check accompanying information you receive with not tease, crowd or frighten animals. Star- ter non-potable unless boiled or treated. with the NPS at the park you plan to visit be- the permit. Talk to park rangers about trail tled animals may charge—bison can sprint If you develop symptoms such as diarrhea, fore your trip for most up-to-date information. conditions, bear sightings, wildlife migrations, 37 miles per hour! Stay at least 25 yards cramps and bloating, consult a physician. weather warnings and stream crossings. from most animals and 100 yards away Carry adequate filtered or bottled water for FIRES from bears and wolves. short hikes and, on longer trips, boil water for Campfires are restricted to designated PETS at least one minute before drinking or for use campgrounds and picnic areas with perma- Owners must assume complete re- STAYING SAFE in cooking. nent fire grates. Backcountry campfires re- sponsibility for their pets, which must be In wilderness areas, remember that you quire special permits. leashed at all times. For the safety of pets will experience the land on its own terms. HYPOTHERMIA You may use any dead, downed and de- and wildlife, pets are prohibited on trails, Talk with park rangers before hiking to Hypothermia is a potentially fatal condition tached material as firewood. Chainsaws are in the backcountry and at all thermal ar- learn about survival and seasonal hazards. that occurs when you are so cold your body prohibited. Some campgrounds sell firewood. eas. Pets are allowed in campgrounds and Be alert and know your limits. For hiking can no longer warm itself. You can even ex- Please use extreme caution with all fires cabin units of the park’s lodging facilities, safety tips, see the “Walking & Hiking” perience hypothermia if you are tired and wet and smoking materials. You must completely but may not be left unattended. There are chapter; for bear safety tips, see the “Na- on a breezy summer day. If you find yourself extinguish fires before leaving an area. no kennels in the park. Guests are charged ture & Wildlife” chapter. Note: Staying over- shivering and feeling disoriented, seek shel- a one-time $25 fee for each unit occu- night in the backcountry requires a permit. ter and drink warm liquids. This serious con- SPEED LIMIT pied by an animal during the stay. For in- dition may require medical assistance. The maximum speed limit in the park is formation about pets in park lodging, visit BLISTERS 45 mph, or slower where posted, or as con- yellowstonenationalparklodges.com. To prevent blisters, wear comfortable LIGHTNING ditions warrant. Use caution especially in shoes or boots that suit your needs and the If you see a storm developing while hiking, late evening and early morning, and during SWIMMING terrain. Likewise, wear quality outdoor socks retreat to a lower elevation to reduce your rain or snow, when wildlife is more difficult Bathing, wading or swimming in any to cushion and protect your feet. risk of being struck by lightning. Avoid water, to see. Always err on the side of caution thermal feature or stream whose waters ridges, isolated trees and boulders. If you feel flow exclusively from thermal features is FALLING TREES the tingle of an electrical charge building up, INVASIVE SPECIES AND BOATING prohibited because it can damage the hy- Avoid areas with dead trees, including crouch down, lean forward and place your All watercraft must be inspected for drothermal system. The NPS discourages areas that have burned. Dead trees may fall hands on your knees. Do not seek refuge un- Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) before en- swimming in park rivers, streams and lakes without warning, especially on windy days. der rock overhangs.

18 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 19 PRESERVATION VISITOR SERVICES

VISITOR SERVICES store (for its devotion to the impact of climate POSTAL SERVICES change) focuses on locally sourced, regional The park’s main post office is located products, “Made in USA,” and sustainable at Mammoth Hot Springs. In summer, Park facilities begin opening in early May, EMERGENCIES AND and upcycled merchandise.. there are post office facilities at Old with all services open by early June. Services MEDICAL SERVICE Book signings, food tastings and artist Faithful, Lake Village, Canyon Village and and facilities begin closing after Labor Day. Dial 911 for emergency, fire, medical or demonstrations are scheduled at various lo- Grant Village. Please contact NPS or visit nps.gov/yell for ranger assistance or to report accidents cations throughout the summer. Pick up an current dates and hours. or injuries. To contact a park ranger, call Experience Planner for a list of stores and their RELIGIOUS SERVICES (307) 344-7381. The NPS emergency medi- locations in Yellowstone. Religious services are held at many in- BANKING SERVICES cal technicians and park medics are on duty Visit the Yellowstone General Store in park locations and in nearby communities ATMs are located at Old Faithful Inn, 24 hours a day, year-round. Grant Village or Yellowstone Adventures in during summer and on religious holidays. For Old Faithful Snow Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Medcor, Inc. operates three patient-care Canyon Village for camping and fishing gear, times and locations of in-park services, ask Hotel, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, Grant facilities within the park. Patients requiring hiking apparel and footwear. At the his- at visitor centers or lodging front desks. Village, Canyon Lodge and general stores advanced medical care are transported to toric Yellowstone General Store in Fishing throughout the park. There are banks in area hospitals or medical centers. Bridge, the Spirit of Yellowstone showcases SPECIAL SERVICES Gardiner and West Yellowstone in Montana, The Mammoth Hot Springs Clinic is Native American and Western jewelry, art- Pick up a guide of facilities, scenic areas and in Jackson and Cody in Wyoming. open weekdays, year-round and seven days work, curios and gifts. and features accessible to guests with dis- a week from June to September. Please abilities at any entrance station or visitor CAMPING SUPPLIES call (307) 344-7965 for more information. LAUNDRY AND PUBLIC SHOWERS center. For trip planning information, con- Yellowstone General Stores has camping The Old Faithful Clinic is open from early In summer, Grant Village Campground, tact the Park Accessibility Coordinator, and fishing equipment, groceries, sundries May to mid-October, and periodically during Fishing Bridge RV Park, Canyon Camp- Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190; and souvenirs. The Mammoth Hot Springs the winter season. For appointments or ground and the Old Faithful area have coin (307) 344-2314 or visit nps.gov/yell. store is generally open year-round. The assistance, please call (307) 545-7325. laundries and pay showers. Lake Lodge Fishing Bridge RV Park also carries a limited Lake Clinic, located at the north end of Yel- and Old Faithful Snow Lodge have laundry SERVICE STATIONS stock of RV supplies. For more camping in- lowstone Lake, is open during the summer. only and Old Faithful Inn and Mammoth Hot Yellowstone Park Service Stations op- formation, see the “Camping” chapter. For more information, call (307) 242-7241. Springs have showers only. In winter, Old erates seven full-service gas stations and Faithful Snow Lodge has laundry facilities. four auto-towing and repair shops in the DINING & SERVICES GIFT SHOPS park. Gas, auto accessories, tire repairs, oil Yellowstone National Park Lodges’ ho- Gift shops are located throughout the park LOST AND FOUND changes and routine maintenance are avail- tels, restaurants, cafeterias and quick ser- at all lodging facilities and at Yellowstone You can turn in or trace lost and found ar- able only during summer. LP propane gas vice outlets have food service. Yellowstone General Stores. Yellowstone National Park ticles at any visitor center, ranger station or bottle-filling plants are at Grant Village and General Stores operate several snack bars Lodges’ gift stores, located in the hotels, sell hotel front desk. Call (307) 344-5387 to re- Fishing Bridge. Towing and repair facilities and sell groceries and grab-and-go items. apparel, gifts and souvenirs. Inspired by na- port or retrieve items lost in lodging facilities; are located at Old Faithful, Grant Village, Pick up a free Experience Planner at any ture and shaped by history, exclusive products call (307) 344-2109 to report or retrieve items Fishing Bridge and Canyon Village. Call Yellowstone National Park Lodges facil- reflect the park’s heritage. Convenience items lost in other parts of the park. (406) 848-7333 or (307) 344-7381. ity—it features a park map with picnic areas such as camera memory cards, videos, sun- marked, as well as locations of gift shops dries and regional books are also available. and restaurants. The Kids Activity Book, full Regional specialties, including pottery, WORK IN YELLOWSTONE of games and puzzles, as well as valuable carvings, gourmet foods and art prints, focus Each summer and winter, Yellowstone National Park Lodges hires employees to live and coupons for parents, is also available at all on the Yellowstone lifestyle. At Old Faithful, work in Yellowstone. There are a variety of positions for eligible candidates. For more Yellowstone National Park Lodges dining artists-in-residence display their work, which information and to apply, please visit yellowstonejobs.com. rooms. See the “Plan Your Visit” chapter for is available for sale. Jobs with the National Park Service can be found at usajobs.gov. more lodging and dining information. At Mammoth Hotel, an award-winning gift

20 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 21 PRESERVATION HISTORY & CULTURE HISTORY & CULTURE occupied the country to the north. The NPS Shoshone, Bannock and other tribes of the plateaus to the west traversed the park Throughout its dynamic history, Yel- covered most of what is now Yellowstone area annually to hunt on the plains to the lowstone has inspired awe in all its visi- Park. They receded and left behind rivers east. Other Shoshonean groups hunted in tors—American Indians, mountain men, and valleys that people likely followed in open areas west and south of Yellowstone. explorers and modern-day travelers. pursuit of Ice Age mammals such as the In the early 1700s, some tribes in this mammoth and the giant bison. region began to acquire horses. Some his- THE EARLIEST HUMANS The first people arrived in this region torians believe the horse fundamentally IN YELLOWSTONE sometime before 11,000 years ago. Arche- changed lifestyles because tribes could The human history of the vast Yellow- ologists have found little physical evidence now travel faster and farther to hunt bison stone region goes back more than 11,000 of their presence other than distinctive and other animals of the plains. The horse, years. How far back has yet to be deter- stone tools and projectile points. From however, does not seem to have changed mined, but their presence probably coin- these artifacts, scientists surmise that they the tribes’ traditional use of the Yellow- cided with the end of the last period of ice hunted mammals and ate berries, seeds stone area. coverage, approximately 12,000 years ago. and roots. Human occupation of the greater Yellow- As the climate in the Yellowstone region THE “SHEEP EATERS” stone area seems to follow environmental became warmer and drier, the animals, veg- Some groups of Shoshone who adapted changes of the last 15,000 years. Glaciers etation and human lifestyles also changed. to a mountain existence chose not to ac- Large Ice Age animals that were adapted quire the horse. These included the Sheep to cold and wet conditions became extinct. Eaters, or Tukudika, who used their dogs to Harry Yount, the first gamekeeper of

NPS People, who could no longer rely on large transport food, hides and other provisions. Yellowstone, envisioned the National Park Service as we know it today. mammals for food, depended on smaller Sheep Eaters acquired their name from animals, such as deer and bighorn sheep. the bighorn sheep whose migrations they that men should be near them.” American Plants such as bitterroot and prickly pear followed. Bighorn sheep were a significant Indians laugh at this; they were not afraid. also became important staples. part of their diet, and they crafted the car- Explorers Lewis and Clark did not venture casses into a wide array of tools and imple- into the land, even for a look, during their ex- HISTORIC TRIBES ments. For example, they made bows from pedition across the northwest region of the Tribal oral histories indicate extensive use sheep horn made pliable from soaking in continent from 1804 to 1806. of the Yellowstone area during the Little Ice hot springs. The tribe traded these bows, A member of their expedition, John Col- Age. Kiowa stories place their ancestors clothing and hides to other tribes. ter, however, hadn’t had his fill of the wilds here from around A.D. 1400 to A.D. 1700. when Lewis and Clark headed back to St. Ancestors to contemporary Blackfeet, Cay- THE EXPLORERS Louis, Missouri, after their epic journey. He use, Coeur d’Alene, Bannock, Nez Perce, The written history of Yellowstone dates spent a full winter, probably during 1807– Shoshone and Umatilla, and other tribes back to a vague and superstitious journal en- 1808, trapping and wandering through continued to travel the park on the already try written by William Clark when he inter- what is now the park, looking for American established trails. They visited geysers, viewed an American Indian after his return Indian trading partners. Three years later, conducted ceremonies, hunted, gathered to St. Louis nearly 200 years ago: “There is he related his discoveries in St. Louis, but plants and minerals and engaged in trade. frequently heard a loud noise like thunder, his stories of the region were mocked and Some tribes used the Fishing Bridge area which makes the earth tremble, [Indians] called “mad hallucinations.” as a rendezvous site. state that they seldom go there because Talk of this strange, almost alien, land- David E. Folsom, C.W. Cook (left) and William Peterson (right) explored the Yellowstone The Crow occupied the country gen- [their] children cannot sleep—and conceive scape resisted verification. Most of the region in the 1860s. erally east of the park, and the Blackfeet it possessed of spirits, who were adverse eyewitnesses, fur trappers and traders,

22 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 23 HISTORY & CULTURE WHO’S WHO AT THE PARK

gave up their profession when the beaver At their urging, Dr. Ferdinand V. PRESERVATION hat went out of style around 1840, and Yel- Hayden, director of the U.S. Geological lowstone was abandoned by the European & Geographical Survey of the Territories, Americans again and left to the American mounted an official exploration. Knowing Finding a workable balance between The process of maintaining the balance Indians. Congress would have to see proof to be- preserving a unique ecosystem and ac- of nature, however, is an ongoing one. Recounting doubtful tales of wonder be- lieve it, Hayden brought along Thomas commodating its visitors is, at best, a trial Park officials, scientists and others con- came a mountain man’s game, a form of Moran, a renowned artist, and William and error process. NPS management is tinue to study Yellowstone for clues that pure entertainment far removed from the Henry Jackson, the famous landscape based upon agency mission, guided by will help them preserve what may be one serious matters of daily life. photographer. Their visual accounts and science, and balanced with visitor experi- of the last wildland ecosystems remain- No one seemed to enjoy the storytell- a 500-page land survey confirmed the in- ence goals. ing in the world’s Temperate Zone. ing more than the notorious trapper Jim credible truth. Congress voted to set aside During the park’s early history, laun- Bridger. His very real contribution to the 2.1 million acres for Yellowstone National dries were sometimes located near the FIRE—A NATURAL PROCESS mapping of the West was often a side note Park on March 1, 1872. geysers and hot pools. At one time, vis- In 1988, the park experienced the to his many outrageous “Bridger Stories,” The establishment of Yellowstone itors tried injecting soaps to set off gey- greatest ecological event in the history which still live on as part of Yellowstone’s marked a revolution in the human relation- ser eruptions. Predators were hunted and of national parks. With raw, unbridled legendary past. ship with nature. For the first time, pres- roads were built. The balance had tipped, power, several fires raged in and around After the Civil War, people turned their ervation of America’s most remarkable all in good faith, toward a public amuse- the park, affecting an area of 793,880 attention once again to the western fron- landscapes became a common national ment park. acres in the park. The extent of the tier where gold miners were just giving up and international goal. Gradually, the NPS moved toward min- 1988 fires focused worldwide attention their mostly futile search for gold in Yellow- Exhibits at the Albright Visitor Center imal interference with the park’s natural on Yellowstone. stone. Called lies or delusions of drink, the bring the fascinating story of Yellowstone’s state. However, Yellowstone, as large as it In its aftermath, forests began to regrow miners’ tales nevertheless fanned curiosity history to life. is, is not a self-contained ecosystem. It is and other fires have occurred. Most biolo- in the local saloons. A group of eager ad- dynamically related to an area far beyond gists and naturalists believe that naturally venturers, Folsom, Cook and Peterson, its boundaries. Three massive river sys- caused wildfires are inevitable processes, tired of the speculation and determined to tems, the Snake, the Yellowstone and the part of the complex and intertwined natu- experience it all for themselves. Upon see- Missouri, originate in the Greater Yellow- ral forces that recycle nutrients back into ing the eruption of the Great Fountain Gey- stone ecosystem. The underground geo- the earth. ser, “We could not contain our enthusiasm; logic structure and processes that sustain Fires broke out in the early 1700s and with one accord we all took off our hats Congress of Library the complex hydrothermal features in the the mid-1800s, and evidence shows that and yelled with all our might.” park extend beyond park borders. Animals this has happened 300 times in the last also migrate through adjacent public and 10,000 years. There are programs and NATIONAL PARK STATUS private lands in search of food and water. publications about fires at the visitor cen- Fortunately, one of the friends of those Programs were initiated to better ters. The exhibit, “Yellowstone and Fire,” early adventurers would become the park’s protect the park, its wildlife and its re- can be viewed at Grant Village Visitor Cen- first superintendent, Nathaniel P. Lang- sources. Park programs, exhibits and lit- ter. Stop by—it’s an amazing story. ford. Recalling Bridger’s tall tales, he ral- erature educated visitors about the park’s lied a distinguished group of local leaders, fragile ecosystem. Boardwalks help to RECYCLING including the surveyor general of Montana, preserve the delicate hydrothermal areas Yellowstone National Park recycles alu- and set out the next year, in 1870, to sort and wildlife management programs pro- minum and steel cans, plastic containers, fable from fact. These men, in awe of the tect bears, trout and trumpeter swans. glass and paper products. Please place landscape, plotted out the campaign that Regulations that protect natural and cul- recyclable materials in marked recepta- would help protect this magical place from Members of the Kiowa tribe are believed to tural resources also keep visitors safe in cles located in most developed areas, all private ownership and exploitation. have lived in the Yellowstone area this vast wild country. lodges areas and campgrounds.

24 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 25 PRESERVATION PRESERVATION

DO YOUR PART IN THE PARK VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS ing of their environment and management While visiting the park, you can help Each year Yellowstone welcomes full- of our natural resources, and introduces FUN FACTS protect Yellowstone’s fragile environment. time volunteers from the Student Con- them to the spectrum of career possibil- Please recycle, take advantage of the linen servation Association (SCA), a national ities with the NPS. This residential pro- Q. WHEN WERE WOLVES reuse program, turn down the heat, turn non-profit organization. The volunteers, gram runs from June through August, and REINTRODUCED INTO off the lights and make sure all water fau- who may be high school or college stu- is based at Mammoth Hot Springs. YCC YELLOWSTONE? cets are shut off before leaving your room. dents or other adults, assist with vital gives participants opportunities to explore A. Wolves were reintroduced When dining in park restaurants, consider activities from trail maintenance or bear park wilderness while working on proj- into Yellowstone in the 1990s. ordering one of the many sustainable management to backcountry patrol or ects focusing on rehabilitation of trails and The wolves that were reintroduced menu items. In gift shops, look for prod- assisting park visitors. In return, they re- backcountry areas, bridge reconstruction, flourished and there are now over ucts made in the USA and for labels which ceive valuable training and experience, and resource management, maintenance 300 of their descendants living in the Greater Yellowstone Area. denote sustainable products. have some expenses paid and are able and research. For more information visit Stewardship does not end at national to live and work in one of America’s pre- nps.gov/gettinginvolved. park borders. You can help protect Yellow- mier national parks. For information about For information about the NPS For answers to all your questions, stone and other national parks from the the SCA program, call (603) 543-1700 or Volunteer Program, and other volunteer go to OhRanger.com impact of climate change and pollution by visit thesca.org. opportunities, visit volunteer.gov. adopting green practices at home. Visit The Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) www.yellowstonenationalparklodges. is a summer employment program for SHARE YOUR FAVORITE SUSTAINABLE LODGING AND DINING com/who-we-are/sustainability for a young people ages 15-18. Through work PHOTOS WITH US! Yellowstone National Park Lodges is list of green-living tips and more informa- projects done in the park, this program pro- FOLLOW US! committed to providing “Legendary Hos- tion about climate change in the national vides enrollees with a better understand- pitality with a Softer Footprint” in all of parks. its operations. This commitment is em- bodied through Our Softer Footprint, its THE WOLVES OF YELLOWSTONE Environmental Management System, and Following an absence of more than 70 aims to reduce environmental impacts years, wolves once again inhabit the park. as a result of its business practices. Our In March of 1995 and again in 1996, a to- Softer Footprint focuses on saving en- tal of 31 gray wolves were released in Yel- ergy and water, reducing fossil fuel use, lowstone National Park. The goal of the wolf promotion of alternative energy sources, restoration program is to maintain 30 breed- and increasing healthy and sustainable ing wolf pairs with an equitable distribution cuisine offerings throughout Yellowstone throughout the three Rocky Mountain re- National Park. covery areas including greater Yellowstone, Recently, Yellowstone National Park central Idaho and northwest Montana. Lodges has been able to divert more During summer, ranger-led interpretive than 60 percent of its waste from land- walks explore wolf natural history and hab- fill disposal through innovative recycling, itat. Check at visitor centers for schedules. composting, reuse and source-reduction In winter, two travel packages— programs. Additionally, more than 50 Winter Wolf Discovery and Trail of the percent of its total food purchases are Wolf—offer opportunities to spot wolves in sustainable—including locally sourced, the Lamar Valley. For more information, visit third-party certified, and sustainably har- yellowstonenationalparklodges.com or vested ingredients and products. call (866) 439-7375.

26 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 27 PRESERVATION THINGS TO DO

THINGS TO DO stone National Park fishing permit ($18 for spots or explore the expansive and beautiful three days) to fish in the park; state permits Yellowstone Lake. Fishing rods and tackle are not valid. Anglers ages 15 and younger are provided on charters. Call (307) 344- Listen to the sound of long summer Overlook Field Campus, at park hotels and may either fish under direct supervision of an 7311 for guided charters. Rentals are avail- days calling you to experience adventure in the backcountry. They also offer private adult who has a fishing permit or obtain a free able on a first-come, first-served basis. in Yellowstone’s mountain wilderness. The tours including wildlife watching, day hik- permit and fish without supervision. Fishing Boats, canoes, kayaks and rafts are not al- backcountry beckons anglers to streams ing and geology exploration. permits may be obtained at ranger stations, lowed on park rivers and streams, with the teeming with fish, and hikers to trails visitor centers, Yellowstone General Stores exception of the waterway between Lewis winding through meadows undulating FIELD SEMINARS & PRIVATE TOURS and Bridge Bay Marina. You can purchase and Shoshone lakes, where only hand-pro- with wildflowers. Whether fishing on the Many authorized guides and out- fishing tackle from Yellowstone General pelled vessels are permitted. Launching Madison River, taking a guided walk with fitters are ready to show you the won- Stores throughout the park. facilities are located at Lewis Lake and on an interpretive ranger or riding horseback ders of Yellowstone—there is truly Yellowstone Lake at Bridge Bay Marina and through Roosevelt Country, you will enjoy something for everyone! Contact the Na- BOATING Grant Village Campground. All water vessels exploring all the park has to offer. tional Park Service at (307) 344-7381 or visit Bridge Bay Marina on Yellowstone Lake (including float tubes) must have a permit, nps.gov/yell to learn more. is the hub of boating activities. Lake cruises, which can be obtained at Bridge Bay Ma- WHAT TO WEAR boat rentals, guided charters, boat slips, ma- rina or at ranger stations in the lake area. When preparing for any outdoor activ- BICYCLING rine supplies and ranger services are avail- Each person on a vessel must have a Coast ity, program or guided tour in Yellowstone, Pedaling through Yellowstone can be a able. Scenicruise boat tours on Yellowstone Guard-approved “wearable” personal float- dress in layers, wear comfortable walking memorable, but potentially dangerous, expe- Lake run from mid-June to mid-September. ing device. Boating season begins the Satur- shoes or boots, always carry a jacket or rience. Very few bike paths exist, there are You can rent a rowboat or motorboat, or day of Memorial Day weekend (usually the sweatshirt and bring rain gear and plenty no bicycle lanes along roadways, and bikes charter a guided boat to take up to six pas- last weekend in May) and extends through of water and extra food. are prohibited on boardwalks and backcoun- sengers to cast a line at the hottest fishing the first Sunday in November. try trails. Wear safety gear, including a hel- PARK PROGRAMS met and high-visibility clothing, because park National Park Service rangers offer inter- roads are narrow and winding. Be especially pretive talks and guided nature and history mindful of mirrors protruding from campers walks during the day. They also present eve- and RVs that may pass you from behind. A ning talks and illustrated programs at various rear-view mirror on your bike and a helmet locations in the park. Topics cover many dif- can be life-saving essentials. Bicycle rent- ferent themes and stories at each park loca- als are available at Old Faithful Snow Lodge, tion. Programs are available for both adults where you can bicycle on roads and paths in and children. Check the park newspaper, Yel- and around the Upper Geyser Basin. lowstone, for a complete schedule of rang- er-led programs, or ask at any visitor center FISHING for current times and listings. Understandably, fly fishing is popular Yellowstone Forever is the park’s non- throughout the park on Yellowstone’s crys- profit partner for education and operates tal-clear lakes, rivers and streams. The fish- the Yellowstone Forever Institute, a field ing season begins the Saturday of Memorial school that offers year-round learning ad- Day weekend and continues through the first ventures on subjects such as geysers, Sunday in November. (Certain park waters The Nati onal Fish and Wildlife Foundati on wildlife, photography and park history. have different seasons or regulations; learn protects and restores our nati on’s wildlife Courses are based at the Lamar Buffalo more at park visitor centers.) All anglers ages and habitats. Learn more at www.nfwf.org Ranch Field Campus, the Yellowstone 16 and older must possess a valid Yellow-

28 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 29 THINGS TO DO WHO’S WHO AT THE PARK

WILDLIFE WATCHING INTERPRETIVE SIGHTSEEING TOURS WINTER ACTIVITIES During spring, summer and fall, wild- Various interpretive sightseeing tours life is best spotted in the early morning and activities are available through Yel- and evening. In summer, bears, bison lowstone National Park Lodges, including Visit Yellowstone in winter to enjoy a snowmobile tours and ice skating. Special and coyotes are often seen in Hayden photo safaris, wildlife tours, lake cruises, truly spectacular landscape where snow events include Sunday breakfast buffets, a Valley, while mule deer inhabit the south- horseback trail rides, stagecoach adven- blankets the park and geysers spout tow- New Year’s Eve dinner and themed dinners ern regions of the park. Elk often wan- tures, tours in refurbished historic Yellow ering plumes of steam and water through in January and February (like a chocolate der through meadows in Mammoth Hot Buses and old west cookouts. Most tours cold, crisp air. Enjoy snowy scenery buffet, wine tasting with tapas and brew- Springs, the Upper and Midway geyser and activities can be reserved in advance. on snowcoach and snowmobile tours, master’s dinner). Note: As of fall 2019, the basins and the Lewis River area. Bighorn The Experience Planner, available at cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hotel’s newly remodeled rooms now fea- sheep sometimes congregate in the Gard- any park hotel or campground front desk many other winter park programs. All ture private baths. ner River Canyon. You may also see bea- or activity desk, has information on all snowcoach and snowmobile access is Old Faithful Snow Lodge: This vers, weasels, foxes, marmots and other tours and activities, including sched- through guided tours only; individual snow- award-winning lodge is accessible in winter animals. Wolf-watching is a popular activ- ules and rates. Information is also avail- mobiles or snowcoaches are not permitted by over-snow vehicles only. A full-service ity in Lamar Valley. able by calling Yellowstone National Park in the park. dining room, the Geyser Grill quick-ser- You will see more of an animal’s natural Lodges at (307) 344-7311 or by visiting vice restaurant, the Firehole Lounge, a gift behavior and activity if you are sensitive to yellowstonenationalparklodges.com. WHAT TO WEAR shop and ice skating are available. Special its need for space. Don’t approach wildlife, Winter temperatures can range from events include Christmas and New Year’s especially those with offspring. View them SUMMER ADVENTURE PACKAGES well below 0°F throughout the day, to oc- Eve dinners. The full-service Bear Den ski from the safety of your vehicle. If an animal Yellowstone National Park Lodges also casional highs in the 20s to 30s. Guard shop rents ski equipment and snowshoes, reacts to your presence, you are too close. offers a series of packages that offer well- against frostbite by dressing warmly. When and offers ski guides, lessons and a repair Each year a number of park visitors are planned itineraries that include many of preparing for any park activity, dress in lay- shop. Snowcoach excursions run daily. injured by wildlife when they approach an- the park’s popular tours and activities, ers and wear a hat, gloves, sunglasses, imals too closely. Always stay at least 100 along with lodging and meals. Packages sunscreen and comfortable boots. WINTER ADVENTURES yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves include Total Yellowstone, Yellowstone Whether you decide to join knowledge- and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from all Couples Adventure and Wild About Yellow- ROAD INFORMATION able guides or explore the park on your other large animals—bison, elk, bighorn stone. These can be booked by calling All park roads are restricted to tracked, own, you will treasure your memories of sheep, deer, moose and coyotes. (307) 344-7311. over-snow vehicles like snowmobiles and Yellowstone in winter. For details and rates snowcoaches, except for the road from the on activities, contact Yellowstone National North Entrance to Cooke City and the part Park Lodges or pick up a Winter Rates and RAFTING, ZIPLINE & TUBING of US 191 that passes through the park’s Packages brochure at any park hotel. west side, which are open year-round. Cross-Country Skiing and Snow- Locations in Bozeman, Big Sky & Gardiner Yellowstone National Park Lodges offers shoeing: There are machine-groomed shuttle service between Bozeman and and skier tracked trails throughout the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel. (See note park. Miles of trails wind through the Old below.) Faithful and Mammoth Hot Springs areas, where skiers can see hot springs, gey- DISCOUNTED WINTER LODGING AND SERVICES sers, elk and bison. Ask at lodge ski shops Zip ‘n Dip Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel: The for information about shuttles to and from Packages only winter lodging accessible by car, the trails. Ski rentals, waxes, trail maps and hotel features a dining room, espresso other equipment are available at both montanawhitewater.com yellowstonezip.com 406.763.4465 cart and lounge, ski shop, ski and snow- hotel ski shops. In addition to regularly shoe rentals, lessons, ski supplies, guided scheduled guided ski tours, there are also

30 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 31 WINTER ACTIVITIES WHO’S WHO AT THE PARK

private and group lessons and ski tours. then return to historic park hotels at night, SIGHTS TO SEE Ski maps are available at ski shops, visitor where you can enjoy excellent meals, com- centers and hotels. fortable accommodations, and evening Snowcoach Tours: Yellowstone Na- programs provided by Yellowstone Na- During the summer, visit Yellow- The Yellowstone River meanders through tional Park Lodges’ heated over-snow ve- tional Park Lodges. stone’s most popular sights during the the valley, forming marshes where you may hicles transport you into the heart of this Choose between a ski program (Yellow- quieter times of the day, in the morn- see swans and Canada geese. Elk, deer and snowy paradise of frosty bison, sculpted stone on Skis) or programs that offer an in- ing, or late afternoon and evening. You’ll bison graze in the meadows and sagebrush ghost-trees, steamy thermal pools and an- troduction to winter in the park, like Winter streamline your visits (and see even flats, while bears and wolves patrol the area gelic trumpeter swans, while your guide in Wonderland and Old Faithful Winter Expe- more) if you take advantage of the park’s in search of prey. reveals the various chapters of the park’s dition. Wildlife photo expeditions and safa- interpretive sightseeing tours. And winter story. ris are also an option. To learn more about though many of the mostpopular sights MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS Ski/Snowshoe Shuttles: Vans and these award-winning programs, please call that follow will be on your must-see list, Few of Yellowstone’s hydrothermal fea- snowcoaches from Old Faithful Snow (307) 344-7311 or visit their website at don’t overlook the many park attractions tures have the sheer grace and beauty of Lodge provide convenient shuttles to other yellowstonenationalparklodges.com. just off the beaten path. Inquire at any Mammoth Hot Springs. Mineral-laden areas of the park. hotel front desk or visitor center for infor- hot water from beneath the Earth’s crust Ski Tour: Journey by snowcoach to the WARMING HUTS mation about park activities. finds its way to the surface and builds tier Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. A guide Warming huts are located throughout upon tier of terraced travertine deposits. will lead you to the frozen, sculpted Lower the park for snowshoers, skiers, and snow- GRAND CANYON OF THE The sculpting of the terraces continues as Falls where glistening snow dusts the coach and snowmobile travelers. Snacks, YELLOWSTONE thousands of gallons of water well up and golden canyon walls. sandwiches, hot items and beverages The turbulent Yellowstone River roars deposit travertine daily. Snowshoe Tours: Certain sights are are available at Madison, the only staffed and foams for 20 miles through the Grand best enjoyed via the quiet strides of warming hut. Vending machines and re- Canyon of the Yellowstone. The most MORNING GLORY POOL snowshoes. Even with no previous ex- strooms are located at the Canyon Visitor colorful sections of the Canyon are found This thermal pool got its name be- perience, “shoeing” over a glistening Education Center. There are no beverages near the Canyon Village area and at over- cause of its resemblance to the morning snowfield seems effortless. Feast your or vending machines at the Indian Creek looks along the road near Tower Junction. glory flower. Unfortunately, it is no lon- eyes on the unearthly plumes of geysers, and West Thumb warming huts. At 109 feet and 308 feet respectively, Up- ger as profoundly blue as it was in the stunning scenery and wild creatures. per and Lower falls are truly emblematic past because debris thrown by visitors Snowshoes are available at Old Faithful PARK PROGRAMS of the power of nature. has clogged its vent. Snow Lodge. The NPS conducts talks, illustrated programs and informational tours de- GRAND PRISMATIC NORRIS AND FIREHOLE LODGING & LEARNING PACKAGES signed to help you appreciate the park’s SPRING RIVER GEYSER BASINS Active and engaging Lodging & Learning wonders. Ranger-led hikes and walks are Yellowstone’s largest hot spring, at 370 Norris Geyser Basin, 21 miles south of adventures allow you to explore the park also offered. Check the park newspaper, feet in diameter, can be accessed by taking Mammoth Hot Springs, and Upper, Mid- with a knowledgeable instructor from the Yellowstone, for a schedule of programs the Midway Geyser Basin boardwalk. The way and Lower geyser basins, located Yellowstone Forever Institute by day and and activities, or ask at visitor centers. deep blue color of the pool and the rings of along the Firehole River, have the largest yellow- and orange-colored thermophiles display of geysers. Steamboat Geyser, at RESERVATIONS & INFORMATION surrounding it combine to produce a beau- Norris, is the world’s tallest active gey- tiful prism effect. ser (a new record was set in 2018!) and For advance lodging, dining, tour, activity and airport shuttle reservations, contact Yellow- has infrequent, unpredictable eruptions stone National Park Lodges at (307) 344-7311 or visit yellowstonenationalparklodges.com. HAYDEN VALLEY reaching 300–400 feet. Echinus Geyser, If you are already staying in the park and wish to reserve additional lodging or activi- This broad, rolling valley is a remnant lake once predictable, now varies widely. ties, the front desk staff at the park lodges can make arrangements. bed formed when glaciers created a dam When it does erupt, it can spray the view- that backed up water, flooding the valley. ing platform.

32 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 33 SIGHTS TO SEE WHO’S WHO AT THE PARK CAMPING Shutterstock Of Yellowstone’s 12 campgrounds, RESTRICTIONS seven are operated on a first-come, first- Camping is permitted only in designated served basis by the National Park Service. campgrounds (this includes backcountry Five of the campgrounds, encompassing campsites). You may camp at any combina- more than 1,400 sites, are operated by Yel- tion of campgrounds for up to 14 days total lowstone National Park Lodges and may between July 1 and Labor Day (first Mon- be reserved up to one year in advance. In day in September), and up to 30 days the addition, Fishing Bridge RV Park has more rest of the year. This rule does not apply to than 300 RV sites, all with full hookups. the Fishing Bridge RV Park. This RV park is restricted to hard-sided vehicles only. For campsite or RV park BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING reservations, or for more information, visit Yellowstone has implemented an over- yellowstonenationalparklodges.com or night backcountry permit fee to defray call (307) 344-7311. the backcountry program’s costs. Anyone obtaining a permit to stay overnight in the REGULATIONS backcountry—there are some 300+ back- Since food and odors attract bears, country sites—between Memorial Day and The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is 24 miles long and between 800 and 1200 feet deep. items such as cooking stoves, utensils, September 10 will have to pay a per-per- coolers, trash bags, food and toiletries son, per-night permit fee for all individuals 9 PETRIFIED FORESTS WEST THUMB GEYSER BASIN may not be left outside or in tents or tent years of age or older. There will be a $3.00 Yellowstone’s “forests of stone” con- Located on Yellowstone Lake’s shore, trailers, unless they are in immediate per-person, per night fee for backpackers tain well-preserved specimens of an- this thermal area holds lakeshore geysers, use! and boaters. Groups of 5 or more will be cient plants and standing trees. Volcanic hot springs and bubbling paint pots. Fishing Food must be stored in bearproof lock- charged a total of $15 per night. Stock us- eruptions buried subtropical plants and Cone is one of many lakeshore geysers sub- ers or in a hard-sided vehicle. All campers ers will be charged $5.00 per-person, per cold-climate trees like spruce, fir and se- merged here until the water level drops in late must adhere to storage regulations. Do night. Visitors may purchase an Annual quoia, petrifying them in the process. To summer. Fishing Cone gets its name from not disturb wildlife and vegetation. Only Backcountry Pass for $25, which covers the view petrified redwoods, take the Petrified the fact that visitors used to catch trout here dead, downed and detached wood may per-person, per-night backcountry fees for Tree spur road 1.5 miles west of Tower and then promptly drop them into its boiling be used for campfires; firewood is sold the individual pass holder for the season in Junction. waters to cook. at some campgrounds from mid-May which the pass is purchased. A portion of through mid-September. the 300+ backcountry sites are reservable OLD FAITHFUL YELLOWSTONE LAKE in advance for a flat $25 fee (not covered Of the 10,000 or so hydrothermal features Yellowstone Lake is the largest high ele- FACILITIES by the annual pass). Call (307) 344-2160 for in the park, the best known and most recog- vation lake in North America. The shoreline is Yellowstone campgrounds have ta- more information. See the “Nature & Wild- nizable is Old Faithful Geyser. Thousands of 141 miles long! The lake is so large that it can bles, fire grills, drinking water, garbage life” chapter for details about how to be gallons of steaming water thunder into the even create its own weather, forming cumu- cans, and flush or pit toilets. The five re- responsible in the backcountry and how to sky with each eruption.The time between lus clouds during the day that often shower servable campgrounds have restrooms, reduce your risk of encounters with bears. eruptions varies from 51 to 120 minutes; on the area by evening. A portion of the lake sits fire grates, flush toilets and some tables average, the geyser erupts every 92 minutes. within a large caldera that was formed by a accessible to persons with disabilities. For answers to all your questions, Old Faithful is easy to access, located adja- volcano and then carved and filled by glaciers Fishing Bridge RV Park (closed for 2019) go to OhRanger.com cent to the Lodge named for it. some 14,000 years ago. does not have fire grates or picnic tables.

34 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 35 CAMPING WHO’S WHO AT THE PARK

YELLOWSTONE CAMPGROUNDS NATURE & WILDLIFE

Campground More plants and wild animals live in Yel- IF YOU SEE A BEAR FEE NUMBER OF SITES FIREWOOD SOLD FLUSH Operating schedule • Location TOILETS DISPOSAL STATION BOAT ACCESS PAY SHOWERS lowstone, in their natural habitat, than any- If you spot a bear, do not approach it. Indian­ Creek where else in the lower 48 states. Female bears with cubs or bears defending Mid-June to mid-September • Eight miles $15.00 70 south of Mammoth Hot Springs a carcass are especially dangerous. PLANTS Do not run or make abrupt moves. Mammoth $20.00 85 • • Lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta), the Bears are hunters and instinctively chase Year-round • Mammoth Hot Springs most common tree in the park, is tall and anything that flees. A bear may “bluff Norris straight, reaching up to 75 feet in height. charge” and stop short of touching you. Mid-May to late September • Near $20.00 111 • • Gibbon River Some American Indians used it to make If possible, stay still until the bear calms frames for their tepees or lodges, hence down, then slowly back away. If you can- Madison* $26 278 • • • Late April to mid-October • Madison the name. In thick groves, only treetops not detour, wait until the bear moves have branches; trees that stand alone of- away from your route. If the bear knocks Bridge Bay* Mid-May to late September ten have lower branches because sunlight you down, curl into a ball and protect your • Three miles southwest of Lake Village $26 432 • • • • can reach their entire length. stomach and neck. near Bridge Bay Marina Engelmann spruce (Picea engelmannii) Report bear sightings to a park ranger. Fishing Bridge RV Park* (closed 2019) and subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa) grow The safety of others may depend on it! Mid-May to early September • One mile in the park, although lodgepole pines, $47.75 340 • • • east of Fishing Bridge Junction; hard- which thrive in the rhyolitic soil not suited DON’T FEED THE BEARS sided camping units only—no tents to spruce or fir, monopolize more than 80 A fed bear is a dead bear. When bears Grant Village* percent of Yellowstone’s forests. become accustomed to eating human Mid-June to mid-September $31 430 • • • • • The Wyoming paintbrush (Castilleja food and garbage, their role in the natural • Southern end of Yellowstone Lake linariaefolias) is one of more than 200 environment is altered. They can become Lewis Lake species of Indian paintbrush found in annoying or aggressive intruders who Mid-June to early November $15.00 85 • America. must be killed if they become a threat • Off South Entrance Road The yellow monkeyflower (Mimulus gut- to visitors. Be responsible and safe by Pebble Creek tastus) thrives in wet areas, such as the bear-proofing all food and related supplies. Mid-June to late September • Off $15.00 27 channel run-offs near hydrothermal fea- To protect yourself and the bears: Northeast Entrance Road tures. The shape of the flower’s bloom re- • Never leave food, trash or other Slough Creek sembles a monkey’s face. scented items unattended. Mid-June to mid-October • Ten miles $15.00 16 • Store all food and odorous items in northeast of Tower-Roosevelt Junction BEARS storage boxes where provided, seal- Tower Fall Black bears and grizzlies live in the ing items in air-tight containers to Late May to late September • Three miles $15.00 31 park. Look for bear signs like overturned minimize odors. This includes grocery southeast of Tower-Roosevelt Junction or torn apart logs, excavated burrows, bags, garbage and scented articles like Canyon Village* broken branches, claw marks on trees, scat soap, sunscreen, hairspray and tooth- Late May to late September • 0.25 miles $31 273 • • • (droppings) or tracks. Be cautious and paste. Clean fire grills and picnic tables east of Canyon Village alert. Make noise by talking or singing, as after use. Rates are subject to change. Tax and utility fees may apply. *Plus tax; operated by Yellowstone National to not surprise bears. Hikers in bear coun- • Follow all park rules on bear-proofing Park Lodges; call (307) 344-7311 for reservations. Rates at Fishing Bridge RV Park, Grant Village and try should carry bear pepper spray, have your food. For more information about Canyon Village include two showers per site per night. it within reach, and know how to use it. bear safety, ask at any visitor center.

36 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 37 NATURE & WILDLIFE

WATCHABLE WILDLIFE

1 2 3

4 5 6

1. BISON (BISON BISON) 4. OSPREY (PANDION HALIAETUS) MAY THEY INSPIRE Often referred to as buffalo, bison can be seen Osprey feed almost entirely on fish, using their in the Firehole River and Old Faithful thermal ba- barbed talons, nostrils and reversible toes to sins and in the Lamar and Hayden valleys. Each capture prey. Osprey usually mate for life and August, males charge each other, banging heads take part in five-month partnerships to raise Help Us Support the Park You Love in competition for mates. Stay well out of a bi- young. They have white heads and their wings son’s way, especially during this time. • Height are dark brown on top and white below. • Size pr e se rve Yellowstone for future generations. Join more than up to 6.6 ft • Length up to 10 ft • Weight 900- 21-24 in long, six ft wingspan • Active in winter. 73,000 supporters who have made a commitment to fund 2,200 lbs. Photo: NPS. Photo: NPS. visitor education and park preservation. Yellowstone Forever is proud to support priority park projects such as trail 2. ELK (CERVUS ELAPHUS) RIVER OTTER 5. (LUTRA CANADENSIS) restoration, wildlife research, and visitor safety. The second largest member of the deer family, Often seen sliding down snow banks or riding elk live in and near forests, feeding on leaves waterfalls, it may seem otters don’t have a care gain a deeper connection to the park on a Yellowstone Forever and other plants. During the rut (mating sea- in the world. But they must avoid predators like Institute program. Our programs range from one day to three son), the bull elk bugle a combination of shrill bald eagles, and keep their hard-caught fish from weeks in length, and highlight the park’s amazing geothermal whistles and grunts in an effort to attract fe- coyotes. Near the rivers, they’re safe—in the areas and awe-inspiring wilderness and wildlife. males. Elk are most active at dusk and dawn. frigid water, otters are the top of the food chain. • Weight 450-1,090 lbs • Size 6.5-10 ft long • Length 2-3.5 ft • Weight 6-31 lbs • Active year- su pport Yellowstone through our educational Park Stores. • Active in winter. Photo: NPS. round. Photo: NPS. Proceeds directly benefit the park. Visit our locations in Old Faithful, Mammoth, Madison, Norris, Canyon, Fishing 3. MOOSE (ALCES ALCES) 6. TRUMPETER SWAN (CYGNUS BUCCINATOR) Bridge, Gardiner, Grant, West Thumb, Quake Lake, and These reclusive animals are most active at dusk This snow-white bird can be seen gliding over and dawn. Moose eat aquatic vegetation and streams, trumpeting its horn-like call, an unforget- Bozeman Airport, or online at Shop.yellowstone.org. woody plants. They are excellent swimmers and table sound that resembles a French horn. These join our online community of over 700,000 worldwide. can stay under water for more than 30 seconds. are some of the most imperiled birds in the park, With few natural predators, moose can live up and the swans are very sensitive to humans— to 20 years! Look for them near lakes and rivers be cautious near nests. • Weight 22-26 lbs • Weight 700-1,400 lbs • Size 6-9 ft long • Ac- • Size 60-72 in • Active in winter • Migratory tive in winter. Photo: U.S. Fish & Wildlife. Photo: NPS

38 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | TOM MURPHY PHOTO TOM

MC1803008_AmParkNetwork_5.375inx8.375in_AD.03.indd 1 3/15/18 5:21 PM NATURE & WILDLIFE

IDENTIFYING YELLOWSTONE’S BEARS GRIZZLY BEAR BLACK BEAR

Prints

Grizzly Bears vary from blonde to black in color. They are typically medium to Black bears actually vary in color from Color dark brown. Their long guard hairs often black to brown, cinnamon, or blonde, have a lighter tip, giving the bears their and have a distinctive tan snout. ‘grizzled’ appearance. Males weigh 500 pounds on average Males weigh between 210-315 pounds Size (225 kg) and can weigh up to 900 (95-143 kg), sows between 135-160 lbs Experience YELLOWSTONE pounds. Sows average 375 pounds. (61-73 kg). Height 3.5 feet (1 m) 3 feet (0.9 m) fi lmed in IMAX The grizzly has a distinctive shoulder Black bears lack the grizzly’s hump and Body Shape hump that is actually muscle mass. their rumps are higher than front shoulders.

Grizzlies have a concave profile with a Black bears have a straight facial profile Over 3,000,000 visitors and counting! depression between the eyes and the Face with a relatively long muzzle. Ears are end of the snout. Ears are round and long, pointed and prominent. proportionately small. With a new 83-foot screen, Dolby Digital Sound, & state of the art Grizzly claws are long, between 2–4 Black bear claws are less than two 4K Digital Projector Yellowstone Giant Screen is the only Certifi ed Claws inches (5–10 cm), and formidable. They inches long, usually dark colored, are often clearly visible in the tracks. sharp, curved, and good for climbing. Giant Screen Theatre in the 12 surrounding states. Life 15–20 years in the wild; more than 30 15–20 years in the wild; more than 30 Enjoy a cinematic experience available in only Expectancy years in captivity. years in captivity. a handful of theatres across the U.S. • Usually more aggressive than black • Usually less aggressive than grizzly bears. bears. Females will aggressively • Often den in open spaces under protect cubs. tree roots and rocks at low to middle • Day beds in dense vegetation are used elevations. NOW SHOWING HOLLYWOOD to rest and escape the summer’s heat. • Active mainly during the day, but may • Mostly active during dusk and be active any time of day or night. MOVIES NIGHTLY!!! dawn, although can be active any • Excellent tree climbing ability is Behavior time of day. used to escape predators and other • Strength is exceptional. They bears. Threatened mothers send routinely roll huge rocks and logs cubs climbing to feed on nuts and looking for food. fruit in trees. Highest Rated Gi Shop for Quality, Price & Selection! • Powerful digging ability allows them to • Cubs weigh about one-half pound at feed on roots, bulbs, and rodents and birth and stay with their mother up to Located at the theatre dig dens on steep mountain slopes. 1.5 years. YellowstoneGiantScreen.com 888.854.5862 Toll Free 406.646.4100 Local Next to the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park 40 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | PRESERVATION WALKING AND HIKING

WALKING & HIKING • Be prepared and carry ample sup- or injured, keep calm and stay on the plies, whether you are taking a day hike trail. Ask passing hikers for assistance. or going on an extended backpacking Do not bushwhack or travel in darkness.

Most of Yellowstone’s 2.2 million acres NPS trip for several days. Carry a trail map, Should evening fall, stay where you are is backcountry interspersed with approxi- wristwatch, knife, matches, flashlight, and wait for help to arrive. mately 1,000 miles of trails that traverse a water, food, insect repellent, rain gear, a • Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking variety of terrain. compass and a first-aid kit. boots or shoes and outdoor socks to Be prepared before setting out on a day • Always maintain a safe distance of prevent blisters, the most common ail- hike. Park rangers can help you plan your at least 100 yards between you and ment on the trail. Hiking boots or shoes outing and will provide current backcountry a wild animal. Consider carrying bear are recommended for all trails, especially conditions, but you must ultimately assume spray as a precautionary measure. It is those requiring steep ascents. responsibility for yourself in the wilderness. available for rent and purchase at the There are no guarantees concerning weather Bear Aware kiosk in Canyon Village. FURTHER READING changes or encounters with wildlife— Please call (406) 224-5367 or visit for If you’d like to learn more about hiking in especially bears! Being informed is the Rangers at visitor centers will help you choose more information. Yellowstone, we recommend the following best way to reduce potential risks. Find out the best trails for a day hike. • Hike with a partner and leave an itiner- books: which stream crossings are unsafe, which ary and emergency contact information Yellowstone Trails. Marschall, Mark. slopes are loose with “rotten rock,” and HIKING ETIQUETTE with a responsible person. Yellowstone Association, 2012. what to do if you encounter a bear (see the Minimize your impact by following a few • Stay on the trail so you won’t get Best Easy Day Hikes–Yellowstone. “Nature & Wildlife” chapter of this guide simple rules. Stay on the well-marked trails. lost. If you do become lost, exhausted Schneider, Bill. Falcon Press, 2003. and inquire at a visitor center for more in- Use designated campsites and eliminate formation). Dogs, except service animals the need for fires by using a backpacking with required permits, and bicycles are not stove. Wash yourself and any personal ar- allowed on any trails. Find out which stream ticles with biodegradable soaps away from crossings are unsafe. the streams and lakes. Use toilets or bury waste six to eight inches beneath the sur- BACKCOUNTRY PERMITS face. Pack out every single thing you packed Wyoming's Largest All overnight hikes require backcountry in. Take photos as your only mementos and permits which carry a $3.00 per-person, leave only your footprints behind. Zip Line per-night fee. Groups of five or more pay a flat fee of $15 per night. Stock users will be HIKING SAFETY TIPS charged $5.00 per-person, per night. An an- Every year, major search and rescue nual Backcountry Pass, which covers the missions are undertaken to assist lost or per-person, per-night backcountry fees for injured hikers in Yellowstone National Park. the individual pass holder for the season in To avoid becoming a statistic, consider which the pass is purchased, is available for these safety tips offered by park rangers: $25.00. For a $25 service charge, visitors • Know your own capabilities and lim- may make backcountry campsite reserva- its. On average, plan one hour for every tions for trips made more than two days in two miles, and add an hour for every advance; please call (307) 344-2160 for more 1,000 feet you climb. Study a topograph- Open Daily information. When you receive your permit, ical map (available at park ranger stations june 15-Sept. 15 carefully read the backcountry guidelines and and visitor centers) and plot your course 348 North Fork Hwy. Cody, WY regulations and talk with a park ranger. according to your pace. 307.587.3125 | zipsg.com

42 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | | YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 43 PRESERVATION JUST FOR KIDS

A host of ranger-led activities are spe- contains an entire area for kids and the cially designed for young visitors. Fun, edu- young at heart known as the Young Scien- cational films are also shown daily at most tist Exhibit Hall. Enjoy interactive scientific visitor centers. For more information about explorations and learn how to predict Old park programs, pick up a copy of the park Faithful Geyser while enjoying a geyser newspaper, Yellowstone, at any visitor cen- model that erupts all day long. ter or visit nps.gov/yell/forkids. Kids 11 and under stay free at park SEE A WATERFALL lodges, and discounts for youngsters are Upper and Lower Falls in the Grand Can- available for most Yellowstone National yon of the Yellowstone highlight the incred- Park Lodges activities and tours. For infor- ible beauty and power of waterfalls. mation, call (307) 344-7311 or ask at any park lodge. GO ON A PHOTO SAFARI Take photos of animals, geysers and BECOME A JUNIOR RANGER amazing scenery, learn more about your Pick up a free Junior Ranger newspa- camera and photography and share special per at any visitor center and start tracking shots with family and friends. animals, predicting geyser eruptions and more. Kids ages 5 to 12 who finish enough PICK UP A FREE ACTIVITY BOOK activities earn a Junior Ranger patch. The Kids Activity Book, available at hotel dining rooms, includes games and activi- WATCH OLD FAITHFUL ERUPT ties that kids can complete to earn prizes! No trip to Yellowstone is complete with- out this magnificent live show, which may HOP THE STAGECOACH AT ROOSEVELT be caught, on average, every 92 minutes. Take a ride in a stagecoach accom- panied by the cloppety-clop of horse HEAR TALES AROUND A CAMPFIRE hooves. Rides leave several times a day. At family campfire programs, hear tall For more information, call (307) 344-7311 tales about mountain men and American or stop at front desks or activities desks Indians, as well as stories about bison, at any park lodge. elk and bears. Ask at any visitor center for times and locations. JOIN THE YOUNG SCIENTIST PROGRAM EXPLORE A VISITOR CENTER Self-guiding booklets for the Young Visitor centers feature many exhibits of Scientist Program are available at the interest to kids. Kids love the animal dis- Old Faithful Visitor Center and the Can- plays and the trapper exhibit at Albright yon Visitor Education Center for $5. Visitor Center at Mammoth Hot Springs, Children ages 5 and older can receive a which includes all the tools of the trade. patch or keychain for unraveling scien- The Old Faithful Visitor Education Center tific mysteries.

44 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | PRESERVATION PHOTOGRAPHY

For millennia, we’ve looked towards the tion. Next, set your white balance to daylight heavens and contemplated what’s beyond settings (5500k) and turn on your mirror lock our orbit and universe. More recently, star- to avoid mirror shake. Wait until the moon is gazing has become increasingly difficult for out, too, as it’ll illuminate and add detail to millions of people living in developed areas. If your foreground. Make sure that it’s behind you live you in a populated area east of the you. To capture star trails: Mississippi or along the Pacific coast, odds • Set your ISO at 200 to reduce digital noise. are that you can count the number of stars • Compose your image, making sure you you see on your hands. National and state have interesting features in the foreground. parks—remote and minimally developed— • Choose your focal length. The longer the not only protect our land, but also our dark focal length, the quicker your star trails will skies which are ideal for astrophotography. start to form. There are two primary types of astropho- • Set your camera to manual mode so that tography shots that yield different, but stel- you can select your shutter speed and lar compositions. A long exposure setting aperture. will show stars trailing across the sky, while • Set your aperture between f/2.8 and f/4 for a shorter exposure will show pinpoints of best results. light—objects that a camera can capture that • Select “bulb mode” as your shutter speed. the unaided eye cannot. Both require a cam- • Use your cable release or remote to open era with interchangeable lenses and manual the shutter or set your timer for two to controls to set aperture, ISO, and exposure four minutes. AD settings. Here’s what you’ll need to start: Check your results. If your picture is too • A sturdy tripod: Simply put, a shaky tri- dark, increase the exposure time. If your trails pod will yield blurry photos. are to short, increase the exposure time. • A cable release or remote control or Keep playing around with your settings to get intervalometer: You’ll want to avoid the results you desire. To learn how to take touching your camera to minimize shake. photos of the milky way and millions of points The addition of an intervalometer will allow of light, visit ohranger.com/brightskies. you to take sequential long exposures • Batteries: Your aperture may be open for several hours, so it’s important to have

multiple fresh and fully charged batteries. Shutterstock • A wide lens: Use the fastest, widest lens available. • A head lamp: It’ll be useful to set up your equipment and illuminate your foreground. Check the cloud cover; if there’s too much wait until you have a clearer night. Before you start, set your focus to infinity and turn Photographing the night sky is as close as many off your autofocus and high ISO noise reduc- of us will get to exploring space.

46 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK | PRESERVATIONIF YOU ONLY HAVE A DAY

To make the most of your day, start out tels and include all the major natural high- at one of the ten visitor centers or infor- lights of the park. Information, schedules mation stations in the park. Maps, books, and rates are available in the Experience relevant park updates, and park rangers Planner, available at all park hotels and or their assistants are available to answer Yellowstone National Park Lodges-oper- your questions before you set out on an ated campgrounds. adventure-filled day in the park! Yellow- Or try a combination of both—individ- stone comprises more than 2 million acres ual outdoor exploration supplemented by (larger than Delaware and Rhode Island a partial day or evening Historic Yellow combined)—plan ahead to make the most Bus Tour. Step back in time and view the of your experience. park from a past perspective by touring in a If you’re looking for an easy way to refurbished yellow bus that toured Yellow- tour the most popular sights in the park, stone beginning in the 1930s. try a full-day interpretive motorcoach If you want to see the park on your own, tour offered by Yellowstone National Park visit Hayden and Lamar valleys to search Lodges. Tours depart daily from all park ho- for wildlife or spend some time exploring the Upper Geyser Basin. Yellowstone possesses most of the world’s active gey- sers and the Upper Geyser Basin is home AD to the most in the park, including world Shutterstock famous Old Faithful. Hop out of the car and hike as little or as much of the trail as you like—the three-mile round-trip route showcases more than 150 hydrothermal features, including numerous hot springs and a recently developed mudpot! While you’re there take a few minutes to check out the Old Faithful Inn, which has been welcoming guests to the park for over 110 years. With over 1,000 miles of trails, wil- derness envelops park visitors. Head into the backcountry and take a step back in time. Stop at a visitor center for trail con- dition updates, safety tips and sugges- tions for hikes that suit your abilities and those of your group. Be sure to pack food and water, along with other items sug- The world famous Old Faithful Geyser erupts multiple times a day. Get there early gested by rangers. Then hit the trails and and find a seat on the viewing platform. have some fun!

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