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15 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About Yellowstone Park

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Sure, you’ve seen pictures of Old Faithful and heard about the incredible landscapes, but Yellowstone National Park is full of surprises most visitors never get to learn. It’s a place of natural wonder, rich history, and a few well-kept secrets. Here are 15 facts that make this park even more amazing than you thought.

It’s the Birthplace of National Parks in the U.S

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Yellowstone was created on March 1, 1872, and was established as the global forerunner of the national park movement. This groundbreaking decision was rooted in a desire to preserve the park’s stunning landscapes and unique geothermal features for future generations.

A Geothermal Wonderland

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With over 10,000 geothermal features, including more than 500 geysers, Yellowstone is a living wonderland of natural phenomena. The heat deep inside the Earth creates impressive features, like bubbling hot springs, colorful mineral deposits, and famous geysers.

Its Old Faithful is a Reliable Showstopper

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Known for its reliable eruptions, Old Faithful is the superstar of Yellowstone! This geyser can shoot water up to 185 feet in the air and creates a breathtaking display that draws crowds worldwide. These eruptions occur on average every 90 minutes, giving you time to witness this natural spectacle.

Grand Prismatic Spring is Resident There

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This stunning hot spring is the largest in the United States and one of the most colorful. The fiery oranges and lush green hues are from microbial mats on the edges, which change color with temperature and pigments. For the best view, take the short hike overboard.

It’s Situated on Top of Supervolcano

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Did you know you’re walking on a supervolcano anytime you visit Yellowstone Park? Yellowstone sits atop one of the largest active volcanic systems in the world. The last major eruption occurred around 640,000 years ago, but the geothermal features still show the immense power lurking beneath the surface.

Home to the Largest Bison Herd

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The park is home to the largest remaining bison population on public land, with around 4,000 bison roaming freely. These majestic creatures symbolize the American West, and witnessing them in their natural environment is a memorable experience. Just remember to keep a safe distance as these animals are wild.

Paradise for Birdwatchers

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For those with a passion for avian life, Yellowstone is a treasure haven. With over 285 species of birds, the park offers an unparalleled opportunity for birdwatching enthusiasts to encounter birds like the majestic bald eagle and the mountain bluebird. Bring your binoculars to enjoy an exciting expedition.

Houses the Majestic Yellowstone Lake

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Sitting at an impressive 7,732 feet above sea level, this expansive body of water is the largest high-elevation lake in North America. If you’re up for fishing for native cutthroat trout, kayaking across serene waters, or simply enjoying a picnic on the shore, Yellowstone Lake is the perfect spot.

Home to Norris Geyser Basin

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If you’re looking for a surreal place to experience geothermal action, the Norris Geyser Basin offers bubbling pools and steaming events! This area is the hottest and most dynamic in Yellowstone, with geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles all vying for your attention. The highest recorded temperature here is an astonishing 459°F!

It Has a Rich Cultural History

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Long before Yellowstone became a national park, it was home to Native American tribes like the Shoshone, Bannock, and Crow for over 11,000 years. Discovered artifacts revealed that these people hunted, fished, and gathered plants. This park is rich in cultural history, with more than 1,800 known archaeological sites.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

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In 1978, Yellowstone was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site based on its natural beauty and biodiversity. This prestigious status highlights the park’s global significance and the need for conservation efforts. By visiting Yellowstone, you can enjoy its wonders and support the preservation of this ecosystem for future generations.

A Hotbed of Scientific Research

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Scientists flock to Yellowstone to study its unique geothermal and geological features. The park is a living laboratory where researchers investigate everything from volcanic activity to the effects of climate change. Their findings often have far-reaching implications for our knowledge of the geological forces that shape our planet.

Great for Watching Wildlife

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For the best wildlife viewing, head to Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley, where you can spot bison, elk, and wolves. Bring your binoculars and a camera to watch these creatures in their natural habitat. These areas are teeming with life, especially during the early morning and late evening when animals are most active.

Offers High Elevation Adventures

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With an average elevation of about 8,000 feet, it offers the most breathtaking views in the U.S. The dramatic landscapes include rugged mountains, vast plateaus, and deep canyons. High-elevation hikes, like Mount Washburn, offer stunning views and rewarding adventures, while easier, flat trails in Lamar Valley are perfect for wildlife watching.

Entertains Millions of Visitors Every Year

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Receiving around 4 million visitors a year, Yellowstone is a top U.S. national park. From hiking one of the 900+ miles of trails, snapping photos of iconic spots like Old Faithful or the Grand Prismatic Spring, or just viewing birds and wildlife, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Written by Ian Bronson

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