Land of Living Art
On March 1, 1872, Yellowstone became the first national park for all to enjoy the unique hydrothermal wonders. Amazingly, these same wonders are home to heat-loving organisms known as thermophiles. Read More
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Learn about these amazing organisms that live in some of the hottest environment on earth—including in Yellowstone's hydrothermal features. 
ElkElk are the most abundant large mammal found in Yellowstone. 
Yellowstone Plein Air InvitationalVisit Yellowstone Forever's website to learn more about this annual event of making art outside. It takes place September 24-29. Visit YellowstoneAn amazing experience awaits you here. Yellowstone is a seasonal park, so plan your visit by learning about the current conditions, operating seasons and hours, road conditions, lodging and eating options, and available activities. 
Things To DoExplore all the different things there are to do in the park. 
WebcamsWatch Old Faithful erupt or see the Upper Geyser Basin, Mount Washburn, Yellowstone Lake, and some of the park entrances. 
Camp in a CampgroundPlan a night in one of twelve park campgrounds. 
Explore Thermal BasinsFollow boardwalks and maintained trails to witness hot springs, mudpots, fumaroles, and geysers up close. 
Digital Guide to YellowstoneGeyser predictions, interactive maps, self-guided tours, current conditions, and more. Download the official, free app today! Understand YellowstoneYellowstone is as wondrous as it is complex. The park is at the heart of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, where nature and culture abound. Here are just a few highlights, including the beneficial role that fire plays in the ecosystem, for you to learn about the park. 
VolcanoAt the heart of Yellowstone is a large volcano. 
Thermophiles in Time and SpaceYellowstone's hydrothermal features and thermophilic communities are studied by scientists searching for evidence of life on other planets. 
Yellowstone Lake GeologyDiscover a bit of what dynamic processes are going on below the lake's surface. 
Life in Extreme HeatHydrothermal features are habitats for microscopic organisms called thermophiles: "thermo" for heat, "phile" for lover. 
Thermophilic CommunitiesThermophilic communities are very diverse, depending on the microbes living there, the pH, and the water temperature. Preserve YellowstoneThe National Park Service works to preserve Yellowstone for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of all people. We are not alone in this endeavor-park partners, volunteers, and visitors all help. Learn how to get involved. 
ResearchAll scientists in Yellowstone work under research permits and are closely supervised by National Park Service staff. 
Bear SprayLearn about this highly effective bear deterrent. 
Clean, Drain, and DryProtect park waters by preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species. |
Last updated: September 5, 2019