An Exploration of Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is situated atop a dormant volcano. It is a treasure trove of geological and natural wonders. From geothermal features to hot springs, this park is a popular tourist attraction. Yellowstone draws over three million visitors annually who come to take in its picturesque landscape and rich history. If you’re heading to Yellowstone soon, here are some of the natural wonders you can explore in this vast expanse of wilderness. Yellowstone National Park official website

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River

Yellowstone has its own version of the Grand Canyon, created by the Yellowstone River over thousands of years. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is 24 miles long and 1,200 feet deep. The canyon’s Lower Falls are the most commonly visited and photographed. The waterfall, twice the height of Niagara Falls, plunges 308 feet. Creating an impressive mist and foam that rises hundreds of feet high. The nearby river has a green hue due to the moss and algae that grow on the rocks from the constant mist.

Hayden Valley

In your exploration of Yellowstone National Park, Hayden Valley is a must-visit spot if you’re into wildlife spotting and nature appreciation. It’s a favorite place for deer, moose, buffalo, and elk to pass through. While grizzly bears are present in the area, they’re unlikely to come across tourists as they’re solitary animals that keep to themselves, except when they have their young nearby. However, we do not recommend hiking in Hayden Valley.

Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs is a popular hot spring that features soft limestone rock and attracts crowds of tourists each year. The travertine formations grow at a fast rate, making the area look like a cave that has been turned inside out. New water flows are constantly making their way to the surface, and you can navigate much of the area. Minerva Terrace, the main feature of this area, is one of the most colorful areas of Mammoth Hot Springs, and you can climb a natural staircase to get a better view and experience.

Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake is located high up in the mountainous zone of the park and is the largest alpine lake in North America. It’s a great spot to appreciate the beauty of nature, and there are several activities you can partake in, such as renting a boat at the Bridge Bay Marina to catch a few trout (Bridge Bay Marina boat rentals). There are plenty of areas to walk and hike, including the West Thumb Geyser Basin.