Montana - Yellowstone National Park
In the heart of the American West, Yellowstone National Park spans over 2.2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Known for its geothermal features like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone's diverse landscapes and wildlife captivate millions of visitors each year. As the world's first national park, it holds a special place in the history of conservation and continues to inspire awe and reverence.
Long before becoming a national park, Yellowstone was home to Indigenous peoples such as the Crow, Blackfeet, and Shoshone tribes. European-American exploration began in the late 1860s, with the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition of 1870 documenting its wonders. In response to growing interest, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act on March 1, 1872, creating the world's first national park.
Despite challenges like poaching and environmental threats, conservation efforts have helped preserve Yellowstone's ecosystems. Today, it stands as a testament to the importance of protecting our natural heritage, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the beauty and majesty of the American wilderness.
Things to Do:
Old Faithful
Old Faithful is the most famous geyser in Yellowstone and possibly the world, known for its highly predictable eruptions that occur roughly every 90 minutes. Each eruption lasts between 1.5 to 5 minutes, sending boiling water up to 180 feet in the air. The geyser's reliability and impressive display make it a must-see attraction. The Old Faithful Visitor Education Center provides insights into the geothermal features of the area, and the Old Faithful Inn, a historic lodge, offers a charming place to stay or dine while viewing the geyser.
Grand Prismatic Spring
The Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the United States, measuring approximately 370 feet in diameter and over 120 feet deep. It is renowned for its vivid coloration, which is due to pigmented bacteria in the microbial mats that grow around the mineral-rich waters. The intense blue center is surrounded by rings of green, yellow, orange, and red, creating a stunning rainbow effect. Visitors can view the spring from the boardwalk that runs alongside it, or for a more panoramic view, they can hike to the Grand Prismatic Overlook on the nearby Fairy Falls trail.
Yellowstone Lake
Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America, covering an area of 136 square miles and sitting at an altitude of 7,732 feet. The lake's pristine waters are surrounded by the Absaroka and Gallatin mountain ranges, providing a picturesque backdrop for boating, fishing, and kayaking. In winter, the frozen lake and its surrounding landscape offer opportunities for ice fishing and snowshoeing. The lake is also an important habitat for a variety of wildlife, including cutthroat trout, bald eagles, and grizzly bears.
Mammoth Hot Springs
Mammoth Hot Springs is a striking geothermal area known for its terrace formations, which are created by thermal waters depositing calcium carbonate over thousands of years. The terraces vary in color, from pure white to shades of pink, orange, and brown, depending on the presence of microorganisms and minerals. The area is divided into the Upper and Lower Terraces, with boardwalks and trails allowing visitors to explore the surreal landscape. Notable features include the Minerva Terrace, Palette Spring, and Liberty Cap, a dormant hot spring cone. The nearby historic Fort Yellowstone and Albright Visitor Center provide additional context and history.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a dramatic and colorful canyon carved by the Yellowstone River. It stretches approximately 20 miles long and ranges from 800 to 1,200 feet deep. The canyon's walls are made of rhyolite rock, which gets its vibrant hues of red, pink, yellow, and white from various minerals and thermal activity. The canyon features two major waterfalls: the Upper Falls, which drop 109 feet, and the Lower Falls, which plunge 308 feet. Popular viewpoints include Artist Point, which offers a breathtaking view of the Lower Falls, and Uncle Tom's Trail, which descends partway into the canyon for a closer look.
Lamar Valley
Lamar Valley, located in the northeastern section of Yellowstone, is often called "America's Serengeti" for its abundant wildlife and sweeping landscapes. This wide, open valley is one of the best places in the park to see bison, elk, pronghorn, and occasionally, gray wolves and grizzly bears. The valley's rolling grasslands and meandering Lamar River create a picturesque setting for wildlife photography and observation. Dawn and dusk are the best times for wildlife sightings, and numerous pullouts along the road provide convenient spots for watching the animals. The valley also offers several hiking trails, such as the Lamar River Trail, which provides further opportunities to explore this rich ecosystem.
Artist Paintpots
Artist Paintpots in Yellowstone National Park is a fascinating geothermal area showcasing a variety of colorful hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and steaming vents. Located in the park's Lower Geyser Basin, this area offers a unique and vibrant landscape. Visitors can enjoy a scenic hike along the boardwalk and trails, providing excellent opportunities for photography and a closer look at these dynamic geothermal features. Perfect for nature enthusiasts, Artist Paintpots offers a glimpse into the park's volcanic activity and stunning natural beauty.
Accommodation:
Pray:
Pray, Montana, is a tiny, isolated town nestled in the picturesque Paradise Valley, surrounded by the stunning Absaroka and Gallatin mountain ranges. With a population of just a few dozen residents, Pray offers a serene and authentic glimpse into rural Montana life. The town's remoteness and tranquil environment provide a stark contrast to the bustling tourist hubs, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking peace and solitude.
During my visit, I stayed with my old coworker Josh, who had recently completed the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route, and his girlfriend Veronica. Their warm hospitality gave me the opportunity to immerse myself in the quiet charm of Pray. The town is a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts, with endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The nearby Yellowstone River offers excellent fishing spots, and the surrounding wilderness is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, deer, and occasionally, grizzly bears.
Despite its isolation, Pray is not far from notable attractions. A short drive will take you to Chico Hot Springs, where you can soak in natural hot springs, and Livingston, a quaint town with a vibrant arts scene and rich history.
Dima, my roommate, came to visit me in Pray, Montana, where he stayed with my friend Josh and me. It was another memorable Haroshi Paren trip, filled with adventure as we explored the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and the Badlands. We enjoyed stunning sights, outdoor activities, and the great company throughout the journey.
West Yellowstone:
West Yellowstone, a charming gateway town located just outside the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, is an ideal base for exploring the park. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location, West Yellowstone offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy cabins and budget-friendly motels to luxurious lodges. The town features a range of dining options, local shops, and visitor centers, providing everything you need for a comfortable stay.
