Discover Yellowstone National Park with Kids: Must-See Places, Hiking Trails, and Fun Activities
Yellowstone National Park is a wonderland of natural beauty and wildlife, and it's no wonder that families with children flock to this incredible destination year after year. With over 2 million acres of pristine wilderness, there's no shortage of things to see and do in Yellowstone, making it an ideal destination for kids of all ages. From hiking and camping to wildlife spotting and water sports, there are endless opportunities for family fun and adventure in this incredible national park.
History of Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872, making it the first national park in the world. The park is located in the northwestern part of Wyoming, with portions extending into Montana and Idaho. Yellowstone is known for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles, and is home to some of the world's most stunning natural landscapes and wildlife.
The park is also steeped in history, with stories of Native Americans, explorers, and settlers who have lived in the area for thousands of years. Yellowstone's first explorers were the French Canadian trappers who roamed the region in the early 1800s, followed by the first official survey of the area in 1871 by the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition. Today, visitors to the park can explore historic sites such as Fort Yellowstone, the Yellowstone Heritage and Research Center, and the Yellowstone Association's educational programs, which offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Hiking Trails for Kids in Yellowstone
Yellowstone is home to over 1,000 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous climbs. There are plenty of trails that are suitable for families with young children, including the following:
Fairy Falls Trail: This 1.6-mile round-trip hike is a great option for families with kids of all ages. The trail takes hikers through a lush forest and past a waterfall before reaching Fairy Falls, a stunning 200-foot waterfall.
Lone Star Geyser Trail: This 4.8-mile round-trip hike is a great option for families who want to experience the park's famous geysers. The trail takes hikers through a forest and past a river before reaching the Lone Star Geyser, which erupts approximately every three hours.
Mystic Falls Trail: This 2.4-mile round-trip hike is a great option for families who want to see a variety of natural features. The trail takes hikers past a river, through a forest, and past a thermal area before reaching Mystic Falls, a stunning waterfall.
Trout Lake Trail: This 1.2-mile round-trip hike is a great option for families who want to do some fishing. The trail takes hikers through a forest and past a lake, which is known for its trout fishing.
Must-See Places for Kids in Yellowstone
There are plenty of must-see places in Yellowstone that kids will love, including the following:
Old Faithful: Old Faithful is the most famous geyser in Yellowstone and is one of the park's most popular attractions. The geyser erupts approximately every 90 minutes, shooting water up to 180 feet in the air.
Grand Prismatic Spring: The Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the United States and is one of the most beautiful natural features in the park. The spring is known for its vibrant colors, which are caused by the microbial mats that grow around the edges of the hot water.
Mammoth Hot Springs: Mammoth Hot Springs is a series of terraced hot springs that are known for their stunning colors and intricate formations. The hot springs are located in the northern part of the park and are a popular spot for visitors.
Lamar Valley: The Lamar Valley is one of the best places in the park to see wildlife. The valley is home to herds of bison, elk, and deer, as well as wolves and bears. It's a great spot for a family picnic or wildlife-watching adventure.
Yellowstone Lake: Yellowstone Lake is the largest body of water in the park and is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including otters and eagles.
Other Activities for Kids in the Area
In addition to hiking and exploring the park's natural wonders, there are plenty of other activities for kids to enjoy in the Yellowstone area, including:
Horseback Riding: Many local outfitters offer guided horseback rides through the park, giving kids a chance to see the wilderness from a new perspective.
Rafting and Kayaking: The Yellowstone River is a great spot for a family rafting or kayaking trip. There are plenty of outfitters in the area that offer guided trips for all ages and skill levels.
Fishing: Fishing is a popular activity in Yellowstone, and there are plenty of opportunities to catch trout and other fish in the park's many rivers and lakes.
Wildlife Watching: In addition to the Lamar Valley, there are plenty of other spots in the area where kids can see wildlife, including the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone, which has exhibits on local wildlife and live bear and wolf habitats.
Museums and Historical Sites: The Yellowstone Historic Center Museum in West Yellowstone offers exhibits on the history and culture of the region, while the Yellowstone Art Museum in Billings has a collection of contemporary and historic Western art.
Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonderland that is perfect for families with kids of all ages. With its stunning natural landscapes, abundant wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, it's no wonder that families return to this incredible destination year after year. Whether you're hiking the park's many trails, exploring its geothermal features, or simply enjoying a picnic in one of its many scenic spots, there's something for everyone in Yellowstone. So pack up the car, grab your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.