Yellowstone National Park, one of the most iconic and beloved national parks in the United States, is located primarily in the northwestern corner of Wyoming, although it also stretches into Montana and Idaho. Covering over 2.2 million acres, it is a vast wilderness area filled with stunning landscapes, geothermal wonders, and abundant wildlife.
A Geographic Overview
- Wyoming: Approximately 96% of Yellowstone lies within Wyoming, making it the primary state associated with the park.
- Montana: About 3% of the park extends into southern Montana.
- Idaho: The remaining 1% is located in eastern Idaho.
Despite its presence in three states, Yellowstone is managed as a single unit by the National Park Service. The park is part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the largest nearly intact temperate-zone ecosystems on Earth.
Key Entrances and Nearby Cities
Yellowstone has five main entrances:
- North Entrance – near Gardiner, Montana
- Northeast Entrance – near Cooke City and Silver Gate, Montana
- East Entrance – near Cody, Wyoming
- South Entrance – near Jackson, Wyoming
- West Entrance – near West Yellowstone, Montana
These entrances offer access to popular park features such as Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone Lake, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Why the Location Matters
The park’s location is not only central to its natural beauty but also to its scientific significance. Yellowstone sits atop a volcanic hotspot, which fuels its geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles. It also plays a critical role in the conservation of wildlife such as bison, elk, wolves, and bears, many of which roam freely across the park’s vast terrain and into adjacent protected areas.
Yellowstone National Park entrances map
Final Thoughts
So, where is Yellowstone National Park located? While the majority of it lies in Wyoming, its boundaries stretch into Montana and Idaho, making it a tri-state treasure. Its location, combined with its geological features and wildlife, makes Yellowstone a truly unique destination worth visiting and preserving.