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With over 2.2 million acres in wildlife, Yellowstone National Park is one of America’s leading nature locations. Much of the park is managed as a wilderness and backcountry, with over 1,100 miles of hiking trails maintained. On the other hand, hiking Yellowstone National Park does present certain dangers. These include unpredictable weather, wild animals, turbulent streams, and loose mountain rock. Visiting the park means experiencing the area on its terms. If you do choose to hike the park, you need to be prepared for all situations, and know that there is no guarantee for your safety. Most of all enjoy the scenery and research all of the regulations and precautions.   Hiking Yellowstone National Park during the spring is a great way to see and enjoy all of the attractions of the park. This time of the season allows visitors to enjoy the roads without the intrusion of motorized vehicles. All hiking, jogging, roller skis and blades, as well as bicycling are allowed between the Mammoth Hot Springs and the West Entrance. This is only if the conditions are favorable from March through the third Thursday in April. The reason for the area restriction is because of the fact that the East Entrance all of the way to the east end of Sylvan Pass has limited access during this time of year.   The best option when you arrive at the park is to visit the ranger station or the visitor center before starting your hike. This is so that you can get any information involving which trails are closed and which areas are the best for hiking Yellowstone National Park. This is due to the fact that trail conditions change suddenly, especially with rain, bear activity or sudden fires. Be prepared by bringing a raincoat, plenty of water, a warm hat, first aid kit, sunscreen, and insect repellent. It is also recommended that you not hike alone. Having another person with you will ensure your safety, and the company is pleasing on a hike. Contrary to fishing, there is no permit required to take a day hike in the park.   It is important to remember that you should not drink the water from any of the streams or lakes in the park. There are intestinal infections associated with drinking untreated water, and the cases are becoming very common. The reason being that many of the waters might be polluted by human wastes or animal wastes. Always bring a large supply of bottled water so that you can protect yourself from the harmful infections, and to also stay hydrated. If you do have to drink the water from the lakes or streams, be sure that you boil the water for an appropriate time or use a water filter.   If you are hiking on a trail that is far away from a visitor center or ranger station and a lightening storm occurs, you need to immediately get away from any water, ridges, isolated trees, or exposed places.  It is common for a sunny day to immediately become fierce with storms, wind, sleet, rain, and even snow.  This is one of the main reasons that you should pack enough supplies in the event of any sudden weather changes.  You can use the map at the bottom of this article for reference when you take your trip hiking Yellowstone National Park.    For more information go to http://www.fishing-yellowstone.com

By: Cathy Taylor

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