History of Yellowstone Park

Sure, there are tons to see and do in Yellowstone, but much of what makes the park so unique is a past rich in history. Archeological sites, trails and oral histories provide evidence that people have inhabited Yellowstone for more than 11,000 years. As many as 26 Native American tribes are associated with the history of Yellowstone park.

By the 1700s, fur trappers and traders frequented the area, but it wasn’t until the early 19th Century that Yellowstone’s natural wonders were being reported to New England. Indeed, when John Colter – formerly of the Lewis and Clark expedition – returned from exploring Yellowstone in 1808, publishers refused to share his stories, saying they were too fantastic to possibly be true, yet these tales are documented Yellowstone park history. 
 
By mid-century, trappers and squatters flocked to the Yellowstone region. Supported by railroad companies and members of expeditions, Congress and President Ulysses S. Grant enacted the Yellowstone National Park Act, establishing the world’s first national park, and protecting the area for future generations. This ensures that the Yellowstone park history lives on.

Since then, Yellowstone has welcomed millions of tourists and has played a crucial role in preserving a natural and cultural resource for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration for people today and future generations – the mission of the National Park Service®.