Introduction
Yellowstone National Park, established on March 1, 1872 as the world's first national park, spans nearly 9,000 km² (about 2.2 million acres) primarily in northwestern Wyoming with small portions in Montana and Idaho. It is renowned for its hydrothermal wonders, including geysers, hot springs, and mudpots such as the famous Old Faithful, alongside dramatic canyons, mountains, forests, lakes, and abundant wildlife. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it draws millions of visitors each year for its unique geology and rugged wilderness.