Introduction
Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular destinations in the United States, attracting millions of visitors every year. This park is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. However, one question that many people have is, “What is the size of Yellowstone National Park on a map?” In this article, we will answer that question and provide you with all the information you need to know about the park’s size and boundaries.
The Size of Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is located in the western United States, primarily in the state of Wyoming. The park covers an area of 2.2 million acres, which is equivalent to 3,472 square miles. To put this into perspective, the park is larger than the states of Rhode Island and Delaware combined! Yellowstone is also the second-largest national park in the contiguous United States, behind only Death Valley National Park in California.
What is the Shape of Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park is roughly rectangular in shape, with its longest dimension running from north to south. The park measures approximately 63 miles from north to south and 54 miles from east to west at its widest point. However, the park’s shape is somewhat irregular, with several features, such as the Yellowstone River and the Absaroka Range, impacting its boundaries.
How Was Yellowstone National Park Created?
Yellowstone National Park was established on March 1, 1872, by an act of the United States Congress. This made it the first national park in the world. The park was created to preserve its natural wonders and to protect them from commercial exploitation. Yellowstone’s unique geothermal features, including Old Faithful, attracted visitors from around the world, and the park quickly became a popular tourist destination.
Boundaries of Yellowstone National Park
The boundaries of Yellowstone National Park are defined by the park’s Organic Act, which was signed into law in 1916. The park’s boundaries encompass most of the Yellowstone Plateau and include several mountain ranges, including the Absaroka, Gallatin, and Beartooth Ranges. The park’s boundaries also include parts of three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. The park’s northern boundary is shared with Canada’s Yellowstone National Park, which is part of the larger Yellowstone ecosystem.
What is the Importance of Yellowstone National Park’s Boundaries?
The boundaries of Yellowstone National Park are crucial for protecting the park’s natural resources and wildlife. The park’s boundaries help to prevent encroachment by human development and ensure that the park remains a safe haven for its diverse plant and animal species. The park’s boundaries also provide a clear delineation between the park and surrounding areas, making it easier to manage and protect the park’s resources.
Conclusion
Yellowstone National Park is a national treasure and one of the most significant conservation areas in the world. Its size, shape, and boundaries are essential components of the park’s identity and play a crucial role in protecting its unique natural resources. If you’re planning a trip to Yellowstone, make sure to take some time to explore the park’s vast expanse and appreciate its awe-inspiring beauty.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the size of Yellowstone National Park on a map?
A: Yellowstone National Park covers an area of 2.2 million acres, which is equivalent to 3,472 square miles.
Q: What is the shape of Yellowstone National Park?
A: Yellowstone National Park is roughly rectangular in shape, with its longest dimension running from north to south.
Q: What are the boundaries of Yellowstone National Park?
A: The boundaries of Yellowstone National Park are defined by the park’s Organic Act, which was signed into law in 1916. The park’s boundaries encompass most of the Yellowstone Plateau and include several mountain ranges, including the Absaroka, Gallatin, and Beartooth Ranges. The park’s boundaries also include parts of three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho.