Record Crowds Flock to Yellowstone National Park This March

Travellingknowledge.com

By: Prerana Aggarwal

Indigenous tribes like the Shoshone, Crow and Blackfeet utilized the Yellowstone area with evidence of occupation dating back over 11,000 years before it became a protected park.

– Per park officials, visitor numbers exceeded expectations and are up over 30% compared to last winter season.

Winter Visitation Up Over 30%

– Lodging inside the park and activities like snowcoach tours are fully reserved through the end of winter in November.

Lodging and Activities

– Experts cite ideal weather conditions this season coupled with pent-up travel demand after COVID-19.

Why the Sudden Winter Boom?

– Visitors eager to see wildlife in the snow and go snowmobiling, snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.

Popular Winter Activities

– Long waits for dining, limited lodging availability and impact on park staff are challenging.

Challenges Managing Winter Crowds

– Officials may need to implement seasonal visitor limits if winter popularity continues surging.

Looking Ahead to Future Winters

– While challenging, winter showcases Yellowstone's stunning snow-covered wilderness.

Experience a Winter Wonderland

As visitation boomed in the early 1900s, congestion and overuse damages led to regulations like automotive speed limits

Facing challenges of popularity

Over many decades policies established protections for vulnerable species populations in Yellowstone like bison, bears, elk and wolves along with anti-poaching enforcement.

Wildlife conservation efforts

To enhance enjoyment and safety for visitors, over time roads were improved, trails and bridges built along with informing exhibits in visitor centers, museums and signage throughout the park.

Developing visitor accessibility

Drought fueled fires in 1988, heavy floods in the 1990s, and a devastating earthquake in 1959 all posed monumental recovery efforts showcasing the ever emerging challenges facing managers.

Managing recent disasters

1. Legacy and enduring mission - 140 years later, emphasis still on conservation and public enjoyment.

Conservation