Old Faithful Geyser and Upper Geyser Basin
The most famous attraction in Yellowstone is located in the southwestern area of the park. Old Faithful was given its name in 1870 by an exploratory expedition that stumbled upon this immense volume of super-heated water erupting out of the ground at regular intervals. The most predictable geyser in the park, Old Faithful shoots a column of hot, steamy water an average of 145 feet up into the air at an average interval of 90 minutes between eruptions.
Old Faithful is part of the Upper Geyser Basin which boasts many other geysers. Though less predictable, Castle Geyser, Daisy Geyser and Grand Geyser are all no less spectacular and within walking distance at the Old Faithful complex as well as the historic Old Faithful Inn.
Built in 1904, the Old Faithful Inn has a clear view of the Old Faithful Geyser and is unique in that it is one of the few log hotels still standing in the United States. It is a massive structure and a prime example of the “Golden Age” of rustic, resort architecture. Designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1987, the Old Faithful Inn is a must see in the Old Faithful area.
Hayden Valley and Buffalo Herd
On the eastern side of the park is a large grassy valley straddling the Yellowstone River between the Canyon and Yellowstone Lake. Beyond the basin of the valley sits a succession of low, heavily timbered ridges. Pulling off the side of the road and gazing out at the vast expanse of land, one is struck by the peacefulness of the scene. Particularly if a herd of buffalo is seen grazing in the distance.
Yellowstone National Park has the oldest and largest public bison herd in the United States numbering approximately 3,700. The Hayden Valley is prime buffalo habitat and large herds can be seen grazing in the meadows and grasslands of this vast stretch of the park. Unperturbed by human activity, Yellowstone bison can be observed wandering near roadways and other infrastructures in the park. Be careful though and keep your distance. American bison can run up to 35 miles per hour and in addition to their notable strength are surprisingly agile.
There are many other sights in the park worth exploring; Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Falls, historic Fishing Bridge and colonial style Lake Yellowstone Hotel. Wildlife is in abundance with elk sightings a common occurrence along with the occasional spotting of a wild wolf pack.
I have been coming to Yellowstone all my life and will continue to do so as long as I am able. It is one of the most beautiful places on our planet.
If you’ve never been there, I hope you will include a trip to Yellowstone National Park in your retirement adventures.
Bon Voyage!
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