Park History

Stones piled in a rock formation in a forested area. — People have spent time in the Yellowstone region for more than 11,000 years. Rock structures like this are evidence of the early presence of people in the area.

The human history of the Yellowstone region extends back more than 11,000 years. The stories of people in Yellowstone are preserved in archeological sites and objects that convey information about past human activities in the region, and in people’s connections to the land that provide a sense of place or identity.

Today, park managers use archeological and historical studies to help us understand how people lived here in the past. Ethnography helps us learn about how groups of people identify themselves and their connections to the park. Research is also conducted to learn how people continue to affect and be affected by these places, many of which have been relatively protected from human impacts. Some alterations to the landscape, such as the construction of roads and other facilities, are generally accepted as necessary to accommodate the needs of visitors today. Information on the possible consequences of modern human activities, both inside and outside the parks, is used to determine how best to preserve Yellowstone’s natural and cultural resources, and the quality of the visitors’ experience.

History of Yellowstone National Park

Precontact

People have been in Yellowstone more than 11,000 years, as shown by archeological sites, trails, and oral histories.
Although Tukudika (a.k.a. Sheep Eaters) are the most well-known group of Native Americans to use the park, many other tribes and bands lived in and traveled through what is now Yellowstone National Park prior to and after European American arrival.

European Americans Arrive

European Americans began exploring in the early 1800s.
Osborne Russell recorded early visits in the 1830s.
First organized expedition explored Yellowstone in 1870.

Protection of the Park Begins

Yellowstone National Park established in 1872.
Railroad arrived in 1883, allowing easier visitor access.
The US Army managed the park from 1886 through 1918.
Automobiles allowed into the park in 1915, making visits easier and more economical.
National Park Service created in 1916.
First boundary adjustment of the park made in 1929.

Park Management Evolves

1963: “Leopold Report” released. Recommended changes to how wildlife is managed in the park.
1970: New bear management plan eliminated open-pit garbage dumps in park.
1988: “Summer of Fire.”
1995: Wolves restored to the park.
1996: Federal buyout of gold mine northeast of Yellowstone protected the park.