Exploring the Wonders of Yellowstone National Park

David Scott Fields II, Senior Writer

January 11, 2025

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK – One of the most amazing places my family has ever visited is Yellowstone National Park. Established in 1872 as the first national park in the United States, Yellowstone is a breathtaking testament to God’s creative handiwork. Spanning more than 2 million acres across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, the park offers many natural wonders and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re marveling at its geothermal features, observing its abundant wildlife, or reflecting on its majestic landscapes, Yellowstone is an awe-inspiring destination for individuals and families alike.

I’ve had the privilege of visiting Yellowstone twice in my life, and both trips were unforgettable adventures. The first time, I was 14 years old and just going into the 9th grade. My parents, siblings, and I packed up our family RV and drove to the park, eager to experience its wonders. Early in our trip, we had a heart-stopping moment when we nearly got into a car crash after spotting a bison on the side of the road as we entered the park. I am quite glad that first buffalo wasn’t the end for us, because it was only one of hundreds we would see during that visit, and the memory has stuck with me ever since. The second trip came years later when I was 30. This time, it was just my dad and me. It was a more reflective journey, but no less adventurous. We marveled again at the incredible bison herds. In fact, I came upon one unexpectedly as I was walking to a restroom in the park. It was lying on the ground and I did not notice it until it huffed at me. Thankfully, it ended up having no interest in me and I was able to proceed safely. As with all wildlife anywhere, we were reminded to admire the bison from a safe distance!

One of the most famous features of Yellowstone is Old Faithful, a geyser known for its reliable eruptions, which occur approximately every 90 minutes. When we visited the first time, the geyser was several minutes off schedule, and my siblings and I started jokingly calling it “Not-so Faithful.” Nevertheless, observing this beautiful force of nature on two occasions now has reminded me of the power and order with which the Lord has created our world. And Old Faithful is only the tip of the ice berg when it comes to the geothermal wonders the park has to offer. Other examples include the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States, and the Mammoth Hot Springs, with its cascading limestone terraces. Exploring these areas made me feel like we were walking through a painting come to life – a painting whose artist is the Lord Himself!

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The Yellowstone Grand Canyon with its rugged cliffs and roaring waterfalls, including the famous Lower Falls will leave any visitor speechless. I know it did for us! As recall vividly, even all these years later, my family and I hiked several trails during our first trip, immersing ourselves in the serene landscapes and observing the wildlife that seemed to be around every corner. My dad and I revisited some of these trails years later, and it was incredible to relive those memories while creating new ones. As I looked at the rugged and wild world around me, it was impossible not to worship the one who made it all. It was very much, I think, a sneak preview of the kind of beauty Heaven must possess.

Yellowstone’s wildlife is without doubt one of its most remarkable features, and something I absolutely loved. The park’s boundless wilderness serves as a sanctuary for countless animal species. Bison, of course, held a special place in our hearts, but we also saw elk, grizzly bears, wolves, bald eagles, and trumpeter swans, adding another layer of wonder to our experience. On my second trip with my dad, we were even fortunate enough to see some moose, which are less common in the park. In all, the animals we saw only scratched the surface of the creatures that call Yellowstone home.

The park also offers many other activities to help visitors connect with the natural world. The Lamar Valley is one notable example where guests can observe wildlife up close. Though my family did the whole RV thing on our first trip, I still enjoyed being out under the night sky. Far from any notable light pollution, the canopy of stars over Yellowstone is brilliant. Seeing it definitely deepened my appreciation for God’s handiwork. Though we never took the opportunity ourselves, the parks rivers and lakes are also teeming with fish. For a modest fee, guests can purchase 3-Day, 7-Day, or season fishing permits and cast their lines in one America’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

For the Christian community, Yellowstone serves as more than a place of recreation; it is a living testament to God’s glory and creativity. Romans 1:20 reminds us, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made.” As we stood before Yellowstone’s geysers, mountains, and rivers, we were reminded of the majesty of the Creator and His love for us. Visiting Yellowstone became an opportunity for spiritual renewal. Its vastness inspired humility, and its beauty stirred gratitude. Both times I visited, I felt called to reflect on the importance of stewardship of God’s creation and the need to preserve such treasures for future generations.

Yellowstone National Park is open year-round, though accessibility to certain areas depends on the season. Summer offers mild weather and open roads, while winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing and wildlife tracking. My two visits were during the summer, but I am sure visiting during the winter would be amazing as long as you are well prepared. Whether you come for adventure, reflection, or worship, Yellowstone National Park promises an unforgettable experience. As you explore its wonders, may you be inspired to praise the Creator who fashioned such an extraordinary place.