Yellowstone National Park is one of the Nation’s busiest places, and it’s easy to forget that it’s a remote stretch of wilderness. The crowds in the summer and the man-made structures don’t take away from the dangers present in the park, but they might give some visitors a false sense of security. Read below to see why you should watch your step in the world’s oldest National Park.
When you see a peaceful scene like this, don’t you want to just dive right in? Sadly, that’s a fatal mistake that has been made too many times in the past.
K. Magaraci
Many visitors to Yellowstone National Park don’t realize that the hot spring water is superheated from an underground volcano, and it can be well above 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
K. Magaraci
The Abyss Pool is quite aptly named, as many of these springs have no solid bottom, and the water rises up from well below the Earth’s crust.
K. Magaraci
Despite warnings from Park Rangers and signs stating to stay on the boardwalk, the azure springs have been the site of dozens of unfortunate Yellowstone deaths.
K. Magaraci
Almost all of the Yellowstone deaths could have been prevented. In 2016, a man fell into a spring after wandering off of the Boardwalk Trail. No matter how sturdy the ground looks, it is unstable thanks to the underground springs.
K. Magaraci
These unthinkable tragedies, from a young child who slipped off of a wet boardwalk to a dog that broke free from its owner, are a sad part of Yellowstone National Park’s history, and a reminder that the power of nature must be respected.
K. Magaraci
Yellowstone is home to 10,000 hydrothermals and half the world’s geysers. Even if one does not appear to be steaming, the extreme acidity can be deadly on its own.
K. Magaraci
So when you visit this enchanting environment that was once called Colter’s Hell, watch your step and follow the signs, so that you don’t experience the true danger of Yellowstone.
K. Magaraci
If you love reading about the macabre things that happen on this earth, the book Death in Yellowstone: Accidents and Foolhardiness might be your next favorite read.
K. Magaraci
Please don’t fear visiting Yellowstone – it truly is a national treasure, and with over 5 million visitors each year, you’re certain to have an unforgettable trip. Just watch your step, carry bear spray and follow the Rangers’ rules – this goes for Wildlife spotting, too!
If you just can’t quell the temptation to go for a dip, visit the temperature controlled Granite Hot Springs. You can even get there by dog sled, and you’re sure to enjoy a relaxing soak.
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