Yellowstone National Park is known around the world for its geothermal wonders, abundance of wildlife and beautiful landscapes that range from forested mountain slopes to hidden valleys bursting with wildlife to roaring rivers and meadows with quiet streams running through them. It is one of the most diverse national parks in the world and is a popular backpacking destination.
Reservations
The backcountry campsites reserved for backpackers have limited availability. There are around 300 sites available for backpackers to use, and reservations can be made in person or submitted by mail, but cannot be made over the phone or by fax. They are booked on a first-come, first-served basis and must be obtained no more than 48 hours in advance. These reservations are turned in when you get to Yellowstone and are then transferred into a camping permit for you to use in the backcountry. Passes cost $20.
Regulations
There are a number of rules and regulations set in place to protect not only the environment but also the backpackers and hikers who come to the park on a regular basis. Campfires are limited to fire pits, and littering is strictly prohibited. Backpackers from other states should be aware that firearms can be carried into the park so long as the proper permits are in place. Additional rules and regulations can be found either online or at the various headquarters within the park itself.
Weather
Weather in Yellowstone National Park is unpredictable. On top of that, the seasonal variations can cause certain sections of the park to be completely closed off. It is important to pay attention to the weather conditions for the areas you plan on backpacking to, as they can make or break your backpacking trip. If it begins to rain heavily and you are near a river or stream, you should immediately seek higher ground to avoid being caught in a flash flood. If in doubt, bring additional clothing and rain gear, especially if you plan on backpacking for several days.
Wildlife
Wildlife in Yellowstone National Park is part of the natural environment. While it is easy enough to stay at a distance when hiking the populated trails, when you head out into the backcountry to go backpacking, it becomes paramount to your survival to pay attention to the wildlife surrounding you. This is especially true of bears. Always be sure to sleep a minimum of 100 yards away from the area where you cook, eat and store your food, and never sleep in the same clothing that you wore while cooking. While encounters with bears are far from inevitable, proper precautions should be taken.
Additional Considerations
Always be sure to bring a water filtration device, or your own water supply, when backpacking in the deepest parts of the park. Water from streams and rivers can carry bacteria that can cause intestinal infections, and if you must drink water from an unprotected source, be sure to boil it first and then filter it. In addition, backpackers should stay on the trails as often as possible and avoid any areas that look like they could be potential geothermal areas, as the surface of the soil could be nothing more than a thin crust over pools of boiling water. Keep in mind that it is illegal to remove any natural items, such as plants, animals, rocks or trees, from the park.
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