Historic center museum
harriman state park of idaho
As the railroad marks West Yellowstone’s historic beginnings, it is fitting that the Union Pacific Depot building is home to the Yellowstone Historic Center Museum. More than 100 years ago on June 11, 1908, the first passenger train arrived here. To commemorate that momentous date for West Yellowstone, the museum offers free admission every June 11th. The museum includes interactive exhibits and artifacts that explore the complete history of the area—from the time the Plains Indians and bison roamed the land to the days the terrifying fires of 1988 swept through the landscape. Your family will enjoy hands-on exhibits in ancient art, archaeology, nature and history, as well as movie and theater presentations. Also, be sure to inquire about guided walking tours of the West Yellowstone historic district. The museum is open mid-May to midOctober. Call (406) 646-1100 or visit www.yellowstonehistoriccenter.org.
A 45-minute drive from West Yellowstone to Harriman State Park of Idaho is well worth it for the natureloving family. This 16,000-acre, stateowned parcel, located three miles south of Island Park, Idaho, is a wildlife refuge, historic site, recreational area and a working ranch combined. During the summer, Harriman State Park of Idaho is an outdoor classroom where staff teach bird identification, natural history and geology. The park offers endless recreational opportunities, including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and fishing. And if that’s not enough, try a history lesson. There are three restored ranch buildings in the park dating back to the turn of the century that are open to the public. Call (208) 558-7368 or visit http:// parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/ harriman.aspx for more information.
All photos on these pages by Latham Jenkins/CIRCUMERROstock.com. Wolf photo taken at Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center.
bear world If your travels take you south from West Yellowstone, visit Yellowstone Bear World in Rexburg, Idaho. Yellowstone Bear World is a drive-thru park where visitors view elk, deer and other Rocky Mountain wildlife in their natural habitats. The park re-creates the era when these animals were commonly found along the park roads. Call (208) 359-9688 or visit www.yellowstonebearworld.com.
wild west yellowstone rodeo Born in the past to ease the cowboys’ boredom, today’s rodeos are pure excitement! Bareback riding, team roping, saddle bronc riding, breakaway roping and bull riding are just some of the scheduled events. Call (406) 560-6913 or www.yellowstonerodeo.com.
track history Don’t be afraid. These bear paw prints mark the trail of West Yellowstone’s Historic Walking Tour. Copies of the map can be picked up from any one of the historical sites along the way and will take you on a journey through the history of this small community that has served Yellowstone visitors for well over a century. You’ll also discover the remaining 11, full-scale painted buffalo along the trail. Learn, discover, appreciate.
hebgen lake
imax theatre A six-story-high screen is sure to entertain both young and old at the Yellowstone IMAX® Theatre. View the feature film “Yellowstone” and experience scenes of geysers, grizzlies and other wonders of the park. In addition, the theatre showcases the latest IMAX® films. Call (888) 854-5862 or visit www.yellowstoneimax.com for more information. Experience first-rate movies on a full-size screen with ultra stereo surround sound. Call the cinema at (406) 646-7777 for show times and information.
destinationyellowstone.com
Hebgen Lake is located just nine miles northwest of West Yellowstone. Bring your own water equipment, or there’s plenty of opportunity to rent boats and kayaks to enjoy a day on this beautiful lake. You can stay overnight at a lakeside cabin, motel or campground, or take a half-day, “out-of-car” experience with a guided tour by kayak. Both spin and fly fishing are great ways to spend the day, including the perfect spot for kids to cast right from the shore.
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