Yellowstone is a family affair. You and your children play together— Hiking in the park can be a particular joy, and the best way to experience all the park has to offer, including geysers, wildlife, and the world-renowned scenery. Here's another option your children might enjoy:

Children's Environmental Education in Yellowstone

Along with family oriented ranger-led programs during the summer season, Yellowstone has an official Junior Ranger Program open to kids between 5 and 12 years of age. The goal of the program is to introduce children to the natural wonders of Yellowstone and their role in preserving them for the future. To become a Junior Ranger, pick up a copy of Yellowstone's Nature, available in any visitor center. After completing the requirements described in the newspaper, kids are awarded an official Junior Ranger patch. Requirements include attending a ranger-led program, hiking on a park trail, and answering questions about Yellowstone Park.

Yellowstone's Nature also contains tips for predicting Old Faithful and a journal page to use and enjoy in the park or back at home. Both kids and adults will benefit by sharing the fun of becoming a Junior Ranger.

The National Park Service continues to offer a curriculum-based residential program for 4th, 5th, and 6th grade students called Expedition:Yellowstone!

Through this program, students learn about the park by combining classroomwork with a trip (an "Expedition!") to Yellowstone. Contact the park for more information.