5 Things I Learned From Working at Yellowstone National Park

Imagine its your first summer after starting college, you pack you car to the brim with suitcases, then you start a 2000 mile trip from Georgia to Yellowstone National Park with your mom and sister. You guys decide to take turns driving and drive through the night, not getting a hotel room until you reach Montana, over 30 hours later. You do a little sight seeing, then the next morning you head into the park to start your summer job while your sister and mom ride off in their rental car.

This was me, right before I turned 18. I decided it was time for my first adventure- alone. I was ecstatic, but also a bundle of anxiety. My family was headed on their own road trip and I had just signed up to work the next three months in a national park I’ve never even visited. As I made my way through the park, to Lake Yellowstone Hotel, I knew I had made the right decision. What I didn’t know was that working at Yellowstone National Park would change my outlook on life, make me realize my passion and create some of the most amazing memories.

1. Hiking is Harder at a Higher Elevation

Yellowstone’s elevation is about 8,000 feet, the exact number varies depending on what part of the park you’re in. Even though I knew hiking in high elevation would be harder, I was still shocked at how much I struggled on those first few hikes.

It didn’t help that I chose a 4.6 mile hike with a 1,300 feet elevation gain for my first hike. I quickly realized hiking at a higher elevation was no easy task. I thought the switch backs would never end and I definitely took my fair share of breaks, but it was all worth it as soon as I reached the top.

2. Yellowstone is a Truly Magic Place

With over 4 million visitors each year, it’s easy to see why Yellowstone is such a beloved destination. I’m not being dramatic when I say it’s truly a magical place-hopefully when you look at these pictures you’ll understand what I mean! You can climb mountains, experience incredible wildlife up close (from the safety of your car, of course—never get too close!), witness geysers erupting, and soak in natural hot springs, all within one stunning national park.

3. Always be Prepared When Hiking

Unfortunately, I learned this lesson the hard way. A group of friends and I set out to hike the 9.1-mile round trip to Osprey Falls. About halfway there, we noticed a thunderstorm rolling in. With no choice but to wait it out, we huddled under our raincoats. Except, my cheap Target one was no match for the downpour. Thankfully, we all made it back safely (and still got to see the waterfall!), but it really opened my eyes to how quickly weather can change—and the importance of being prepared.

Before any hike, always check the weather, pack extra layers and snacks, and be ready for sudden changes in conditions.

4. Wildlife is Everywhere in Yellowstone

Getting stuck in a bison jam is something I’ll never forget. There were literally 30 to 40 bison, calves included, casually wandering across the road, completely unbothered by the cars. They were just living their best lives, and I was thrilled to be part of the moment! Honestly, I’d take a bison jam over traffic on I-85 any day.

Another time, on my way back to the dorm, I spotted a mama bear and her cub right by the riverbank. Watching them from the safety of my car was an incredible experience!

5. Since Working at Yellowstone National Park, All I Want to Do is Travel & Hike

I know what you’re thinking—everyone dreams of traveling full-time. But I wasn’t prepared for the whirlwind of emotions that hit me after my summer working in Yellowstone ended. I was ready to drop out of college and dive straight into the world of seasonal jobs. Naturally, my parents weren’t thrilled, and my advisor convinced me to finish my degree. I mean, I was already halfway through my associate’s—why not, right?

While I didn’t quit school to travel the world (yet!), my passion for exploring, hiking, and visiting all the national parks remains as strong as ever. And don’t worry—I’m still manifesting a future where I get paid to travel! 😉

How You Can Work at Yellowstone National Park

If you’re interesting in working at Yellowstone National Park, you can explore there job posting here. Like any job, it’s not perfect but it is a great opportunity to send more time exploring the park and meeting people from all over the country.