Discover a fascinating period of Yellowstone National Park’s early history in Fort Yellowstone Historic District. The white stone and shingled buildings, most topped by distinctive red roofs, served as a U.S. Army fort between 1891 and 1918. Today, they are listed as a U.S. national historic landmark and are on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
After Yellowstone National Park was first established, it quickly became apparent how difficult it would be to regulate its use and protect it from poachers and other threats. Because the National Park Service did not yet exist, the U.S. Army was sent in to do the job. Between 1891 and 1913, 60 structures were built at Fort Yellowstone. Today, explore the 35 that are still standing.
Get your bearings in Albright Visitor Center. The sprawling stone building originally served as the bachelor officers’ quarters. Today, it offers park information, trip-planning tips and amenities. Visit the bookstore or get permits for backcountry camping, boating and fishing.
Browse through the exhibits in the Albright Visitor Center. Compare your size to the height of a bull bison, learn how to identify different species’ of horns and antlers and learn about the park’s history. Through exhibits, travel back to the time of the U.S. Army arriving in Yellowstone and the establishment of the National Park Service by Congress in 1916.
Check out the chapel, which has the distinction of being the last existing building completed during the army’s occupation. Built of native stone, it is considered the fort’s best-preserved building. Pass by the imposing New Guardhouse, which was built in 1911. It still serves as the park’s jail.
Learn more about what it takes to be a park ranger at the Museum of the National Park Ranger a few miles south. The museum is in a historic log cabin that once served as Norris Soldier Station.
Although you are free to explore Fort Yellowstone Historic District, remember that many of the buildings are employee residences not open to the public. Stay on the paved road and keep a respectful distance from living areas.
