You don't have to go far inside of Yellowstone to see what absolutely wowed 19th Century explorers and naturalists — in 1872 it was named the world's first National Park. Even in this age of sensory overload, the forces of nature within Yellowstone are awe-inspiring. And it's a fabulous family destination, an area steeped in history and pioneer spirit, because beyond the scenic wonders lie accessible adventures for travelers of all tastes and ages.

Two of Yellowstone's most popular entrances (there are five, total) are in the southeast corner of Montana, allowing Park visitors to sample a little chunk of "Big Sky Country" known as "Yellowstone Country."

The Park's western gateway is West Yellowstone, founded as a railroad town for Yellowstone's early tourists. Summer is an ideal time to check out what the laid-back, unpretentious mountain community has to offer. West Yellowstone's got a variety of hotels (free Nintendo, anyone?) and RV parks, plus attractions such as an IMAX Theatre, museums, and the Grizzly Discovery Center, a bear and wolf preserve. There are unassuming eateries, quaint shops, and even a live playhouse. You'll find plenty of places to get lures and tackle, and plenty of people who'll recommend the best spots to fish (besides Orvis®-approved Hepgen Lake, there are seven blue-ribbon trout streams), hike, bike, backpack, camp, river raft, or just get away from it all.

Elk at Mammoth Hot Springs

Just outside of this friendly town are rustic accommodations such as the family-run Campfire Lodge Resort, with a café, trailer hook-ups, and charming river-front cabins starting at only $40 per night. And tucked away in the surrounding environs are picture-perfect places to play cowboy. At Parade Rest Ranch you'll not only get a cabin, but wholesome meals served "family style," mountain horseback riding, campfire cookouts, surrey rides and more. The all-inclusive rate is $109 per person per day, discounted for children.

Of course the area's biggest attraction is the Park itself, all 2.2 million acres of it. Here, a photo-op at Old Faithful is just the beginning. Yellowstone has more geysers and hot springs than the rest of the world combined; and its geyser basins, colorful bubbling "paint" pots and steaming cauldrons are extraordinary — the best science lesson ever.

Old Faithful geyser

The Park also boasts spectacular falls, lakes, and canyons; and is home to wildlife including moose, bison, elk, bear, and wolves, recently reintroduced. Yellowstone is almost unbelievable in its size and scope, but there's no doubt this is the real thing: signs remind visitors that these animals are indeed wild and the thermal areas are HOT!

Families will have no trouble finding lodging within the Park — from campsites to grand, historic inns which are an attraction in themselves, rates range from $35 for budget cabins to elegant rooms at $155 — or things to do. In addition to scenic cruises, wildlife excursions, stagecoach adventures and sunset safaris, check out the Yellowstone Buddies nature programs for children 7 - 12, or encourage your kids to become a Junior Ranger.

Above Yellowstone's northern gateway — the Gardiner entrance at the famous Teddy Roosevelt Arch — is the Paradise Valley. Known world-wide for its fly fishing (it was the setting for the film "A River Runs Through It"), this lovely slice of Montana manages to please regular folk and be kid-friendly, while catering to those who'd like a little pampering (celebrity residents like Dennis Quaid and Michael Keaton included). In the surrounding mountains you'll find the hamlets of Bozeman (a college town with breweries, coffee houses and a convenient airport) and Livingston (a haven for Montana artists, with galleries and a railroad museum). The scenery is dotted with oddball shops selling antiques, taxidermy and "antler art"; reserve early for the area's tony guest ranches, B&Bs, or the exquisite Gallatin Gateway Inn, a top-rated historic hotel with an award-winning restaurant.

Chico Hot Springs Lodge

Campfire Lodge Resort

But if there's one place with "family" written all over it, it's a favorite local hang-out called Chico Hot Springs Lodge. This funky resort with personality plus offers a welcome mix of western living and creature comforts. A full-service Spa and gourmet meals are available on-site, as are the Chico Horse Barn, a naturally-heated swimming pool, outdoor concerts, hay rides, fishing guides, and activities just for "Chico Kids." Rates at this renovated 100-year-old establishment start at $45 for a cozy room sans bath. Chico also has chalets and cabins — the largest sleeps up to 20.

Oh give me a home. . .

So even if your family's not full of rugged, wilderness types, Yellowstone Country has what it takes to bring you closer to nature without cramping your style; and it's a must-see destination if you're hungry for the great outdoors. Especially with this insider tip: Yellowstone Country will be less crowded, less expensive and just as breathtaking during the "shoulder season," early or late summer.

(For more information, contact Yellowstone National Park Lodges, www.travelyellowstone.com or 307-344-7311; Travel Montana, www.yellowstone.visitmt.com or 1-800-736-5276.)

— Jennie Webb

Jennie Webb is an independent writer whose articles, essays and criticism have appeared in publications such as the Los Angeles Times, Backstage West, TheaterMania.com, Entertainment Today and United Parenting Publications. She is a graduate of the University of Southern California and is currently a theater critic for KCRW-FM. Her website is at www.jenniewebbsite.com.

NOTE: The prices listed above were accurate as of posting; we suggest you call for current rates before your trip.

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