A Michigan man is facing federal charges after traveling off-trail and into a thermal area of Yellowstone National Park while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The man, who is not being named, was found in the Norris Geyser Basin on July 5 after having veered off-trail and entering the thermal area, which is off-limits to visitors.
The National Park Service (NPS) has cited him for an alcohol-related violation and a special regulation regarding thermal areas. NPS officials have since confirmed that the individual is considered a “danger to himself and others” and is “no longer welcome in the park.”
The NPS noted that Yellowstone National Park is one of the most famous and dangerous national parks in the US, with many of its features remaining the same and off-limits to visitors. Hot springs, geysers, steam vents, and fumaroles make up nearly 10% of the park area and have fragile ecosystems that must be left undisturbed.
It is essential to adhere to safety regulations and prohibitions while visiting these dangerous sites, and the NPS has a strict rule that visitors must remain on the established boardwalks and trails at all times. Moreover, travel in thermal areas while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited.
The individual is facing federal charges in Yellowstone for violating NPS regulations and is prohibited from entering any NPS lands for the next five years. If the individual is found on any NPS land or property during this time, he may face further criminal action. NPS officials urged all visitors to respect the resources and regulations of parks like Yellowstone so that everyone can enjoy the natural landscape and wildlife safely.
