URL: http://www.yellowstonegeotourism.orgThe wonders of Yellowstone National Park and neighboring Grand Teton are only the starting point of National Geographic's newest Geotourism MapGuide. The map moves well beyond the parks' borders to highlight the region's unsung treasures, celebrating the world-class natural and cultural heritage of the entire area. Much more than a road map, the new Geotourism MapGuide to the Greater Yellowstone Region and its companion Web site, yellowstonegeotourism.org, share locals' knowledge on everything from where to find the best huckleberry milkshake and great community events to where to watch rescued grizzlies and wolves in their daily activities. Nearly 1,000 map point nominations were received from the region's residents, making the MapGuide a unique resource for the millions of annual visitors as well as locals seeking unspoiled outdoor places and authentic cultural experiences. The MapGuide was unveiled in three events around the region: on March 27 in Cody, Wyo.; March 30 in Boise, Idaho; and March 31 in Helena, Mont. The large-format, two-sided map straddles the states of Idaho, Montana and Wyoming and includes 20 million acres of rugged mountains, picturesque river valleys, high desert plains and distinctive small towns and historic districts. The lands and waters in this region of Greater Yellowstone are a refuge for hundreds of wildlife species, including rare trumpeter swans, bighorn sheep, herds of elk, roaming bison, wolves, grizzly bears and native fish. "The MapGuide showcases what makes the Greater Yellowstone Region distinct from any other place on Earth, and underscores the importance of conserving its tremendous scenic and historical assets for future generations," said James Dion, associate director of National Geographic's Center for Sustainable Destinations...click to read more
