There
are reported to be 15 species of orchids native to Yellowstone
National Park. I have found at least 10 of them. I hope this website
helps you learn to appreciate wild orchids in their native habitats.
Never try to transplant a native orchid. Many species require
certain soil characteristics, so you'll probably just destroy the
plant you are trying to love. Some are take nutrients from certain
fungi and bacteria in the soil, and this makes it virtually
impossible to grow them at home.
Link to orchids organized by: Species Locations and Habitats in Yellowstone
Approximate Blooming Dates Links to more info
Downloadable pdf Trail Narratives with maps, GPS coordinates, and orchid photos:
These are the trails where I have personally found these orchids. These orchids undoubtedly grow in other areas of the park with suitable habitat. The list below includes mainly popular trails and boardwalks near developed areas of Yellowstone. The detailed species pages describe the habitats a little more. GPS locations are in UTM coordinates. I hope that more publicity of the locations will yield better orchid conservation.
Don't
pick or dig! It
is illegal to remove plants or artifacts from Yellowstone. There
is a double curse on those who steal orchids -- the orchids are lost
from the wild and they die after you transplant them because your
soil won't have the right fungi and nutrients.