Roosevelt Arch

The Roosevelt Arch, located at the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park near Gardiner, Montana, is an iconic symbol of America's first national park and a tribute to President Theodore Roosevelt's role in its establishment. Constructed in 1903, the arch serves as the official entrance to Yellowstone and bears the inscription "For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People" on its keystone, a phrase taken from the Organic Act of 1872, which established Yellowstone as the world's first national park.

One of the main attractions of the Roosevelt Arch is its impressive size and distinctive design. Standing 50 feet tall and spanning 30 feet wide, the arch is made of locally quarried stone and features a rustic, Romanesque Revival style that is characteristic of the early national park architecture. The arch's imposing presence and majestic setting at the gateway to Yellowstone National Park make it a popular spot for visitors to stop and take photographs, as well as to reflect on the park's natural beauty and conservation legacy.

In addition to its symbolic significance, the Roosevelt Arch also serves as a historic landmark and a reminder of the conservation ethic and stewardship values that have guided the management of America's national parks for over a century. The arch was dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt himself during a visit to Yellowstone in 1903, and it continues to inspire visitors from around the world to appreciate and protect the natural wonders of Yellowstone and other national parks for future generations.

The Roosevelt Arch is open to the public year-round and serves as a welcoming entrance to Yellowstone National Park, inviting visitors to embark on a journey of exploration, discovery, and wonder in one of the world's most iconic and beloved natural landscapes. Whether you're entering the park for the first time or returning to experience its beauty once again, the Roosevelt Arch stands as a timeless symbol of America's commitment to preserving and celebrating our nation's natural heritage.