Hats, pencils and baby pacifiers: Yellowstone staffers retrieve record amount of trash from hot springs
Summary
Yellowstone National Park staff have collected over 20,100 pieces of trash from the park’s hot springs and geyser areas in 2026, setting a record. Common trash includes hats, camera lens caps, and baby pacifiers, which can harm the park’s natural features.Key Facts
- Yellowstone staff removed 20,100 pieces of trash from hydrothermal areas so far in 2026.
- The most common items found were 280 hats, 54 camera lens caps, and 17 baby pacifiers.
- High winds in the park often blow lightweight items like tissues and hats into sensitive areas.
- Visitors sometimes treat hot springs like wishing wells, leaving coins that were collected in various currencies.
- Trash can damage hydrothermal features by clogging water, blocking channels, or polluting with chemicals.
- The Morning Glory Pool in the park changed color in the 1900s due to trash left by visitors.
- Staff also found unusual trash such as Invisalign retainers, race cars, golf tees, and fake nails.
- Visitors are encouraged to carry their trash with them to prevent pollution, especially on windy days.
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