Veterans Connect with Nature and Each Other at Yellowstone National Park

On September 15th, 2025, National Park Trust, in partnership with the National Park Service and Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing (PHWFF), hosted an unforgettable fly fishing clinic for veterans at Yellowstone National Park. This special event brought together veterans from across the country for a day of fishing, learning, and camaraderie in one of the nation’s most iconic natural settings.

The day began at Madison Campground Amphitheater, a picturesque location where the Madison and Gibbon Rivers converge. With the towering National Park Mountain in the backdrop, NPS rangers welcomed participants with insights into the park’s rich history and diverse ecosystems. The group learned about the park’s geothermal features, its significance as the first national park, and the ongoing conservation efforts to preserve its unique landscapes.

Following the welcome session, the veterans received lifetime military park passes, granting them free access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country, a gesture of appreciation for their service and a gateway to future adventures.

In the afternoon, the group caravanned to Norris Campground, where each veteran was paired with a PHWFF volunteer guide. Equipped with new fly fishing gear, they ventured to the nearby Gibbon River, known for its clear waters and abundant trout. The river’s proximity to geothermal features provided a unique fishing experience, with steam rising from hot springs adding to the surreal atmosphere.

Under the guidance of experienced volunteers, the veterans honed their fly fishing skills, casting lines into the river. The tranquil setting and shared experience fostered connections among participants, offering moments of reflection and healing.

This event at Yellowstone National Park is part of a series of outdoor recreation experiences organized by National Park Trust, the National Park Service, and Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing in 2025. Other events were located at Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area (MT), Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River (PA), Olympic National Park (WA), Gulf Islands National Seashore (FL), and Great Smoky Mountains National Park (NC/TN). Each program aims to provide veterans opportunities to reconnect with nature, community, and themselves.