Thermal springs in Yellowstone are unpredictable in nature and surrounded by possible weak ground layers. Boardwalks are in place to protect you from serious injury or worse, as well as the precious ecosystem the National Park was established to preserve. Staying on the trail could save your life and helps encourage other hikers to do the same.

A Colorado man was sentenced to jail and banned from Yellowstone National Park after officials say he walked off a designated trail and entered a protected area.

Joseph Aita, 62, was jailed and banned from the national park after he walked off a designated path, according to authorities.

A Colorado man was sentenced to seven days in jail for walking off a designated trail or boardwalk in a thermal area in Yellowstone National Park in July.

While the 63 national parks across the U.S. delight visitors with scenery and wildlife not found anywhere else, untapped nature also poses many dangers — particularly for those who wander off the official trails.