Best Places To See Wildlife In Yellowstone National Park And Viewing Guide
Yellowstone National Park is renowned for its diverse and abundant wildlife.
Best Places to View Wildlife in Yellowstone
Lamar Valley:
Often referred to as the “Serengeti of North America,” Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley is one of the prime spots for wildlife viewing. It’s known for its wolf packs, large herds of bison, elk, and pronghorn antelope. Along the Lamar River there are also a good chance of spotting a grizzly bear or black bear. Going early in the morning is a great time to try view gray wolves. Look for cars pulled over on the road sides. Most wolf watchers will be up on a hill overlooking the valley with their spotting scopes out. Usually they will let you take a glance in their scope if you don’t have one of your own so don’t let that stop you from trying to view a gray wolf. In the early spring around May you can see baby bison romping around in the bison herds.
Hayden Valley: This area is another great location for spotting wildlife. It’s particularly famous for its bison population and opportunities to see grizzly bears, wolves, and waterfowl – such as bald eagles, ducks, osprey, and trumpeter swans. .
Mammoth Hot Springs: Near the Northern Entrance the terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs attract both elk and pronghorn antelope. It’s not uncommon to see these animals grazing around the terraces. Alot of times elk will graze around the hotel and concessions area. Keep back 25 yards from them especially if there are any babies present.
Old Faithful Area: In addition to witnessing the famous Old Faithful geyser erupt, visitors to this area might encounter elk, bison, and sometimes even black bears. Bison might be grazing along the boardwalks in the Old Faithful area so please make sure you maintain at least 25 yards between them and you. Go around if able to while staying on the boardwalks or go back another way.
Norris Geyser Basin: While exploring the geothermal wonders, keep an eye out for bison, elk, and coyotes. The basin’s unique landscape provides an interesting backdrop for wildlife sightings.
Grand Teton National Park (adjacent to Yellowstone about 30 miles south): Though not within Yellowstone, the nearby Grand Teton National Park and the areas around Jackson Hole are excellent for spotting moose, black bears, grizzly bears, and a variety of bird species.
Canyon Area: Look for bighorn sheep and deer in the Canyon area. The stunning landscapes also make for a picturesque backdrop for wildlife photography.
Along Rivers and Lakes: Many animals gather around water sources, so places like Yellowstone Lake and the Yellowstone River can offer excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep your eye out for bald eagles, trumpeter swans, osprey, and river otters.
Wildlife Watching Safaris: Consider joining guided wildlife watching safaris led by park rangers or tour companies. These experts know the best locations and times to spot various animals.
Remember that wildlife can be unpredictable, so patience is key. Always keep a safe distance from animals, follow park regulations, and consider using binoculars or a telephoto lens for close-up views without disturbing the animals. Additionally, hiring a knowledgeable guide can enhance your chances of successful wildlife encounters while respecting the animals and their habitats.
Yellowstone Wildlife Viewing Tips
Wildlife viewing in Yellowstone requires patience, respect for nature, and adherence to ethical guidelines to ensure both your safety and the well-being of the animals. Here are some valuable tips for making the most of your wildlife viewing experience in Yellowstone:
Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Generally, stay at least 25 yards (75 feet) away from large animals like bison, elk, bighorn sheep, and deer. For predators like bears and wolves, the recommended distance is 100 yards (300 feet). Use binoculars or a telephoto lens for close-up views without encroaching on the animals’ territory.
Use Binoculars and Cameras: Binoculars and cameras with telephoto lenses allow you to observe wildlife closely without disturbing their natural behavior. This helps reduce stress on the animals and maintains a respectful distance.
Stay Quiet and Still: Wildlife can be easily startled by sudden noises or movements. When observing animals, speak in hushed tones and move slowly. Sudden movements can cause animals to flee, ruining the experience for yourself and others.
Stay on Designated Roads and Trails: To protect both yourself and wildlife, always stay on designated roads and trails. Off-trail travel can disturb fragile ecosystems and create stress for animals. Animals are used to people being on roads but when people start moving off them the animals are likely to be spooked.
Respect Roadside Etiquette: While driving on main roads, be aware of wildlife and other visitors. If you spot wildlife along the road, pull over safely in designated pullouts and parking lot. Do not block traffic or park in a way that obstructs the view for others.
Avoid Feeding Animals: Feeding wildlife is not only illegal in national parks but also harmful to the animals. Human food can be unhealthy for them and can alter their natural behaviors, making them dependent on handouts and potentially aggressive towards humans.
Early Mornings and Evening Hours: Animals are often most active during the early morning and late afternoon hours. These “golden hours” offer the best chance for wildlife sightings and photography.
Be Prepared: Dress appropriately for varying weather conditions. Bring layers, rain gear, and sturdy footwear, as weather can change rapidly in the park.
Bring Bear Spray: If you plan to explore areas where bears might be present, carry bear spray and know how to use it. Bear encounters are rare, but it’s essential to be prepared. Yellowstone has both black bears and grizzly bears.
Join Ranger Programs: Participate in ranger-led programs and guided tours focused on wildlife viewing. Rangers are knowledgeable and can provide insights into the park’s ecology and wildlife behavior.
Visit the Visitor Center: At the visitor centers, you’ll find knowledgeable rangers ready to assist with a wide range of inquiries. They can provide current information about wildlife locations and movements in the region.
Be Patient: Wildlife viewing requires patience. Animals may not always be immediately visible, but waiting quietly can lead to rewarding encounters.
Leave No Trace: Pack out all your trash and follow Leave No Trace principles. Proper waste disposal helps protect both the environment and wildlife.
Respect Closures: Some areas might be closed to protect wildlife during sensitive times, such as nesting seasons or when certain animals are present.
Educate Yourself: Learn about the species you might encounter, their behaviors, and the best practices for observing them responsibly. Education enhances your experience and ensures that you’re not inadvertently causing harm.
By following these tips and adopting a responsible and respectful approach, you can enjoy the incredible wildlife of Yellowstone while contributing to its preservation for future generations. Remember, the goal is to witness animals in their natural habitat without disrupting their lives or the ecosystem.