Yellowstone National Park is one of the most awe-inspiring destinations in the world, with its geysers, wildlife, and stunning landscapes. However, it’s also a wild and unpredictable place where safety should be a top priority. Every year, visitors encounter hazards—some preventable, others simply part of being in the wilderness. By understanding potential dangers and taking precautions, you can have an unforgettable, safe experience in America’s first national park. Here are eight essential safety tips to keep in mind during your visit to Yellowstone.

1. Keep Your Distance from Wildlife

Yellowstone’s bison, bears, elk, and wolves are wild animals, not photo props. Approaching them can result in serious injury or worse.

• Stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves.

• Stay at least 25 yards away from bison, elk, and all other wildlife.

• Never feed wildlife—it’s dangerous for both animals and humans.

• Use binoculars, a spotting scope, or a zoom lens for a closer look instead of getting too close.

2. Stay on Boardwalks and Designated Trails

Yellowstone’s thermal features are mesmerizing but incredibly dangerous. The ground around geysers, hot springs, and mud pots can be thin and unstable.

• Stay on marked boardwalks and trails in thermal areas.

• Keep children close and do not let them run ahead.

• Never throw anything into hot springs—it can cause damage and disrupt natural processes.

3. Be Bear Aware

Hiking in Yellowstone is great, but Yellowstone is Bear Country. Don’t let possible encounters deter you from experiencing this side of the park, but do follow park guidelines, stay on trails, and check recent trail activity before heading out.

• Carry bear spray and know how to use it. (Bear spray is not allowed on planes, so plan to rent or buy bear spray once you arrive in Yellowstone. You can do so at most park gift shops.)

• Hike in groups of 4 or more when possible. (Meet up with other hikers at trailheads.) Traveling in numbers makes it easier to make noise and increases your visibility on trails, which helps warn wildlife of your approach.

• Talk or sing while hiking. (It’s generally more helpful to talk or sing than it is to play music.) Talking or singing as you hike can alert bears to your presence, helping prevent surprise encounters.

• Say, “Hey Bear!” when rounding blind corners to avoid surprising wildlife. Rounding a bend on a trail or cresting a hill can put you close to a bear without warning. Saying, “Hey Bear!” or making other noise before turning corners or entering dense vegetation gives nearby animals the chance to move away. It’s a simple habit that allows both you and the wildlife to avoid accidental close encounters.

• Store food properly—use bear-proof containers or park-provided food storage lockers. Bears have a powerful sense of smell and are highly attracted to food, scented toiletries, and even gum or sunscreen. Minimize the scents you carry by leaving non-essentials behind and packing food in odor-proof containers if possible.

• If you encounter a bear, back away slowly. Don’t Run. In a bear encounter, staying calm is key—slowly back away without turning your back, maintaining a steady pace. Running can trigger a bear’s instinct to chase, making the situation more dangerous. By moving away gradually, you demonstrate non-threatening behavior, which can help the bear feel less alarmed.

• Check trail signs for sightings before beginning a hike. (And follow trail closure signs, especially in bear management areas.)

4. Drive Carefully and Follow Road Rules

Wildlife, unpredictable weather, and heavy traffic make driving in Yellowstone unique and sometimes hazardous.

• Follow posted speed limits (typically 45 mph or lower in many areas).

• Watch for wildlife—bison frequently block roads.

• Do not stop in the middle of the road to take photos or view wildlife. We know it’s tempting to stop and enjoy the magical views, but make sure to pull over in designated pullouts (completely beyond white lines) before stopping.

5. Prepare for Changing Weather and High-Elevation Conditions

Yellowstone’s weather can be unpredictable, with sudden temperature drops, storms, and even sometimes snow in summer.

• Dress in layers and bring rain gear.

• Check the forecast before heading out.

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and help your body adjust to the thinner air.

• Take it slow and give yourself time to acclimate, especially if you are coming from a lower elevation. Avoid strenuous activity on your first day.

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of carbohydrates to maintain energy levels at high altitude.

• Be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and shortness of breath. If symptoms worsen, descend to a lower elevation.

• Protect yourself from the sun, as UV rays are stronger at higher elevations. Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to prevent sunburn and dehydration.

6. Pack Smart

Here are some packing tips for a great visit to Yellowstone National Park.

• Carry a map; cell service is unreliable in much of the park. Download offline maps before your trip to ensure you can navigate even without service. A paper map is also essential in case your device runs out of battery. (You can pick up park maps at Visitor Centers and park entrances.)

• Wear sturdy footwear, as trails can be rocky and uneven.

• Bring a flashlight or headlamp, even for short hikes, in case you get delayed after sunset.

• Carry an extra layer, such as a lightweight jacket or fleece, since temperatures can drop suddenly.

7. Follow Backcountry Safety Guidelines

If you plan to hike into Yellowstone’s backcountry, extra precautions are necessary.

• Inform someone of your plans and expected return time.

• Carry a first aid kit, bear spray, and emergency gear.

• Know how to read a map and compass—GPS signals may not work.

• Be aware of water crossings and potential sudden weather changes.

8. Respect Park Rules and Regulations

Yellowstone has strict rules in place to protect visitors and the environment.

• Follow Leave No Trace principles—pack out all trash.

• Camp only in designated areas.

• Do not remove rocks, plants, or other natural objects.

• Respect closures and warnings from park rangers.

FAQs About Yellowstone Safety

Q: Is it safe to visit Yellowstone with kids?
A: Yes, but extra precautions are helpful. Keep children close, especially in thermal areas, near wildlife, and on trails with steep drop-offs.

Q: What should I do if I see a bear?
A: Stay calm, do not run, and slowly back away. If the bear approaches, use your bear spray when it is within range (about 30 feet). Stay calm and do not run.

Q: Do I really need bear spray?
A: Yes, if you plan to hike or explore areas where bears are active. Bear spray is one of the most effective deterrents in bear encounters.

Q: How can I avoid altitude sickness in Yellowstone?
A: Yellowstone’s elevation ranges from 5,000 to over 11,000 feet, so acclimatization is key. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity on your first day, and eat light meals. If symptoms like headaches or dizziness occur, descend to a lower altitude and rest.

Q: Is it safe to hike alone in Yellowstone?
It is not recommended to hike alone in Yellowstone. It’s better to hike in groups of four or more. Whenever hiking in Yellowstone, carry bear spray, stay on marked trails, and let someone know your plans, including where you’re going and when you’ll return.

Q: Is it safe to camp in Yellowstone?
Yes, camping in Yellowstone is safe if you follow the park’s rules and take proper precautions. Always store food, toiletries, and scented items in bear-proof lockers or containers provided at campsites. Avoid leaving food unattended, and make sure your tent is at least 100 yards away from cooking or food storage areas.

Q: Can you sleep in your car in Yellowstone?
Yes, but only at designated campgrounds or areas that allow overnight parking. Sleeping in your car in non-designated areas, such as pullouts or trailheads, is not allowed. Make sure to book a campsite ahead of time if you plan to sleep in your vehicle.

Q: What shouldn’t I do in Yellowstone National Park?

• Do not approach or feed wildlife.

• Avoid stepping off designated boardwalks in geothermal areas, as the ground can be dangerously unstable.

• Do not leave food or trash unattended, as it attracts bears and other animals.

• Avoid throwing items into geysers, as it damages natural features.

Q: How can I protect Yellowstone National Park?

• Follow Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and minimizing your impact.

• Stay on designated trails and boardwalks to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems.

• Report any vandalism, wildlife harassment, or unsafe behavior to park rangers.

• Use refillable water bottles and eco-friendly products to reduce waste.

Q: Can I swim in Yellowstone?
A: Swimming is prohibited in hot springs due to extreme temperatures and fragile environments. Swimming is allowed at designated areas like the Firehole River Swim Area. Here’s more information on swimming in Yellowstone.

Q: What should I do in an emergency in Yellowstone?
If you encounter an emergency, call 911 or seek help from a park ranger. Be aware that cell service is limited in many areas of the park, so carry a physical map and let others know your plans in advance. Emergency phones are available at some trailheads and ranger stations.

Q: What’s the safest way to watch wildlife in Yellowstone?
Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife. Stay at least 25 yards away from bison, elk, and other large animals, stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves, and use binoculars or a spotting scope to observe animals from a safe distance.

Q: Can I drive safely in Yellowstone?
Yes, you can drive safely in Yellowstone, especially by observing speed limits, watching for animals crossing the road, and staying alert for sudden stops from other drivings viewing wildlife. Driving in the winter requires extra caution on icy or slick roads, and it’s generally a good idea to drive carefully at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active. Here’s everything you need to know about driving in Yellowstone.

Keep Planning Your Trip to Yellowstone National Park

Plan the ultimate Yellowstone vacation with our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide! With insider tips, detailed maps, and tailored itineraries, our Yellowstone Travel Guide is packed with expert advice for experiencing the best—and less-traveled—parts of Yellowstone National Park. Take the stress out of planning a vacation to one of America’s largest national parks, and let us be your virtual tour guides thanks to our comprehensive, easy-to-use travel guide.

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