Yellowstone Reminds Visitors That Even Parking Lots
Yellowstone National Park is a wild and awe-inspiring place, home to boiling hot springs, rugged landscapes and a wide array of wildlife from harmless vermin all the way up to apex predators. Park officials took the opportunity today to remind folks that the critters at the top of the food chain are waking up this time of year.
Yellowstone officials shared an image today of a fresh grizzly track imprint on a muddy trail to let visitors know that their resident population of bears are currently emerging from hibernation and looking to replenish the calories they burned over their long winter’s nap:
“Yellowstone is a wild place, which means you can share a trail, boardwalk, or even parking lot with wildlife!”
While Yellowstone can’t guarantee your safety can’t be guaranteed, following simple regulations and guidelines will help guests avoid common accidents and enjoy a safe, unforgettable visit. Protect your park, protect yourself!
Yellowstone Bear Safety Guidelines:
All of Yellowstone is bear country, from the trails in the park’s backcountry to the boardwalks and parking lots around Old Faithful. Your safety cannot be guaranteed, but you can play an active role in protecting yourself and the bears people come here to enjoy.
- Give bears space. Keep at least 100 yards (93 meters) from bears at all times and never approach a bear to take a photo.
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it. We recommend each person carry one can of bear spray in a readily accessible location like a quick-draw holster (not stowed away in your backpack).
- Hike in groups and make noise. Since 1970,91% of the people injured by bears in Yellowstone were hiking alone or with only one hiking partner. Only 9% of the people injured by bears were in groups of three or more people. While hiking on a trail, periodically yell “Hey bear!” to alert bears of your presence. Learn more about backcountry safety.
- Respect closures. Do not travel in areas closed for bear management.
- Never feed bears. Bears that become dependent on human food may become aggressive toward people and will be killed.
- Stay with your stuff. Do not leave packs or bags containing food unattended, even for a few minutes, as bears learn new food sources quickly.
- If a bear approaches or touches your car, honk your horn and drive away. We want to discourage this behavior for the bears’ safety and yours.
- Help us spread the word! Share posters from our “A Bear Doesn’t Care” campaign.
If you’re involved in a conflict with a bear, regardless of how minor, contact us or report it to a park ranger as soon as possible. If cell service is available, dial 911. The lives of other people, and the bear, may depend on it.
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