Yellowstone Drive Through Wildlife Park offers a unique and exciting experience for visitors to explore the region’s diverse wildlife. From grizzly bears and moose to elk and bison, this park provides a chance to witness the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park from the comfort of your vehicle.
Advantages of Driving Through Yellowstone National Park for Wildlife Viewing
Variety of Wildlife
Yellowstone National Park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including:
- Grizzly Bears: Frequently spotted in Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone’s Hayden and Lamar Valleys.
- Moose: Commonly seen in Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone’s Hayden Valley.
- Elk: Abundant in Hayden Valley and Lamar Valley in Yellowstone National Park.
- Bison: Found in Lamar Valley and other areas of Yellowstone National Park.
- Wolves: Rare but possible sightings in Lamar Valley.
- Bald Eagles: Often seen along the Snake River and in Lamar Valley.
- Wild Horses: Found in the McCullough Peaks area near Cody, Wyoming.
Scenic Drives
Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding areas offer a variety of scenic drives that allow you to spot wildlife:
- Grand Teton National Park: Start your journey with a scenic drive through Grand Teton National Park, where you can spot black and grizzly bears, moose, elk, and bison.
- Yellowstone National Park: Drive through Yellowstone’s Hayden and Lamar Valleys for a high chance of spotting elk, moose, and bison.
- Silver Gate / Cooke City, Montana: Exit out of Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance and stay in these small towns, known for their wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Gardiner to Livingston, Montana: Take a leisurely drive along the Yellowstone River, spotting golden eagles and osprey fishing in the river.
Guided Tours and Interpretive Centers
Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding areas offer various guided tours and interpretive centers that enhance the wildlife viewing experience:
- Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center: Located in West Yellowstone, Montana, this center offers a guaranteed viewing experience of bears and wolves, along with naturalist talks and live bird-of-prey demonstrations.
- Harriman State Park: In Idaho, this park is home to moose, elk, sandhill cranes, and trumpeter swans, offering camping and RV facilities.
- National Elk Refuge: In Jackson Hole, Wyoming, this refuge is a winter home to a herd of 7,500 elk and offers year-round viewing opportunities for bighorn sheep, moose, coyotes, badgers, and waterfowl.
Challenges of Driving Through Yellowstone National Park for Wildlife Viewing
Weather Conditions
- Winter Closures: Some roads in Yellowstone National Park are closed during winter, limiting access to certain areas.
Animal Behavior
- Bear Awareness: Be prepared for surprise encounters with bears, especially in areas like Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone’s Hayden Valley. Make noise while hiking and consider carrying bear spray.
Time and Planning
- Time Required: Allow for a minimum of 30 minutes to several hours for a self-guided safari drive, depending on your level of engagement with the park’s attractions.
- Planning: Plan your route and accommodations in advance, considering the seasonal availability of certain attractions and the need for bear spray and other safety precautions.
Specific Details and Rates
Yellowstone Safari Park
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Monday to Saturday), Sunday by appointment only at 208-356-7600.
- Rates: Not specified, but includes a self-guided safari drive and access to various attractions.
Yellowstone Bear World
- Rates: Admission price includes petting zoo, amusement rides, and unlimited tours through the park. Accommodates all vehicles, including travel trailers, motor homes, and tour buses.
- Hours: Not specified, but open daily with amusement rides available one hour after opening.
References
- https://www.yellowstonepark.com/road-trips/scenic-drives/wildlife-safari-scenic-drive/
- https://yellowstonesafaripark.com
- https://yellowstonebearworld.com