How to Stay Safe Around Yellowstone’s Wildlife

Yellowstone is a living, breathing wilderness—where steaming geysers share the stage with herds of thundering bison, the distant howls of wolves, and the chilling bugle of an elk.

From hulking grizzlies lumbering through meadows to bald eagles soaring overhead, this is one of the few places in North America where you can witness wildlife the way nature intended: wild and untamed.

Spotting these animals is one of Yellowstone’s greatest thrills—but it comes with responsibility. These creatures aren’t zoo exhibits. They’re powerful, unpredictable, and deserve our respect. Check out these tips for keeping you and the animals safe.

General Wildlife Safety Rules

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1. Keep a Safe Distance

Always stay at least 100 yards (300 feet) from bears and wolves, and 25 yards (75 feet) from all other wildlife.

2. Don’t Feed the Animals

Feeding wildlife makes them aggressive and dependent on humans. It can even habituate animals to human contact, and in some cases, the animals may even have to be euthanized. Keep your snacks to yourself.

3. Watch for Stress Signals

If an animal stops eating, changes direction, or seems agitated, you're too close.

4. Stay in Your Vehicle

Many animals are best (and safely) viewed from inside your car—don’t approach them on foot.

5. No Photos or Selfies Up Close

Resist the urge to get that perfect shot. Close encounters can provoke animals and endanger you.

6. Watch out for crossing pedestrians

Wildlife isn’t the only thing on the move—visitors often stop or walk along the road for a better view. Drive slowly and stay alert, especially in popular viewing areas.

7. Stay in your car when animals are nearby

It might be tempting to get closer for a photo, but approaching wildlife on foot is dangerous—for you and for them. Your car offers a safer vantage point and helps ensure animals don’t become habituated to people.

8. Store food and drink properly

Always keep food sealed and stored in a bear-proof container or your vehicle when not in use. Never leave snacks unattended at a picnic area or trailhead—doing so can endanger both animals and future visitors. 

9. Be aware of ruts and calving seasons

Wildlife can be especially unpredictable when protecting their young or during mating season. In spring, animals like elk, bison, and bears may become aggressive if they feel their calves or cubs are threatened.

In the fall, bulls and bucks are more territorial and quick to charge. Give extra space during these times and stay alert—protective parents won’t hesitate to defend their young.

Animal-Specific Safety Tips

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1. Bison

Bison may look big and slow, but they can charge at speeds over 30 mph if they feel threatened—even from a distance.

Keep your distance—at least 25 yards. They may look slow and gentle, but bison are incredibly strong and can run up to 35 mph.

If a bison lifts its tail, paws the ground, or swings its head, those are warning signs.

Back away slowly and calmly—don’t run or make sudden movements. Never try to pass closely, feed, or take selfies with bison.

Each year, visitors are injured by getting too close—don’t be one of them.

2. Bears

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Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Hike in groups and make noise to avoid surprising a bear.

If you see a bear, stay calm and don’t panic. Slowly back away, keeping your eyes on the bear without making direct eye contact.

Never run—that could trigger the bear’s chase instinct.

Instead, stand tall, raise your arms or open your jacket to look bigger, and speak in a steady voice to signal that you’re not a threat.

Avoid sudden movements or loud noises, and give the bear plenty of space to leave the area on its own.

3. Elk & Moose

NPS/Neal Herbert

These animals can become especially aggressive during spring calving and fall mating seasons—keep your distance.

Never approach for a photo, and if the animal pins its ears back, raises its head, or stomps the ground, it’s a warning sign.

Back away slowly, put a large object like a tree or boulder between you and the animal if possible, and avoid turning your back or running.

Moose and elk can charge suddenly—and they’re faster than they look.

4. Wolves & Coyotes

NPS/Neal Herbert

These predators are usually shy and avoid humans, but they are still wild animals and can be unpredictable, especially if they feel cornered or are protecting a den or food source.

Stay at least 100 yards away, and never attempt to call to, follow, or feed them.

If one approaches, stand tall, make yourself look bigger, and speak firmly.

Back away slowly—don’t run. And as always, report any unusual behavior to a park ranger.

5. Rabies-vector species

Some animals in Yellowstone—like bats, foxes, skunks, and raccoons—can carry rabies, a deadly virus transmissible to humans and pets.

While these animals are usually shy, if one appears unusually tame, aggressive, or disoriented, keep your distance and report it to a park ranger immediately.

Never attempt to handle or feed any wild animal, no matter how small.

Safe Wildlife Viewing Practices

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1. Use Designated Viewing Areas

Pullouts and boardwalks near Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley offer safe places to observe wildlife.

2. Follow Ranger Instructions

Rangers are there for your safety. Obey signs, roadblocks, and any directions they give.

3. Travel in Groups 

Hike with others whenever possible—groups are louder, more visible, and less likely to surprise wildlife, especially bears.

4. Make Some Noise

Talk, clap, or sing as you move along trails, especially in areas with thick brush or limited visibility. Noise alerts animals to your presence and reduces the chance of startling them.

5. Bring Bear Spray and a Whistle

Bear spray is your best defense in a surprise encounter—carry it where it’s easily accessible, and know how to use it. A whistle can also help alert others in your group or call for help if needed.

6. Let Someone Know Where You’ll Be 

Before heading out, share your plans with a friend, family member, or park staff. Include your intended route and expected return time. Cell service is limited in many parts of the park, so don’t rely on your phone for emergency contact.

7. Leave No Trace

Pack out all trash, stay on marked trails, and avoid disturbing plants or animals.

Explore Yellowstone with Shaka Guide

Want to learn more while you explore? Shaka Guide’s Yellowstone audio tour is packed with stories, wildlife facts, and safety reminders—so you can stay informed and enjoy the park responsibly.

Hear tips for where to spot wildlife, how to view them safely, where to pick up bear spray, and much, much more.

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