Frequently Asked Questions
Should I be aware of biological studies being conducted while visiting?
Yes! Studies are constantly being done at Yellowstone National Park to learn more about the ecosystem and individual organisms. Please do your best to avoid tampering with possible experiments or organism observation in the area.
What types of wildlife should I stay away from?
Though it may be very interesting to see many of Yellowstone’s native organisms up close and personal, it can sometimes be very dangerous. Yellowstone’s Bison can run up to 30 mph, which is much faster than you can! Therefore it is very important to stay at least 100 yards from bison at any given time. It is also important to avoid contact with wolves, coyote, and other potentially dangerous animals.
How often does Old Faithful erupt?
The eruption interval is anywhere from 60-110 minutes. The prediction is based on the length of the previous eruption.
What are the best areas to camp?
Well, that depends on your preference. People often like to camp at Norris Campground. This area is in a central location and is in close proximity to many of Yellowstone’s most popular attractions. It offers easy access to Norris Geyser Basin, one of the most active geothermal areas in the park. Another popular campsite is Shoshone Lake. This camp area is slightly more secluded and provides visitors with more private camping. This area is accessible by many trails and is a popular area for hiking and canoeing.
What are some good areas to capture photographs?
One of the most popular photography spots of Yellowstone is Old Faithful. Capturing the eruption of this geyser with a camera turns an incredible experience into a lifelong memory. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River also yields incredible photographs. Another good place to take pictures is Yellowstone Lake. This lake is full of wildlife that would turn any photographer’s dream into a reality.
What is an endangered species living in Yellowstone?
One endangered species living in Yellowstone is the Gray Wolf. The wolf was reintroduced to Yellowstone National Park and is constantly monitored. Many conservation efforts have helped to increase the population of gray wolves in Yellowstone.
What are the best fishing locations of Yellowstone?
Many people prefer to fish in Yellowstone River. Other rivers that are good for fishing are Gibbon, Madison, and Firehole.
What type of fishing/hunting permits do I need in Yellowstone?
A Yellowstone National Park Fishing Permit is required to fish in the park. Individuals 16 years of age or older are required to purchase a $18 three-day permit, or a $25 seven-day permit. Children under the age of 15 are able to fish without permission if they are under the direct supervision of an adult with a permit. Fishing permits are available at all ranger stations, visitor centers, and Yellowstone Park General Stores. Please also be aware that permits are required for boats or float tubes.
Is there a risk of fire?
During droughts and extremely hot weather, there are often concerns about wildfires. However, park officials regularly light areas of the park on fire to prevent a sudden, uncontrollable blaze. There will never be a time when you are not aware of this occurring. In addition, please avoid carelessness with fire in Yellowstone to avoid fires and destruction to wildlife.
What type of wildlife monitoring is done in Yellowstone?
The wildlife of Yellowstone is constantly being monitored by park rangers and trained biologists. Some of the most common are the monitoring of the Gray Wolf, which was reintroduced to the park in 1995 and that of the Lake Trout. Lake Trout are constantly netted and removed from Yellowstone Lake by Park Service staff and contracted fisherman. The removal of the Lake Trout is an effort to decrease the predation on the Cutthroat Trout population in Yellowstone Lake. If you are witnessing this, please be aware that park rangers are doing their job.
Is biking permitted in Yellowstone?
Of course! Yellowstone encourages its visitors to stay active. Bicycling is permitted on the established public roads, parking areas, and designated biking routes. However, there are no bicycle paths along roadways and biking is prohibited on backcountry trails.
Are there any animals that we need to look out for?
Absolutely! Ravens have learned to unzip and unsnap camping packs. Please watch your backs and secure them tightly. Also, do not allow the ravens access to your food. In addition, coyotes are known to beg for food on roadsides. Please do not feed the coyotes to avoid aggressive behavior toward humans. Never approach a begging coyote.
Are there any rules or regulations that I need to be aware of?
Like any public place, visiting Yellowstone has some rules and restrictions associated with it. Some of these include speeding, off-road travel, feeding wildlife, littering, spotlighting, and improper storage of food. Please follow posted regulations in the park.
Yes! Studies are constantly being done at Yellowstone National Park to learn more about the ecosystem and individual organisms. Please do your best to avoid tampering with possible experiments or organism observation in the area.
What types of wildlife should I stay away from?
Though it may be very interesting to see many of Yellowstone’s native organisms up close and personal, it can sometimes be very dangerous. Yellowstone’s Bison can run up to 30 mph, which is much faster than you can! Therefore it is very important to stay at least 100 yards from bison at any given time. It is also important to avoid contact with wolves, coyote, and other potentially dangerous animals.
How often does Old Faithful erupt?
The eruption interval is anywhere from 60-110 minutes. The prediction is based on the length of the previous eruption.
What are the best areas to camp?
Well, that depends on your preference. People often like to camp at Norris Campground. This area is in a central location and is in close proximity to many of Yellowstone’s most popular attractions. It offers easy access to Norris Geyser Basin, one of the most active geothermal areas in the park. Another popular campsite is Shoshone Lake. This camp area is slightly more secluded and provides visitors with more private camping. This area is accessible by many trails and is a popular area for hiking and canoeing.
What are some good areas to capture photographs?
One of the most popular photography spots of Yellowstone is Old Faithful. Capturing the eruption of this geyser with a camera turns an incredible experience into a lifelong memory. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River also yields incredible photographs. Another good place to take pictures is Yellowstone Lake. This lake is full of wildlife that would turn any photographer’s dream into a reality.
What is an endangered species living in Yellowstone?
One endangered species living in Yellowstone is the Gray Wolf. The wolf was reintroduced to Yellowstone National Park and is constantly monitored. Many conservation efforts have helped to increase the population of gray wolves in Yellowstone.
What are the best fishing locations of Yellowstone?
Many people prefer to fish in Yellowstone River. Other rivers that are good for fishing are Gibbon, Madison, and Firehole.
What type of fishing/hunting permits do I need in Yellowstone?
A Yellowstone National Park Fishing Permit is required to fish in the park. Individuals 16 years of age or older are required to purchase a $18 three-day permit, or a $25 seven-day permit. Children under the age of 15 are able to fish without permission if they are under the direct supervision of an adult with a permit. Fishing permits are available at all ranger stations, visitor centers, and Yellowstone Park General Stores. Please also be aware that permits are required for boats or float tubes.
Is there a risk of fire?
During droughts and extremely hot weather, there are often concerns about wildfires. However, park officials regularly light areas of the park on fire to prevent a sudden, uncontrollable blaze. There will never be a time when you are not aware of this occurring. In addition, please avoid carelessness with fire in Yellowstone to avoid fires and destruction to wildlife.
What type of wildlife monitoring is done in Yellowstone?
The wildlife of Yellowstone is constantly being monitored by park rangers and trained biologists. Some of the most common are the monitoring of the Gray Wolf, which was reintroduced to the park in 1995 and that of the Lake Trout. Lake Trout are constantly netted and removed from Yellowstone Lake by Park Service staff and contracted fisherman. The removal of the Lake Trout is an effort to decrease the predation on the Cutthroat Trout population in Yellowstone Lake. If you are witnessing this, please be aware that park rangers are doing their job.
Is biking permitted in Yellowstone?
Of course! Yellowstone encourages its visitors to stay active. Bicycling is permitted on the established public roads, parking areas, and designated biking routes. However, there are no bicycle paths along roadways and biking is prohibited on backcountry trails.
Are there any animals that we need to look out for?
Absolutely! Ravens have learned to unzip and unsnap camping packs. Please watch your backs and secure them tightly. Also, do not allow the ravens access to your food. In addition, coyotes are known to beg for food on roadsides. Please do not feed the coyotes to avoid aggressive behavior toward humans. Never approach a begging coyote.
Are there any rules or regulations that I need to be aware of?
Like any public place, visiting Yellowstone has some rules and restrictions associated with it. Some of these include speeding, off-road travel, feeding wildlife, littering, spotlighting, and improper storage of food. Please follow posted regulations in the park.