The National Park Service oversees for nearly 400 parks preserving their natural beauty and protecting the wildlife within for current future generations. In an effort to protect the lands, off-road driving is prohibited in most parks but there are some that offer the opportunity. Off-road polices are on a park to park basis and should be consulted prior to any off-road excursions.
Yellowstone National Park does not allow off-roading in any form anywhere on its expansive 2.2 million acres of pristine land and that goes so far as to include pedal bikes. All bicycles are strictly prohibited on backcountry trails, boardwalks, and oversnow routes in the park.
This group of motorcycle riders inside Yellowstone National Park were in blatant violation of park off-roading rules when they decided to venture off the pavement and joyride through a herd of bison. The bison were clearly agitated by their intrusion and the bikers were lucky to make it out unscathed. You can hear bystanders rightfully yelling at the bikers to leave the animals alone.
To be absolutely clear, Yellowstone National Park strictly prohibits willfully remaining near or approaching wildlife and traveling off-road by vehicle. These policies are in place to protect and preserve the parks natural resources for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.
Yellowstone National Park Regulations:
These regulations help us protect park resources while also providing you a safe and enjoyable experience. The following activities are prohibited in Yellowstone:
- Willfully remaining near or approaching wildlife, including nesting birds, within any distance that disturbs or displaces the animal.
- Hunting or feeding wildlife.
- Traveling off boardwalks or designated trails in hydrothermal areas.
- Throwing anything into thermal features.
- Swimming in hot springs.
- Removing or possessing natural or cultural resources (such as wildflowers, antlers, rocks, and arrowheads).
- Leaving detachable side mirrors attached when not pulling trailers.
- Traveling off-road by vehicle or bicycle.
- Camping outside of designated areas.
- Spotlighting wildlife (viewing with lights).
- Imitating elk calls or using buglers. Imitating wolf howls.
- Using electronic equipment capable of tracking wildlife
- Launching, landing, or operating unmanned aircraft (drones) on lands and waters.
- Smoking is prohibited in geyser basins or on trails. There is no smoking in buildings or within 25 feet of building entrances.