From the deepest backcountry to the crowded boardwalks around Old Faithful , all of Yellowstone National Park is bear country. Scientists and wildlife managers believe Yellowstone’s grizzly population is doing well with approximately 150–200 grizzly bears having home ranges wholly or partially in the park.
These apex predators are incredible to see in the wild but can pose an obvious danger to anyone who gets too close. Yellowstone has a clear directive when it comes to bears in the park “GIVE THEM SPACE.” Visitors must keep at least 100 yards from bears at all times and never approach a bear to take a photo.
Clearly these tourists at Firehole River were in violation of the parks bear regulations as they lined up to with their phones out to take pictures and videos. The situation was not only extremely dangerous for the tourists, it was also disruptive to the grizzly. Nature photographer and guide Kyle Moon witnessed the grizzly go back and forth multiple times looking to escape the crowd and cross the street but there was nowhere for it to go as people had exited their vehicles and lined the side of the road.
“This is just unacceptable by tourists. As you can see it was more important for everyone to get their video/pictures from their iPhone than it was for their own safety and the safety of the bear. Don’t let massive crowds like this make you think it’s ok to join them and don’t forget that sub-adult grizzly can ruin your day permanently and I’m saying that nicely.” –Kyle Moon
Yellowstone National Park Bear Safety Guidelines:
- Prepare for a bear encounter by carrying bear spray, knowing how to use it and making sure it’s accessible.
- Stay alert.
- Hike or ski in groups of three or more, stay on maintained trails and make noise. Avoid hiking at dusk, dawn or at night.
- Do not run if you encounter a bear.
- Stay 100 yards (91 m) away from black and grizzly bears. Approaching bears within 100 yards is prohibited. Use binoculars, a telescope or telephoto lens to get a closer look.
- Store food, garbage, barbecue grills and other attractants in hard-sided vehicles or bear-proof food storage boxes.
- Report bear sightings and encounters to a park ranger immediately.
- Learn more about bear safety.
Bear spray has proven effective in deterring bears defending cubs and food sources. It can also reduce the number of bears killed by people in self-defense. While firearms are allowed in the park, the discharge of a firearm by visitors is a violation of park regulations.