The annual elk mating season known as the rut is an incredible time to visit Yellowstone National Park where you can witness dramatic ritual displays by bulls to secure their harem. Mammoth Hot Springs is famous for it’s heavy concentration of elk rut activity, consequently Yellowstone issues specific warning for visitors to the area to be aware of feisty behavior of bull elk during fall rut.
The following chaotic was filmed at Mammoth Hot Springs where two bull elk were joisting for dominance before one turned its attention to a group of onlookers and charged. One man was knocked to the ground and thankfully only suffered minor cuts and bruises.
Viewing Yellowstone’s elk rut in person can be the experience of a lifetime but as evidenced in the video, sometimes tourists can get caught up in the fray. Yellowstone visitors are responsible for their own safety and park policy is to stay at least 25 yards away from elk at all times (during the rut additional space is recommended). To be crystal clear, bull elk can be highly aggressive and will charge cars and people during this time of the year. Be safe, be respectful and give them ample room.
Yellowstone National Park Wildlife Safety Guidelines:
Yellowstone’s scenic wonders are sure to take your breath away: don’t let them take your life. From boiling hot springs to thousands of wild animals, some of the hazards in Yellowstone will be new to you. Protect yourself and the sights you plan to enjoy by following a few simple rules:
- Never approach wildlife
The animals in Yellowstone are wild and unpredictable, no matter how calm they appear to be. The safest (and often best) view of wildlife is from inside a car. Always stay at least 100 yards (91 m) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 m) away from all other animals, including bison and elk. - Stay on boardwalks and trails in thermal areas
Hot springs have injured or killed more people in Yellowstone than any other natural feature. Keep your children close and don’t let them run. - Never feed wildlife
Animals that become dependent on human food may become aggressive toward people and have to be killed. Keep all food, garbage, or other smelly items packed away when not in use. - Never park in the road or block traffic
Use pullouts to watch wildlife and let other cars pass. Stay with your vehicle if you encounter a wildlife jam.
We can’t guarantee your safety in Yellowstone, but these concepts will help you avoid the most common accidents.
Elk Safety
Cow elk are especially fierce and protective around their calves in the spring. Around Mammoth Hot Springs, they often hide calves near cars or buildings. Be cautious when exiting buildings or approaching blind corners. In the fall, bull elk battle for access to cows and challenge other males during the rut. They also charge cars and people who get too close.
- Always stay at least 25 yards (23 m) away from elk.
- In an elk charges, get away! Retreat to shelter in a building or vehicle or behind a tall, sturdy barrier as quickly as possible.
