Yellowstone National Park is much less popular in the winter than it is in the summer, with limited vehicle access and closed services going hand in hand with winter weather. But that doesn’t mean you should avoid visiting altogether. Tourists can still explore the park’s incredible hydrothermal features, enjoy snowcoach or snowmobile tours, and potentially spot some of Yellowstone’s incredible wildlife with much more limited crowds.
The park’s 3,000 to 6,000 bison migrate towards lower elevations during the winter months, avoiding deep snowpacks and grazing where they can. This can mean an increase in the animals along and on the park’s open and much less crowded roads, leading to remarkable viewing experiences for visitors. Such was the case for this group, who spotted a bison blocking the road in front of their coach tour.
Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone National Park than any other animal. So while this video is incredibly cute and undoubtedly a cool experience, it’s always important to remember that bison should be given at least 25 yards of space (75 feet) at all times. Additionally, wildlife should always be given the right of way on the roads.
Yellowstone National Park Bison Safety Guidelines:
Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone than any other animal. Bison are unpredictable and can run three times faster than humans. Always stay at least 25 yards (23 m) away from bison.
- Give bison space when they are near a campsite, trail, boardwalk, parking lot, or in a developed area. If need be, turn around and go the other way to avoid interacting with a wild animal in close proximity.
- Approaching bison threatens them, and they may respond by bluff charging, head bobbing, pawing, bellowing, or snorting. These are warning signs that you are too close and that a charge is imminent.
- Do not stand your ground. Immediately walk or run away from the animal. Spray bear spray as you are moving away if the animal follows you.