It is understandable why hikers can become distracted while absorbing the stunning landscapes of Yellowstone National Park but its important to always maintain situational awareness when navigating terrain populated by apex predators.
Yellowstone does not guarantee the safety of hikers but there are several ways to protect yourself while sharing the park’s vast 2.2 million acres of pristine wilderness with its resident wildlife. These precautionary measures include avoiding carcasses, staying on maintained trails, hiking during daylight hours and most importantly being alert at all times.
Thankfully this pair of hikers who unwittingly walked within 20 yards of Yellowstone wolves did not suffer any negative consequences but it is unnerving to know that they were in such close proximity and completely oblivious to their presence.
The woman who took the video met up with the hikers afterwards and asked them if they had any idea of how close they had gotten. This was their response:
“I think the best part of this entire encounter was when the hikers walked back around the trail and I asked them if they had seen any animals and they both said no they hadn’t seen anything and I said are you sure about that and they both kind of laughed and said well yeah, we’re sure why, and then I showed them the video and they could not believe what was right there in front of them.”
As the weather warms and tourists begin pouring into National Park’s across the country, it is important to respect these lands teeming with diverse wildlife and always be alert to potential dangers. Learn more about Yellowstone National Park safety below.
Yellowstone National Park Wolf Safety Guidelines:
Wolves are not normally a danger to people, unless they become habituated to their presence and food (there has never been an attack in Yellowstone). Two habituated wolves have been killed in the park. Help us protect wolves in Yellowstone by:
- Remaining at least 100 yards away when watching or photographing them.
- Telling a ranger if you see wolves near developed areas or approaching people.
- Keeping your dog leashed at all times when it’s outside a vehicle.
If you’re concerned about a wolf because it’s too close or not showing any fear of people, stand tall and hold your ground. If the wolf approaches you, wave your arms, yell, and flare your jacket. If that doesn’t discourage it, throw something at it or use bear spray. Group up with other people, continue waving and yelling, and tell a ranger as soon as possible.
Do not handle wolf scat: it may contain tapeworm eggs that can cause hydatid disease in humans.
