Yellowstone National Park is home to some 10,000–20,000 elk during the summer, typically spread throughout six to seven different herds. They’re the most abundant large mammal found in the park and most frequently spotted in Cascade Meadows, Madison Canyon, Lamar Valley, and around Mammoth Hot Springs.
Like every other animal in Yellowstone, elk are wild and unpredictable. They can be fiercely protective of their young or their harem, especially during the fall mating season or the springtime calving season. As the elk calving season has begun in the area, Yellowstone National Park is warning visitors to be aware of their surroundings and stay alert, looking around corners before exiting buildings or walking around blind spots.
“Elk calving season has begun in Yellowstone. Be aware of your surroundings!” -Yellowstone National Park
Cow elk are significantly more agressive toward people during the calving season and may run toward or kick those who get too close. Visitors should be extra cautious during early morning and evening hours when it’s harder to see wildlife, and people should always stay at least 25 yards away from all elk at all times.
If an elk runs at you, your best option is to run away. Get into your vehicle or behind a tall, study barrier as fast as possible, and understand that attacks can be unprovoked and unpredictable. Read more on Yellowstone National Park safety below.
Yellowstone National Park Safety:
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. See below for more great advice, and be sure to review our Laws & Policies and tips for backcountry travel.
