Yellowstone National Park is home to the nation’s largest bison population on public land. It is the only place in the United States where bison have lived continuously since prehistoric times, today exhibiting wild behavior like those of their ancient ancestors like congregating during the breeding season to compete for mates.
Yellowstone’s bison population tends to range between 3,500 and 6,000, with the 2024 population estimate sitting at 5,400. The large beasts can be found in many areas throughout the park including near Yellowstone’s several famous hydrothermal features.
Despite their massive size (weighing up to 2,000 pounds) bison are quite agile and can run three times faster than humans. They’re also highly unpredictable. Getting too close can be perceived as a threat and may provoke a dangerous reaction. Even if a bison approaches you, it’s important to move away and maintain a safe distance. Never try to go around or past a bison, even if it’s blocking your path as seen in the video below.
As mentioned, bison are highly unpredictable and can be quite dangerous if threatened. Bison have injured more people in Yellowstone National Park than any other animal. All animals in the park should be given at least 25 yards of space at all times (75 yards for bears and wolves) including bison. Read more on bison safety below.
Yellowstone National Park Bison Safety:
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.
