To be crystal clear, the launching, landing, or operation of uncrewed aircraft is absolutely prohibited in Yellowstone National Park so whoever was behind the controls of this drone spotted hovering over a group of grizzly bears inside the park could face serious consequences if identified.
The following video was taken on May 14, 2026, around 6:30pm near the Grizzly Lake Trailhead along the Grand Loop Road inside Yellowstone National Park. In it you can see a small drone hovering over a family of grizzly bears before suddenly shooting upwards. The bears were apparently spooked by the tiny device and took off running.
Yellowstone National Park officials are aware of the incident are investigating. The drone pilot is still at large:
Operating drones has been illegal in all U.S. National Parks since 2014 due to wildlife harassment and safety complaints. Violators face penalties of up to $5,000 and six months in jail. Despite these rules, National Park Service officials note a rising trend in illegal drone use, which they attribute to the growing affordability and availability of consumer drones.
Why did the NPS restrict uncrewed aircraft?
The National Park Service embraces many activities in national parks because they enhance visitor experiences with the iconic natural, historic and cultural landscapes in our care. However, due to serious concerns about the negative impact that flying uncrewed aircraft can have for safety of visitors, staff, and wildlife, they have been restricted.
- If the uncrewed aircraft pursues or harasses wildlife or creates an intentional disturbance of wildlife nesting, breeding, or other activities, the user could be cited for a violation of 36 C.F.R. § 2.2.
- If the user of the uncrewed aircraft knowingly or recklessly creates a risk of public alarm or nuisance by causing noise that was unreasonable under the circumstances or by creating a hazardous or physically offensive condition, the user could be cited for disorderly conduct under 36 C.F.R. § 2.34.
- 36 C.F.R. § 2.12(a)(3) prohibits, in non-developed areas, operating a device powered by a portable motor or engine, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.
