Yellowstone National Park spans a massive 2.2 million acres of breathtaking, intact ecosystem where wild megafauna roam completely free. While witnessing a grizzly bear or a massive bison herd is a bucket-list experience, the park has strict rules when it comes to keeping a respectable distance away from wildlife while observing them and unfortunately folks need to be constantly reminded to keep away.
Its an unfortunate fact that too many tourists disregard park policies every year, putting themselves in severe danger just to get up close and personal with the resident wildlife. Case in point, this woman who broke away from a boardwalk crowded with fellow tourists to approach a bison. The woman was quickly reprimanded by a nearby park ranger and possibly issued a citation for the infraction:
While grizzly bears might be thought of as the most feared species to encounter inside Yellowstone, bison have actually injured more people in the park than any other animal. Bison are unpredictable animals that weigh up to 2,000 pounds (largest land animals in North America) and can run 35 mph. If a bison perceives your presence as a threat, they can quickly launch an attack and the consequences can be incredibly severe.
If you plan on heading to Yellowstone this summer remember whether you are deep in the backcountry or stuck on the side of the road, park rangers require visitors to maintain very specific boundaries. You must stay at least 100 yards, or the length of a football field, away from bears and wolves. For all other wildlife, including bison and elk, you are required to maintain a minimum distance of 25 yards. If an animal moves closer to you, it is your responsibility to back away and give them space.
Learn more about bison safety at Yellowstone National Park below.
Yellowstone 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.
