6 Mistakes to Avoid in Yellowstone National Park, According to a Local

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Author

Nicholas Shelton
September 18, 2024

Here’s a fun travel fact: Covering over 3,400 square miles (8,900 square kilometers), Yellowstone is larger than the states of Rhode Island and Delaware combined, making it a vast playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Today’s Itinerary:

  • Travel Trivia

  • 6 Mistakes to Avoid in Yellowstone National Park, According to a Local

  • The World's Most Affordable Places to See the Northern Lights

  • All the Travel News You Need

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Travel Trivia

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PHOTO: Daniel Ribar/Travel + Leisure

While some might have their first theme park experiences at Disneyland, Yellowstone National Park serves as the go-to "theme park" for many, offering a thrilling encounter with Mother Nature rather than Mickey Mouse. Located just an hour from the Beartooth Pass, which leads to Yellowstone's northeast entrance, the park remains a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike.

Unfortunately, the term "touron" has gained popularity due to various misadventures in the park. Headlines such as “Bison gores 83-year-old woman in Yellowstone National Park” highlight incidents where tourists get too close to wildlife. Other offenses include a complaint about a “lack of trained Grizzlies,” a car stuck in snow for six hours due to ignoring road signs, and tourists placing their hands in a hot spring. Such occurrences underscore the need for respecting park regulations and wildlife.

For a safer and more enjoyable visit, here are several key mistakes to avoid:

  1. Driving Too Fast: Traffic-related accidents are the leading cause of injuries and fatalities in Yellowstone. Familiarize oneself with the vehicle, especially if driving a rental car or RV, and adhere to the 45 mph speed limit unless otherwise posted. Exercise extra caution around wildlife jams, as animals might dart between cars unexpectedly.

  2. Parking Improperly: Wildlife sightings often occur in areas with limited shoulder space. In such cases, pull over only if all four tires are beyond the white line to allow safe passage for other vehicles. If space is unavailable, drive slowly ahead and make a legal U-turn to find a proper parking spot. Follow instructions from park rangers or volunteers and return to the vehicle if asked.

  3. Getting Too Close to Wildlife: Encounters with wildlife should be managed with care. Maintain a distance of at least 25 yards from herbivores like moose, elk, deer, and bison, and keep 100 yards away from bears and wolves. Observe the animals for signs of stress, such as stopping their feeding, focusing on your location, or standing up to get a better view. If these signs are evident, increase the distance immediately.

Respecting the environment and adhering to park guidelines ensures a safer experience and preserves Yellowstone's natural beauty for everyone. For further details, consult park regulations and enjoy the wonders of America’s first national park responsibly.

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Attention aurora chasers and northern lights enthusiasts: Solar activity is ramping up this month! Starting in September 2024 and continuing into 2025, the sun will enter its "Solar Maximum" phase, the peak period in its 11-year cycle of solar activity.

So, what does this mean for you? Increased solar activity leads to more frequent geomagnetic storms, which enhance the visibility of auroras. As a result, you can expect to see the northern lights more often and at lower latitudes than usual.

In fact, interest in celestial phenomena has surged by 234% due to this heightened solar activity, according to a study. With rising demand, aurora-viewing trips might become pricier, but there are budget-friendly options available. For instance, Scotland's Isle of Harris offers excellent aurora-watching opportunities with an average hotel cost of about $54 per night, making it a more affordable choice compared to many spots in Iceland and Norway.

To find the best dark sky locations, research nearby Dark Sites or areas with minimal light pollution.

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