Grizzlies and Wildlife of Hayden and Lamar Valleys

In spring and early summer, grizzlies there hunt newborn bison and elk calves. In Lamar Valley, the bears follow the big grazing herds that spend the summer there, and black bears share the same ground.

Hayden Valley sits six miles north of Fishing Bridge Junction, between the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Yellowstone Lake, so it fits easily into a driving loop. An arm of Yellowstone Lake once covered the valley, leaving fine lake sediments beneath glacial till from a retreat about 13,000 years ago. That till holds a range of grain sizes, including clay, over a thin layer of lake sediment, so water drains poorly and the valley stays marshy with few trees.

Look for coyotes and foxes in Hayden Valley, and watch the river for ducks, geese and American white pelicans. Shorebirds work the mud flats at Alum Creek, while bald eagles, northern harriers and sandhill cranes hunt overhead.

Far out in the park's remote northeastern corner, Lamar Valley ranks among the main summer ranges for bison and elk, and those herds draw predators. Wolves have made it a destination for wolf watchers ever since their return to Yellowstone in 1995. Bighorn sheep and pronghorn also turn up here. Nearby, the historic Lamar Buffalo Ranch marks where bison were rescued from near extinction.

In Hayden Valley, bison are often in view from spring through the fall rut, sometimes grazing right beside the road. Stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards from bison, elk and all other animals. Never approach or surround wildlife on foot. Every year, visitors who get too close are hurt.