YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK — With Yellowstone National Park (YNP) now open for the season, the Park is reminding travelers to slow down and to be alert for moving wildlife.
On Monday, May 12, YNP posted on Facebook that traffic accidents are the most common cause of injury and death for visitors in YNP.
YNP offers safety suggestions when traveling in the park:
- Drive cautiously and watch for animals. YNP has hazards on the road, including 2,000-pound bison. Other road hazards include soft shoulders, potholes and frost heaves.
- Use extra caution at night. Animal fur absorbs light, making them very difficult to see on roads at night even while using bright headlights. Slow down, especially on curves in the road, when venturing into the park during dark.
- Driving while drowsy significantly increases the risk of car accidents, There are over 450 miles of roads in the park so long traveling days are common. Be sure to get adequate sleep before driving, take breaks and alternate with other legal drivers.
- Never park a vehicle in the road or block traffic. Use a pullout and ensure all four tires are to the right of the white line if stopping for any reason. Stay with the vehicle if stopped in a wildlife jam.
- Follow the speed limit. The speed limit in YNP is 45 mph (73 kph) unless posted otherwise.
- Drive with patience. Winding roads and traffic often make drive times much longer than expected.
For details on road closures and delays in the park, check the park roads webpage.
