YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK — Summer in Yellowstone National Park (YNP) is notoriously busy, and Fourth of July weekend will be even busier.
YNP released a statement on Thursday, June 26, with tips on how to explore and enjoy the park over the holiday weekend.
“Please pack your patience,” the statement reads. “Expect crowds at popular areas and lines at entrance stations, construction areas and roadside wildlife sightings.”
YNP reminds visitors that the fire danger is currently “high” — which means that wildfires can start easily and spread quickly — and that fireworks do not have a place in the national park.
YNP urges visitors to follow other common-sense fire rules, like “flood the flames” by making sure all embers are out. Never leave a fire unattended, and always make sure it’s cold to the touch before abandoning. Campfires are only permitted within established fire rings in campgrounds and some backcountry campsites. Current fire conditions and activity in the park can be viewed online.
“Leave fireworks at home,” YNP said in the statement. “Even just a spark can ignite a wildfire.”
Drive and park responsibly.
Entrance reservations are not required to get into YNP — just a park pass is needed. When driving in the park, observe posted speed limits and do not stop in the roadway. Use pullouts to watch wildlife, take pictures or let other cars pass. Make sure that all four tires are fully to the right of the white line when pulling over. Be responsible and do not drive under the influence.
Check status of park roads.
Road improvement projects or bad weather can cause temporary closures and delays. Stay informed about road conditions in YNP online, by calling (307) 344-2117 or by texting “82190” to 888-777 for text message updates.
Give wildlife room.
People have been killed or injured by animals in the park. It’s the responsibility of visitors to follow safety regulations and remain a safe distance from wildlife while viewing. Humans must stay at least 25 yards from all wildlife, and 100 yards from bears, wolves and mountains lions. If an animal moves closer, back away to maintain these safe distances.
Stay on boardwalks.
Visitors who travel off boardwalks can be severely injured or killed if they break through the thin ground in thermal basins or fall into hot springs. Earlier this month, YNP onlookers watched a bison fall to its death into Grand Prismatic hot spring. According to YNP’s Flickr account, it was an “unfortunate example of what can happen by wandering off boardwalk in thermal areas.”
Plan ahead.
All campgrounds and lodging in YNP require a reservation and fill up a long time in advance. Operating hours and service levels can change with little notice. Make sure to check the current information before arriving to the park.
Prepare for weather changes.
YNP’s weather is unpredictable. Temperature swings, rain and snow are possible any day of the year. Hot and dry weather is expected during the summer months. Check weather conditions ahead of time, but still always bring water, a warm jacket, rain gear and layers.
