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Every year, some visitors take unnecessary risks that endanger both themselves and the park’s wildlife. In some cases, these actions have even led to the injury of guests and the death of animals. To help you enjoy your trip safely and responsibly, here are three important rules to remember in Yellowstone.
1. Don’t stray off the boardwalks
Yellowstone’s boardwalks are there for a reason. Beneath the surface, boiling water and fragile ground can collapse without warning. Leaving the designated paths is not only dangerous for you, but it can also damage the delicate thermal features that the park is famous for. Staying on the boardwalks protects both visitors and the park’s unique landscapes.
2. Don’t approach or try to touch wildlife
From bison to bears, the animals in Yellowstone are wild and unpredictable. Each year, visitors are injured because they get too close, hoping for a better photo or a thrilling experience. Approaching wildlife stresses the animals, can provoke dangerous behavior, and in some cases results in the animal being euthanized. Keep a safe distance and use binoculars or zoom lenses instead.
3. Don’t walk or touch hot springs
The colorful hot springs in Yellowstone may look inviting, but they are scalding hot and often acidic. Falling or jumping into one can cause severe, life-threatening burns within seconds. Even throwing objects into the springs can permanently damage them. These geothermal features are natural wonders to observe from a distance, not swimming pools.
By following these simple rules, you’ll help protect yourself, the wildlife, and the incredible natural features that make Yellowstone so special.
The best tourist season for the park is from June to September. The majority of Yellowstone Park is located above an altitude of 1800 meters (without altitude sickness), and the climate is unstable. It can rain or snow in any month of the year, so visitors should bring rain gear and warm clothing regardless of when they come.
June/July/August: The daytime temperature is around 25°C, and it cools down at night, with some high-altitude areas dropping below 0°C. Most roads and facilities are open. Weather forecast: check here. May and September/October: The daytime temperature ranges from 0°C to 20°C, and the night temperature ranges from -5°C to -20°C. Snow is common, and some roads may be temporarily closed while some facilities are still open
Winter (November to April): The daytime temperature ranges from -20°C to -5°C, and the night temperature is below 0°C. The historical lowest temperature record is -54°C. Only the north gate of the park is open.
We strongly recommend that you purchase a travel insurance policy that includes trip interruption/cancellation coverage. You will receive information about travel insurance coverage with your trip confirmation materials.
For travelers on Nomad Unlimited Adventures, trip insurance is optional and comes at an additional cost. We strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which may reimburse you for non-refundable trip costs. We recommend USI for travel insurance, to secure a care-free trip.
Yellowstone is one of the largest national parks in the United States, and there is a lot of ground to cover. Occasionally weather conditions, seasonal road closures, or factors outside our control may affect access to certain areas or attractions. When this happens your guide will adapt the day and take you somewhere else worth seeing. Your guide knows the park well and will make sure your day is still memorable, whatever the conditions.