Yellowstone Safety Guide Official Ranger Guidelines (2025)
⚠️ Important: Yellowstone is a wild, unpredictable environment. Following these official guidelines could save your life.
Wildlife Safety: Avoiding Dangerous Encounters
Yellowstone is home to over 67 mammal species, including grizzly bears, wolves, and bison herds. Follow these official NPS guidelines:
- Bear Safety: Carry EPA-approved bear spray (we recommend Counter Assault), hike in groups, and make noise
- Distance Requirements: Stay 100 yards from bears/wolves, 25 yards from all other wildlife
- Bison Safety: These 2,000 lb animals can run 3x faster than humans - never approach!
Geothermal Area Safety
Yellowstone's 10,000+ hydrothermal features require extreme caution:
- Stay on boardwalks - over 20 fatalities have occurred from thermal burns
- Never touch hot water - temperatures exceed 400°F
- Watch children closely near all thermal features
Essential Safety Gear
Our ranger-recommended equipment list:
- Bear spray ($50-70) - required for backcountry hiking
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
- Weather-appropriate layers - temperatures can swing 40°F in a day
- First aid kit with blister treatment
Emergency Procedures
If you encounter an emergency:
- Dial 911 for immediate assistance
- Medical clinics at Mammoth (year-round) and Old Faithful (seasonal)
- Download offline maps via the NPS app before arrival
Book a Guided Tour for Maximum Safety
Let our certified guides handle the risks while you enjoy Yellowstone's wonders stress-free!
Last updated: July 2025. Information verified against official NPS sources.