In May, someone filed a complaint abouta lack of trained Grizzlies.
Andlast August, several tourists stuck their hands in a hot spring.
Fortunately, it wasnt the same one thatdissolved a man in 2016.
Credit:Daniel Ribar/Travel + Leisure
I just want us to respect the environment and ourselves while enjoying the worlds first national park.
And remember, in the wise words of Jellystones lovable Yogi, be smarter than the average bear.
If youre driving a rental car or an RV, familiarize yourself with the vehicle.
Kean Christensen
Unless posted otherwise, the speed limit in Yellowstone is 45 miles per hour.
My friend, Yellowstone guide and photographerBo Welden, also recommends being extra cautious around wildlife jams.
Bear cubs, mother badgers, wolf pups, and other wildlife have all been killed by distracted drivers.
Kean Christensen
But most of the time, youll get a sighting with little shoulder.
In that case, its OK to pull over.
check that all four tires are over the white line so cars can safely pass.
Kean Christensen
Cant find the room?
If wildlife moves closer, theyll ask you to return to your vehicle.
The bison calf later had to be euthanized because it was habituated to humans.
That jumps up to 100 yards for bears and wolves.
And thats just a baseline.
All these are signs that the animals stress level is rising, and you better back up.
Because it has so much wildlife, its not one of our mostpet-friendly national parks.
According to the NPS, any domestic animal caught bothering wildlife can be put down.
You also dont want your pet to introduce a disease or become prey themselves.
Hike Without Bear Spray
Bug spray is optional.
Still, I swear 90 percent of the tourists I see on the trails arent packing.
I take big issue with this because its not treating the resource with respect, says Welden.
Not only does bear spray keep us safe, but it also keeps bears safe.
Whether they attack defensively or offensively, if theyre sprayed, it encourages their fear of humans.
And thats a good thing!
While TSA doesnt allow bear spray in checked or carry-on luggage, most park shops sell or rent it.
Share Your Food
Guard your trail mix, especially the M&Ms, with your life!
And its not just the top of the food chain you better not feed.
Sloppy picnic areas attract small rodents, which draw in coyotes and bears, explains Welden.
