Yellowstone National Park shares top 10 things to know when visiting

Yellowstone National Park shares thetop 10 things to know when visiting the park and to help protect the park for generations to come.

When traveling to the park this summer, it’s important to plan ahead to protect yourself and the park. With 2.2 million acres to explore, visitors have many opportunities to observe wildlife, explore geothermal areas that contain half the world’s active geysers, and view geologic wonders like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River.

Below are the top 10 things to know when visiting YNP this summer:

1. No Vehicle Reservations Required
   Vehicle reservations are not required to enter the park – just a park entrance pass. Save time at entrance stations by purchasing your pass online [nps.gov] before you arrive. Keep in mind that summer is busy, so be prepared for crowds at popular areas and lines at the entrance gates, in construction areas, and at roadside wildlife sightings. Please be patient and enjoy your visit.
   
2. Check Road Statuses
   Most park roads open to regular vehicles in mid-April and close to wheeled vehicles (cars, vans, motorcycles, etc.) in early November. Weather may necessitate closures at any time, however, so check the park roads [nps.gov]page for more information about current park road status and traffic delays due to road improvement projects.
   
3. Plan Ahead
   All campgrounds and lodging require a reservation and are usually fully well in advance of your trip. Operating hours and service levels can change with little notice. Check the latest information before coming to the park:
   Operating Hours [nps.gov]
   Current Conditions [nps.gov]
   Places to Go [nps.gov]
   Things to Do [nps.gov]
   Boat Inspections and Permits [nps.gov]
   
4. Give Wildlife Room
   Wild animals are dangerous if you get too close! People have been injured or killed by bears, bison, and elk. Always maintain a minimum of 25 yards (23 m) from all wildlife and 100 yards (91 m) from bears and wolves. Learn how to watch wildlife safety [nps.gov] and travel safely in bear country [nps.gov].
   
5. Drive and Park Responsibly
   Observe posted speed limits and use pullouts to watch wildlife, take pictures, and let other cars pass. Do not stop your vehicle on the road. When pulling over, be sure to park with all four tires fully to the right of the white line.
   
6. Stay on Boardwalks
   People have been severely injured or killed [nps.gov] by breaking through the thin ground in thermal basins or falling into hot springs.
   
7. Enhance Your Experience
   Download the free National Park Service app [nps.gov] (and offline content) before you arrive in the park.
   
8. Expect Limited Connectivity
   Don't be surprised if you can't receive calls or texts, even in the few areas where you might have cell reception [nps.gov].
   
9. Prepare for Weather Changes
   Unpredictability characterizes Yellowstone's weather. Expect big temperature swings, rain, or snow during every month of the year. No matter when you visit, bring a warm jacket, rain gear, and lots of layers. Check the current weather conditions [nps.gov].
   
10. Make the Most of Your Trip
    Make it the trip of a lifetime by attending a ranger program [nps.gov], exploring the Yellowstone Tribal Heritage Center [yellowstone.org], participating in the free Junior Ranger program [nps.gov], or checking out any of the special events [nps.gov] happening in Yellowstone this year!