Yellowstone National Park is the ultimate outdoor playground.

This 3,472 square mile geological paradise attracts people from all over the world. The combination of geothermal wonders, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife makes Yellowstone National Park a globally significant and ecologically rich area.  We highly encourage every Big Sky visitor to include a day-trip to explore Yellowstone National Park during their stay; an opportunity you won't want to miss. 

While everyone raves about the must-do experiences in the park, let's dive into the lesser-known but equally crucial side—the things NOT to do in Yellowstone National Park.

Every year it seems that more wild tales unfold from Yellowstone, making headlines and sparking a buzz on social media. From baby bison in cars to hot spring mishaps, animal encounters, and selfie sagas gone awry, the list of unforgettable stories continues to captivate and caution.

We want all of our visitors to relish their time in Yellowstone while ensuring the well-being of wildlife and landscapes. When you explore Yellowstone National Park, prioritizing safety is not just important; it's imperative. To maximize your enjoyment responsibly, there are essential rules and guidelines that we kindly ask you to adhere to during your visit.

 

Man hiking in YNP

 

Your Yellowstone Adventure Don'ts

  1. 🚫 Never approach (or pet) wildlife—let them roam free.
  2. 🚫 Never go into the hot springs or geysers—admire from a safe distance.
  3. 🚫 Never leave the bear spray in the car—be bear aware.
  4. 🚫 Never stray from the boardwalks—preserve the geothermal wonders.
  5. 🚫 Never feed the animals—keep the wild, wild.
  6. 🚫 Never stop in the road to take pictures --- pull over in the appropriate places. 
  7. 🚫 Never fly your drone—let the eagles soar.
  8. 🚫 Never forget the rules of leave no trace—leave nature as you found it.

As a rule of thumb: remember to recreate responsibly, read all signs, follow the rules, and treat the park and animals with respect at all times.  With everyone doing their part, Yellowstone can remain a national treasure for many generations to come. 

 
 

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