Grizzly Bears: The Most Iconic Yellowstone Bears
Still listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act, grizzly bears have expanded their habitat in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem by 50%.
In addition, their population has increased to an estimated total of over 1,000 bears as of 2021, when the most recent figures were published. Their numbers dipped as low as 136 back in 1975, so they’ve made a remarkable recovery.
Because of the lore and mystique surrounding this unique species, just about all of the people who visit America’s first national park each year arrive hoping to see these iconic Yellowstone bears.
It’s certainly not as easy as it once was to spot grizzly bears in Yellowstone, but if you’re in the right place at the right time, you could catch a glimpse of a Yellowstone grizzly. But before you go, make sure you review these critical Yellowstone bear safety tips.
Here’s our list of the top places to spot Yellowstone bears, including the famed grizzly bears.
1. Lamar Valley
Valleys and meadows are the best places to spot Yellowstone bears. And what better place to start looking for grizzly bears in Yellowstone than the area known as “America’s Serengeti”?
Located in the northeast corner of the park between the Tower/Roosevelt area and the Northeast Entrance, the Lamar Valley is s superb place to see all kinds of animals. You’ll find bison, elk, and moose here.
Of course, animals like these attract predators such as wolves and grizzly bears, so the Lamar Valley is a prime place to see these more elusive Yellowstone residents.
Before we go any further on our list of great places to spot Yellowstone bears, two important notes:
- Never approach wildlife in Yellowstone.
- Always view wildlife from a safe distance.
- For elk, bison, and all Yellowstone wildlife, maintain a safe distance of at least 25 yards.
- But for bears and wolves, never get within 100 yards. Remember, these are wild, dangerous animals, and they can kill you.
Now that we’ve covered a bit of safety, let’s have a look at other great places to see grizzly bears in Yellowstone National Park.
2. Gardner’s Hole
Located west of Bunsen Peak, this four-mile basin was named for Johnson Gardner, a trapper who frequented the area in the 1800s.
There’s a campground named Gardner’s Hole on the Gardner River. It’s not far west and south of Mammoth Hot Springs.
This is definitely an off-the-beaten path destination, so be prepared to hike in or take a horseback ride. There are great options for trail rides in this area, the guides can help you stay safe in bear country.
3. Hayden Valley
In many respects, Hayden Valley is similar to the Lamar Valley in that it’s a wide, open area that draws several species such as bison, elk, deer, and others.
In turn, these species attract bears and wolves, both of which can be seen by those with a keen eye — and, ideally, a spotting scope — in Hayden Valley.
Hayden Valley has plenty of pullouts and small parking areas along the road, so it’s easy to pull off and get out of your vehicle to look for animals. Keep in mind, though, that if you see wildlife that’s too close for comfort, you should stay in your vehicle to avoid a confrontation.
Grizzly bears are most active at night, when we can’t see them. But there are opportunities at dawn and dusk to spot Yellowstone bears, so these are the best times of day to be in the Hayden Valley.
4. East Entrance Road
If you’re driving through Yellowstone National Park, you’ll notice that in many areas, there isn’t anything to see. The road is enclosed by a wall of pine trees on both sides for miles, and you won’t have much luck spotting wildlife in these areas.
However, the road between the East Entrance and Fishing Bridge is flanked in many areas by open meadows, streams, and small lakes, which are prime areas to see Yellowstone bears and other incredible species like moose or elk.
Because most Yellowstone visitors spend a lot of time in their vehicles, you want to take advantage of every opportunity to spot grizzly bears and other animals. Encourage the other members of your party to keep their eyes open and look for Yellowstone bears, especially in meadows and valleys.
This is a good example of why it pays to drive slowly as you journey through Yellowstone National Park. It’s just one of the top tips for people driving through Yellowstone.
5. Dunraven Pass
This mountain pass is along the park’s Grand Loop Road, located between Canyon and Tower. The pass is named for The 4th Earl of Dunraven and Mount-Earl, who visited Yellowstone on a huntine expedition in 1874.
It’s the highest pass in Yellowstone National Park, and since Yellowstone bears tend to frequent higher elevations during the scorching summer months, Dunraven Pass is a fantastic place to look for grizzly bears.
If you’re serious about seeing Yellowstone bears, don’t just drive through the pass. There are plenty of excellent hiking trails in this area, so take the chance to get out and explore Yellowstone the way it’s meant to be seen.
Keep in mind that Yellowstone is wild, and you’re responsible for your own safety. It’s also vital that you follow park rules and regulations to preserve natural resources and avoid negatively impacting wildlife like Yellowstone bears.
Check out this list of Yellowstone bear management areas, which contains information about closures and restrictions.
