Terra Nova Cabins Blog

When it comes to wildlife watching, few places can compare to West Yellowstone. Located just outside the entrance to Yellowstone National Park, this small town is surrounded by some of the most iconic and diverse wildlife in the world. From bears and bison to wolves and elk, there’s something for every animal lover to see and experience.

But wildlife watching isn’t as simple as just showing up and expecting to see animals roaming around. It takes patience, knowledge, and a little bit of luck to spot these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you get the most out of your wildlife watching adventure in West Yellowstone.

Guided Tours

One of the best ways to see wildlife in the area is to take a guided tour. There are many companies that offer wildlife tours, ranging from half-day excursions to multi-day expeditions. These tours are led by experienced guides who know the best places to look for different animals, as well as the safest ways to view them.

Some of the most popular tours include:

• Yellowstone Wildlife Safari: This full-day tour takes you through Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley, one of the best places in the park to see wildlife. You’ll have the chance to see wolves, bison, elk, and more.
• Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center: This center in West Yellowstone is a great place to learn about and see grizzly bears and wolves up close. The center also offers daily educational programs and demonstrations.
• Wildlife Expeditions of Teton Science Schools: This company offers both half-day and full-day tours that focus on finding and viewing wildlife in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. You’ll have the chance to see bison, moose, bears, and more.

Tips for Wildlife Watching

If you’re going wildlife watching on your own, there are some important tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to keep a safe distance from all animals. Yellowstone National Park requires visitors to stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards away from all other animals. This not only keeps you safe, but it also ensures that the animals are able to go about their natural behaviors without interference.

Other tips to keep in mind include:

• Be patient: Wildlife watching is all about being patient and waiting for the animals to come to you. Bring a good pair of binoculars or a spotting scope to help you see animals from a distance.
• Stay quiet: Loud noises and sudden movements can scare animals away, so it’s important to stay quiet and still when observing them.
• Visit at the right time: Different animals are more active at different times of the day and year. For example, bears are more active in the early morning and late evening, while elk are more active in the fall during mating season.
• Stay on designated trails: It’s important to stay on designated trails and boardwalks when wildlife watching. Not only does this protect the animals, but it also keeps you safe from any potential hazards.

By following these tips and taking a guided tour, you’ll have the best chance of seeing some of the incredible wildlife that calls West Yellowstone home.

At Terra Nova Cabins, we offer comfortable and cozy accommodations for your wildlife watching adventure. Book your stay with us and experience the beauty and wonder of Yellowstone National Park.