Lamar Valley lies in the northeast corner of Yellowstone National Park, along the Lamar River. Its broad grasslands, rolling hills and mountain ridges make the drive scenic even when wildlife is hard to spot. The valley is among the park’s best places to look for bison, pronghorn, elk, coyotes, eagles, bears and wolves. Pullouts let you stop to scan the open slopes and river; bring binoculars, since animals may be far from the road. Dawn and evening are the strongest times for wildlife activity.
A valley in Yellowstone’s Northern Range
Lamar Valley follows the Lamar River in the northeastern corner of Yellowstone National Park. The open grasslands and sagebrush slopes contrast with the rugged peaks and ridges nearby. The road through the valley passes through a landscape noted for its variety, with roadside pullouts where you can pause to take in the river and hills.
The area is often called America’s Serengeti because large animals are relatively easy to see across its open terrain. Bison herds are a familiar sight, while pronghorn and elk graze in the grasslands. Coyotes and eagles may also appear, and the valley is one of the park’s better places to look for wolves and bears. Wildlife sightings are never certain, so take time to scan rather than expecting animals beside the road.
Looking for wildlife
Animals are most active around dawn and dusk, making those useful times to drive through the valley. Early morning is especially popular with people hoping to spot wolves. Bring binoculars or a spotting scope: wildlife can be some distance away, and a closer look from the roadside is not guaranteed. A camera with a long lens can help, too.
Pullouts provide places to stop and observe. If several cars have gathered at a pullout, wildlife may be nearby, but keep your attention on the road as you approach. Bison sometimes cross the road or graze close to it, so a drive can slow while animals move through. Allow time for these pauses, and don’t count on being able to pull over at every point where you see something; roadside stopping space is limited.
Wolves and the valley’s history
Gray wolves are among Lamar Valley’s best-known animals. Wolves were absent from Yellowstone’s ecosystem after the last pack was killed in 1926. In 1995, 31 wolves from Canada were reintroduced to the park. The valley later became known for wolf packs, including Junction Butte and Lamar Canyon.
Wolves remain wild animals, and sightings depend on luck and patience. If you hope to spot one, arrive early, bring binoculars and look across the open slopes rather than focusing only on the road. Bison, bears and other animals also use this landscape, so keep watch in every direction.
Planning a drive
Lamar Valley is in a remote part of the park, near the Northeast Entrance. Services are limited, so bring basic food and drinks before heading out. The valley’s pullouts make short stops possible, but they are not plentiful; plan to use the designated stopping areas rather than stopping wherever wildlife appears.
The drive is worthwhile for the scenery even if animals stay out of view. The river, broad meadows and mountain backdrop change in the light around sunrise and sunset. In winter, the road between Mammoth and the Northeast Entrance is noted as the route that remains open, passing through Lamar Valley. Check current park road conditions before setting out, since the available information here does not give current access details.
FAQ
Where is Lamar Valley?
It is in the northeastern corner of Yellowstone National Park, along the Lamar River and near the Northeast Entrance.
What wildlife can you see in Lamar Valley?
The valley is known for bison, pronghorn, elk, coyotes, eagles, bears and wolves. Sightings are not guaranteed.
When is the best time to visit Lamar Valley for wildlife?
Go around dawn or early evening, when animals are more active.
What should I bring to Lamar Valley?
Bring binoculars or a camera with a long lens to look for animals at a distance, plus food and drinks because services are limited.
