Yellowstone National Park’s Lamar Valley has open spaces that allow visitors to see many animal species from off-road viewing areas. Look for numerous bison, which some people call buffalo. You can also see bears, longhorn antelope, wolves, elk and other species here. Park guests visit Lamar Valley often just to see wildlife. Don’t be surprised if you’re caught in a traffic jam waiting for animals to cross from one side of the road to the other.
The valley is off the Grand Loop Road beginning at Tower-Roosevelt. The road extends for 29 miles (47 kilometers) to the neighboring state of Montana. Explore all three sections, with the first being the area between Yellowstone River Bridge and Lamar River Bridge. Look for wildlife soon upon entering this part of the road. Grizzly bears and wolves often make appearances binoculars or spotting scopes help for viewing these animals safely.
The second part is the wide expanse of Lamar Valley formed by glaciers during the Ice Age. The Lamar Buffalo Ranch, a national historic site located in the area, has the mission of conserving this noble animal. Drive along the last part of the road, which becomes less vast and more mountainous. River otters frolic in Soda Butte Creek, which runs alongside the road. Go hiking through Ice Box Canyon.
In colder months, the area has another interesting look when animals have grown their winter coats. Unlike other parts of the park, the road through Lamar Valley remains open from Mammoth Hot Springs to Montana, as it’s also used as a school bus route.
Along your drive, if you see a group of people looking in the same direction, an animal is likely visible. Have your binoculars ready. Follow park guidelines for safe viewing distances from the large animals here.
Pay the entrance fee for Yellowstone National Park to access the valley. Find Lamar Valley in the park’s northeastern section on the Northeast Entrance Road, which is accessed from either Grand Loop Road or Montana. During your travels you’ll begin to understand why Lamar Valley is often referred to as America’s Serengeti.
