CASPER, Wyo. — Yellowstone National Park officials are offering tips for driving safely while visiting the park after there were 56 known vehicle–animal collisions in 2022.
Park officials said the collisions included 20 mule deer, 14 elk, 10 bison and six black bears.
To ensure a safe drive and the safety of the park’s wildlife, officials offered the following guidelines:
- Drive cautiously and watch for animals. The park has hazards on the road you are not used to at home, like 2,000-pound bison!
- Follow the speed limit. The speed limit in Yellowstone is 45 mph (73 kph) unless posted otherwise.
- Use extra caution at night. Animal fur absorbs light, making them very difficult to see on roads at night, even while using bright headlights. Slow down when venturing into the park after dark.
- Never park in the road or block traffic. If you need to stop or pull over for any reason, use a pullout and ensure all four vehicle tires are to the right of the white line.
- Know before you go. For details on road closures and up-to-date conditions in the park, check out the park roads page at go.nps.gov/YELLroads.
