Overview
Lamar Valley is renowned for its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes. It is one of the best places in Yellowstone National Park to see animals in their natural habitat, including bison, wolves, and elk.
Lamar Valley is a critical habitat for wildlife and offers some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Yellowstone National Park.
Location
Address
NE Entrance Road, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Neighborhood: Lamar Valley
Coordinates
44.901600, -110.238700
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
May to September
Best Time of Day
Early morning and late afternoon
Animals are most active and the light is best for photography.
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Variable, can be cold and warm
- • Wildlife births
- • Spring green landscapes
summer
Warm to hot
- • All park facilities open
- • Long daylight hours
autumn
Cool, can be cold
- • Fall colors
- • Elk rutting season
winter
Cold, snowy
- • Snowy landscapes
- • Wolves and bison in snow
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check park alerts for road closures
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Dress in layers
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate, some walking and standing required
- • Stay at least 100 yards from wolves and bears
- • Do not approach wildlife
Medical facilities: Nearest medical facility is in Gardiner, MT, about 1 hour away
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit/Debit cards
Currency
USD
Typical Costs
Dress Code
No specific dress code, but appropriate for outdoor activities, Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, Hiking boots or sturdy shoes, Clothing that disturbs wildlife
Booking Tips
- • Not required, but plan ahead for lodging
- • Yellowstone National Park official website
- • Varies by lodging and tour operator
- • Not applicable
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Yellowstone National Park App
Size: 100 MB
Features: Park map, Wildlife sightings, Event calendar, Audio tours
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers, some lodges
Charging Stations: Visitor centers, some lodges
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)
Distance: 90 miles
Travel Time: 2 hours
From City Center
Distance: Not applicable, as it's a national park
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Lamar Valley is a magical place where you can see wildlife in their natural habitat.
Historical Significance: The valley is named after Lucius Quinctius Cincinnatus Lamar, a jurist and politician.
Insider Tips
- The best wildlife viewing is often early in the morning
- Some pullouts are better for specific types of wildlife
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the nearby Roosevelt Lodge for a historic dining experience
- • Ask rangers for the latest wildlife sightings
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Soda Butte Cone
Best Time: Sunrise
Tips: Capture the cone with the rising sun behind it
Result: Stunning landscape shot
Lamar Valley Overlook
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide shots of the valley
Result: Breathtaking valley views
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Roosevelt Lodge
Distance: 5 miles
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Historic Site
Tower Fall
Distance: 10 miles
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Waterfall
Mammoth Hot Springs
Distance: 20 miles
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Geothermal Area
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Arrive early for best wildlife sightings"
- "Bring a telephoto lens"
- "Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance"
Contact Information
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Available Tours
86
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$35 per vehicle