Hayden Valley

Overview

Hayden Valley is a vast, open valley in Yellowstone National Park known for its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife. It is a prime location for spotting bison, bears, and other animals in their natural habitat.

Hayden Valley is one of the most scenic and biodiverse areas in Yellowstone National Park, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe wildlife in a pristine natural setting.

Wildlife Viewing Nature Photography

Location

Address

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Neighborhood: Hayden Valley

Coordinates

44.633400, -110.501700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - Sunset

tuesday 8:00 AM - Sunset

wednesday 8:00 AM - Sunset

thursday 8:00 AM - Sunset

friday 8:00 AM - Sunset

saturday 8:00 AM - Sunset

sunday 8:00 AM - Sunset

Admission

Adults

$35 per vehicle

Children

Free for 15 and under

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May - September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Best wildlife viewing opportunities and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

Full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to cool

• Wildflowers
• Baby animals

summer

Warm to hot

• Long daylight hours

autumn

Cool

• Fall foliage

winter

Cold and snowy

• Snowy landscapes

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check road conditions
Carry bear spray
Follow park rules

What to Bring

essential

Water Snacks Map Camera

seasonal

Warm clothing Gloves Layers

not allowed

Feeding animals Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Stay on designated paths
• Be aware of wildlife

Medical facilities: Nearest medical center in West Yellowstone

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $35 per vehicle

parking Free

food $10-$20

souvenirs $5-$30

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, Sturdy walking shoes, Any clothing that harms wildlife

Booking Tips

• Not required, but recommended for lodging
• Yellowstone National Park official website
• Depends on lodging or tour operator
• Not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Yellowstone National Park Official App

Size: 100 MB

Features: Map, Wildlife tracking, Park information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor centers

Charging Stations: Visitor centers

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport

Distance: 90 miles

Travel Time: 2 hours

car

Varies 2 hours

shuttle

$100 2.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: Varies

car

Varies Varies

shuttle

Varies Varies

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique wildlife and natural beauty

Historical Significance: Part of the first national park in the U.S.

Insider Tips

Best wildlife viewing near the river
Less crowded on weekdays

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Lamar Valley
• Try the local coffee shops in West Yellowstone

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Overlooking the valley

Best Time: Sunrise

Tips: Use a wide-angle lens

Result: Breathtaking valley views

#Yellowstone #HaydenValley #WildlifePhotography

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas Inside buildings

flash photography Allowed in outdoor areas

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Distance: 15 miles

Walking: N/A

Type: Natural Wonder

Lamar Valley

Distance: 30 miles