Once home to a lake, this is now one of Yellowstone National Park’s premier places to see herds of buffalo, grizzly bears, coyotes, wolves and other wildlife.
Hayden Valley is a place where some of the Wild West’s most iconic wildlife still roams free. Drive through this beloved region of Yellowstone National Park to see bison grazing, coyotes slinking through the grasses or grizzly bears catching fish in the Yellowstone River.
Drive along the Yellowstone River and keep watch for wildlife on either side of you. Stop at the many overlooks and pullouts located on the park road and enjoy sweeping vistas of the Wyoming wilderness before you.
Animals of all shapes and sizes live in Hayden Valley. The area is known for its huge bison populations and is also home to coyotes, grizzly bears, wolves, waterfowl and more.
Hike the Mary Mountain Trail, which meanders for 21 miles (33.8 kilometers) from the Hayden Valley to the Madison area. Because the area is popular with grizzly bears, it is advisable for experienced hikers only.
The broad valley, which stretches about 7 miles (11 kilometers) long and wide, is located just north of Mud Volcano. Stop by Dragon's Mouth Spring, one of the thermal area’s most popular features. A bit further south, relax on the shores of Yellowstone Lake or climb aboard the Lake Queen for a guided tour the lake’s waters.
If you visit Hayden Valley, be prepared to get stuck in a buffalo jam. Considered a rite of passage of sorts within Yellowstone National Park, this happens when a group of buffalo takes over the road for their own purposes, sometimes backing up vehicles for miles. It can be frustrating for some motorists, but try to appreciate this once-in-a-lifetime traffic jam.
Animals are most active at dawn and dusk, so time your visit accordingly if your goal is to see as much wildlife as possible. Arriving in the valley before sunrise often yields the best wildlife viewing. Visit Hayden Valley in spring through fall, when the park roads are open.
