Don’t let this opportunity ‘FALL’ through the cracks!
September 22, 2010
The long lines of summer traffic and masses of people at the most popular features have been replaced with quite roads and near deserted parking lots at Old Faithful. But while the crowds have disappeared the animals are still out in abundance, and of course the majestic sights and sounds of the landscape are always there to be enjoyed.
September is Elk mating season and now is the perfect time to witness the huge Bull Elk, with their magnificent Antlers and to hear the unique sound of their Bugling mating call.
The Bison have now dispersed from their breeding ground in Hayden Valley and can be found throughout the park. But please be very wary of these huge beasts and keep a safe distance. They may look slow and docile but they are anything but. As the people outside the Old Faithful Inn found out last Sunday, a 2,000lb Bison can easily vault a low fence!
Black and Grizzly Bears are venturing down from the high grounds where they spend their summers to stock up on food and search out a suitable spot to hibernate away for the winter.
For the best opportunity to witness wildlife, the early bird catches the worm, and the early visitor sees the most wildlife. Last weekend I was in the park by 7:00am. And was rewarded with seeing (and hearing) several Bull Elk, numerous cow Elk, three herds of Bison, a Black Bear, a Bald Eagle, a Trumpeter Swan and a Sandhill Crane. All of which were seen in the 14 miles between the West Entrance and Madison Junction.
Yellowstone National Park is open until November 8th, so make sure you don’t miss out on witnessing the spectacular and quiet wonderland that is Yellowstone in the Fall.