How likely is it to run into a bear in Yellowstone?

Possibility of Being Attacked (or Killed) by a Bear Just because you may see a bear does not mean that it will attack you. The average amount of bear attacks in Yellowstone is 1 per year. Yellowstone receives over 4 million visitors per year, so the odds of an attack are minuscule.



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Take the Encounter Seriously Bear encounters, however, are still relatively dangerous, as both grizzly and black bears, the two species of bear found in Yellowstone, can act aggressively if they feel threatened. If you see a bear, the best course of action for you is to avoid the bear to your best ability.

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If you have bear spray, have it out and ready to use.
  1. If you have bear spray, have it out and ready to use.
  2. Do not run. This could trigger a chase response from the bear.
  3. Remain calm.
  4. Slowly back away from the bear.
  5. Say, It's okay bear, or I'm leaving bear, to let the bear know you are a human.


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Since Yellowstone National Park was established in 1872, only eight people have been killed by bears in the park, most recently in 2015, according to the National Park Service. Since 1979, 44 people have been injured by grizzly bears in the park, which has had more than 118 million visitors during that time.

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If you do any hiking or camping in Yellowstone, you SHOULD bring bear spray.

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Solo hikers are at a higher risk of dangerous animal encounters. Anyone exploring the region's backcountry should do so with at least one other person, though groups of three or more are best. Accidents like sprained ankles can and do happen, and there are portions of Yellowstone with little or no cellular service.

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Bear Safety
  1. Keep at least 100 yards (93 m) from bears at all times and never approach a bear to take a photo.
  2. Never feed bears. ...
  3. If a bear approaches or touches your car, honk your horn and drive away to discourage this behavior.


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Yellowstone's greatest geological threat isn't a supervolcano. It's a magnitude-7 earthquake. YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK, Wyo. – While concerns about a potential eruption of the supervolcano beneath this iconic park may garner the most alarming headlines, a more likely hazard in the coming decades is a large earthquake.

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Take an active role in protecting yourself and the bears people come to Yellowstone to see: carry bear spray and learn how to use it! Bear spray is a non-lethal deterrent designed to stop aggressive behavior in bears.

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Look out for a bear giving these warning signs:
  • Huffing.
  • Jaw popping.
  • Low growls.


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But even with a guide, seeing the elusive Canis lupus isn't guaranteed. Normally, you have a 50/50 percent chance of seeing a wolf, says Varley. But this year odds have climbed as high as 90 percent. These consistent sightings are mostly thanks to the Junction Butte pack.

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We have the proper optics and equipment, so you can witness and film bears out in the field. Hands down the best time of year to see bears in Yellowstone is between mid-April and the first week of June.

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Is it safe to drive in Yellowstone at night? Yes, but take caution. Wildlife is active at night and it can be difficult to see animals on the road until it's too late.

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So can you even swim in Yellowstone? The short answer is yes. The long answer is: it's pretty limited. Although there are many rivers, lakes, and springs in the park, it's very important to note that the vast majority of the waters are incredibly dangerous.

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