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Valley · Gardiner, Montana
Lamar Valley
Open valley in the northeast of Yellowstone, with herds of bison and wolf packs that are usually seen from a distance, early in the morning.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Lamar Valley
The Lamar Valley is in the northeast of Yellowstone, along the Lamar River, between the village of Tower and the northeast entrance. It is a broad valley of grasslands, where large herds of bison commonly graze, along with elk, pronghorn and bears.
The valley became known as one of the best places in the world to observe wolves in the wild. Wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone in 1995, after decades of absence, and several packs live in the valley and on the surrounding slopes. They are seen, almost always from a distance, with binoculars and spotting scopes, in the early morning and late afternoon.
The road that crosses the valley is the same one that connects Gardiner to the northeast entrance and remains open to cars year-round. In winter, with the snow, the animals stand out against the landscape.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From half a day to a full day.
Best time
In the early morning, from dawn until about two hours after, and in the late afternoon. Winter and spring are usually the seasons with the most wolf sightings.
How to get there
By car, about 70 km from Gardiner, via Mammoth Hot Springs and Tower Junction, on the road open year-round.
Tip
Bring binoculars and, if possible, a spotting scope. Stop only in designated pullouts and never approach bison: they look slow but can run fast.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lamar Valley
What time do wolves usually appear in the Lamar Valley?
From dawn until about two hours afterward and again in the late afternoon. Even so, wolves are often seen from a distance with a spotting scope.
Is the road through Lamar Valley open in winter?
Yes. It’s the only Yellowstone road open to cars year-round, from Gardiner to the northeast entrance.
How far should you stay from bison?
The park asks visitors to keep at least 25 meters from bison and deer, and 100 meters from wolves and bears.