As warmer weather draws more people to national parks, encounters with bison are becoming increasingly common. These majestic animals—Bison bison —are North America’s largest land mammals, and respecting their space is crucial for both visitor safety and animal welfare. This guide provides essential tips for navigating bison country, whether you’re driving or hiking.
Driving Near Bison
When in your vehicle, maintain a minimum distance of 25 yards (75 feet). This is roughly the length of two school buses, or the distance where your thumb can completely obscure the animal when held at arm’s length.
Never approach bison for photographs. Use a telephoto lens instead. The National Park Service (NPS) warns that attempting a selfie can lead to dangerous, unpredictable behavior from the animal.
Under no circumstances should you honk at a bison, even if it appears to be blocking your path. The NPS notes that bison are unlikely to yield and will simply hold their ground until you move.
Hiking Near Bison
If you encounter a bison on a trail, you have two primary options:
- Retreat. Turn around and go back the way you came.
- Detour. Leave the trail entirely and give the animal an extremely wide berth. Jeremy Shaw, park manager at Antelope Island State Park, emphasizes that safety overrides trail regulations; if your well-being is at risk, go off-trail.
Shaw advises doubling your perceived safe distance from the animal. Bison weigh up to 2,000 pounds, and respecting their space is non-negotiable.
Common sense and respect for these animals ensure everyone enjoys their time in nature safely.
These simple guidelines allow both visitors and wildlife to coexist peacefully in our national parks.
