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What Not to Do in Yellowstone: A Comprehensive Guide to Avoiding Trouble in the Grand Canyon of the West

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, December 2nd 2025 at 13:52 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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What Not to Do in Yellowstone: A Comprehensive Guide to Avoiding Trouble in the Grand Canyon of the West

Travel + Leisure’s recent feature, “What Not to Do in Yellowstone,” is a practical, no‑frills reminder that the national park’s raw beauty comes with a set of rules that are not just suggestions but safety imperatives. Whether you’re a first‑time visitor or a seasoned hiker who’s seen the park’s geysers up close, the article lays out a series of pitfalls to avoid—ranging from seemingly innocuous behaviors to downright dangerous acts—that can ruin an otherwise spectacular trip. Below is a detailed, word‑for‑word‑free recap of the piece’s key points, the reasoning behind each recommendation, and a few extra insights pulled from the links it references.

1. Don’t Disrespect the Geysers and Hot Springs

The centerpiece of any Yellowstone itinerary is the eruption‑watching spectacle of Old Faithful and the kaleidoscopic colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring. The article stresses that standing too close, stepping onto the boardwalks, or even leaning over a geyser’s edge can put you in immediate danger. In addition to the risk of a sudden eruption, the fragile microbial mats that give the Prismatic its glow are easily destroyed by a footstep. The National Park Service (NPS) warns that those who “touch, move, or remove anything from the boardwalks are subject to a $1,000 fine.”

Why the NPS is so strict? Yellowstone’s thermal features are not only fragile but also unpredictable. Even a small shift in ground temperature or a burst of steam can ignite a serious hazard. By keeping a safe distance, you not only protect yourself but also preserve the park’s geological wonders for future generations.

2. Don’t Feed Wildlife (Even If It Looks Like a “Friendly” Moment)

The article recounts a memorable incident in which a visitor fed a grizzly bear a bag of trail mix. The bear, attracted by the smell, approached the car, creating a potentially deadly confrontation. The NPS’s policy on wildlife interaction is clear: “Don’t feed wildlife.” Feeding wildlife not only jeopardizes the animal’s natural foraging behavior but also encourages it to associate humans with food—an entirely dangerous mindset for large predators.

The article also mentions the “no feeding” rule is enforced for all species in Yellowstone, from bison to elk to the more domesticated deer. The NPS highlights that even the most polite “hand-off” can be misinterpreted by a wild animal as an opportunity for a meal.

3. Don’t Leave the Established Trails

Yellowstone’s backcountry is vast and unforgiving. The article warns that venturing off‑trail can lead to hazardous encounters with hidden hazards such as sudden drop‑offs, hidden streams, or toxic plants. Furthermore, many backcountry trails are seasonal and require special permits. If you find yourself lost, you’ll have no access to the ranger stations that might otherwise help you orient yourself.

Travel + Leisure notes that the “most common cause of backcountry accidents is simply going where you’re not allowed.” Even seemingly innocuous detours can bring you into the path of bison, which are surprisingly aggressive when provoked.

4. Don’t Drive in Low‑Visibility Conditions

Many readers of the article, especially those planning a visit during the fall or winter months, are reminded that Yellowstone’s weather can be capricious. The NPS strongly advises against driving on the park’s winding roads when visibility is reduced by fog, snow, or rain. The article cites an NPS report that in the past decade, “more than 40% of vehicle collisions were attributed to weather conditions.”

If you must drive, the article suggests checking the NPS weather forecast, keeping your headlights on, and traveling in a convoy if possible.

5. Don’t Use Unapproved Camping Sites

Camping is a quintessential Yellowstone experience, but the park has a strict list of designated campsites. The article emphasizes that “illegal camping” not only incurs a $200 fine but can also create fire hazards. The NPS’s guidelines stress that only approved sites have fire rings and proper sanitation facilities, which help prevent accidental fires and contamination of the park’s waterways.

6. Don’t Ignore the “No Littering” Policy

Yellowstone’s waterways and trails are not only home to wildlife but also to delicate ecosystems. The article explains that litter can harm both flora and fauna; a discarded bottle might be swallowed by a deer or used as a makeshift food for an aggressive bear. The NPS’s rule is not just about aesthetics; it’s a legal requirement. The article cites the “Yellowstone Resource Management Plan,” which mandates that all visitors dispose of trash in provided receptacles.

7. Don’t Use Unapproved Equipment (e.g., Fireworks, Flare Guns)

The article draws attention to a growing problem: the illegal use of fireworks and flare guns in the park. These items are prohibited due to their high potential to ignite dry brush and cause fires. A single flare that misfires could spark a blaze that the park’s firefighting crews may not be able to control in time. Travelers are urged to keep all fireworks out of the park and to always use the designated fire pits for any campfire activity.

8. Don’t Assume That “Wildlife is Everywhere” Means “It’s Safe Around Humans”

The article concludes with a reminder that the park’s wildlife, though often considered “friendly” or “curious,” remains unpredictable and powerful. Even the most serene elk in the Lamar Valley can become aggressive if approached too closely. The park’s guidebook (link included in the article) provides a “Wildlife Interaction Handbook” that instructs visitors on how to stay calm, keep a safe distance, and back away slowly if a large animal approaches.

Bottom Line: Respect the Rules, Enjoy the Wonders

Travel + Leisure’s “What Not to Do in Yellowstone” is a practical, no‑nonsense cautionary tale that balances enthusiasm for the park’s iconic sights with hard‑line safety advice. By following the guidelines outlined in the article, you can help protect the park’s natural resources, keep yourself and the wildlife safe, and ultimately enjoy a visit that’s both memorable and respectful.

For further details, the article links to the NPS’s official Yellowstone policy pages and the park’s “Safety Handbook,” both of which offer deeper dives into each of the points above. Before you pack your bags, consult these resources, read up on the latest seasonal restrictions, and prepare yourself to experience Yellowstone’s awe‑inspiring landscapes responsibly.