Wildlife Viewing in the US National Parks

Are you interested in viewing wildlife during your next trip to the US National Parks?  Are you planning a trip based primarily on wildlife viewing?  Here a couple great ideas if wildlife viewing is top on your list for your next trip.

Bison - Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park

The best times to see wild animals in summer are early morning and late evening. The Hayden Valley between Fishing Bridge and Canyon, and Pelican Creek east of Fishing Bridge are prime moose territory. Watch for bison in Hayden Valley, and waterfowl along its Yellowstone River. Watch for elk, bison, pronghorn, and coyotes in Lamar Valley, and for pronghorn in sagebrush flats near the North Entrance. Bighorn sheep frequent Mount Washburn in summer. Elk and occasional bison are seen in the Midway and Upper Geyser Basins. The Lewis River environs near the South Entrance are good elk and moose habitat. Watch for mule deer near Old Faithful, Lake, Canyon, and the areas between the North Entrance and Tower.

Learn More About Wildlife Viewing for Yellowstone National Park

Bighorn Sheep - Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park

The spectacular mountain scenery of the park is literally brought to life by the plants and animals that make their home here. Flowering plants, from the first pasque flower in April to the last aster in September, add color, fragrance, and movement to the landscape. Especially intriguing are the alpine wildflowers that survive the extreme climate of the tundra, completing their yearly life cycle in just a few weeks.

Although the park is most famous for its large animals, particularly elk and bighorn sheep, a glimpse of a tufted-eared Abert"s squirrel, an iridescent broad-tailed hummingbird, or a squeaking pika can be equally thrilling. Early risers, and those watching at dusk often have the best "luck" at seeing wildlife.

Learn More About Wildlife Viewing for Rocky Mountain National Park

More parks to consider for wildlife viewing:

Yosemite National Park
Theodore Roosevelt National Park