Yellowstone Day Tours Blog

Late May through early June marks calving season in Yellowstone — when cow elk become fiercely protective of their newborns. Without antlers, they rely on powerful hooves to defend against any perceived threat, including well-meaning visitors. Stay 25 yards back, watch your surroundings at Mammoth Hot Springs, and if an elk approaches, get to shelter fast.

Experience fall wildlife in Yellowstone and Grand Teton, where elk, bison, bears, and golden landscapes work to create nature’s most spectacular wildlife season.

Photo by Yellowstone Day Tours owner and guide Brian McCooey While 64% of visitation in Yellowstone occurs between June and August, some of the best wildlife, weather, and foliage can be found in the ‘shoulder season.’ In May and early June, cool weather and hunger after a long winter means wildlife is very active. This is a great time of year to see bears emerging from hibernation with cubs, elk moving in large herds from their winter range to summer feeding grounds, and pre