Hayden Valley

Introduction

Hayden Valley is one of Yellowstone's most important and famous wildlife-viewing areas. This broad valley between Yellowstone Lake and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone features sweeping views, the meandering Yellowstone River and abundant wildlife — especially large bison herds, elk, moose, white pelicans and grizzly bears — making it one of Yellowstone's best places to see large mammals and one of the park's most memorable landscapes. A vast subalpine grassland on glacial outwash plains with the Yellowstone River winding through, creating wet meadows and shrublands — ideal habitat for large mammals. It is home to one of Yellowstone's largest bison populations — in warm months, hundreds or even a thousand bison dot the grasslands, a spectacular sight. Dawn and dusk are best for wildlife viewing — bison herds moving through morning mist, elk drinking at the river and distant grizzlies foraging on hillsides are common sights. White pelicans fishing in the river are also frequent. Multiple overlooks and pullouts line the road. Visiting Hayden Valley to observe Yellowstone's wildlife in a broad valley setting is a wild, beautiful Yellowstone experience.

✨ Highlights

🛈 Practical Info