Lamar Valley is hands-down our favorite place in Yellowstone National Park—and the best wildlife watching in all of North America! Every time we visit Yellowstone, we make sure to spend at least one morning and one evening in Lamar Valley. The incredible wildlife sightings and breathtaking views never disappoint, making it an absolute must-see for families with kids.
We typically stay in Cooke City or Silver Gate for easy access to Lamar Valley during the best times for wildlife watching: early mornings and evenings. Whether it’s grizzly bears, wolves, moose, or bison, this valley offers an unforgettable experience for every family adventure.
Why Lamar Valley is the Best Place for Wildlife in Yellowstone
Lamar Valley is known as the “Serengeti of North America” because of its vast landscapes and abundant wildlife. Here’s why it stands out:
- Best Place for Grizzly Bear Sightings: Grizzly bears are often spotted feeding in the valley or roaming near the riverbanks.
- Top Spot for Wolf Watching: Lamar Valley is home to several wolf packs. It’s the best place in Yellowstone to see wolves in their natural habitat. Learn more in our guide, Where to See Animals in Yellowstone with Kids.
- Wide-Open Views: The expansive terrain makes it easier to spot wildlife compared to other areas of Yellowstone National Park.
- Family-Friendly Scenic Drive: The drive through Lamar Valley from Yellowstone Picnic Area—one of The 5 Best Family-Friendly Picnic Spots in Yellowstone—to the Northeast Entrance is packed with incredible wildlife and scenic views.
Our Favorite Wildlife Moments in Lamar Valley
We’ve had some incredible wildlife encounters in Lamar Valley over the years. Here’s a timeline of our most unforgettable moments:
2021: Wolves Chasing Pronghorn
One of our most thrilling experiences happened in 2021, when we saw a wolf pack cautiously trailing a herd of pronghorn. The wolves moved stealthily through the valley, keeping their distance. At one point, several wolves climbed onto boulders and began howling. It was an unforgettable display of nature, and our kids were completely mesmerized.
2022: A Wolf’s Feast
Just before the Lamar Ranger Station, we spotted a wolf feasting on a bison skull from a recent kill. Watching it scrape meat from the skull was fascinating—and a little wild! The whole experience left us in awe of the raw power of Yellowstone’s predators.
2022: The Famous Bison Jam
In the same year, we got caught in one of Lamar Valley’s infamous bison jams. Hundreds of bison crowded the road, refusing to move even after we honked or flashed our brights. After 30 minutes of waiting in the dark, a massive bull made aggressive head swings at our van. It was nerve-wracking but a story we’ll never forget!
2024: Grizzly Bear Showdown
Near Soda Butte Canyon, we saw a young grizzly feeding on a bison carcass by the river. After about 20 minutes, a massive male grizzly appeared, chased off the younger bear, and took over the meal. Watching the large bear lift the bison’s leg like a chicken drumstick was jaw-dropping for all of us!
Top Wildlife Spots in Lamar Valley
If you’re heading to Lamar Valley, don’t miss these top spots for wildlife:
- Slough Creek: This area is home to a wolf den, and every year we’ve been lucky to see wolf pups playing here. Wildlife enthusiasts with spotting scopes often help visitors see them up close.
- Trout Lake: This short, kid-friendly hike is one of the Best Yellowstone Hikes for Families. The trail leads to a beautiful lake often surrounded by wildlife.
- Trout Lake to Northeast Entrance: The best stretch for spotting moose, especially in the early morning.
- Yellowstone Picnic Area to Northeast Entrance: This scenic drive is perfect for spotting bison, wolves, and other wildlife. Don’t forget to stop at the Yellowstone Picnic Area, highlighted in our guide to The 5 Best Family-Friendly Picnic Spots in Yellowstone.
Animals We’ve Seen in Lamar Valley
Lamar Valley is full of wildlife surprises! Here’s what we’ve seen over the years:
- Grizzly Bears: Often feeding near Soda Butte Creek or closer to the riverbanks.
- Black Bears: Usually spotted near Tower Junction or Yellowstone River Picnic Area.
- Wolves: The highlight of any Lamar Valley trip, especially around Slough Creek.
- Moose: Best seen between Trout Lake and the Northeast Entrance.
- Elk: Frequently grazing throughout the valley.
- Bald Eagles: Perched in trees or soaring overhead.
- Coyotes: Trotting across the valley floor.
- Bighorn Sheep: Often seen on the cliffs near the valley.
Tips for Visiting Lamar Valley with Kids
To make the most of your trip to Lamar Valley with kids, keep these tips in mind:
- Arrive Before Sunrise: Wildlife is most active 15 minutes before sunrise, making early mornings the best time to visit.
- Stay Nearby: Lodging in Cooke City or Silver Gate ensures you’re close to the valley for early starts.
- Bring Binoculars for Everyone: The wide-open valley often requires binoculars to spot distant animals. Kids love having their own!
- Pack Snacks and Layers: Early mornings can be chilly, and kids will appreciate snacks during your wildlife-watching adventure.
- Be Bison Smart: While bears and wolves steal the spotlight, bison are surprisingly dangerous. Always observe from a safe distance and never approach them, even if they seem calm.
Why Lamar Valley is Perfect for Families
Lamar Valley isn’t just about spotting wildlife—it’s about creating memories your family will cherish forever. From watching wolf pups at Slough Creek to hiking Trout Lake and seeing grizzlies in action, every visit to Lamar Valley is packed with excitement and discovery.
For families visiting Yellowstone National Park, Lamar Valley is the ultimate destination for wildlife viewing and adventurous experiences. We recommend making it a key part of your trip—and trust us, your kids will talk about it for years to come.
Have you explored Lamar Valley with your family? Share your wildlife stories in the comments, or let us know your top tips for visiting Yellowstone National Park with kids!
