The Elk of Mammoth Hot Springs
Just inside the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, visitors will find the village of Mammoth Hot Springs. The green lawns of Fort Yellowstone, originally planted by the U.S. Calvary in the late 1800s, have attracted elk for years. The elk can be found in Mammoth Hot Springs year-round, but the fall mating season is an especially popular time to see them. The high-pitched sound of a bugling bull elk during the mating season is a sound that you will never forget.
Elk are generally not aggressive; however, they can be unpredictable and should not be approached. Yellowstone National Park regulations mandate that you stay a minimum of 25 yards away from wildlife. Keeping a safe distance between yourself and the elk is even more important in the fall, during the mating season. Male elk, called bulls, become agitated during this time. They bugle (make a distinct high-pitched sound) to attract females and ward off competing males. Bull elk have charged both visitors and vehicles that got too close.
During your next Yellowstone National Park vacation, be sure to visit Mammoth Hot Springs. In addition to the popular terraces and geothermal features, you’ll most likely get to see some of Yellowstone’s famous elk. For more information about Yellowstone National Park including lodging reservations, wildlife, entrance fees, news, and weather, visit www.nationalparktravel.com/yellowstone.htm. Remember to make your reservations as early as possible to enjoy the best availability of lodging options.
