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Lamar Valley

Expansive Valley Known for Its Wolves and Bison

Valley in Yellowstone NP, Rocky Mountains near Buffalo Ford, WY

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Lamar Valley is located in the northeast corner of Yellowstone National Park and is renowned for its rich wildlife viewing opportunities. The valley’s wide and open terrain allows for unobstructed views of various animals including bison, wolves, elk, and grizzlies, making it a hotspot for wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts. Lamar River runs through the valley, providing a vital water source for the animals and contributing to the lushness of the habitat. The area is accessible via the Northeast Entrance Road, and its popularity has grown due to the high chances of observing Yellowstone’s diverse wildlife in their natural setting.

Morning light over a distant Lamar Valley, Jacob W. Frank (NPS) photograph above.

Sunset in Lamar Valley, Ashton Hooker (NPS) photograph above.

Grizzly Bears in Lamar Valley

Grizzly bears can often be spotted in the spring and early summer foraging in the valley’s open meadows or near the riverbanks post-hibernation.

Bison in Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley, often called “America’s Serengeti,” is a haven within Yellowstone National Park where bison roam in substantial numbers, offering visitors a glimpse into the wild heart of North America’s grassland ecosystems. Bison in Lamar Valley are part of the largest and oldest public bison herd in the United States.

Shedding bison in Lamar Valley, Jacob W. Frank (NPS) photograph above.

Bison scratching neck on an exhibit sign in Lamar Valley, Jacob W. Frank (NPS) June 10, 2023 photograph above.

Bull bison bellowing in Lamar Valley next to bison calf, Jacob W. Frank (NPS) August 8, 2023 photograph above.

Cow and bull bison during the rut in Lamar Valley, two Jacob W. Frank (NPS) August 8, 2023 photographs above.

Bull bison flehmening [responding to sex hormones of females receptive to reproduction] during the rut in Lamar Valley, Jacob W. Frank (NPS) photograph above. Flehmening behavior is extending the neck, raising the head, raising the upper lip and inhaling through the nose. Raising their upper lip increases the flow of air through their nostrils which widens the scent openings behind their teeth on the upper palette.