Hayden Valley, Yellowstone National Park

Hayden Valley and Pelican Valley are beautiful sections of Yellowstone Park, where visitors can catch a glimpse of the many varieties of wildlife who make this park their home.

Overview

Both the Pelican Valley and Hayden Valley Yellowstone contain some of the richest habitat for wildlife that can be found in Yellowstone. The stretches of open land, the rolling hills and valleys, all contribute to this perfect destination for wildlife viewing.

Location

Yellowstone’s Hayden Valley is only six miles north of the Fishing Bridge Junction and Pelican Valley is three miles to the east of Fishing Bridge.

Seasons

The best times to visit Hayden Valley Yellowstone National Park, as well as the Pelican Valley, are from May to September, when all the roads are open and passable. During winter months you should check with the park on road closures.

Activities for Hayden and Pelican Valleys

The Hayden Valley above Yellowstone Lake used to be an arm of the lake, and thus you have an open, marshy stretch of land that is attractive to bison, elk, coyotes and birds.

Pelican Valley has broad open lands with forest, also a favorite for grizzlies, elk and deer. You can also hike the Pelican Valley Trail that gives you a nice trip through the valley. It doesn’t open until the 4th of July due to the grizzly bears in the area.

Both valleys are premier destinations for viewing Yellowstone’s abundant wildlife. They are excellent places to see grizzlies, bison, eagles, otters, black bears and wolves.