- The Lamar Valley is located in the northeastern part of Yellowstone National Park.
- The road through Lamar is open year-round.
- Famous for its wildlife viewing opportunities including bison, elk, grizzlies, and grey wolves.
- The Lamar Valley River offers excellent trout fishing.
Overview
Over thousands of years, the Lamar Valley of Yellowstone National Park was shaped by a mountain glacier, which left several boulders and glacial ponds in its wake. Now, this valley is famous for its wildlife viewing opportunities of bison, elk, grizzly bears, and grey wolves. If you take a trip to Yellowstone, visit the Lamar Valley, and don’t forget the binoculars!
Location/Directions
The Lamar Valley is located northeast section of Yellowstone National Park between Cooke City and Tower Junction on Highway 212. It can be accessed by heading west from the northeast entrance of the park.
Hours/Seasons
The road passing through the Lamar Valley is open year-round, despite temporary closures for severe winter weather. The best time to view wildlife is during the early morning and late evening, when the animals are stirring.
Fees/Cost
Because the Lamar Valley is located in Yellowstone National Park, the park entry fee is mandatory and lasts 7 days. A private vehicle permit is $25, individual permit (for entering by foot, bicycle or motorcycle) is $12, and groups are $12/person.
Activities
Wildlife Viewing
The Lamar Valley Yellowstone National Park has world-renowned wildlife viewing opportunities. Bison, elk, coyote, osprey, bald eagles, antelope, moose and black bears are common. And, if you’re lucky, you could see a majestic grizzly bear or illusive grey wolf. In fact, the Lamar Valley has the highest concentration of grizzlies and wolves in the park. The wildlife can be seen from the road or walking trails in this area.
The Lamar Valley in Yellowstone is also home to the Lamar Buffalo Ranch Historic District, a reserve ran between 1907 and the 1950s to promote the dwindling buffalo species. Four original buildings still remain today and can be seen from the road.
Fishing
The Yellowstone Lamar Valley is also known for its excellent trout fishing. The Lamar Valley River boasts rainbow and cutthroat trout often 12 inches in length. Because it is fed by the snowmelt of the Beartooth Mountains, it is best to fish this river between June and July. The walking trails lead from the road to the river.
Contact
Yellowstone National Park Information
P.O. Box 168
Yellowstone National Park, WY
82190-0168
Tel: 307-344-7381
