Picture yourself standing in the heart of America’s national parks, with bison thundering across vast plains, mountain goats scaling impossible cliffs, and bears prowling through dense forests. This is wildlife watching at its finest, where each park offers a front-row seat to nature’s greatest show. Whether you’re a dedicated wildlife enthusiast or just someone curious about the outdoors, spotting these incredible creatures is an experience you’ll remember for years to come.
Here are some of the most iconic animals in America’s national parks, the best places to see them, and tips on how to make the most of your wildlife adventure.
Yellowstone National Park — Bison
Americans are justifiably proud of Yellowstone National Park, which sits astride three states: Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. And the park’s bison, the largest free-roaming herd in the U.S., are living legends of the American West. Weighing up to 2,000 pounds, these massive creatures can surprisingly sprint up to 35 miles per hour, despite their bulky build. To catch the best viewings, head to Lamar Valley or Hayden Valley early in the morning or late in the evening, when they’re most active.
These bison are direct descendants of herds that roamed North America before European settlement — a fascinating reminder of their resilience. If you’re visiting in spring or summer, you’ll have the extra treat of spotting newborn calves, also called “red dogs,” frolicking around. Winter offers a stunning backdrop with bison trudging through snow, their coats frosted with ice.
Pro tip: Plan a winter wildlife safari to also track gray wolves, as they are easier to spot in the snow.
Everglades National Park — American Alligator
In Florida‘s Everglades National Park, the American alligator reigns as the apex predator. Often seen basking in the sun at spots like Shark Valley or along the Anhinga Trail, these reptiles can grow up to 15 feet long. Although they may appear slow and sluggish, they can move with surprising speed when necessary. During dry spells, alligators dig “alligator holes” that retain water, creating essential refuges for fish, turtles, and other animals that rely on these small pools to survive until the wetlands refill. Winter is the best time to visit, as cooler temperatures make alligators more active and easier to spot, and the mosquitoes are more tolerable.
Pro tip: Take a scenic boat ride through the Everglades’ mangrove forests — you might also catch sight of manatees or dolphins.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park — Black Bear
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which stretches across North Carolina and Tennessee, offers one of the best chances to see black bears in the wild, as the park boasts one of the densest black bear populations in the eastern United States. If you’re hoping to spot these elusive creatures, head to Cades Cove or Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, especially during the early morning or late afternoon.
Black bears are highly intelligent, with an extraordinary sense of smell — seven times more powerful than that of a bloodhound. Fall is the ideal season to visit, as bears are busy bulking up for hibernation, and are often seen foraging for berries.
Pro tip: Don’t forget your binoculars, as this park is also great for spotting peregrine falcons and other bird species while you wait for bear sightings.
Denali National Park — Grizzly Bears
The grizzly bears in Alaska‘s Denali National Park are awe-inspiring, are often seen roaming the vast tundra or foraging along riverbanks. Your best chance to spot these iconic animals is along Denali Park Road — guided bus tours are a great way to get close while staying safe. Grizzlies can eat up to 90 pounds of food per day as they prepare for hibernation, making late summer and early fall the prime times to visit, when they are most active. Seeing a grizzly in its natural habitat, against the backdrop of Denali’s untouched wilderness, is nothing short of breathtaking.
Pro tip: Denali is also home to moose and caribou — wildlife bus tours often include sightings of these incredible animals too!
Rocky Mountain National Park — Elk
Elk are the stars of Colorado‘s Rocky Mountain National Park, particularly during the fall rutting season. In autumn, Moraine Park and Horseshoe Park are the best places to witness bull elk bugling — an eerie, high-pitched call used to attract mates and challenge rivals. These elk play a key role in shaping the park’s grassy meadows through their grazing, and they can be spotted in large herds, especially in the fall. While fall is the best time to visit for elk watching, summer visitors can still catch sight of them grazing at higher elevations.
Pro tip: Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, which are also common in the park’s higher elevations.
Olympic National Park — Roosevelt Elk
Roosevelt elk, the largest elk species in North America, thrive in the lush rainforests and coastal areas of Olympic National Park in Washington State. The best places to spot these magnificent creatures are the Hoh Rain Forest and the Pacific coastline, especially during the fall rutting season, when the males are competing for mates. These elk, weighing up to 1,200 pounds, influence the park’s ecosystem with their grazing habits. Fall is the ideal time to visit if you want to witness the males’ impressive bugling calls echoing through the forest.
Pro tip: Olympic’s coastline is also famous for whale watching — spring and fall offer the best times to catch migrating gray whales.
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Glacier National Park — Mountain Goats
Mountain goats in Glacier National Park in Montana are the ultimate thrill-seekers, effortlessly navigating the park’s steep cliffs. They are often seen around Logan Pass, showing off their incredible agility. These goats, with their thick coats, are built for the harsh conditions of Glacier, and they can leap up to 12 feet in a single bound, balancing on ledges as narrow as 2 inches. Summer is the best time to visit Glacier for mountain goat sightings, as they graze in alpine meadows and the park’s roads are clear.
Pro tip: While you’re keeping an eye on the goats, don’t miss the chance to spot wolverines and hoary marmots in the park’s alpine areas.
FAQs:
Q: What is the best time of year to visit these parks for wildlife viewing?
A: Spring and fall are generally the best times for wildlife viewing. Spring brings newborn animals like bison calves and elk fawns, while fall is perfect for witnessing the elk rut and bears preparing for hibernation. Winter offers opportunities to see alligators in the Everglades, and summer is ideal for viewing mountain goats in Glacier.
Q: How can I stay safe while observing wildlife?
A: Always maintain a safe distance — at least 100 yards from predators like bears and 25 yards from other animals like bison or elk. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to avoid approaching animals. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in bear country, and follow all park guidelines.
Q: What should I pack for wildlife viewing in these parks?
A: Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens are essential. Bring layered clothing to adjust to varying temperatures, and pack plenty of water and snacks for long hikes. Don’t forget insect repellent, especially for parks like the Everglades.
Q: Are there any apps to help with wildlife spotting?
A: Yes, apps like iNaturalist can help you identify and track wildlife sightings. Some parks also offer their own apps with tips on where to spot specific species.
Q: Can I bring my dog to these parks?
A: Most parks have restrictions on pets to protect wildlife and preserve natural habitats. Check each park’s pet policy before visiting, and in areas with large predators like bears, it’s usually best to leave pets at home.
Did we leave out your favorite park or species? Tell us about it in the comments below!
