I drove through this valley several times. There are a lot of buffalo. I was trapped in the herd once in my car which is a real highlight. I had the window down and could hear all their noises as they moved along. I also saw elk once and a coyote. It’s crowded when the buffalo are near the road and also a lot of fun.
We entered the park at the East Entrance on route to Gardiner for an over-night stop. Buffalo herds prevented any thoughts of a relatively quick journey north with time to stop at Mammoth! Rangers were present directing traffic but buffalo have right of way and despite all the warnings about keeping your distance from wildlife allowing young children out of the car when a herd is clearly in the process of crossing is the height of stupidity. Even if they are not that near to your car it is suprising how the odd stray can suddenly appear leaving you in no doubt how big they are and how quickly they can move. It is wonderful to see them and better still if you can get out early before the crowds when you may have the opportunity to pull over and watch and better still photograph them from a safe distance.
Hayden Valley is amazing. It has gorgeous meadows with the river running through it. It has a geyser area that is very interesting, And lots of wildlife. We experienced two "buffalo jams" here. They were right by the road.
Hayden and Lamar valleys are renowned for watching buffalos, deers and other animals roaming freely in the wild at the park. I have been told that they usually come out at dawn and dusk. Although we have not had the chance to visit Lamar valley, we had a chance to see wildlife while driving close to Hayden valley. People seem to slow down and take lots of pictures. The buffalos seemed quiet and sleepy, but the park rangers strongly forbid the visitors to approach them. They can jump six feet high and run 35 miles an hour. Actually I saw a painting in Buffalo Bill museum depicting how an Indian hunter became hunted by a large buffalo.
Lots of Bison, Elk, and other wildlife visible from the road. Make sure you keep a camera handy! Critter can appear at anytime.
