Park Brochure
Stay on the boardwalks near the geysers and boiling pool features. The water is extremely hot and will scald you causing injury or death. The geyserite (also called sinter) and travertine are fragile and can break off easily. Do not pass signs that say dangerous.
Do not drink water from the hot springs or the geysers. Beside the high temperature which can scald you, the water contains silica, calcium carbonate or acid and may cause digestion problems. The lake and river water is fine.
The Yellowstone River does have rapids and a waterfall. The Park advises tourists not to swim in the River above the waterfall. Swimming in the Firehole River is permitted although temperatures may be quite hot where hot springs and geysers flow into the River. Swimming in the lakes is permitted.
The wildlife are not tame. They are wild creatures and are dangerous to approach. The buffaloes and bears can cause serious injury. Please observe the wildlife at a distance.
The US Department of the Interior, the US Army and Park employees are not legally responsible for any injuries that you may sustain within the Park. If you become injured, the soldiers and Park employees will transport you to medical care as quickly as possible.
Fishing in the park is permitted. Hunting in the park is not permitted.
Please be careful with campfires as a campfire can easily start a forest fire, devastating this wonderful wilderness.
Feel free to photograph any of the features or wildlife within the Park. If you need film or wish to buy professional photographs or postcards of the Park, stop by Mr. Hayne’s studio at Mammoth.
Enjoy your stay in Yellowstone National Park!