Spring, A Time of Change
Though snow may hang on persistently throughout the park, melting of winter snow pack and warmer days are sure to be right around the corner. As the change of the season begins even more in earnest later this month, certain animals can be looked at as signs of the warmer months to come.
Yellowstone’s Busy Wildlife
This year, the first bears have already emerged from their winter sleeping quarters. Eagles are selecting spots to lay their eggs. Some owls are doing likewise, with the varied hoots of certain species becoming rather common as the breeding season continues.
Signs of Spring
Birdwatchers await the return of certain “indicators” of spring—bluebirds, ospreys, and, perhaps the most well known of all, the robin. Canines also begin another spring ritual tied closely with the coming of the greening up of warmer weather. Wolves, coyotes, and fox will begin searching for den sites, looking for spots that are safe from any rivals or predators, yet harbor enough greenery to attract a variety of prey.
Naturalist’s Tips for Enjoying Yellowstone in Spring.
Here are a few tips, straight from a Yellowstone Naturalist Guide, for your late winter/early spring experience:
Scenery can be breath-taking in March. Snow-covered peaks and amazing ice formations can be seen in many locations. This is a slow time of the year because most of the interior roads and hotels are closed, but the northern roads are open. Regardless, many park visitors find the park to be very peaceful and quiet - a perfect time to visit the northern reaches of the park.
Enjoy Yellowstone’s trails
Visitors can still go out and enjoy some of the late season snow as they ski around the northeast entrance on trails such as the Bannock or the Baronnette. As snows began to melt and the weather warms, other options present themselves. Hiking can usually begin as trails once again emerge from underneath this wintry cover. Lower elevation trails around the Mammoth and Gardiner area are some of the first to become available. If snow has melted off, take a stroll around the Beaver Ponds loop in Mammoth or down along the Rescue Creek trail by Gardiner.
Trails this time of year can be soggy, so gaiters (lightweight coverings that will help keep your feet and lower legs dry) and waterproof hiking boots would be good additions. Dress appropriately by wearing layers, as the weather is very unpredictable and Mother Nature seems to still be deciding between cold winter and warm spring days. Those interested in longer hikes may want to seriously consider bringing water and a good hiking map. Maps can be purchased at the visitor center in Mammoth.
Don't Forget the Bears
Don’t forget that bears are emerging from their dens. We recommend picking up some bear spray and learning how to use it. We always suggest you hike with someone else and let someone know you’re itinerary and expected departure/return times. Then relax and enjoy a view of Yellowstone that most don’t experience - one without blacktop and buildings.
This information provided by Brad Bulin, a resident instructor with the Yellowstone Association Institute. www.yellowstoneassociation.org.
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