Yellowstone Basics
Can I Smoke in Yellowstone? How about marijuana?
Smoking is permitted only inside vehicles and designated areas. It's forbidden in thermal and natural areas. Boom! As for possessing marijuana, it's illegal on Federal land.
Permitted: Smoking inside vehicles, on sidewalks, in gravel or paved parking areas, in developed campgrounds, immediately adjacent to backcountry fire rings, and in designated smoking areas inside buildings.
Strictly Forbidden: Smoking in all public areas, visitor centers, and ranger stations. In addition, smoking is not allowed on trails and in thermal areas.
Litter of all types is a problem, but cigarette butts can become especially numerous if smoking is allowed in natural areas.
Smoking also is a fire hazard. The great fire of 1988, the largest in Yellowstone's history, started as three smaller fires that merged together. Two were started by lightning. One was started by a cigarette. The person responsible was caught by using DNA evidence from the cigarette butt.
Why can't I smoke at the geyser basin areas?
Most thermal areas have sulfur deposits lying on the surface. When sulfur catches fire, dangerous, sometimes lethal, fumes are given off. This is a chance we just aren't willing to take.
Is it legal to have marijuana in Yellowstone?
On federal land, as throughout Wyoming and Idaho, marijuana possession remains illegal. What happens when a person is caught with marijuana in Yellowstone or Grand Teton National Parks? Marijuana possession on federal land, such as a national park, national forest or BLM land, is a federal crime. It is punishable by up to six months in prison and a $5,000 fine. Source: tetonattorney.com/marijuana-yellowstone-grand-teton-national-parks
Recently, Yellowstone pot possession arrests have risen. Many people who legally buy marijuana in neighboring states think that they can legally carry the drug into other states.
Alex Freeburg, a criminal defense lawyer in Jackson, Wyoming, frequently handles marijuana possession cases from Yellowstone. He told KOMO News that his clients often are surprised when they're charged for small amounts of marijuana.
"I think that it's fair to say that it is the legalization in a couple of states. They know it's illegal but they don't think it's a crime," Freeburg said. "There's some sort of disconnect."
The typical marijuana case arises from a traffic stop in which rangers say they smell the drug in the vehicle.
"And most people, most of the time, if a ranger says, 'Do you have any marijuana in your car?' they'll say yes," Freeburg said. "In which case, there's not a lot a criminal defense attorney can do for them." Those convicted of misdemeanor possession commonly receive a $1,000 fine. Source: http://www.komonews.com/news/national/They-dont-think-its-a-crime-Yellowstone-sees-rise-in-pot-cases-287453781.html
Can I Bring My Pet to Yellowstone?
Pets are prohibited throughout most areas in national parks. It's best to leave Fido at home, but if your dog is along here's how to make the best of it.
Can I Bring a Gun to Yellowstone?
Yes, you can carry a gun in Yellowstone. But it's illegal to fire it - even in self defense. And once you exit Yellowstone, you could be in one of three states, so it's important to know the law.
Are there any Yellowstone regulations I need to know about?
Rules and regulations for Yellowstone visitors including biking, driving, fires, boating, fishing, and viewing wildlife.
How close can I get to wild animals in Yellowstone?
Stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves and at least 25 yards away from other large mammals like bison, elk, bighorn sheep, deer, moose and coyotes.
How Can I Avoid the Crowds at Old Faithful?
Every year, Yellowstone draws in nearly three million visitors—most of them eager to see Old Faithful. The busy days of June through September.
Unnatural Deaths in Yellowstone - And How to Avoid Them
The second edition of Lee Whittlesey's popular book "Death in Yellowstone" was released with 60 new tales of demise.
Do I need a car to tour Yellowstone? How long does it take to drive the Grand Loop?
Cars are the best option for taking a trip around Yellowstone unless you are riding with a bus tour or concessionaire.
Is Yellowstone Going to Blow? Exaggerated Reports of Volatility
As long as there's been a National Park seated on a super volcano, there's been erroneous reports of impending doom.
How Far in Advance Do I Need to Book Hotels and Campgrounds?
Some seasons, planning a trip to Yellowstone can be a breeze. But in summer, you may need to reserve a year in advance.