Winter in Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley is a place and time like no other. This valley receives less snow than other areas of the park due to its lower elevation and the influences of the area’s geography. Because of these lower snow totals, animals flock to Lamar Valley in the winter, creating a wildlife-watchers dream.

Most winters thousands of bison migrate into Lamar Valley from the ridges and higher elevations, offering incredible opportunities to see the largest bison herd in North America. In addition to the bison, elk also move into Lamar Valley and towards lower elevations outside the park.

A keen eye can occasionally spot otters in the cold waters of the Lamar River and Soda Butte Creek, and Bald and Golden Eagles can be found perched in the cottonwood trees within the valley.

Of course, though, the main attraction is Yellowstone’s famous wolves. Wolves follow the migrations of elk and bison and can be spotted in Lamar Valley throughout the winter. In February wolves mate, setting the stage for their denning, birthing, and raising of next year’s young. Their incredibly complex and social behavior is a wonder to witness.

After centuries of attempts to exterminate this incredible animal across the United States, it’s incredible to see them thriving in Yellowstone. You can read more about the history of Yellowstone’s wolves in our article on them here.