Is the Drive to Yellowstone Dangerous?

Fences, gardens, the Yellowstone TV show, the Drive to Yellowstone, and many more topics are among the numerous topics on which we at Cat’s Claw Fasteners are frequently asked. With that in mind we’ve got two separate responses to this question, so let’s dive in!

Is the Drive to Yellowstone Dangerous?
Photo from the Chief Joseph Ranch Instagram page

Yellowstone: Dutton Ranch

The residence of the Dutton family is the Chief Joseph Ranch, a working cattle ranch situated in Darby, Montana, about five hours away from Yellowstone National Park. It’s a beautiful 6,000 square foot mansion with two separate but equally as beautiful cabins that can be rented when they aren’t busy filming for Yellowstone. The rest of the series is usually shot on location at a 40,000 square foot space in Missoula, Montana, and on the state’s largest reservation, the 2.2 million acre Crow Indian Reservation outside of Billings. Fun fact, for season 5 the State Capitol Building in Helena was used for all of the courtroom and government office scenes. 

The trip from Rip’s hometown to the ranch owned by the Dutton family (also known as the Chief Joseph Ranch) typically takes about seven and a half hours. However, this estimation does not take into account any delays that may occur due to traffic, road construction, inclement weather, or the inevitable need to use the restroom. Additionally, it does not take into account regions such as the Skalkaho pass, which our Cat’s Claw Queen, Toby-Jeanne, had to go through in order to get from gem mountain in Phillipsburg, Montana, to Hamilton when she was an extra for the show. And as a result of that trip, she says that the backroads can be rather dangerous, and she strongly advises you to bring a spare tire, some energy bars, and bottles of water with you since, in the event that you become stuck, you are prepared to be your own rescue team.

Is the Drive to Yellowstone Dangerous? Photo taken by Toby-Jeanne of 2nd Lieutenant Rayna Laakso at Skalkaho pass
Photo taken by Toby-Jeanne of 2nd Lieutenant Rayna Laakso at Skalkaho pass

There are many areas around the state of Montana that can be scary to drive especially if you have no experience with the regions. One other example would be the Beartooth Pass, which, at its highest point, is located at an altitude of 10,947 feet above sea level. Because of the severe weather and the numerous other risks involved, the pass is inaccessible during the winter months.

Here’s a little history lesson for you kids! On March 1, 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act, making Yellowstone the world’s first national park. Thus, the first national park in history was established. Visitors to Yellowstone can see breathtaking scenery and learn about the park’s significant historical role. Old Faithful is only one of the hundreds of geysers that draw millions of visitors to the park every year.

So, you want to go to the beautiful Yellowstone National Park. Here are some things to think about before you Drive to Yellowstone. Now winter may not be the most popular time to go on an outdoor trip, but if you plan it right, it can be one of the most rewarding. When winter comes to Yellowstone National Park, snow covers the mountains. This means that there are fewer people at the most popular spots in the park. Some of the best backcountry skiing in the United States is in Yellowstone National Park, but only for people who are brave enough to brave the bitter cold. The only exception is Yellowstone National Park, where you should check road conditions and closures well before your trip. 

Any time of year, Yellowstone is a great place to see animals, though the kinds of animals you see will vary based on the seasons. Wolves and bighorn sheep are easiest to spot in the winter. And it’s easiest to spot bears throughout the months of March and April. Summer is the peak season for visitors because that’s when the park’s popular wildlife—such as elk, moose, bison, and mountain goats—are most active. Bears, elk, and raptors are more visible in the fall when temperatures cool and leaves change color. We know the animals look cute and cuddly, but tourists shouldn’t get too close to the animals in the park to take pictures, pet them, or do anything else like that because it can be dangerous for everyone.

 

Drive to Yellowstone: Time to Plan Your Trip

Any time of year, the Drive to Yellowstone is a great place to see animals, though the kinds of animals you see will vary based on the seasons. Wolves and bighorn sheep are easiest to spot in the winter. And it’s easiest to spot bears throughout the months of March and April. Summer is the peak season for visitors because that’s when the park’s popular wildlife—such as elk, moose, bison, and mountain goats—are most active. Bears, elk, and raptors are more visible in the fall when temperatures cool and leaves change color. We know the animals look cute and cuddly, but tourists shouldn’t get too close to the animals in the park to take pictures, pet them, or do anything else like that because it can be dangerous for everyone. 

 

If you have further questions, Cat’s Claw Fasteners is eager to provide answers! Please send your queries to our Head Cat Collector, Chava, at chava@catsclawfasteners.com. Don’t forget to explore our other blogs and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Youtube!

Read Next: T-Posts: What are they?

 

cats claw fasteners banner for hardwoods

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Shopping Cart
Scroll to Top