Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center
Get up close with Yellowstone's iconic grizzly bears and gray wolves in naturalistic habitats. Learn about conservation and responsible wildlife viewi...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Bears are most active
Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center
Best Time
Bears are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Get up close with Yellowstone's iconic grizzly bears and gray wolves in naturalistic habitats. Learn about conservation and responsible wildlife viewing.
"It felt like a dream come true to see bears and wolves so close yet feel safe. "
🎟️ Two-Day Admission
Your ticket is valid for 2 days! Plan to visit before or after your Yellowstone park trips.
⏰ Check Feeding Times
Animals are most active during feedings. Check the daily schedule for enrichment and keeper talks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grizzly Bear Habitats
Bear Enclosures
Observe majestic grizzly bears in spacious, naturalistic enclosures designed to mimic their wild environment.
Wolf Packs
Wolf Enclosures
Witness the fascinating social dynamics of gray wolves up close in their carefully recreated habitats.
Educational Keeper Talks
Various Enclosures
Learn fascinating facts about Yellowstone's wildlife from knowledgeable staff during engaging talks and feeding sessions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan for Two Days of Access
Timing is Key for Wildlife Viewing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Two-Day Admission
Your ticket is valid for 2 days! Plan to visit before or after your Yellowstone park trips.
⏰ Check Feeding Times
Animals are most active during feedings. Check the daily schedule for enrichment and keeper talks.
📸 Morning Bear Photos
Bear habitats are backlit in the morning, perfect for photography.
📸 Evening Wolf Photos
Wolf habitats are backlit in the evening, ideal for capturing wolves.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Two-Day Admission
Your ticket is valid for 2 days! Plan to visit before or after your Yellowstone park trips.
⏰ Check Feeding Times
Animals are most active during feedings. Check the daily schedule for enrichment and keeper talks.
📸 Morning Bear Photos
Bear habitats are backlit in the morning, perfect for photography.
📸 Evening Wolf Photos
Wolf habitats are backlit in the evening, ideal for capturing wolves.
🧥 Winter Warmth
Enjoy both outdoor and warmed indoor viewing spots during colder months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center for its educational value and the opportunity to see Yellowstone's iconic wildlife up close in naturalistic habitats. The two-day admission is a significant plus, allowing for flexible viewing. Some visitors note that the center is relatively small, and while animals are well-cared for, occasional pacing behavior in wolves was observed.
"This small AZA accredited facility focuses exclusively on Yellowstone's wildlife. Which means the climate and foliage in the spacious enclosures is perfect for simulating the animals' natural environment! The zookeepers also provide foraging and enrichment opportunities throughout the day so the animals are actively engaging with their habitats and using their brains. Though it is a little zoo, if you stay for longer than an hour you will see at least the bears receive fresh foraging opportunities as they rotate through the display habitat throughout the day. There are outdoor and warmed indoor viewing spots if you visit in winter. The educational content provided by the staff was great - more Yellowstone guests could benefit from hearing and seeing firsthand why it's so important to keep wildlife unhabituated to humans! The admission price gets you in for 2 days so it's a great deal. You can visit after or before you enter Yellowstone National Park two days in a row. If you are a photographer, the bear habitats are backlit in the morning, and the wolf habitats across from them are backlit in the evening."
C Morrow
"We had a spare hour so we stopped by the Grizzly & Woolf Discovery center. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. It was exciting to see the bears, wolves and other animals, and to hear their stories on how they found themselves at the center. The admission fee was very reasonable and good for 2 days in case we wanted to stop in a 2nd day."
Kelly Black
"It was possibly my favorite thing to do on my week’s vacation to Yellowstone. It was a rainy day, we decided not to go into the park. This place was recommended by the staff at the resort we were staying at. I was very happy and so were my companions. I could not believe how close I was to bears and wolves but felt safe. I have always loved both. It felt like a dream come true. I also love otters and they are there as well. The only animals that we couldn’t see were the ground squirrels and that was because they were hibernating! It was very educational, respectful, lovely. The staff/naturalists were very nice and knowledgeable."
Michelle Brownlee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center is located in West Yellowstone, Montana, just outside the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It's easily accessible by car and is a convenient stop before or after your park visit. Parking is available on-site.
While there isn't extensive public transportation directly to the center, West Yellowstone has local shuttle services during peak season that might connect to nearby accommodations. It's best to check with your lodging provider for current shuttle routes and schedules.
From the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, head west on US-20 W. The center will be on your right, approximately 0.5 miles from the park entrance. If coming from outside West Yellowstone, follow US-20 E into town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices are very reasonable and offer great value, as your ticket is valid for two consecutive days. This allows you to revisit the center and see the animals at different times.
While you can typically purchase tickets at the entrance, checking their official website for online booking options is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons to potentially save time.
The center often offers discounts for children, seniors, and sometimes for groups. It's advisable to check their website or inquire at the ticket counter for any available promotions or special rates.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's crucial to check the official Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center website for the most up-to-date hours of operation before your visit, as they often change between summer and winter months.
Yes, a significant perk is that your admission ticket is valid for two consecutive days, allowing you to return and observe the animals during different times of the day.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The center is home to grizzly bears, gray wolves, and various birds of prey. You might also see otters, and depending on the season, ground squirrels.
Yes, the enclosures are designed to simulate the natural environment of Yellowstone's wildlife, with appropriate climate and foliage. This allows for realistic animal behavior and enrichment.
Animals are generally more active in the cooler parts of the day. Mornings are often best for grizzly bears, while evenings can be ideal for wolf viewing. Checking the daily enrichment schedule is highly recommended.
Absolutely! Knowledgeable staff and naturalists provide educational content through keeper talks and feeding demonstrations throughout the day, offering insights into wildlife behavior and conservation.
Yes, the center prioritizes safety with secure enclosures and expert staff. Visitors can observe the animals from a safe distance, feeling close without compromising security.
Photography is encouraged! The center offers great opportunities for close-up shots. Keep in mind that bear habitats are backlit in the morning and wolf habitats in the evening, which can be ideal for photographers.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The center typically has a small gift shop that may offer snacks and beverages. For a wider selection of dining options, West Yellowstone offers numerous restaurants and cafes just a short walk or drive away.
Generally, bringing your own snacks and water is permitted. However, it's always a good idea to check the center's specific policies regarding outside food and beverages to ensure compliance.
📸 📸 Photography
For photographers, the morning light is excellent for the bear enclosures as they are backlit. In the evening, the wolf enclosures are backlit, providing great opportunities for wolf photography.
Tripod policies can vary. It's best to check with the center's staff upon arrival or review their visitor guidelines to confirm if tripods are permitted, especially during busy periods.
You can expect to get close-up shots of the animals, capturing their expressions and behaviors. The naturalistic enclosures provide a good backdrop for impressive wildlife photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With two-day admission, you can break up the visit to avoid overwhelming younger children. The indoor viewing areas are a lifesaver on cold or rainy days, ensuring the experience remains enjoyable regardless of the weather. It's a great way to supplement your Yellowstone park experience with more intimate wildlife encounters and valuable lessons about conservation.
📸 Photography Buffs
Bring your telephoto lenses to capture detailed shots of the animals. The two-day admission is a huge advantage, allowing you to return for different light conditions or to catch animals that were less active on your first visit. It's a prime spot for wildlife photography without the extreme challenges of tracking animals in the vast national park.
📚 Educational Travelers
The center's focus on education makes it more than just a zoo; it's an immersive learning experience. The two-day pass allows ample time to absorb the information presented and ask questions. It's an excellent way to prepare for or reflect on your experiences within Yellowstone National Park, fostering a greater appreciation for its natural wonders.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Yellowstone Wildlife Conservation
The center emphasizes coexistence between humans and wildlife. Through keeper talks and interpretive displays, guests learn about the challenges faced by grizzly bears and wolves, including habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict. This firsthand exposure helps foster empathy and a greater commitment to conservation efforts. The facility's design, which mimics natural environments, further enhances the educational experience by showcasing how these animals thrive when given space and appropriate resources.
By visiting the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center, you're not just observing animals; you're supporting a mission to protect Yellowstone's iconic species. The insights gained here can significantly enhance your experience within the national park, promoting responsible tourism and a deeper respect for the wild. It's a valuable stop for anyone interested in the natural history and ongoing conservation of this incredible region.
Photography Tips for Wildlife Enthusiasts
While the enclosures provide a safe viewing distance, they are designed to be spacious and naturalistic, allowing for compelling shots. Consider bringing a telephoto lens to capture detailed expressions and behaviors. Patience is key; observe the animals' routines and wait for those moments of interaction or activity. The center's staff are often knowledgeable about the animals' schedules, so don't hesitate to ask for tips on when specific animals might be most active or visible.
Remember to be respectful of the animals and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography, as it can startle or disturb the wildlife. Focus on capturing the essence of these magnificent creatures in their simulated natural environment. The two-day admission also provides an excellent opportunity to experiment with different lighting and angles on separate visits.
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