**Top Locations to Observe Wildlife in Yellowstone During Winter**
Our preferred period to explore Yellowstone is during the winter months. It may be quite chilly and only a single road remains open for vehicles, but witnessing wildlife in Yellowstone in winter is a remarkable adventure. Prepare to encounter bison adorned with snow and ice, coyotes competing over carcasses, and wolves in pursuit of prey.
After multiple visits to the park throughout winter, we’ve identified the prime spots for observing wildlife in Yellowstone during this season.
**Locations to Observe Wolves in Yellowstone During Winter**
We’ve discussed this topic in detail in our article [Wolf watching guide in winter](https://www.travel4wildlife.com/guide-wolf-watching-yellowstone-winter/). The key recommendation is to look for wolves at the Slough Creek campground trail. Park your vehicle at the trailhead and walk toward the campground until you reach Slough Creek. In summer, you can park at the campground, but during winter, the road only extends to the trailhead. So grab your binoculars and coffee, and settle on the banks above the creek. From this vantage point, you can survey a wide area. We’ve spotted wolves from this location several times.
Another spot is the Lamar River trailhead. It offers a great view of the valley. Also, keep an eye on the mountain directly across the river; it features a bald patch at the top. We’ve witnessed wolves chasing bison from the parking area (you can see what unfolded in the video at the beginning of the article).
Inquire around, as most people are aware of where wolves were last spotted. Be polite and share your own discoveries as well.
**Locations to Observe Mountain Goats in Yellowstone**
Spotting [mountain goats](https://www.travel4wildlife.com/mountain-ghosts-mountain-goat-photo-gallery/) in Yellowstone during winter can be quite challenging. Their white color allows them to camouflage seamlessly with the snow. However, here are some locations where you might see them (a scope is probably required, though Hal managed to spot them with our small 8×21 binoculars):
1) Park your vehicle at the Pebble Creek pullout or the next pullout heading west on the other side of the road. Use your scope to search for mountain goats on Thunderer Peak, which is just across the road from the pullout.
2) Mountain goats can also be spotted on Baronette Peak, located further east of the Pebble Creek pullout.
**Locations to Observe Bison in Winter**
Bison are found almost everywhere, foraging on the plains, pushing through snow with their enormous heads, taking shelter under trees, or even strolling down the center of the road. Their massive dark figures are easy to spot against the bright white snow. My favorite place for observing bison in Yellowstone is along Soda Butte Creek, as there are fewer people and the scenery is stunning.
**Locations to Observe Mule Deer**
In winter, mule deer are typically seen just after entering the park via the North entrance at Gardiner. A prime area is between here and Mammoth.
**Locations to Observe Elk in Yellowstone During Winter**
While we’ve occasionally spotted elk in the Lamar Valley during winter, including one evading a wolf in the river at the Lamar River Trailhead, the majority migrate north toward Mammoth and Gardiner and into the northern range.
**Locations to Observe Bighorn Sheep in Yellowstone**
They are relatively easy to find as they tend to congregate near the confluence of Soda Butte Creek and the Lamar River. You can pull over at “the hitching post” (the pullout with two restrooms and a horse tie-up) and look for them on the rocky ledge across the road.
**Best Locations to Observe River Otters in Yellowstone**
River otters migrate in winter. As their pools freeze, they must locate unfrozen rivers for fishing. Look along the Lamar River, where they enjoy playing in the snow and sliding down the snowy riverbanks.
**Locations to Observe Moose During Winter**
We consistently find moose along Soda Butte Creek, feeding on the willows right in front of Pebble Creek campground, and we’ve even spotted them wandering through residential areas in Silver Gate.
**Golden Eagles in Yellowstone**
We discovered a golden eagle in the same region for two consecutive years. I’m unsure if this is just a coincidence or THE spot for viewing them. Since you will likely drive past that area, it’s worth a check.
As you travel along the NE entrance road, before reaching the Lamar Valley Trailhead 3K1 and in front of Soda Butte Creek, there’s a pullout where 3 or 4 vehicles can stop on the left side heading east. Look on that side of the hill and also watch for an eagle flying nearby.
**Bald Eagles in Yellowstone**
Bald eagles are relatively straightforward to spot as they typically gather around carcasses.