Where to Find Grizzly 399

In recent years, Jackson Hole has been slowly gaining a reputation for being a hideout for the rich and famous. Household names like Harrison Ford, Kanye West, Sandra Bullock, and more have found homes in our valley, making people think that Jackson is only for the wealthy elite. While that is unfortunately not true for the 99% of locals that are normal, working folks - there has been one local that has tried really hard to compete with the fame of the newcomers. 

Long before Jackson Hole started to attract Hollywood stars, there was a name that was growing recognition quickly. While Harrison Ford was aboard the millennium falcon, or making headlines from airplane crashes; and Kanye West was dropping albums and running for president - the local star we are talking about was simply grazing the meadows of Grand Teton National Park with her family. It didn’t take incredible performances in movies, great music, and world-tours for her to gain fame. All it took was simply being a grizzly bear.

Grizzly 399 - the most famous bear in the world.

Hats and clothes with her name on it, websites and Facebook accounts with updates on her - she truly has a loyal fan base. For 20 years, she has been garnering more and more followers, with people from all over visiting in hopes to see her. After miraculously raising four cubs at once, and now being the oldest bear, at 28 years old, known to still bear cubs, she has only gotten more popular. Folks on our tours are constantly asking if we will see her!

Why is grizzly 399 so famous?

Well, it’s because she is regularly seen from the roadside and was one of the first bears to find a home by the roadside. Displaying her cub’s upbringing for people visiting Grand Teton National Park. And of course, that begs the question -

Why is grizzly 399 always near the road?

Quite a smart bear, she has come to realize that being closer to humans is safer than deeper in the backcountry. Male bears, who will typically stay far away from people in the backcountry, will try to kill cubs, thus making them a dangerous presence. Her strategy for raising cubs is why she has been so successful.

Where to find 399

So, you’re visiting Jackson Hole and want to see our famous bear? While she frequents the same areas often, depending on the time of year, she may be on the go. For example, a couple years ago, she was seen in downtown Jackson. 

Towards the end of the summer, she has historically moved south, towards Wilson and Jackson from the area she is best known to be seen and where she hibernates. During this time, it takes a lot of luck to see her. However, as it gets a bit cooler, and especially the couple months after she wakes up from hibernation in the spring, she can be seen in the north end of Grand Teton National Park. Specifically, the Pilgrim Creek area is where grizzly 399 is most commonly found. Early mornings and late in the evening are typically the best times for viewing; however, you never quite know when she might come out to say hi.

For the best chance to see grizzly 399, other bears, and more wildlife, we highly recommend joining one of our guides. With extensive experience and knowledge of our local wildlife, and a team-approach, with our guides all connected and communicating, our clients have the best opportunity to track down wildlife… especially 399. In fact, aside from our Grand Teton & Yellowstone tours, where we largely emphasize on wildlife viewing, and also split our time exploring the history, geology, and scenic aspects of our parks. We also offer an Ultimate Wildlife Safari, where we will explore all of the epic wildlife corridors in our region, solely journeying for intimate wildlife encounters.

Explore our website for more details and book your tour today for an extraordinary Jackson Hole & Yellowstone experience. For more details on the best times to visit for viewing wildlife, give us a call today at 307-201-1499.

Yellowstone Photography Tips

Yellowstone National Park, with its vast wilderness and diverse ecosystems, is a paradise for wildlife photographers. From majestic bison to elusive wolves, the park offers unparalleled opportunities to capture stunning images of nature in its purest form. In this guide, we'll delve into the art and science of wildlife photography in Yellowstone, providing tips and tricks to help you make the most of your experience.

1. Understanding the Wildlife: Before embarking on your photography adventure, take the time to learn about the wildlife species that call Yellowstone home. Familiarize yourself with their behaviors, habitats, and preferred locations within the park. This knowledge will not only enhance your photography skills but also help you respect the animals and their environment.

2. Planning Your Shoot: Successful wildlife photography often requires careful planning. Research the best times of day and seasons for capturing specific animals, taking into account factors such as lighting conditions and migration patterns. Additionally, consider investing in a good map of the park to identify prime shooting locations and plan your itinerary accordingly.

3. Essential Gear: While fancy equipment isn't necessary to capture great wildlife photos, having the right gear can certainly make a difference. A sturdy DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens (200-400mm) is ideal for capturing distant subjects without disturbing them. Don't forget to pack extra batteries, memory cards, and a sturdy tripod to ensure you're prepared for long days in the field.

4. Patience is Key: Wildlife photography requires patience and persistence. Be prepared to spend hours waiting for the perfect shot, observing animal behavior and anticipating their movements. Avoid the temptation to rush or disturb the animals for the sake of a photo – remember, you're a guest in their home.

5. Respecting Wildlife and Park Regulations: As a responsible photographer, it's important to prioritize the well-being of the animals and the preservation of their habitat. Observe park regulations regarding wildlife viewing and maintain a safe distance from the animals at all times. Avoid making loud noises that could disrupt their natural behavior.

6. Composition and Technique: When composing your shots, aim to capture the essence of the animal's environment and behavior. Experiment with different angles, perspectives, and focal lengths to create dynamic and visually compelling images. Pay attention to the background and lighting to ensure your subjects stand out against their surroundings.

7. Post-Processing and Editing: Once you've captured your photos, don't be afraid to experiment with post-processing techniques to enhance their visual impact. Use editing software to adjust exposure, contrast, and color balance, while striving to maintain the authenticity of the scene. Remember, the goal is to showcase the beauty of Yellowstone's wildlife in its natural state.

8. Sharing Your Work: Finally, consider sharing your wildlife photos with others to inspire appreciation and conservation of Yellowstone's natural wonders. Whether through social media, online galleries, or local exhibitions, your images have the power to educate and inspire audiences around the world.
   

Wildlife photography in Yellowstone offers endless opportunities for adventure and creativity. By arming yourself with the right knowledge, gear, and respect for the animals, you can capture breathtaking images that showcase the beauty and diversity of this iconic national park. So grab your camera, pack your patience, and embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the wild!

Spotting Wildlife in Yellowstone National Park

Known for dense populations of wildlife, Yellowstone National Park boasts a plethora of prime wildlife viewing spots, each offering its own unique opportunities to observe the park's diverse fauna.

Best Wildlife Viewing Spots in Yellowstone

1. Lamar Valley: Known as the "Serengeti of North America," Lamar Valley is a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts. Here, you'll have the chance to spot iconic species such as bison, wolves, elk, and even grizzly bears. Be sure to bring binoculars and arrive early in the morning or late in the evening for the best chances of sightings.

2. Hayden Valley: Situated along the Yellowstone River, Hayden Valley is another top destination for wildlife viewing. Keep your eyes peeled for bison herds grazing in the meadows, as well as bald eagles soaring overhead. Don't forget to scan the riverbanks for otters and beavers, especially during the dawn and dusk hours.

3. Yellowstone Lake: The largest high-altitude lake in North America, Yellowstone Lake is teeming with aquatic life. Take a scenic boat tour or hike along the shoreline to spot river otters, trumpeter swans, and possibly even a diving osprey. For the best chances of wildlife sightings, visit in the early morning when the lake is calm and wildlife is most active.
   

Top Wildlife Species to Look Out For in Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park is home to an impressive array of wildlife species, ranging from large mammals to elusive birds. Here are some of the iconic creatures you might encounter during your visit:

1. Grizzly Bears: The ultimate symbol of the American West, grizzly bears can be found throughout Yellowstone, particularly in the remote backcountry areas. Keep a safe distance and never approach or feed these powerful animals.

2. Gray Wolves: Yellowstone is one of the few places in the Lower 48 where you can see wild wolves in their natural habitat. Join a guided wolf-watching tour or head to Lamar Valley at dawn or dusk for your best chance of spotting a wolf pack on the hunt.

3. Bison: As the largest land mammal in North America, bison are a common sight in Yellowstone's grassy meadows and open plains. Be sure to give these majestic creatures plenty of space and never attempt to approach or interact with them.

4. Elk: With their distinctive bugling calls and impressive antlers, elk are a popular sight in Yellowstone, especially during the fall rutting season. Look for them grazing in meadows or lounging near rivers and streams.

5. Bald Eagles: Keep an eye on the skies for the iconic silhouette of a bald eagle soaring overhead. These majestic birds of prey can often be seen hunting for fish along the park's rivers and lakeshores.

Wildlife Spotting Tips and Tricks

While we listed a couple of our favorite spots for viewing wildlife - you never really know where you might come across a cool critter in Yellowstone. Because of that, it is important to be diligent when searching while you drive around.

Log bears

After a while, your mind might start playing tricks on you. Is that a bear or a log? Maybe a big rock? At Yellowstone Day Tours, our guides are adamantly looking for wildlife so our clients won't miss a thing; and even our veteran guides with 20-30 years of experience mistake logs, rocks, and other inaminate objects for wildlife.... and it even happens the other way around. Just when you think it's just a brown patch out in the distance, it starts to move and we all get to see a grizzly bear. So with that, if it looks like an animal, double-check and look at it closely!

People

If there are cameras and binoculars pointed out in the distance, take a look in that direction!

Timing

As with most wildlife, your best chances for viewing are early in the morning or right

around sunset. This is especially true in the warmer months, as animals will hunker down in shady spots during the heat of the day.

In summary, Yellowstone National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you're hoping to glimpse a grizzly bear in Lamar Valley or spot a bald eagle over Yellowstone Lake, the park offers endless opportunities for unforgettable encounters with nature. Follow our tips to make the most of your visit while respecting the park's wildlife and beauty. Happy spotting!