My week in Yellowstone made me aware of the importance of signs. Especially the cautionary ones along the paths, in front of some of the park’s wonders and when entering certain area of the Park. People really need to pay attention to what is around them. (See blog below.)
Every year people get injured, and many times it is because they do not pay attention to the signs. Bison injuries are usually the fault of the visitor. Close encounters with wild animals is often a bad decision. Getting a selfie with a bison is not a good idea. Stay away from the bison. They do not want you wandering in their way. A head nudge from a bison could send you flying, if not worse.
Often when we saw wild animals close to the road or nearby, there would be a park ranger also there directing traffic or blocking off the area close to the animals. At Mammoth Falls Terraces, a bull elk and his harem were hanging out on the terraces. So the walkway was closed for our safety and the animals. It might have been great to get better photos, which people with better cameras could. But in reality, we need to stay away from them and respect their space.
Hot Springs are very hot and the land around them is very fragile. Do not walk on areas that specifically say, “do not walk here.” But every so often someone does. And unfortunately, they pay the price. Geysers erupt, which is why they are surrounded by fences or barricades. Don’t climb over.
The warning signs are everywhere, and some are very specific!
Be careful when you bring young children and dogs into the park, especially around Old Faithful. The sign above tells it all. In 1970, a 9-year-old boy died after he fell into Crested Pool. Horrifying. Now there is a permanent sign warning people of the danger. Another sign warns guests specifically not to bring dogs into the basin. If they get off their leash and run into the off-limits area, they could be killed. But since the sign is there, I think we can assume that some people just do not believe it. And their pet pays the price.
I am posting some of the many signs that we saw along our travels in Yellowstone so people realize that what they are seeing and enjoying must also be respected. I am happy to say that no one in our group took any risks or defied the signs and warnings. Yellowstone is a beautiful, exciting and awe-inspiring adventure. Seeing the sights and the animals and birds is exciting. But like any adventure, you have to pay attention to your surroundings and respect the animals and the warnings.
zicharonot 