Update: Yellowstone continues area closures near Old Faithful following May 4 bear incident - YNP News
News Release Date: May 7, 2026
Contact: Yellowstone Public Affairs
MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS, WY – Temporary trail, backcountry campsite, and fishing closures remain in effect northwest of the Old Faithful area following a bear incident earlier this week.
Emergency responders, including law enforcement, EMS personnel and interagency partners, responded to the scene and provided aid before transporting two male hikers, ages 15 and 28, from the area by helicopter.
Based on evidence collected so far, park staff believe a female grizzly bear with two or three cubs-of-the-year (cubs in their first year of life) were involved in the encounter. This incident remains under investigation, and there are no further details to share at this time.
Geyser basin boardwalk areas remain open. There are no known visitors within the closed backcountry areas.
Visitors are required to follow all posted closures. Entering closed areas can put both visitors and responders at risk.
