Yellowstone National Park Boating Regulations

Motorized Boating Non-Motorized Boating Boating Safety Yellowstone National Park offers a variety of boating experiences. Boating in Yellowstone is a memorable experience and a great way see a different part of the park, but boating in Yellowstone is not without its risks. This brochure has been prepared to Contents assist you in planning ahead and preparing for your boating experience, to help you Boat Registration 1 make your trip as safe as possible and to help you minimize your impact on the & Permit resource so that Yellowstone can be enjoyed by future generations of boaters. Required Equipment 2 Where permitted Motorized boats are allowed only on Lewis Shoshone Lake. Access to other lakes Recommended 4 Lake and Yellowstone Lake. Boat launches requires long portages. are located at Bridge Bay Marina and Grant Equipment Village on Yellowstone Lake and on the Float tubes are considered non-motorized south end of Lewis Lake near the Lewis Lake boats and subject to the same regulations. Prohibitions 6 Campground. Water-skiing, jet skis Additional 7 and related activiti- Canoes, kayaks and other non-motorized Regulations boats are permitted on all park lakes except es are not allowed on any park waters. for Sylvan Lake, Eleanor Lake, Twin Lakes Boating Safety 8 and Beach Springs Lagoon. All park rivers are closed to boating except for Invasive Species 14 the section of the Lewis River between Lewis Lake and Yellowstone Lake 15 Shoshone Lake, where non-motorized boating is Lewis Lake & 19 permitted. The only reasonably accessible Shoshone Lake lakes for canoeing or kayaking are Yellowstone Lake, Lewis Lake and Motorized boat permits and non-motor- Boat Registration ized boat permits (including float tubes) & Permit are availabe in a 7-day denomination or as an annual permit. Contact the Backcountry Office for current pricing. All motorized vessels must be registered in the State of principle use. Registration Where to Obtain Boat Permits numbers must be displayed on your ves- sel in accordance with US Coast Guard Motorized: South Entrance Ranger (USCG) regulations. Station, Bridge Bay Ranger Place the Boat Permit sticker on the port Station, Grant Village (left) side of the vessel, approximately Additionally, all private- Backcountry Office, and occa- one foot forward of the stern (back). On a ly owned vessels, sionally at the Lewis Lake float tube, the permit may be attached including float tubes, Ranger Station. 1 directly to the float tube or attached via a must be registered with metal wicket available from the issuing Yellowstone National Non-motorized: West station. Park each year. Boat Entrance, Northeast Entrance, permits issued in Grand Mammoth Backcountry Office, Teton National Park are Old Faithful Backcountry honored in Yellowstone, Office, Canyon Backcountry but owners must register Office, Bechler Ranger Station, their vessel in Yellowstone and obtain a West Contact Station, West Yellowstone no-charge Yellowstone validation sticker Chamber of Commerce and locations from a permit issuing station. where motorized permits are sold. PFD must be free from holes or tears one that you will wear. A properly sized Required which could affect performance. PFD’s PFD fits com- made with KAPOC should be carefully fortably snug Equipment inspected to insure that the flotation A PFD can and does not chambers have not ruptured. come above In addition to obtaining a Yellowstone save your life, the neck or Boat Permit you must have the following • readily accessible. Wearable PFD’s but only if you below the checked ( ) items as required by the U.S. must be readily accessible. You must be wear it. waist. Select a Coast Guard: able to put them on in a reasonable PFD based on  amount of time in an emer- your planned Personal Flotation gency. Children 12 or younger activities, and the water conditions you Device (PFD) – all vessels must wear a USCG approved expect to encounter. must have a US Coast Guard Type I, II, or III PFD when 2 approved, wearable PFD (Type aboard a vessel which is Check the fit of the PFD – Raise your I, II, III, or V) for each person underway, except while inside arms over your head and have someone on board. Additionally, boats an enclosed cabin. Though, not lift the PFD straight up from the shoul- 16 feet and longer (except required for those ages 13 and ders. The PFD should stay in place. If the kayaks/canoes) are required to older, a PFD should be worn PFD comes off, or if the chest area of the have at least one immediately at all times when the vessel is PFD touches your nose, then the PFD is accessible throwable (type IV) underway. In a true emergency too loose and is too big or needs to be PFD. Look on the tag of the PFD to deter- you may not have time to locate and secured. If you cannot secure straps or zip mine type and if it is USCG approved. properly put on a PFD. A wearable PFD the PFD, then it is too small. Also, test the can save your life, but only if you wear it. PFD for buoyancy by making sure the Each PFD must be: PFD keeps your chin above water and • in good condition. Insure that all zip- Type V PFDs must be worn at all times. you can breathe easily; if your mouth is pers, straps and buckles are in working • appropriate size for the intended user. not well above water get a new PFD with order and can be fastened securely. The The best PFD is the one that fits and the more buoyancy. scribed for the applicable class of motor- compartments, or permanent fuel tanks. Required boat by your state or the USCG. Boats under 26 feet must have one type B-I fire extinguisher. Boats 26 feet and Equipment Anchored boats must exhibit a white over must have one type B-II fire extin- anchor light except when guisher or two type B-I fire  Sound Producing Device – A anchored at designated extinguishers. Labels sound device is required for all boats to anchor sites on Yellowstone should read “Marine Type signal your position in reduced visibility Lake (5L8, 5L9, 7L5, 7L6, USCG” and specify type and for navigation to signal your inten- 7M1, 7M4, 7M5, 7F1 & and size. Fire extinguishers tions to other vessels. Human voice is not 7F2). should be inspected month- ly to make sure they are in acceptable under USCG regulations. An Non-motorized boats are working order. air horn or whistle is recommended. required to have a light/flashlight for night  Ventilation – All boats 3 Required Lights – Running paddling or during periods built after August 1, 1980 lights/navigational lights are required to of reduced visibility. be displayed at night and when in or near which use gasoline for electrical genera- tion, mechanical power or propulsion are areas of reduced visibility. When under-  Flame Arrestors – Required only required to be equipped with a ventila- way from sunset to sunrise, every motor on inboard engines to prevent backfire. tion system. A natural ventilation system boat shall carry and exhibit lights pre- Not required for outboard motors. Unless is required for each compartment in a the motor is very old it should have been boat that: 1) contains a permanently equipped with flame arrestors when man- installed gasoline engine; 2) has open- ufactured. ings between it and a compartment that requires ventilation; 3) contains a perma-  Fire Extinguishers – USCG nently installed fuel tank and an electri- approved fire extinguishers are required cal compartment. on boats with inboard engines, enclosed could be vital if these devices don’t work. emergency. Be sure to check the expira- Recommended For canoes and kayaks, a bailing device is tion date as most devices have a 3 year indispensable in the event of capsize or if expiration date. Equipment your boat is taking on water. VHF Marine Band Radio and/or Cell Oars/paddles – Motor boats should be Anchor/line – An anchor and line Phone – A marine radio is useful for equipped with oars or paddles for emer- attached to the bow can be used to keep a receiving storm warnings, and in an gency propulsion. Canoes/kayaks should boat stationary and to keep it from blow- emergency for contacting other boats, carry a backup paddle in case a primary NPS boat patrol, or the Bridge Bay paddle is lost or broken. Marina. A cell phone may also be helpful in an emergency situation. Bailing device – All vessels should carry However, cell phones and marine a suitable manual bailing device such as a band radios have limited range and bucket/milk jug or hand pump. Even if are affected by topography and may 4 the boat has a bilge pump or automatic not work every- bailing device, a manual backup device where, espe- ing out from or into shore. An anchor cially in the arms of which can be set is required for boats Yellowstone Lake. anchoring overnight. To properly anchor your boat we recommend at least 210 feet of line - enough for a 7:1 scope in 30 feet of water. Visual Distress Signals –You may want to carry a variety of devices such as flares, smoke signal, or electric distress signal suitable for both day and night use to signal your position in the event of an waste, into the waters from any vessel is Paddle Float – indispensable for kayaks prohibited. to assist in solo reentry of the vessel in case of capsize. Compass/GPS unit, maps and the knowl- Throw Rope – useful to edge of how to use reach capsized boaters them. Waterproof Gear Survival gear in dry Bags/Flotation Bags – bags – even if you are waterproof gear bags only on a day trip, hav- increase flotation and ing a blanket or sleep- keep clothing and gear ing bag, fire starter and dry. Plastic garbage Waste Receptacle – All vessels should matches stored in a dry bag could be life bags may help keep equipment dry, but have a waste receptacle aboard. Dispose saving if, in an emergency, you capsize are not suitable for flotation. 5 of trash in garbage cans or dumpsters at and/or have to spend the night out. launch locations. Do not put trash into pit toilets. Draining, dumping, or discharg- Additional equipment for paddlers: ing wastes or refuse, including human Wet Suit or Paddling Jacket – can help Inspections – Any park ranger keep you warm and reduce chances of may at any time stop or board any hypothermia if you capsize in vessel to examine documents, Yellowstone’s cold waters. They must be licenses, and/ or permits relating to appropriate for the water & air tempera- the operation of the vessel and to tures you will encounter. As a general inspect such vessels to determine rule, if Air + Water temperatures are less compliance with park regulations than 120˚ F then you should wear cold including boat safety and fishing weather exposure gear (wet suit, foul regulations. weather gear, etc) • Operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol, intoxicants or Prohibitions drugs • Operating a vessel in excess of 5 mph The following are prohibited in (approximately 1,000 - 1,100 RPMs) Yellowstone National Park: within marinas, boat launch areas, and the arms of Yellowstone Lake or • Private vessels which exceed 40 feet within 100 feet of a swimmer or in length diver’s marker. • Firearms, weapons or traps • Operating a motorized vessel while • Jet skis, personal watercraft, airboats, any person is riding on the gunwales, submersibles and similar vessels transom, or on the decking over the • Towing water skiers, wakeboards, bow, except when the vessel is being parasails or performing similar activi- maneuvered for anchoring, mooring 6 ties or casting off moorings • Overnight anchoring or beaching of • Operating in any commercial capacity boats without a backcountry permit within the park, unless written author- • Draining, dumping, or discharging ization has been granted by the wastes or refuse, including human Superintendent waste, into the waters from any vessel • Operating a vessel that exceeds a • Operating a vessel in excess of 45 noise level of 82 decibels measured at mph a distance of 85 feet from the vessel • Operating a vessel in a reckless or • Using trailers to launch or recover negligent manner, or in a manner vessels at a site other than a designat- which endangers or is likely to ed boat launch ramp endanger any other person or proper- • Failing to observe restrictions estab- ty including bowriding, or riding on lished by a regulatory marker seatback, gunwale or transom • Overloading a boat required and are available at backcountry camping onshore at a designated camp- Additional offices, visitor centers, Yellowstone site, or leaving your boat unattended to General Stores, and a few local business- fish or day-hike, you must follow proper Regulations es in outlying communities. Refer to park backcountry food storage regulations to fishing regulations for details and make minimize the opportunity for bears and Operator’s age – You must be at least 16 sure you understand creel limits, tackle other wildlife to obtain human food. All to operate a power- driven vessel unsu- restrictions, and fish cleaning in bear food and odorous items must be properly pervised. People age 12-15 may operate a country. hung or secured in an approved bearproof power-driven vessel under direct supervi- storage canister and not left in the open or sion of an adult age 18 or older. Backcountry Permit – Camping or sleep- in a cooler on your boat at any time when ing on your boat on Yellowstone’s lakes no one is in direct attendance. All back- Pets – Pets are allowed on motor boats requires a backcountry permit and is country campsites have a food pole or when traveling on Yellowstone Lake and allowed only at designated sites and metal storage box. Items which are hung Lewis Lake, but must be of appropriate anchorages. Backcountry permits for par- must be at least 10 feet off the ground and 7 size for the size of the boat. Pets are not ties travelling by boat may be obtained at 4 feet from the tree trunk. You will need a allowed on shore or on boats for the following Backcountry Offices: South minimum of 35 feet of rope or more if overnight trips. Entrance, Grant Village, or Bridge Bay. you have multiple containers and/or cool- Permits are generally available between 8 ers. If your boat is self-contained and you Generators – Generators may not be a.m. and 4:30 p.m. If you need to get an are staying on your boat at one of the brought ashore. Self-contained motor early start you should plan on picking up anchor or dock sites then you must boats staying overnight at a backcountry your permit the day before you wish to securely store your food below deck. campsite should obey quiet hours and not start. Reservations for backcountry camp- operate generators or boat motors sites may be made in advance for a fee. between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. Contact the Central Backcountry Office for additional information. Fishing Permit Required – Yellowstone National Park Fishing Permits are Food Storage – Whether picnicking, Cold Water Survival Getting out of the water is only the first Boating Yellowstone’s lakes are high elevation, step. It is important to get to shore and cold lakes. Water temperatures range promptly remove all wet clothing (espe- Safety from the mid-30’s in June to only the low cially cotton) and rewarm your body. Put 60’s (degrees F) in August. Even when on dry clothing, wear a hat, or get into a You are operationally and legally respon- the water temperature in Yellowstone’s sleeping bag. sible for your safety and the safety of lakes is at its highest your survival time if your passengers. Don’t take your safety immersed is limited. Combat hypothermia by being prepared for granted and don’t count on someone and planning ahead – Wear your PFD Sudden immersion in cold water can else to save you. Many recreational and avoid conditions which could swamp induce rapid, uncontrolled breathing, car- boaters assume they are safe because or capsize your boat. Travel close to diac arrest, and other physical body con- they’re in small boats, in shallow water, shore. Practice and be prepared for self- ditions, which can result in drowning. or because they’re good swimmers. rescue. Wear clothing appropriate for the Always wearing a PFD will help you sur- 8 Regardless of your level of experience – conditions. vive in rapid immersion situations. know your limits. Over 50 people have Accidents & Reports lost their lives on Yellowstone Lake, Hypothermia Any vessel operator involved in an inci- Lewis Lake and Shoshone Lake. Most of Hypothermia is the abnormal lowering of dent that results in property damage, these deaths were preventable and are pri- internal body temperature. Immersion in injury, or death to any person or property marily a result of having improperly or water speeds the loss of body heat and must report the incident to a park ranger overloaded boats, traveling far from can lead to hypothermia. After as little as as soon as possible, or within 24 hours. shore, not wearing life jackets, not travel- 5 to 10 minutes in cold water your core ing with other group members, not being body temperature drops, the brain Carrying Capacity / Overloading able to self-rescue, and making open- becomes confused and disoriented, and Overloaded boats are dangerous and ille- water crossings in windy weather. your arms and legs become numb. gal. While underway, no vessel shall Eventually, if you are unable to get out of carry more than a safe capacity of persons the water you will loose consciousness and/or total weight, taking into consider- and you could die. ation water and weather conditions, hull configuration, and intended use. Do not sels must be followed by all operators. are marked with a exceed the load limits as listed on the Keep to the right when approaching Danger, Stay Away “U.S. Coast Guard Maximum another boat head-on or nearly so. Keep Buoy, but buoys may not Capacities” information label or Capacity to the right in channels when safe and always be in place espe- Plate found on all boats except sailboats, practicable. Motorized boats shall keep cially early or late in the canoes, kayaks, and inflateables. Too clear of non-motorized boats. Yield right- season. Watch for shallow spots anytime many people and/or gear will cause the of-way to vessels you overtake or pass you are traveling close to shore. Stay alert boat to become unstable. Always balance and vessels on your right side in crossing. for floating hazards, such as large logs, the load so that the boat maintains proper and report them to a ranger if possible. trim. Here are some things to remember Submerged Hazards when loading your boat: Known hazards on Yellowstone Lake and • Distribute the load evenly fore and aft Lewis Lake are identified on the maps on and from side to side pages 19 and 23. On the lakes, hazards An improperly loaded and unbalanced canoe 9 • Keep the load low • Keep passengers seated (do not stand up in a small boat) • Properly load gear to prevent shifting. In a canoe, improperly packed and fastened gear may contribute to sink- ing in case of capsize, but properly packed (using dry bags) and fastened gear may aid in flotation.

Navigation, Rules of the Waterways The Statutory Rules of the Road enacted by Congress to prevent collision of ves- Wind & Weather Weather in Yellowstone can be unpre- dictable and can change rapidly. Check the local weather forecast before leaving the dock. NOAA weather radios can receive National Weather Service broad- casts of weather information specific to Yellowstone at frequency 162.450 MHz. Bridge Bay Marina will issue weather

In Yellowstone, even most sunny summer Please consider these strategies for days will have afternoon winds, typically a safe trip on Yellowstone’s lakes: out of the southwest and it is not uncom- 10 • Travel close to shore and in areas pro- mon for thunderstorms with strong winds, tected from wind high waves, and lightning to approach without warning. Waves of 3 to 4 feet are • Carefully plan itineraries to minimize common in the central, eastern and north- or avoid open water crossings ern sections of Yellowstone Lake, Lewis • Avoid open water crossings if you Lake and Shoshone Lake. The biggest lack the ability to perform a self-res- safety threat of wind is in swamping or cue or team-rescue capsizing your boat and encountering a sit- • Make open water crossings when it’s uation which could lead to hypothermia calm, do so quickly and don’t stop advisories and warnings over marine and drowning. Your best chances of avoid- band radio, but you should continually • Pay attention to the wind direction ing rough water are to boat early or late in keep a “weather eye” to the sky looking and where it’s pushing you the day. Even so, you may still encounter for potential changes in the weather. • Wait out windy conditions – don’t risk large waves and dangerous conditions. your safety or the safety of your group • Use a big enough boat for your activi- • Turn on running lights There are several signs which may ty. Deep v-hull designs handle the • Head bow of boat into the waves at indicate approaching weather best in rough water about a 45-degree angle changes: • Don’t overload your boat with people • Keep bilges free of water • Weather changes usually come from or gear • Seat passengers on bottom of boat the west and southwest • Place at least one experienced paddler near centerline • Watch for cloud build up, especially in each boat and consider practicing • If your engine fails, trail a sea anchor rapid vertically rising clouds capsize recovery techniques with all on a line from the bow to keep the • Watch for sudden drops in tempera- party members prior to your trip boat headed into the waves. A bucket ture and changes in wind direction or • Travel as a group – stay within audi- will work as a sea anchor in an emer- speed ble range of other party members gency. • Continue to look for oncoming • Anchor the boat if necessary. storms throughout the day What to do in severe weather 11 and high waves • Non-power boats should always trav- el close to shore and get out of the water. Be prepared to wait out storms on shore in a safe place • Power boats should head for the near- est shore that is safe to approach, if possible • Reduce speed, but keep just enough power to maintain headway • Put on PFD’s if you’re not already wearing them Self Rescue If you fall overboard or capsize and are much of your The first step of self-rescue is to avoid the unable to reenter your boat: body out of need for a rescue in the first place. Stay • Keep your PFD on and remain calm the water as within your abilities and plan and prac- possible. Fifty • Do not waste energy. Do not thrash tice self rescue before leaving on your percent of about or try to remove clothing or trip. Don’t wait until you need to self-res- body heat is footwear. This leads to exhaustion cue to try one and don’t count on some- lost from the and increases the loss of air that one else to save head. Crawl keeps you you. If you tip H.E.L.P. Position onto the over- afloat. If you are over far from turned boat if close to shore shore you’ll need possible. you may be able to get back into Assume the to float on your your boat and Heat Escape back and paddle 12 bail out any Lessening slowly to safety, water. Having Posture but do not swim help from others (H.E.L.P.) unless you are is much easier position or the very close to than getting in by Huddle shore and can yourself. Prudent Position if do so quickly. Huddle Position paddlers always with others. Swimming pumps blood away from travel in groups, but because boaters can the core of your body and into your Alcohol become separated by wind, waves or extremities which can shorten your Alcohol is the number one contributor to weather, self-rescue must be practiced. A survival time. boating-related accidents and deaths. Do variety of techniques exist to reenter not consume alcohol while boating. kayaks and canoes, but they need to be • Minimize heat loss. If possible, cover Boating under the influence is illegal. practiced before you embark on a trip. your head and button clothing. Keep your head out of water and get as Carbon Monoxide Hazards cially with canvas in place. Exhaust can • Install a carbon monoxide detector in Carbon Monoxide can be a “silent killer” also collect in enclosed spaces near the each accommodation space on your on recreational vessels. Each year, stern swim platform. boat. Check the detectors periodically boaters are injured or killed by carbon to be sure they are functioning properly. monoxide. Virtually all of the poisonings What To Do? • If your carbon monoxide detector are preventable. Carbon monoxide is a • Schedule regular engine and exhaust alarm sounds, immediately open win- by-product of combustion of carbon system maintenance inspections by dows and doors for ventilation and based material such as gasoline, propane, experienced and trained mechanics. move people into fresh air. Seek med- charcoal or wood. Common sources • Keep forward facing hatches open to ical attention if necessary. Turn off aboard boats include main and auxiliary allow fresh air circulation in accom- engines, generators, and any fuel engines, generators, cooking ranges, modation spaces, even in inclement burning appliances Don’t ignore the space heaters, and water heaters. Cold weather. alarm, investigate the source of the and poorly tuned engines produce more problem and seek qualified help in • Keep people clear of the boat’s rear carbon monoxide than warm properly fixing the problem. 13 tuned engines. deck area and swim platform while either the generator or engines are If you could see carbon monoxide accumulat- Carbon monoxide can collect within a running. Always monitor the swim- ing around your boat it might look like this. boat in a variety of ways. Exhaust leaks ming area. (the leading cause of death by carbon • Do not confuse carbon monoxide poi- monoxide) can allow carbon monoxide to soning with seasickness or intoxica- migrate throughout the boat and into tion. If someone on board complains enclosed areas. Even properly vented of irritated eyes, headaches, nausea, exhaust can re-enter a boat if it’s moored weakness or dizziness, immediately too close to a dock or another boat, or if move the person to fresh air, investi- the exhaust is pushed back by prevailing gate the cause and take corrective winds. Exhaust can re-enter boats when action. Seek medical attention, if nec- cruising under certain conditions espe- essary. sel and Eurasion watermilfoil are two footwear before moving among dif- Invasive Species other aquatic invasive species that are ferent bodies of water. A 10% bleach quickly approaching the park, and there solution carried in a spray bottle can are hundreds of others now in North be used to help ensure aquatic inva- Aquatic Invasive Species Threaten America. Often so small they are difficult sive species do not persist on your Yellowstone Waters – to see, aquatic invasive species are trans- gear. Yellowstone’s world class fisheries are ported or “hitchhike” from one lake or threatened by the introduction of aquatic 3) Be sure to drain livewells prior to stream to another within the water of a invasive species. These harmful invaders moving to a new lake or stream, and boat bilge or livewell, in mud and sand, displace native species that are essential for only clean fish in the same body of and on plant fragments attached to boats, the growth and survival of fish such as cut- water in which they were caught. fishing equipment, or clothing. throat trout. These invasive species have 4) Allowing your boat and other equip- the potential to impact trout consumers ment to dry in the sun for at least five How you can help – Prevent further such as eagles, ospreys, and grizzly bears, days after cleaning would also be 14 spread of these invaders by making sure which in turn helpful since some species cannot all equipment is clean and free of destruc- could cause a survive out of water. tive aquatic invasive species prior to disruption of entering the park and when moving from Yellowstone’s the Greater one lake or stream to another: world class Yellowstone fisheries are Ecosystem. 1) Prior to entering the park, clean threatened by your boat with high pressure hot the introduction Currently the water (>140 degrees F), including of aquatic New Zealand the bilge and livewell areas, and invasive species Mud Snail and flush your engine cooling system. the parasite that 2) Thoroughly clean any mud, vegeta- causes whirling tion or debris from boats, trailers, disease in trout fishing equipment, clothing and are present in park waters. The zebra mus- Sailboats may use the boat ramps at low a boat with a non-retractable keel Yellowstone Lake Bridge Bay Marina and Grant Village. To may encounter some difficulty. access the main body of Yellowstone Yellowstone Lake is the largest fresh Lake from the Bridge Bay Marina, South, Southeast, & Flat Mountain water lake above 7000 feet in the United boaters must travel under a bridge where Arm Regulations States, and the second largest above 7000 the road crosses the inlet to the marina To maintain the wilderness character of feet in the world. Its 136 square miles bay. A sailboat with raised mast cannot the South, Southeast, and Flat Mountain with 110 miles of shoreline provide an make it under this bridge. Sailboats must Arms of Yellowstone Lake, travel restric- exceptional backcountry experience for navigate under the bridge with the mast tions have been enacted. Motorized craft motorized and non-motorized boaters. down and step the mast while on the are restricted to a wakeless (5 mph) speed water. Once a sailboat has pro- south of the mouths of the South and Launch Locations gressed under the bridge, there is a Southeast Arms. The lower sections of Boat ramps are located at Bridge Bay beach in a no wake zone that we the South, Southeast and Flat Mountain Marina and Grant Village. Only boats 15 recommend you use to step the Arms are designated as Non-Motor which can be carried (canoes/kayaks) mast. A retractable keel is helpful Zones. Only boats without motors or may launch from Sedge Bay along the under these circumstances. Please boats which are designed to be hand northeastern shore of Yellowstone Lake. check with the Bridge Bay Marina propelled (sailed, rowed, or paddled) Boats which can be carried may also rangers for current water levels, and fur- with motors disabled may travel in the launch from the parking area along Gull ther details on how to safely get under Non-Motor Zone. Disabled means that Point Drive for day trips only. The Bridge way from Bridge Bay Marina. the motor propeller has been lifted out of Bay Marina and Grant Village Launch the water and or removed from the tran- Ramp Lagoon are No Wake Zones. At The boat ramp at Grant Village has no som. From mid-June to October, buoys Bridge Bay Marina there are separate overhead obstructions and is generally are installed marking the 5 mph and Non- parking areas for day-users and overnight steep enough that a sailboat with a keel of Motor Zones. It is your responsibility to users. Please consult with the rangers at average depth can be launched with no know where these zones begin and end Bridge Bay for more information. problems. However, if lake levels are very even when buoys are not installed. Restricted landing and travel areas house, fire grates, & picnic tables. On- Beaching & Storing Boats on Yellowstone Lake shore camping is prohibited, but self-con- Due to rocky shorelines and rough waves, tained vessels may anchor offshore boats must be removed completely from Landing vessels within 25 feet of any overnight with a valid backcountry per- the water along some sections of shore- geothermal area and on the shore line of mit. line on Yellowstone Lake. Refer to the Yellowstone Lake between Little Thumb Backcountry Trip Planner and the list of Creek and the south end of the West Stevenson Island – the campsites and their restric- Thumb geothermal area is prohibited. southern end of the island tions for detailed informa- is closed to public use from tion. Anchoring is prohibited in the Grant May 15 until August 15 to Village Launch Ramp lagoon, the Bridge protect nesting birds. The The tributaries of Parties with backcountry Bay Marina, and in Bridge Bay within northern end is open to day permits which combine Yellowstone Lake, 300 yards from shore between the Lake use, but there are no docks, boating and backpacking 16 Hotel and the entrance to the Bridge Bay fire grates or tables. including north of may store their boat on Marina. the outlet toward land during the time they The Molly Islands – locat- Fishing Bridge, are will be backpacking pro- The tributaries of Yellowstone Lake, ed in the Southeast Arm, closed to boating. viding that the boat is non- including north of the outlet toward the islands are a sensitive motorized, small enough to Fishing Bridge, are closed to boating. area for nesting birds and be hand carried, is stored are closed to any landing. out of sight of trails, camp- Frank Island – the entire island, except In addition, to minimize sites and the lake, and that for the immediate dock area (southeast- disturbance to the resident birds, boaters no food, trash, or odorous items are left in ern finger), is closed to public use from must travel no closer than 1/4 mile from the boat. May 15 until August 15 to protect nesting the islands or no further than 100 yards birds. There is a picnic area along the from shore between campsites 6A1 and southeastern finger of Frank Island which 6A2. is open to landing, and has a dock, out- Try to get an early start if you will be travelling along the east shore. Afternoon winds out of the southwest often result in large waves hitting the east shore and making boat travel difficult.

Yellowstone Lake Beware of floating debris, changing weather conditions, and extremely cold water. Be prepared for the unexpected.

17 Shore Proximity Bear Management Area Restrictions Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout are a pri- Power boats larger than 16 feet must trav- To reduce human related impacts on mary food source for many grizzly bears. el no closer than 1/4 mile from the shore- bears in high density bear habitat a num- In the spring Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout line of the South & Southeast arms. For ber of Bear Management Areas have been spawn in the many tributary streams sur- reference, the buoys marking the 5 mph established in Yellowstone National Park. rounding Yellowstone Lake. Because of zone and non-motorized zone are placed Much of the the spawn and 1/4 mile from shore. Boats are permitted shoreline of associated con- to be closer than 1/4 mile from shore only Yellowstone centration of when accessing campsites and the shore- Lake falls with- grizzly bears line to embark or debark or when they are in the bound- there are a stationary fishing from an anchored or aries of various number of moored boat. Bear campsites in the Manag ement arms of 18 Non-motorized boats and power boats Areas in an Yellowstone under 16 feet are strongly recommended effort to prevent Lake which are to stay within 1/4 mile of shore in the human-bear closed and event that they need to get to shore quickly. conflicts and other campsites provide areas where travel Docks where bears can away from the Docks are located at backcountry camp- pursue natural core camp or sites 7L5/Wolf Point, 7L6/Eagle Bay, behavioral patterns free from human dis- off of designated trails is not allowed 7M4/Plover Point, and at the southeastern turbance. The types of restrictions are prior to July 15. tip of Frank Island. If unoccupied, day area/campsite closures and travel limita- users may tie up to the docks and use the tions during specific times of the year Consult the Backcountry Trip Planner for picnic tables on shore. However, parties when bears may be more active in a spe- a map of the Bear Management Areas and with backcountry permits have prefer- cific area. a list of campsites with detailed restric- ence for use of these facilities. tions. high waves. At the Lewis Lake & Lewis Lake boat ramp there are separate park- Shoshone Lake ing areas for day and overnight users. Please Lewis Lake is the only location other than pay attention to the Yellowstone Lake where motor-ized signs. boats may operate. Shoshone Lake is the largest backcountry lake in the contigu- Motorized boating is ous United States and a magnificent allowed on Lewis Lake wilderness resource. It has no road access only. The non-motor- and only hand-propelled boats may reach ized zone begins at the Pulling a canoe up the Lewis River Channel in late-July its waters. mouth/southern end of the Lewis River Channel. Parties with nel due to a swift current in the early sea- 19 Launch Locations motors on their boats who are travelling son and shallow water later in the season. A boat ramp is located on the southeast- to Shoshone Lake must remove the motor You will need to walk upstream wading ern shore of Lewis Lake near the entrance from the boat and store it on shore upon in cold water through a rocky bottom to the campground. Non-motorized entering the Lewis River Channel. For stream, lining your boat behind. Having boaters are encouraged to launch from the added security boaters may wish to use a at least fifteen feet of rope makes this an boat ramp and travel along the more pro- chain and lock to secure their motor. easier task. In June and early-July, during tected western shore. Non-motorized spring run-off, expect extremely cold boats which can be hand carried may also Lewis River water temperatures and water depths of be launched from a roadside pullout The Lewis River Channel between Lewis 3–4 feet. You may wish to consider wear- along the northeast shore, but the north- and Shoshone Lakes is approximately 3 ing a wetsuit if you are planning a trip east shore launch location has very limit- miles long. Paddling upstream on the during the early season. By mid-July, run- ed parking and is not recommended due Lewis River Channel is not possible for off starts to subside and water tempera- to potentially dangerous rough water and about the northern most mile of the chan- tures slowly warm. Shoshone Geyser Basin Winds and waves on Shoshone Lake can East Shore Boaters can access the geyser basin via develop suddenly at any time putting you The east shore of Shoshone Lake, at first the small bay in the northwest end of the in a dangerous situation if you are far appearance, may look like the easiest lake where there is a landing area and a from shore. route between campsite 8S2, the north- trail to the basin. Look for a large orange east corner of the lake and the lake’s out- marker identifying the landing area. Do We suggest you select a site on the south- let near campsite 8S1. However, most not leave food items unattended in your ern shore of the lake for the first night of days, winds on Shoshone Lake come boat. A food storage box is located at the any overnight trip. Plan itineraries so that from the southwest causing the east shore landing area for you to store any food and you make any open water crossings in the to be pummeled by 2-3 foot or larger odorous items while you visit the geyser early morning and before winds pick up waves making paddling difficult if not basin. A trail leads from the landing area mid-morning (around 10 a.m.). Early impossible and dangerous. If your itiner- into the geyser basin. For your safety, mornings typically have the calmest ary takes you to the northeast corner of please stay on the trail while visiting the weather on Shoshone Lake, however the lake you should include in your plans 20 geyser basin. strong winds may occur at any time. time to travel between these locations via Carefully evaluate conditions and the Narrows and the more protected sec- Narrows wait out storms and strong winds tions of shoreline. The Narrows is the section in the middle at a safe location on of Shoshone Lake where the north and shore if needed. south shores are closest (approximately mile). If you need to make an open water crossing you should evaluate conditions wisely and cross only at the Narrows.

Crossing between the north and south shore at places other than the Narrows is strongly discouraged due to the length of time you are exposed and far from shore. 21

Non-Motorized Zone Eyes On Yellowstone For More Information To obtain a Backcountry Trip Planner contact the Central Eyes On Yellowstone is a collaborative pro- wonder and magic of one of the world’s most Backcountry Office at (307) 344- gram among Yellowstone National Park, recognized and popular parks. See: 2160 or look for it online at www.nps.gov/yell/publications Canon U.S.A., Inc., and Yellowstone Park www.WindowsIntoWonderland.org. To learn • Bridge Bay Backcountry Office Foundation. This group effort has furthered more or to participate in park science, contact (mid-May – September) 307-242-2413 the science and the Yellowstone • Grant Village Backcountry Office education mis- Park Foundation (June – September) 307-242-2609 • Yellowstone Association sion in the park at 406-586-6303 (books & maps) 877-967-0090 or for over 10 years. or www.ypf.org. www.YellowstoneAssociation.org • Xanterra Bridge Bay Marina – Canon has spon- Yellowstone Lake Boat Shuttle Reservations sored crucial sci- This publication 307-242-3881 (May – September) entific research is produced as 307-344-5217 (October –April) • Xanterra Reservations using cutting- part of Eyes On (Hotel, Campground, Activities) edge technology Yellowstone and 307-344-2113 in plant and is made possible • Emergency 911 wildlife recovery, by Canon U.S.A. For additional information on boating safety contact or visit: biodiversity discovery and conservation action Photographs, unless otherwise noted, were • USCG Boating Safety Infoline 800- projects such as disturbed lands restoration taken with Canon film or digital cameras. 368-5647 or www.uscgboating.org • Safe Boating Council - and archival photograph preservation. www.safeboatingcouncil.org See: www.EyesOnYellowstone.org. Printed on recycled paper NPS Boating Regulations can be found in Title 36, Part 3 of the Code of Federal Regulations online at Canon is committed to raising awareness http://www.gpoaccess.gov/cfr/index.ht ml. It is your responsibility to know about the importance of conserving the and obey the United States Coast nation’s wildlands and is instrumental in cre- Guard and State of Wyoming regula- tions for boat operation and safety. ating new avenues for public access to the