Before entering a thermal area
- Use boardwalks and designated trails. Keep children close and do not take shortcuts.
- Do not touch thermal features or runoff, and do not enter the water.
- Check the park's current pet restrictions and area closures before you set out.
Make room for other visitors when stopping for a photograph. If a route is closed, choose another viewing area rather than stepping off the path.
Plan before you reach the boardwalk
Check the park's current conditions for the basin you intend to visit. Thermal areas can close or have route changes. Choose a different open area if your planned path is unavailable. The ground beside a boardwalk may look solid while hot water lies beneath a fragile crust.
Leave pets out of thermal areas. Yellowstone says they are prohibited there and on boardwalks even when carried, with an exception for trained service animals under park rules. For photographs, stay on the designated route and leave room for others to pass; tripod legs belong on the boardwalk too. Keep children close throughout the walk.