Boating

Regulations

Motorized Boating

Non-Motorized Boating

Boating Safety & AIS Inspections

Yellowstone National Park
All motorized watercraft must be 

registered in the state of principle use. 

Registration numbers must be displayed 

on your watercraft in accordance with 

US Coast Guard (USCG) regulations.

Additionally, all 

watercraft, including 

float tubes, must 

obtain a Yellowstone 

National Park Boat 

Permit. Motorized 

boat permits and 

non-motorized boat permits (including 

float tubes) are available in a 7-day 

denomination or as an annual permit. 

Contact the Backcountry Office for 

current pricing.

All boats, including float tubes, will need to 

be inspected for Aquatic Invasive Species 

(AIS). If the boat leaves Yellowstone after 

it has been inspected, the boat will need to 

be re-inspected before relaunching.

Place the Boat Permit and AIS stickers on the 

port (left) side of the watercraft, approximately one foot forward of the stern (back). On a 

float tube or stand up paddle board, the permit may be attached directly to the float tube / 

board or attached via a metal wicket available 

from the issuing station.

Where to Obtain Boat Permits and 

AIS Inspections

Motorized and Non-Motorized Boats: 

Bridge Bay Ranger Station, Grant Village 

Visitor Center’s Backcountry Office, and 

Lewis Lake Ranger Station.

Float Tubes:

In addition to the above noted locations, 

check the Park’s website for other

locations that can conduct float tube 

inspections.

Yellowstone National Park offers a variety of boating experiences. Boating in 

Yellowstone is a memorable experience and a great way to see a different part of the 

park, but boating in Yellowstone is not without its risks. This brochure has been prepared to assist you in planning ahead and preparing for your boating experience, to 

help you make your trip as safe as possible and to help you minimize your impact on 

resources so that Yellowstone can be enjoyed by future generations.

Contents

Boat Registration 1

& Permit

Required Equipment 2 

Recommended 4

 Equipment

Prohibitions 6

Additional 6

Regulations

Boating Safety 8

Invasive Species 14

Yellowstone Lake 15

Lewis Lake & 19

 Shoshone Lake

1

Boat Registration

& Permit

When permitted

Boating is allowed from the Saturday before Memorial Day through the October 31st.

Where permitted 

Motorized boats are allowed only on Lewis Lake and Yellowstone Lake. 

Boat launches are located at Bridge Bay Marina and Grant Village on 

Yellowstone Lake and on the south end of Lewis Lake near the Lewis 

Lake Campground.

Canoes, kayaks, paddle boards and other non-motorized boats are 

permitted on all park lakes except Sylvan Lake, Eleanor Lake, 

Twin Lakes, and Beach Springs Lagoon. All park 

rivers are closed to boating except for the section 

of the Lewis River between Lewis Lake and 

Shoshone Lake, where only non-motorized 

boating is permitted. 

Float tubes are considered 

non-motorized boats 

and subject to the same 

regulations.

Water-skiing, jet skis and related activities are not allowed on any park waters.

Tower

Mammoth

Canyon

Bridge Bay

Marina

Grant

Norris

South Entrance

Lewis Lake

West

Yellowstone

Old

Faithful

Northeast

Entrance

Motorized, 

non-motorized 

boat, and float 

tube permits 

available at these 

locations
PSound Producing Device – A sound 

device is required for all boats to signal 

your position in reduced visibility and 

for navigation to signal your intentions 

to other vessels. The human voice is not 

acceptable under USCG regulations. An 

air horn or whistle is recommended.

PRequired Lights – Running lights /

navigational lights are required to be displayed at night and when in or near areas 

of reduced visibility. When underway 

from sunset to sunrise, every motor boat 

shall carry and exhibit lights prescribed 

for the applicable class of motorboat by 

your state or the USCG. Anchored boats 

must exhibit a white anchor light except 

when anchored at designated anchor 

sites on Yellowstone Lake (5L8, 5L9, 7L5, 

7L6, 7M1, 7M4, 7M5, 7F1 & 7F2).

Non-motorized boats are required to 

natural ventilation system is required 

for each compartment in a boat that: 1) 

contains a permanently installed gasoline 

engine; 2) has openings between it and a 

compartment that requires ventilation; 

3) contains a permanently installed fuel 

tank and an electrical compartment.

have a light (headlamp / flashlight for 

night paddling or during periods of 

reduced visibility.

P Flame Arrestors – Required only on 

inboard engines to prevent backfire. Not 

required for outboard motors. Unless 

the motor is very old, it should have 

been equipped with flame arrestors when 

manufactured.

P Fire Extinguishers – USCG approved 

fire extinguishers are required on boats 

with inboard engines, enclosed compartments, or permanent fuel tanks. Boats 

under 26 feet must have one Class B-I 

fire extinguisher. Boats 26 feet and over 

must have one Class B-II fire extinguisher or two Class B-I fire extinguishers. 

Labels should read “Marine Type USCG” 

and specify class and size. Fire extinguishers should be inspected monthly to 

make sure they are in working order. 

P Ventilation – All boats built after 

August 1, 1980 which use gasoline 

for electrical generation, mechanical 

power or propulsion are required to be 

equipped with a ventilation system. A 

neck or below the waist. Select a PFD 

based on your planned activities, and the 

water conditions you expect to encounter.

Check the fit of the PFD – Raise your arms 

over your head and have someone lift 

the PFD straight up from the shoulders. 

The PFD should stay in place. If the PFD 

comes off, or if the chest area of the PFD 

touches your nose, then the PFD is too 

big or loose and needs to be secured. If 

you cannot secure straps or zip the PFD, 

then it is too small. Also, test the PFD 

for buoyancy by making sure the PFD 

keeps your chin above water and you can 

breathe easily; if your mouth is not well 

above water get a new PFD with more 

buoyancy.

2 3

which could affect performance. PFD’s 

made with KAPOC should be carefully 

inspected to insure that the flotation 

chambers have not ruptured.

• readily accessible. Wearable PFD’s must 

be readily accessible. You must be able 

to put them on in a reasonable amount 

of time in an emergency. Children 12 or 

younger must wear a USCG approved 

Type I, II, or III PFD when aboard a 

vessel which is underway, except while 

inside an enclosed cabin. 

Though not required for ages 

13 and older, a PFD should 

be worn at all times when 

the vessel is underway.In 

a true emergency you may 

not have time to locate and 

properly put on a PFD. A 

wearable PFD can save your 

life, but only if you wear it. 

Sailboarders (Windsurfers)

must wear a USCG approved Type I, II, 

or III or V PFD. Type V PFDs must be 

worn at all times. 

• an appropriate size for the intended 

user. A properly sized PFD fits comfortably snug and does not come above the 

In addition to obtaining a Yellowstone 

Boat Permit you must have the following 

checked (P) items as required by the U.S. 

Coast Guard (USCG): 

P Personal Flotation Device (PFD) –

All vessels must have a US Coast 

Guard approved, wearable PFD 

(Type I, II, III, or V) for each 

person on board. Additionally, 

boats 16 feet and longer (except 

kayaks /canoes) are required to 

have at least one immediately 

accessible throwable (type IV) 

PFD. Look on the tag of the PFD 

to determine type and if it is 

USCG approved.

Each PFD must be: 

• in good condition. Insure that all zippers, straps and buckles are in working 

order and can be fastened securely. The 

PFD must be free from holes or tears 

Required Equipment

Class B 

fire extinguishers 

are designed to 

extinguish 

flammable liquids 

such as gasoline, 

and propane.

A PFD can save 

your life but only if 

you wear it.
3 years, be sure to check the expiration 

date. 

VHF Marine Band Radio and/or Cell Phone 

– A VHF marine band radio is useful for 

receiving storm warnings and in an 

emergency for contacting other boats, 

NPS boat patrol, or the Bridge Bay 

Marina. You can contact the 

Bridge Bay Marina and Ranger 

station on marine band channel 

16. Calling 911 on a cell phone 

may also be helpful in an emergency situation. However, cell 

phones and marine band radios 

have limited range and are affected 

by topography and may not work 

everywhere, especially in the arms of 

Yellowstone Lake. 

Waste Receptacle – All vessels should 

have a waste receptacle aboard. Dispose 

of trash in garbage cans or dumpsters 

at launch locations. Do not put trash 

into pit toilets. Draining, dumping, or 

discharging wastes or refuse, including 

human waste, into the waters from any 

vessel is prohibited.

Compass/GPS unit, maps – Carry navigational devices and know how to use 

them.

Survival gear in dry bags – even if you 

are only on a day trip, having a blanket 

or sleeping bag, fire starter and matches 

stored in a dry bag could be life saving 

if, in an emergency, you capsize and / or 

have to spend the night out. 

Additional equipment for paddlers:

Wet Suit or Paddling Jacket – can help 

keep you warm and reduce chances 

of hypothermia if you capsize in 

Yellowstone’s cold waters. They must be 

appropriate for the water and air temperatures you will encounter. As a general 

rule, if air and water temperatures are 

less than 120° F. then you should wear 

cold weather exposure gear (wet suit, 

foul weather gear, etc).

Paddle Float – indispensable for kayaks 

to assist in solo reentry of the vessel in 

case of capsize.

Oars/paddles – Motor boats should be 

equipped with oars or paddles for emergency propulsion. Canoes/kayaks should 

carry a backup paddle in case a primary 

paddle is lost or broken.

Bailing device – All vessels should carry 

a suitable manual bailing device such as 

a bucket/milk jug or hand pump. Even if 

the boat has a bilge pump or automatic 

bailing device, a manual backup device 

could be vital if these devices don’t work. 

For canoes and kayaks, a bailing device is 

indispensable in the event of capsizing or 

if your boat is taking on water.

Anchor/line – An anchor and line 

attached to the bow can be used to keep a 

boat stationary and to keep it from blowing from or into shore. An anchor which 

can be set is required for boats 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 –We recommend 

you 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 

emergency. As most devices expire after 

Total Depth = 30 feet

Depth of water 28 feet + 

2 feet above water

30 x 7 = 210 foot line

Scope 7:1

4 5

Recommended

Equipment

Throw Rope – useful to reach capsized 

boaters.

Waterproof Gear Bags/Flotation Bags –

Waterproof gear bags increase flotation 

and keep clothing and gear dry. Plastic 

garbage bags may help keep equipment 

dry, but are not suitable for flotation. 

Inspections – Any park ranger may at 

any time stop or board any vessel to 

examine for Aquatic Invasive species, 

documents, licenses, and /or permits 

relating to the operation of the vessel 

and to inspect such vessels to determine compliance with park regulations 

including boat safety, backcountry

permits and fishing regulations.
The following are prohibited in 

Yellowstone National Park:

• Private vessels which exceed 40 feet in 

length.

• Watercraft equipped with sealed 

internal ballast tanks.

• Operating a vessel that exceeds a 

noise level of 82 decibels measured at a 

distance of 85 feet from the vessel.

• Weapons, other than legally permitted 

firearms, traps, or chain saws.

• Jet skis, personal watercraft, airboats, 

submersibles and similar vessels.

• Towing water skiers, wakeboards, 

parasails or performing similar 

activities.

• Overnight anchoring or beaching of 

boats without a backcountry permit.

• Draining, dumping, or discharging 

wastes or refuse, including human 

waste, into the waters from any vessel.

• Operating a vessel in excess of 45 mph.

• Operating a vessel while under the 

influence of alcohol, intoxicants or drugs.

• Failing to observe restrictions 

established by a regulatory marker.

• Operating a vessel in excess of 5 mph 

(approximately 1,000 - 1,100 RPMs) 

within marinas, boat launch areas, 

and the arms of Yellowstone Lake 

or within 100 feet of a swimmer or 

diver’s marker.

• Operating a vessel in a reckless or 

negligent manner, or in a manner 

which endangers or is likely to 

endanger any other person or 

property.

 • Operating a motorized vessel while 

any person is riding on the gunwales, 

transom, or on the decking over the 

bow, except when the vessel is being 

maneuvered for anchoring, mooring 

or casting off moorings.

• Operating in any commercial capacity 

within the park, unless written 

authorization has been granted by the 

Superintendent.

• Using trailers to launch or recover 

vessels at a site other than a designated 

boat launch ramp.

• Overloading a boat.

6 7

Prohibitions

Operator age – You must be at least 16 

years of age to operate a power-driven 

vessel unsupervised. People age 12-15 

may operate a power-driven vessel under 

direct supervision of an adult age 18 or 

older.

Pets – Pets are allowed on motor boats 

when traveling on Yellowstone Lake and 

Lewis Lake, but must be of appropriate 

size for the size of the boat. Pets are not 

allowed on boats for overnight trips or 

on shore except at boat launch areas. 

Generators – Generators may not be 

brought ashore. Self-contained motor 

boats staying overnight at a backcountry 

campsite should obey quiet hours and 

not operate generators or boat motors 

between the hours of 8 p.m. and 8 a.m.

Fishing Permit Required – Yellowstone 

National Park Fishing Permits are 

required and are available at backcounAdditional

Regulations

Food stored properly on a food pole

try offices, visitor centers, Yellowstone 

General Stores, local businesses in the 

outlying communities, and online at 

www.recreation.gov. Refer to park fishing 

regulations for details and make sure you 

understand creel limits, tackle restrictions, and proper fish cleaning methods 

in bear country. 

Backcountry Permit – Camping or sleeping on your boat requires a backcountry 

permit and is allowed only at designated 

sites and anchorages. Backcountry permits for parties travelling by boat may be 

obtained at the following locations:

• Snake River Ranger Station

• Grant Village Backcountry Office

• Bridge Bay Ranger Station

For more information about picking 

up backcountry permits and making 

advanced reservations please reference 

the Camp in the Backcountry page on our 

website.

Food Storage – Whether picnicking, 

camping onshore at a designated campsite, or leaving your boat unattended to 

fish or day-hike, you must follow proper 

backcountry food storage regulations to 

minimize the opportunity for bears and 

other wildlife to obtain human food. 

All food and odorous items must be 

properly hung or secured in an approved 

bear resistant food container. Do not 

leave food in the open or in a cooler on 

your boat at any time when no one is 

in direct attendance. All backcountry 

campsites have a food pole or metal 

storage box. Items which are hung must 

be at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 

feet from the tree trunk. You will need 

a minimum of 35 feet of rope or more 

if you have multiple containers and / or 

coolers. If your boat is self-contained and 

you are staying on your boat at one of 

the anchor or dock sites, then you must 

securely store your food below deck.

Disabled vessels -Visitors are required to 

notify park rangers of sunken, grounded 

or disabled vessels.
An improperly loaded and unbalanced canoe. 

or Capacity Plate found on all boats 

except sailboats, canoes, kayaks, and 

inflatables. Too many people and /or too 

much gear will cause the boat to become 

unstable. Always balance the load so that 

the boat maintains proper trim. Here are 

some things to remember when loading 

your boat: • Distribute the load evenly fore and aft 

and from side to side.

• 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 sinking 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-

sels must be followed by all operators. 

Keep to the right when approaching 

another boat head-on or nearly so. Keep 

to the right in channels when safe and 

hazards are marked with 

a Danger, Stay Away Buoy, 

but buoys may not always 

be in place particularly 

early or late in the season. 

Watch for shallow spots 

anytime you are traveling 

close to shore. Stay alert 

for floating hazards, 

such as large logs, 

and report them to 

 a ranger if possible.

practicable. Motorized 

boats shall keep clear of 

non-motorized boats. 

Yield right-of-way to ves-

sels you overtake or pass 

and vessels on your right 

side in crossing.

Submerged Hazards

Known hazards on 

Yellowstone Lake 

and Lewis Lake are identified on the 

maps on pages 17 and 21. On the lakes, 

You are operationally and legally respon-

sible for your safety and the safety of 

your passengers. Don’t take your safety 

for granted and don’t count on some-

one else to save you. Many recreational 

boaters assume they are safe because 

they’re in small boats, in shallow water, 

or because they’re good swimmers. 

Regardless of your level of experience – 

know your limits. Over 50 people have 

lost their lives on Yellowstone Lake, 

Lewis Lake and Shoshone Lake. Most of 

these deaths were preventable and are 

primarily a result of having improperly 

or overloaded boats, traveling far from 

shore, not wearing life jackets, not travel-

ing with other group members, not being 

able to self-rescue, and making openwater crossings in windy weather.

Cold Water Survival

Yellowstone’s lakes are high elevation, 

cold lakes. Water temperatures range 

from the mid-30’s in June to only the 

on dry clothing, wear a hat, or get into a 

sleeping bag.

Combat hypothermia by being pre-

pared and planning ahead – wear your 

PFD and avoid conditions which could 

swamp or capsize your boat. Travel close 

to shore. Practice and be prepared for 

self-rescue. Wear clothing appropriate 

for the conditions. 

Accidents & Reports

Any vessel operator involved in an 

incident that results in property dam-

age, injury, or death to any person or 

property must report the incident to a 

park ranger as soon as possible, or within 

24 hours.

Carrying Capacity / Overloading

Overloaded boats are dangerous and 

illegal. While underway, no vessel 

shall carry more than a safe capacity 

of persons and /or total weight, taking 

into consideration water and weather 

conditions, hull configuration, and 

intended use. Do not exceed the load 

limits as listed on the “U.S. Coast Guard 

Maximum Capacities” information label 

low 60’s (degrees Fahrenheit) in August. 

Even when the water temperature in 

Yellowstone’s lakes is at its highest, your 

survival time, if immersed, is limited. 

Sudden immersion in cold water can 

induce rapid, uncontrolled breathing, 

cardiac arrest, and other physical body 

conditions, which can result in drown-

ing. Always wearing a PFD will help you 

survive in rapid immersion situations. 

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is the abnormal lower-

ing of internal body temperature. 

Immersion in water speeds the loss of 

body heat and can lead to hypothermia. 

After 5 to 10 minutes in cold water, your 

core body temperature drops, the brain 

becomes confused and disoriented, 

and your arms and legs become numb. 

Eventually, if you are unable to get out 

of the water you will lose consciousness 

and could die.

Getting out of the water is only the first 

step. It is important to get to shore and 

promptly remove all wet clothing (espe-

cially cotton) and rewarm your body. Put 

89

Boating

Safety

Hazard Buoy
There are several signs which may 

indicate approaching weather 

changes:

• Weather changes usually come from 

the west and southwest.

• Watch for cloud build up, especially 

rapid vertically rising clouds.

• Watch for sudden drops in 

temperature and changes in wind 

direction or speed.

• Continue to look for oncoming 

storms throughout the day.

Wind & Weather

Weather in Yellowstone can be unpredictable and can change rapidly. Check 

the local weather forecast before leaving 

the dock. NOAA weather radios can 

receive National Weather Service broadcasts of weather information specific 

to Yellowstone at frequency 162.450 

MHz. Bridge Bay Marina will issue 

weather advisories and warnings over 

VHF marine band radio, but you should 

continually keep a “weather eye” to the 

sky looking for potential changes in the 

weather. Please consider these strategies for 

a safe trip on Yellowstone’s lakes:

• Travel close to shore and in areas 

protected from wind. 

• Carefully plan itineraries to minimize 

or avoid open water crossings.

• Avoid open water crossings if you lack 

the ability to perform a self-rescue or 

team-rescue.

• Make open water crossings when it’s 

calm, do so quickly, and don’t stop.

• Pay attention to the wind direction 

and where it’s pushing you.

• Wait out windy conditions – don’t 

In Yellowstone, even most sunny summer days will have afternoon winds, 

typically out of the southwest and it is 

not uncommon for thunderstorms with 

strong winds, high waves, and lightning 

to approach without warning. Waves 

of 3 to 4 feet are common on 

Yellowstone Lake, Lewis Lake and 

Shoshone Lake. The biggest safety threat 

of wind is in swamping or capsizing your 

boat and encountering a situation which 

could lead to hypothermia and drowning. Your best chances of avoiding rough 

water are to boat early or late in the day. 

Even so, you may still encounter large 

waves and dangerous conditions.

10 11

risk your safety or the safety of your 

group.

• Use a big enough boat for your 

activity. Deep v-hull designs handle 

the best in rough water.

• Don’t overload your boat with people 

or gear.

• Place at least one experienced paddler 

in each boat and consider practicing 

capsize recovery techniques with all 

party members prior to your trip.

• Travel as a group – stay within audible 

range of other party members.

What to do in severe weather 

and high waves:

• Non-power boats should always travel 

close to shore and get out of the water. 

Be prepared to wait out storms on 

shore in a safe place.

• Power boats, if possible, should head 

for the nearest shore that is safe to 

approach.

• Reduce speed, but keep just enough 

power to maintain headway.

• Put on PFDs if you’re not already 

wearing them.

• Turn on running lights.

• Head bow of boat into the waves at 

about a 45-degree angle.

• Keep bilges free of water.

• Seat passengers on bottom of boat 

near center line.

• If your engine fails, trail a sea anchor 

on a line from the bow to keep the 

boat headed into the waves. A bucket 

will work as a sea anchor in an 

emergency.

• Anchor the boat if necessary.
Carbon Monoxide Hazards 

Carbon Monoxide can be a “silent 

killer” on recreational vessels. Each year, 

boaters are injured or killed by carbon 

monoxide. Virtually all of the poisonings 

are preventable. Carbon monoxide is 

a by-product of combustion of carbon 

based material such as gasoline, propane, 

charcoal, or wood. Common sources 

aboard boats include main and auxiliary 

engines, generators, cooking ranges, 

space heaters, and water heaters. Cold 

and poorly tuned engines produce more 

carbon monoxide than warm properly 

tuned engines.

Carbon monoxide can collect within a 

boat in a variety of ways. Exhaust leaks 

(the leading cause of death by carbon 

monoxide) can allow carbon monoxide 

to spread throughout the boat and into 

enclosed areas. Even properly vented 

exhaust can re-enter a boat if it’s moored 

too close to a dock or another boat, or if 

the exhaust is pushed back by prevailing 

winds. Exhaust can re-enter boats 

when cruising under certain conditions 

especially with canvas in place. Exhaust 

can also collect in enclosed spaces near 

the stern swim platform.

• If your carbon monoxide detector 

alarm sounds, immediately open 

windows and doors for ventilation 

and move people into fresh air. Seek 

medical attention if necessary. Turn 

off engines, generators, and any fuel 

burning appliances. Don’t ignore the 

alarm, investigate the source of the 

problem and seek qualified help in 

fixing the problem.

What To Do To Stay Safe?

• Schedule regular engine and exhaust 

system maintenance inspections by 

experienced and trained mechanics.

• Keep forward facing hatches open 

to allow fresh air circulation in 

accommodation spaces, even in 

inclement weather. 

• Keep people clear of the boat’s rear 

deck area and swim platform while 

either the generator or engines 

are running. Always monitor the 

swimming area.

• Do not confuse carbon monoxide 

poisoning with seasickness or 

intoxication. If someone on board 

complains of irritated eyes, headaches, 

nausea, weakness or dizziness, 

immediately move the person to 

fresh air, investigate the cause and 

take corrective action. Seek medical 

attention, if necessary.

• Install a carbon monoxide detector in 

each accommodation space on your 

boat. Check the detectors periodically 

to be sure they are functioning 

properly. 

Self Rescue

The first step of self-rescue is prevention. Avoid the need for a rescue in the 

first place. Stay within your abilities 

and plan and practice self rescue before 

leaving for your trip. Don’t wait until 

you need to self-rescue to try one and 

don’t count on someone else to save 

you. If you tip 

over far from 

shore, you’ll 

need to get back 

into your boat 

and bail out any 

water. Having 

help from others 

is much easier 

than getting 

in by yourself. 

Prudent paddlers always 

travel in groups, 

but because boaters can become separated by wind, waves or weather, selfrescue must be practiced. A variety of 

techniques exist to re-enter kayaks and 

canoes, but they need to be practiced 

before you embark on a trip.

as possible. 

Fifty percent 

of body heat 

is lost from 

the head. 

Crawl onto 

the overturned 

boat if 

possible. If not, 

assume the 

Heat Escape 

Lessening 

Posture 

(H.E.L.P.) 

position or 

the Huddle 

Position if 

with others.

Alcohol

Alcohol is the number one contributor 

to boating-related accidents and deaths. 

Do not consume alcohol while boating. 

Boating under the influence is illegal.

If you fall overboard or capsize and are 

unable to re-enter your boat: 

• Keep your PFD on and remain calm

• Do not waste energy by thrashing 

about or trying to remove clothing or 

footwear. This leads to exhaustion and 

increases the loss of air that keeps you 

afloat. If you are 

close to shore 

you may be able 

to float on your 

back and paddle 

slowly to safety, 

but do not swim 

unless you are 

very close to 

shore and can 

do so quickly. 

Swimming 

pumps blood 

away from 

the core of your body and into your 

extremities which can shorten your 

survival time. 

• Minimize heat loss. If possible, cover 

your head and button clothing. Keep 

your head out of water and get as 

much of your body out of the water 

12 13

H.E.L.P. Position

Huddle Position

If you could see carbon monoxide accumulating around your boat it, might look like this.
Yellowstone Lake is the largest fresh 

water lake above 7,000 feet in the United 

States, and the second largest above 7,000 

feet in the world. Its 136 square miles 

with 110 miles of shoreline provide an 

exceptional backcountry experience for 

motorized and non-motorized boaters. 

Launch Locations

Boat ramps are located at Bridge Bay 

Marina and Grant Village. Only boats 

which can be carried (canoes/kayaks) 

may launch from Sedge Bay along the 

northeastern shore of Yellowstone Lake. 

Boats which can be carried may also 

launch from the parking area along 

Gull Point Drive for day trips only. The 

Bridge Bay Marina and Grant Village 

Launch Ramp Lagoon are No Wake 

Zones. At Bridge Bay Marina, there are 

separate parking areas for day-users and 

overnight users. Please consult with the 

rangers at Bridge Bay for more information. Sailboats may use the boat ramps 

at Bridge Bay Marina and Grant Village. 

South, Southeast, & Flat Mountain 

Arm Regulations

To maintain the wilderness character of 

the South, Southeast, and Flat Mountain 

Arms of Yellowstone Lake, travel restrictions have been enacted. Motorized craft 

are restricted to a wakeless (5 mph) speed 

south of the mouths of the South and 

Southeast Arms. The lower sections of 

the South, Southeast and Flat Mountain 

Arms are designated as Non-Motor 

Zones. Only boats without motors or 

boats which are designed to be hand 

propelled (sailed, rowed, or paddled) 

with motors disabled may travel in 

the Non-Motor Zone. Disabled means 

that the motor propeller has been lifted out of the water and / or removed 

from the transom. From mid-June to 

October, buoys are installed marking the 

5 mph and Non-Motor Zones. It is your 

responsibility to know where these zones 

begin and end even when buoys are not 

installed.

To access the main body of Yellowstone 

Lake from the Bridge Bay Marina, boaters must travel under a bridge where 

the road crosses the inlet to the marina 

bay. A sailboat with raised mast cannot 

make it under this bridge. Sailboats must 

navigate under the bridge with the mast 

down and step the mast while on the 

water. Once a sailboat has progressed 

under the bridge, there is a beach in a 

no wake zone that we recommend you 

use to step the mast. A retractable keel is helpful under these 

circumstances. Please check with 

the Bridge Bay Marina rangers 

for current water levels, and 

further details on how to safely 

get under way from Bridge Bay 

Marina.

The boat ramp at Grant Village has no 

overhead obstructions and is generally 

steep enough that a sailboat with a keel 

of average depth can be launched with no 

problems. However, if lake levels are very 

low, a boat with a non-retractable keel 

may encounter some difficulty.

Aquatic Invasive Species Threaten 

Yellowstone Waters – 

Yellowstone’s world class fisheries are 

threatened by the introduction of aquatic 

invasive species. AIS and nonnative 

organisms are a major threat to aquatic 

resources, wildlife, visitor recreation, and 

infrastructure. Once established, AIS can 

cause irreparable harm and species extinction. AIS can drastically alter habitats and 

food webs, negatively affecting sport fish 

and food resources for native wildlife. 

There are few effective or inexpensive 

means of controlling AIS and eradication 

is usually impossible.

Currently at least eight aquatic invasive 

species already exist in Yellowstone’s 

waters: New Zealand mud snail, redrimmed melania, five nonnative fish, 

and whirling disease. The quagga mussel 

and Eurasian watermilfoil are two other 

aquatic invasive species that are quickly 

approaching the park and there are many 

others now in North America. 

vegetation or debris from boats, 

trailers, fishing equipment, clothing 

and footwear before moving among 

different bodies of water. As of 2018 

felt soled waders and boots are not 

permitted in Yellowstone.

• Be sure to drain livewells prior to 

moving to a new lake or stream, and 

only clean fish in the same body of 

water in which they were caught. Do 

not move or dump water or organisms 

from one body of water into any other 

body of water.

• Drying your boat and other equipment 

in the sun for at least five days after 

cleaning is also helpful since some 

species cannot survive out of water. 

See page one for boat permit and 

aquatic invasive species inspection 

locations.

Often so small they are difficult to see, 

aquatic invasive species are transported 

or “hitchhike” from one lake or stream 

to another within the water of a boat 

bilge or livewell, in mud and sand, and 

on plant fragments attached to boats, 

fishing equipment, or clothing. 

Prior to being issued a boat permit and launching into any of 

Yellowstone’s waters all watercrafts 

are required to be inspected for 

Aquatic Invasive Species.

How you can help – Prevent further 

spread of these invaders by making 

sure all equipment is clean and free of 

destructive aquatic invasive species prior 

to entering the park and when moving 

from one lake or stream to another: 

• Prior to entering the park, clean your 

boat with high pressure hot water 

(120-140 degrees F), including the 

bilge and livewell areas, and flush 

your engine cooling system. Leave 

drain plugs out during transport.

• Thoroughly clean any mud, 

14 15

Invasive Species Yellowstone Lake
Restricted landing and travel areas 

on Yellowstone Lake

Landing vessels within 25 feet of any 

geothermal area and on the shore line 

of Yellowstone Lake between Little 

Thumb Creek and the south end of 

the West Thumb geothermal area is 

prohibited.

Anchoring is prohibited in the Grant 

Village Launch Ramp lagoon, the Bridge 

Bay Marina, and in Bridge Bay within 

300 yards from shore between the Lake 

Hotel and the entrance to the Bridge Bay 

Marina.

The tributaries of Yellowstone Lake, 

including north of the outlet toward 

Fishing Bridge, are closed to boating.

Frank Island – the entire island, except 

for the immediate dock area (southeast-

ern finger), is closed to public use from 

May 15 until August 15 to protect nest-

ing birds. There is a picnic area along 

the southeastern finger of Frank Island 

which is open to landing, and has a dock, 

outhouse, fire grates, & picnic tables. 

On-shore camping is prohibited, but 

ly from the water along some sections of 

shoreline on Yellowstone Lake. Refer to 

the Backcountry Trip Planner and the 

list of campsites and their restrictions for 

detailed information.

Parties with backcountry permits which 

combine boating and 

backpacking may store 

their boat on land during 

the time they will be back-

packing provided that the 

boat is small enough to be 

completely removed from 

the water, is stored out of 

sight of trails, campsites 

and the lake, and that no 

food, trash, or odorous 

items are left in the boat. 

Caches are not allowed in 

the backcountry. 

With the exception, of 

boating equipment (boats, 

paddles, PFD) all other items may not be 

left unaccompanied.

self-contained vessels may anchor offshore overnight with a valid backcountry 

permit.

Stevenson Island – the southern end 

of the island is closed to public use from 

May 15 until August 15 to protect nest-

ing birds. The northern 

end is open to day use, but 

there are no docks, fire 

grates or tables.

The Molly Islands – 

located in the Southeast 

Arm, the islands are a 

sensitive area for nesting 

birds and are closed to any 

landing. In addition, to 

minimize disturbance to 

the resident birds, boaters 

must travel no closer than 

1/2 mile from the islands 

or no further than 100 

yards from shore between campsites 6A1 

and 6A2.

Beaching & Storing Boats

Due to rocky shorelines and rough 

waves, boats must be removed complete-

16

The tributaries of 

Yellowstone Lake, 

including north of 

the outlet toward 

Fishing Bridge, are 

closed to boating.

17

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.
Lewis Lake is the only location other 

than Yellowstone Lake where motorized 

boats may operate. Shoshone Lake is the 

largest backcountry lake in the contiguous United States and a magnificent 

wilderness resource. It has no road access 

and only hand-propelled boats may 

reach its waters.

Launch Locations

A boat ramp is located on the southeastern shore of Lewis Lake near the entrance 

to the campground. Non-motorized 

boaters are encouraged to launch from 

the boat ramp and travel along the more 

protected western shore. Non-motorized 

boats which can be hand carried may 

also be launched from a roadside pullout along the northeast shore, but the 

northeast shore launch location has very 

limited parking and is not recommended 

due to potentially dangerous rough water 

and high waves. At the Lewis Lake boat 

ramp, there are separate parking areas 

channel due to a swift current in the early season and shallow water later in the 

season. You will need to walk upstream 

wading in cold water through a rocky 

bottom stream, lining your boat behind. 

Having at least fifteen feet of rope 

makes this an easier task. In June and 

early-July, during spring run-off, expect 

extremely cold water temperatures and 

water depths of 3–4 feet. You may wish 

to consider wearing a wetsuit if you are 

planning a trip during the early season. 

By mid-July, run-off starts to subside and 

water temperatures slowly warm.

for day and overnight users. Please 

pay attention to 

the signs. 

Motorized boating is allowed on 

Lewis Lake only. 

The non-motorized zone begins 

at the mouth/

southern end of 

the Lewis River 

Channel. Parties 

with motors on 

their boats who are 

travelling to Shoshone Lake must remove 

the motor from the boat and store it on 

shore upon entering the Lewis River 

Channel. For added security boaters may 

wish to use a chain and lock to secure 

their motor. 

Lewis River

The Lewis River Channel between Lewis 

and Shoshone Lakes is approximately 

3 miles long. Paddling upstream on the 

Lewis River Channel is not possible for 

about the northern most mile of the 

Shore Proximity

Power boats larger than 16 feet must 

travel no closer than 1/4 mile from 

the shoreline of the South & Southeast 

Arms. For reference, the buoys marking the 5 mph zone and non-motorized 

zone are placed 1/4 mile from shore. 

Boats are permitted to be closer than 1/4 

mile from shore only when accessing 

campsites and the shoreline to embark 

or debark or when they are stationary 

fishing from an anchored or moored 

boat. 

Non-motorized boats and power boats 

under 16 feet are strongly recommended 

to stay within 1/4 mile of shore in the 

event that they need to get to shore 

quickly. 

Docks

Docks are located at backcountry campsites 7L5/Wolf Point, 7L6/Eagle Bay, 

7M4/Plover Point, and at the southeastern tip of Frank Island. If unoccupied, 

day users may tie up to the docks and 

use the picnic tables on shore. However, 

parties with backcountry permits have 

and associated concentration of grizzly 

bears, there are a number of campsites 

in the arms of Yellowstone Lake which 

are closed and other campsites where 

travel away from the core camp or off of 

designated trails is not allowed prior to 

July 15.

Consult the Yellowstone Bear 

Management Area Map on our website 

for a map of the Bear Management Areas 

and a list of detailed restrictions.

preference for use of these facilities.

Bear Management Area Restrictions

Bear Management Areas have been 

established in Yellowstone National 

Park to reduce human related impacts 

on bears and provide areas where bears 

can pursue natural behavioral patterns 

free from human disturbance. Much of 

the shoreline of Yellowstone Lake falls 

within the boundaries of various Bear 

Management Areas. 

Yellowstone 

Cutthroat 

Trout are a 

primary food 

source for 

many grizzly bears. In 

the spring, 

Yellowstone 

Cutthroat 

Trout spawn in 

the many tributary streams 

surrounding 

Yellowstone 

Lake. Because 

of the spawn 

18 19

Lewis Lake & Shoshone Lake

Pulling a canoe up the Lewis River Channel in late-July

Dock Site
Shoshone Geyser Basin

Boaters can access the geyser basin via 

the small bay in the northwest end of the 

lake where there is a landing area and a 

trail to the basin. Look for a large orange 

marker identifying the landing area. Do 

not leave food items unattended in your 

boat. A bear resistant food storage box 

is located at the landing area for you to 

store any food and odorous items while 

you visit the geyser basin. A trail leads 

from the landing area into the geyser 

basin. Foot travel in thermal areas must 

be confined to designated trails, off trail 

travel is prohibited.

Narrows

The Narrows is the section in the middle 

of Shoshone Lake where the north and 

south shores are closest (approximately 

1/2 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. 

itinerary takes you to the northeast cor-

ner of the lake, you should include in 

your plans time to travel between these 

locations via the Narrows and the more 

protected sections of shoreline.

Winds and waves on Shoshone Lake can 

develop suddenly at any time putting you 

in a dangerous situation if you are far 

from shore. 

We suggest you select a site on the south-

ern shore of the lake for the first night 

of any overnight trip. Plan itineraries so 

that you make any open water crossings 

in the early morning before winds pick 

up (around 10 a.m.). Early mornings 

typically have the calmest weather on 

Shoshone Lake, however strong winds 

may occur at any time. Carefully evalu-

ate conditions and wait out storms and 

strong winds at a safe location on shore 

if needed.

East Shore

The east shore of Shoshone Lake, at first 

appearance, may look like the easiest 

route between campsite 8S2, the 

northeast corner of the lake and the 

lake’s outlet near campsite 8S1. However, 

most days, winds on Shoshone Lake 

come from the southwest causing the 

east shore to be pummeled by 2-3 foot or 

larger waves making paddling difficult if 

not impossible and dangerous. If your 

20 21

Non-Motorized Zone
For More Information:

Contact the Central Backcountry Office at (307) 

344-2160 or look for it online at www.nps.gov/yell/

planyourvisit/backcountryhiking.htm

•Yellowstone Forever 

(books & maps) 406-848-2400 or www.

Yellowstone.org

• Yellowstone Lake Backcountry Boat Shuttle Service

Reservations 307-242-3893 (June - Mid. Sept.) or 

307-344-5217 (Mid Sept.- May)

•Xanterra Reservations (Hotel, Campground, 

Activities) 866-439-7375.

www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com

• Recreation.gov (Backcountry Reservations, 

Campgrounds) 

www.recreation.gov/camping/gateways/2988

• Emergency 911 

For additional information on boating safety visit: 

USCG Boating Safety www.uscgboating.org

NPS Boating Regulations can be found in Title 36, Part 3 of 

the Code of Federal Regulations. It is your responsibility to 

know and obey the United States Coast Guard and State of 

Wyoming regulations for boat operation and safety.

ver 04/22