Birding in Yellowstone: LeHardy Rapids
Updated: May 16, 2022
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Hotspot Name: LeHardy Rapids (Yellowstone National Park)
Location: Cody, WY
Managing Organization: National Park Service
Facilities: Public Restrooms, Trails, Picnic Area, Fishing, Handicap Accessible - Limited
Fees: $35/7 day pass
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Always carry bear spray in Yellowstone!
See all our recommendations for bear safety, here!
Directions to LeHardy Rapids
Use this Google Maps link to navigate quickly to LeHardy Rapids! https://goo.gl/maps/LExpKhKyUtDUtmuT6
eBird Hotspot for LeHardy Rapids
eBird is a great tool to discover which birds have been recently seen at LeHardy Rapids. Use this link to learn more: https://ebird.org/hotspot/L1283588
When to Bird LeHardy Rapids
LeHardy Rapids is not easily accessible during the winter, so visit from late spring through early fall. Visiting in late spring offers the best chance to see Harlequin Ducks at an inland site.
Number of birds recorded at LeHardy Rapids
Over 100 species of birds have been recorded at LeHardy Rapids.
Notable Birds of LeHardy Rapids
Harlequin Duck, Spotted Sandpiper, Bald Eagle, Great Gray Owl, Belted Kingfisher, American Dipper, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Wilson's Warbler
Other wildlife of LeHardy Rapids
Black Bear, Grizzly Bear, American Bison
How to go birding at LeHardy Rapids in Yellowstone
LeHardy Rapids is THE premier spot for Harlequin Duck in Wyoming. While there are multiple other locations they can be found, this spot is easily accessible. The close proximity to their daytime roost provides photo opportunities that would be unheard of on the coast! Make sure to keep your eyes open for grizzly bears and American Dippers. Though, if you do not see an American Dipper approaching you, it's much less unnerving. Great Gray Owls have been spotted here, but your timing and luck must be well-aligned!
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