As the summer season approaches, recreational marijuana dispensary Lone Peak Cannabis Co. near the west entrance to Yellowstone National Park is experiencing a surge in customers. With this influx of new customers comes a slew of questions about how to consume marijuana within the park’s boundaries. However, the dispensary’s manager, Kevin Cannon, is quick to advise against taking marijuana into the park.
Cannon explains that while recreational marijuana is legal in Montana, it remains illegal under federal law. As a result, possessing marijuana within Yellowstone National Park can result in a more severe charge than in the state. He recommends that customers stock up on their supplies at his dispensary and explore the park’s perimeter in Montana, where marijuana is legal.
For those who still want to bring marijuana into the park, Cannon suggests being discreet and avoiding any areas where rangers may be present. He also advises against smoking and driving, as well as storing marijuana in a way that may raise suspicions.
According to Greg Jackson, a former deputy chief for the U.S. Park Service’s Division of Law Enforcement, Security and Emergency Services, the enforcement of federal law inside national parks creates a patchwork of legal and illegal zones. While he doesn’t advocate for cannabis use in Yellowstone, he suggests being mindful of one’s surroundings and avoiding any areas where rangers may be present.
In addition to the legal risks, there are also concerns about wildlife encountering marijuana. Cannon shares stories of growers in nearby Ennis and Big Sky, Montana, who have had trouble with mountain goats. In one instance, a grower caught the goats in the act, while in another, a goat was found asleep in a greenhouse.
For those who do decide to bring marijuana into the park, it’s essential to be aware of the potential consequences. A timeline of criminal charges filed in Yellowstone reveals a range of penalties, from wrist slapping to real jail time. In one notable case, a woman was sentenced to five years in jail after bringing nearly 300 pounds of marijuana into the park in the back of an RV.
Ultimately, while marijuana may be legal in some states, it’s essential to be aware of the legal landscape and take necessary precautions when visiting national parks like Yellowstone.
