Gardner’s Hole Backpacking Adventure
A Family-Friendly Yellowstone Trek
The Gardner’s Hole backpacking trip is one of the most family-friendly and accessible adventures we offer in Yellowstone National Park. Designed for guests who want a backcountry experience without overly strenuous hiking, this 3-day, 2-night trek blends beautiful scenery, wildlife encounters, fishing opportunities, and the chance to disconnect from the modern world. Whether you are introducing your children to camping or simply want a short and memorable trek into Yellowstone’s wilderness, Gardner’s Hole is a perfect choice.
What Makes Gardner’s Hole Special
Located near Mammoth Hot Springs, Gardner’s Hole is a scenic valley filled with meadows, streams, and panoramic views of the Gallatin Mountain Range. Unlike longer or more remote backpacking tours, this adventure is tailored for families, beginners, and anyone seeking a moderate challenge with big rewards.
- Easy to Moderate Hiking: With distances of 5 to 7 miles per day, this trek is manageable for most children and adults.
- Relaxed Pace: The itinerary includes a full free day to fish, hike, or explore without packs.
- Wildlife Encounters: The valley is prime habitat for elk, deer, and even grizzly bears, offering exciting wildlife viewing from a safe distance.
- Backcountry Solitude: Far from the busy roads, you will enjoy the quiet side of Yellowstone.
- Family-Oriented Design: Kids as young as 7, who can hike 6 miles in a day, will find this trip enjoyable and rewarding.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Hike into Gardner’s Hole
Your adventure begins with a 5–7 mile hike into Gardner’s Hole, where your group will set up camp. Along the way, the trail winds through meadows and forests with scenic vistas of the Gallatin Range. Once camp is established, you will have time to explore or relax by the stream.
Day 2: Free Day for Fishing, Hiking, or Relaxing
The second day is left open to let you customize your experience. Families can fish in the nearby streams, enjoy a day hike up Fawn Pass, or simply relax around camp and watch for wildlife. This slower pace is what makes the Gardner’s Hole trek especially family-friendly. In past trips, guests have enjoyed watching bears grazing across the valley and spotting elk wandering near camp.
Day 3: Return via Snow Pass & Mammoth Hot Springs
On the final day, the trek returns to Mammoth Hot Springs via Snow Pass. This route provides fresh scenery and the opportunity to see some of Mammoth’s geothermal springs that are hidden away from the roads. The hike out is moderate, offering a great finish to a family adventure.
Wildlife & Scenery
Gardner’s Hole is prime wildlife habitat. Past trips have observed grizzly bears from a safe distance, elk moving through the meadows, and birdlife scattered throughout the valley. The trip is always guided by experienced backcountry leaders who carry bear spray and provide instruction on safe practices in bear country.
The scenery is just as memorable: wide meadows framed by mountains, forested slopes, and streams that sparkle in the sunlight. It is a chance to experience Yellowstone without the crowds of cars and tour buses.
Difficulty Level
This trek is rated easy to moderate, making it suitable for families, beginner backpackers, and those who want a less intense adventure. The daily mileage is manageable, the terrain is not overly steep, and the pace is designed to accommodate children and adults alike.
Trip Highlights
- A 3-day, 2-night trek into Yellowstone’s backcountry
- Scenic views of the Gallatin Mountain Range
- Opportunities for fishing and wildlife watching
- A free day to explore without packs
- Ending the trip at Mammoth Hot Springs with its famous terraces and geothermal features
- Family-focused pace with shorter hiking distances
Rates & Group Size
- $800 per person for 3 days and 2 nights
- Children 10 and under are free
- Group sizes up to 8 people per trip
Rates include the services of a professional guide, use of bear spray, and lightweight rental gear if needed. Park entrance fees, meals, and gratuities are not included.
Why Choose This Trip
The Gardner’s Hole adventure is ideal for families and first-time backpackers who want a safe introduction to Yellowstone’s backcountry. Unlike longer expeditions, this trek offers flexibility, downtime, and activities that appeal to both kids and adults. It is a great way to teach children the value of nature, encourage time away from screens, and build lasting family memories.
For those seeking more challenging options, we also offer longer routes such as the Thorofare and Snake River adventure or the Bechler River and Waterfalls trek, but Gardner’s Hole remains the best option for beginners and families.
Preparing for the Trek
Guests should be comfortable hiking 5 to 7 miles per day with a pack. Children should be at least 7 years old and able to manage 6 miles in a single day. Be prepared for creek crossings and encounters with wildlife. Our guides provide full instruction on safety, gear use, and proper backcountry practices.
Book Your Gardner’s Hole Backpacking Adventure
If you want to experience Yellowstone in a way that is safe, accessible, and family-friendly, the Gardner’s Hole backpacking tour is a perfect fit. With easy to moderate hiking, great scenery, and the chance to explore Yellowstone’s wilderness without the crowds, this trip is one of the most rewarding ways to enjoy the park.
Contact us today to secure your spot on this adventure and get ready for an unforgettable journey into Yellowstone’s backcountry.