Category: Winter Tours

Touring Yellowstone in the Winter

Jim Holstein |

Between November 1st, and the third Friday in April is Yellowstone’s winter season.  It is during this time you can visit Yellowstone’s Northern Range, home of about 70% of Yellowstone’s wintering wildlife.  This section offers access in the fall when many of the park’s roads are closed to allow the snow to accumulate for the winter snowmobile and snowcoach season.  This section also adds access in the spring, when the park’s Interior roads close to snowmobiles and snowcoaches for the spring snowplowing.  

Yellowstone Tour Guides offers some great winter wildlife weekend getaway packages during this time.   Spend 2 or more days exploring for wildlife.  Enjoy a quick trip by flying into Bozeman, MT and we will take care of things from there, including lodging, ground transportation and tours. 

The Northern Range offers great wildlife, with elk, bison, bighorn sheep, wolves, mule deer, bald eagles, whitetail deer and coyotes viewed on most trips.  We do have a good number of trips also viewing moose, fox, mountain goats and even grizzly and black bears as we get closer to spring. 

These tours also offer great walks through the hot spring terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs, which in winter are transformed into a winter wonderland of snow, frost, colors with the hot water flowing over the unique terraces.  The Roosevelt Arch, Undine Falls and Stephen’s Creek District are also a part of the 2, or more day adventures. 

Winter Wildlife Adventure Packages 

2-day, 3-night or 3 day 4 night Winter Adventures 

Fly into Bozeman, MT, transfer to your hotel. 

Start bright and early for your tour to the Northern Range to look for wildlife Mammoth Hot Springs, the Roosevelt Arch.  Lodging will be in Gardiner or Cooke City, MT- your choice. On day 2, you will head out for early morning wildlife and wolf watching, you will visit Undine Falls, Yellowstone’s Stephen’s Creek District, and more.  By touring a third day, this will really increase your chances for great wildlife sightings and to see more of the area. 

Tours between December 15th and March 15th may add on a day or two snowcoach trip to Old Faithful or the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.  Contact us for rates as they may vary. 

Private Tours may also build in a visit to Yellowstone Hot Springs or Chico Hot Springs, or cross-country skiing or snowshoeing as additional options (any extra charges are not included). 

Rates for a 2-day; 3-night adventure: 

$1450 per person, double occupancy.   

$250 per additional person up to 6 people 

$900 per additional room. 

What’s included:  Airport transfers from the Bozeman Airport, lodging for 3 nights (2 nights in Bozeman and 1 night in either Gardiner or Cooke City), 2 full day tours (up to 8 hours per day) and all taxes. 

What’s not included:  The Park Entrance fees, meals, guide’s gratuities, along with any alternate activities such as soaking at Chico Hot Springs or Yellowstone Hot Springs, cross-country ski rentals or museum visits. 

Rates for 3 or more day (rates are based on each additional day): 

$1000 per day for the first person 

$200 per each additional person 

$300 for each additional room 

For 1 or 2 day snowcoach option (December 15th through March 15th only): 

Please inquire with our office as the rates may vary. 

Now is a Good Time to Plan Your Yellowstone Winter Adventure

Jim Holstein |

Gray,wolf,taken,in,yellowstone,national,park.

As the summer crowds disperse, Yellowstone National Park undergoes a transformative winter beauty that captivates all who venture into its snowy landscapes. Planning your winter adventure to Yellowstone is not just about seizing the moment; it’s about embracing a unique and magical experience that few have the opportunity to witness. With reservations now open for day trips and multi-day excursions, this is the ideal time to secure your spot for the upcoming winter season. Keep in mind that popular activities like snowmobiling and snow coach trips tend to fill up quickly, often months in advance.

Embrace the Winter Wonderland

Yellowstone’s winter landscape is a spectacle of nature’s grandeur. Blanketed in pristine snow, the park takes on a serene and enchanting quality that contrasts with the bustling energy of its summer months. The geothermal features, such as Old Faithful, become even more captivating against the backdrop of snow-covered geyser basins. The frost-kissed trees and frozen waterfalls add an ethereal charm to the scenery, providing a canvas of beauty that is uniquely Yellowstone in winter.

Snowmobiling Adventures

One of the most exhilarating ways to explore Yellowstone in winter is by embarking on a snowmobiling adventure. Traverse the park’s snow-covered expanses, taking in the breathtaking vistas and the possibility of encountering wildlife against the pristine backdrop. Yellowstone’s winter wildlife, including bison, elk, and wolves, are often more visible during this season, creating a wildlife enthusiast’s dream experience.

Snowmobiling is not only an adrenaline-pumping activity but also a way to access areas of the park that are otherwise inaccessible during the winter months. From the comfort of your snowmobile, witness the untouched beauty of the Lamar Valley or the quiet majesty of Hayden Valley. Just remember, due to the high demand for snowmobiling permits, securing your spot early is crucial to guarantee availability.

Traverse the Trails on Snowshoes or Cross-Country Skis

For those seeking a slower pace and a more intimate connection with nature, snowshoeing or cross-country skiing through Yellowstone’s winter wonderland is an absolute must. The park offers designated trails suitable for all skill levels, allowing visitors to explore the quieter corners of Yellowstone at their own pace.

Imagine gliding through snow-covered meadows, surrounded by the tranquility of a winter landscape. The crisp air, the sound of snow beneath your skis or snowshoes, and the chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat create an experience that is both invigorating and serene. Winter enthusiasts will find solace in the park’s silent beauty, appreciating the solitude that comes with exploring Yellowstone’s trails during the colder months.

Unforgettable Snow Coach Journeys

For those who prefer a more relaxed mode of transportation, a snow coach journey through Yellowstone offers comfort without sacrificing the beauty of winter landscapes. These specially designed vehicles provide a cozy and heated environment, allowing you to marvel at the scenery without braving the elements.

Guided snow coach tours offer informative narratives about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife. It’s an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Yellowstone’s unique ecosystem while comfortably seated in a coach designed for winter exploration. Given the popularity of these tours, making early reservations is essential to secure your seat and make the most of this enlightening winter experience.

The Comforts of Lodging in Winter

While the summer lodges of Yellowstone close their doors during the winter, a selection of lodges remains open to accommodate winter adventurers. These lodges, surrounded by snow-covered landscapes, offer a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. Picture yourself warming up by a crackling fireplace, sharing stories of the day’s adventures with fellow travelers, and savoring the unique charm of winter evenings in Yellowstone.

As you plan your winter getaway to Yellowstone, consider booking your lodging early to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay. Whether you opt for a classic lodge experience or a rustic cabin nestled in the snowy woods, the accommodations in Yellowstone provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere amidst the winter chill.

Seize the Opportunity

Now is the opportune time to plan your Yellowstone winter adventure. With reservations open for day trips and multi-day excursions, securing your spot early is crucial, especially for popular activities like snowmobiling and snow coach trips that tend to fill up months in advance. Yellowstone’s winter landscape is a captivating spectacle, offering a unique perspective of the park’s natural beauty. From thrilling snowmobiling adventures to tranquil snowshoeing expeditions, there’s an experience for every winter enthusiast. Contact us today to embrace the serenity of a winter wonderland, witness the geothermal features in their snowy glory, and create memories that will last a lifetime in Yellowstone National Park.