Every group that travels with us is different. Some guests want to hike to a mountain summit, while others prefer to enjoy Yellowstone from easy boardwalks and scenic overlooks. Many groups include both. That's why we customize every tour around the mobility and fitness of the people on it.
To make planning simple, we rate our tours the way ski resorts rate their runs: green for easy, blue for moderate, and black for strenuous. Knowing your level helps us design an itinerary where everyone in your group can enjoy the day comfortably.
Level 1: Easy (Green)
Level 1 tours stay on flat ground, with about 2 to 4 miles of walking spread over the course of the day. Most walking is on boardwalks, paved paths, and short, level trails to viewpoints, with plenty of time to rest between stops.
Level 1 is a great fit for:
Families with young children
Active seniors who prefer an easy pace
Guests with limited mobility or who are recovering from an injury
Anyone who wants to focus on wildlife viewing, photography, and sightseeing
A Level 1 day might include strolling the geyser boardwalks around Old Faithful, viewing the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone from its overlooks, and watching wildlife through spotting scopes in the park's open valleys.
Level 2: Moderate (Blue)
Level 2 tours include some hills and about 4 to 5 miles of walking over the course of the day. Expect a mix of boardwalks and natural trails with gentle climbs and some uneven ground.
Level 2 is a great fit for:
Families with older children
Active seniors who walk regularly
Guests who are comfortable on trails and want a little more adventure
A Level 2 day might add a short uphill hike to a viewpoint above a hot spring, or a longer walk to a waterfall away from the crowds.
Level 3: Strenuous (Black)
Level 3 tours are for experienced hikers. They include hikes with elevation gain and more than 6 to 8 miles of hiking over the course of the day, often on steep, rocky, or uneven trails.
Level 3 is a great fit for:
Fit, experienced hikers
Friend groups looking for a physical challenge
Guests who want to reach backcountry viewpoints and summits
A Level 3 day might include a summit hike with sweeping views across the park, combined with additional trail time in search of wildlife.
Choosing the right level
When you plan your tour with us, we'll ask about everyone in your group: how far they walk comfortably, whether hills or stairs are a challenge, and any mobility needs or health considerations. The more we know, the better we can tailor the experience.
A few tips:
Plan for the least active member of your group. A day that works for everyone is better than one that leaves someone behind.
Remember the altitude. Much of Yellowstone sits between 7,000 and 8,000 feet. Walking feels harder at elevation, especially on your first day, so if you're between two levels, choose the easier one.
Mixed groups are welcome. Because every tour is private, we can build in options, such as a longer hike for some guests while others enjoy an easy overlook nearby.
Plans can change. If your group feels great, we can add more. If the weather turns or energy runs low, we'll adjust the day.
Plan a tour that fits your group
Whatever your pace, there's a way to experience Yellowstone that's right for you. Tell us about your group, and we'll design a private tour that matches your interests, mobility, and fitness.
To start planning, call 406.312.5592 or visit obsidianexpeditions.com.
