Winter Wildlife Safari in Yellowstone National Park

Winter Yellowstone Wildlife Safari

A Winter Wonderland Awaits You

Overview
Yellowstone in winter is pure magic—steaming geysers rise through frosted air, wolf tracks crisscross fresh snow, and herds of bison plow their way across the wind-swept valleys of the Northern Range. This full-day guided safari offers a rare chance to experience Yellowstone’s quiet season, when wildlife is most visible, landscapes are dusted in white, and the park feels wild and undisturbed.

Travel in comfort aboard a heated, four-wheel-drive Chevy Suburban or high-roofed Ford Transit Van, led by a professional guide trained in winter navigation, avalanche avoidance, and cold-weather safety. Your guide will bring Yellowstone to life through powerful storytelling—from the lives of prehistoric peoples to the reintroduction of wolves and today’s cutting-edge conservation efforts.

Tour Highlights

Key Points of Interest:

• Lamar Valley (America’s Serengeti for winter wildlife)

• Yellowstone River and Soda Butte Creek corridors

• Tower Junction and Mammoth Hot Springs (weather permitting)

• Steaming geothermal features framed by snow-covered landscapes

• Frozen waterfalls, icy canyons, and mountain viewpoints

Wildlife You Might See:

• Wolves, bison, elk, moose, coyotes, red foxes, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, eagles, owls, mule deer, beavers, and trumpeter swans

Your guide will also teach basic tracking techniques and share expert tips on spotting and safely photographing wildlife in winter. Expect engaging interpretation on Yellowstone’s complex geology, Native American history, early explorers, artists, and the role of the military and presidents in shaping the world’s first national park.

Pick-Up Times & Locations

(December through March)

Pick-up is available from hotels, Airbnbs, VRBOs, or a location of mutual convenience. Start times are seasonally adjusted to optimize light and wildlife activity.

Approximate Pick-Up Times:

• 7:00 AM – Bozeman, MT

• 8:00 AM – Gardiner, MT

Please allow a 5–10 minute grace window, as winter road conditions and wildlife crossings may affect travel times.
Note: Groups larger than 10 guests will require a second guide and vehicle. Call to discuss logistics and availability.

Tour Length & Pricing

• Duration: 6–8 hours

• Start Time: 7:30 AM or 8:00 AM

• Price: $1,095 for up to 4 guests

• Each Additional Guest: $195 (up to 10 guests max)

What’s Included

• Full-day guided winter tour of Yellowstone National Park

• Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, Airbnb, or VRBO

• Professional CPR & First Aid certified guide with winter safety training

• Breakfast, lunch, snacks, bottled water, and hot beverages

• Use of Vortex™ spotting scopes and binoculars for wildlife viewing

• Heated transportation in a Chevy Suburban SUV or Ford Transit Van

What’s Not Included

• National Park entry fees (Click here to purchase in advance)

• Guide gratuity (15% is customary and greatly appreciated)

What to Wear

Yellowstone winters can be cold and snowy, but dressing in layers makes all the difference.
We recommend:

• Windproof, hooded outer shell

• Insulated base layers (avoid cotton)

• Wool or synthetic long underwear

• Thick socks and sturdy winter boots

• Warm hat, gloves/mittens, and a neck gaiter or scarf

• Optional: disposable hand warmers for extra comfort

Pro Tip: Those prone to cold hands should consider using glove liners or mittens with inner heat packs for added warmth and dexterity.