Winter Wildlife Safari in Yellowstone National Park

Winter Yellowstone Wildlife Safari

A Winter Wonderland Awaits You

Join us for a full-day adventure into Yellowstone’s Northern Range, a landscape often called the “American Serengeti” for its abundance of wildlife. Guided by a seasoned naturalist, you’ll track free-ranging herds of bison, elk, and bighorn sheep against a backdrop of snow-draped mountains, steaming hot springs, and frozen waterfalls. With a little luck, you may even glimpse Yellowstone’s elusive wolves as they move across the open valleys.

Along the way, you’ll gain insight into how prehistoric forces and human history have shaped the park, from supervolcanoes and glaciers to Native American tribes, Army regiments, and visionary conservationists. This one-day itinerary blends expert wildlife tracking, interpretive storytelling, and winter photography opportunities, creating a truly immersive safari experience.

Tour Highlights

• Wildlife Tracking: Search for bison, elk, coyotes, and wolves in the Lamar Valley.
• Scenic Landscapes: Explore Undine Falls, Junction Butte, and Specimen Ridge.
• Cultural Insights: Visit Fort Yellowstone and learn the Army’s role in park history.
• Active Exploration: Enjoy a snowshoe (or hike) along the Mammoth Hot Springs Upper Terrace Trail.
• Restorative Finish: End your day with an optional soak in the mineral pools at Chico Hot Springs Resort.

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

(November through Mid-April)

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: 7:00 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.