Overview
Experience the majesty of Yellowstone National Park as few others do—in winter, when peace and solitude permeate the land, the snowy forests are cloaked in mystical silence, and the rivers breathe clouds of steam into the frosty air. Accompanied by your private naturalist guide, you’ll journey into the glacier-sculpted Lamar Valley, a veritable Serengeti in the snow, in search of the herds of bison, elk, and pronghorn that descend to this lower elevation refuge, as well as their attendant predators—the iconic grey wolves. Yellowstone’s wildlife is easier to spot in the snow during this “secret season”—you can even see their tracks. The sight of steaming geysers and snowy mountains under crisp blue skies creates perfect photo opportunities, and you’ll have many on your snowshoe and cross-country ski outings on the park trails. All these outings are tailored to your interests, and they offer an ideal way to explore Yellowstone in winter. Having your own private guide maximizes your chances of seeing wildlife and also offers an “insider’s” opportunity to learn about the ecology, scientific studies, and conservation efforts in Yellowstone. Your final overnight is at century-old Chico Hot Springs Resort, a stone’s throw from the Yellowstone River, where you can soak in the big, open-air pools fed by natural mineral hot springs. We highly recommend our day-trip extension by snowcoach to Old Faithful, where you’ll have the famous geyser almost all to yourself!
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-3
Yellowstone / Wolf Viewing / Snowshoe and Cross Country Ski Outings
Arrive in Bozeman, Montana, where you are met for a scenic drive to your hotel in the Old West town of Gardiner, just outside the North Entrance to Yellowstone. With your private naturalist guide, head to the renowned Lamar Valley, “the American Serengeti,” for sunrise viewing of the iconic packs of grey wolf. The valley teems with other wildlife in winter, from bison to elk, pronghorn, river otters, osprey, bald eagles, and coyotes, and the birdlife is phenomenal. Wildlife viewing excursions fill your mornings, with afternoons for snowshoe and cross-country ski outings on the park trails, tailored to your interests.
Days 4-5
Hot Springs Resort / Extension to Old Faithful Geyser
Your final night is in century-old Chico Hot Springs Resort, with its hot mineral pools, perfect for a soak. Depart on Day 5, or join our extension to snowshoe and dogsled at the incomparable Lone Mountain Ranch, with the option to visit Old Faithful Geyser without the crowds.
Winter in Yellowstone Private Journey
Highlights
Highlights
Details
Wildlife viewing by private vehicle, optional snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, cold winter weather
Download Brochure
Download a PDF of our Winter in Yellowstone Private Journey Detailed Itinerary to learn more about our day-to-day itinerary, prices and dates, and more.
