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GUIDED HIKES IN YELLOWSTONE
Step off the Road and into Yellowstone’s Wild Backcountry with a Private Guided Hiking Tour
Escape the crowds and experience Yellowstone’s raw beauty on foot with a private guided hiking tour. From hidden waterfalls and remote geysers to alpine lakes and wildlife-rich valleys, this adventure takes you beyond the boardwalks and into Yellowstone’s most stunning backcountry landscapes. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely nature walk or a challenging full-day trek, your expert guide will tailor the hike to your interests and skill level—ensuring an unforgettable day exploring Yellowstone’s untamed wilderness.
DURATION
8-10 Hours
PICK-UP
Cooke City, MT
Gardiner, MT
West Yellowstone, MT
GROUP SIZE
Private Safari
(up to 5 guests)
SEASON
July-October
STEP INTO THE WILD WITH A PERSONALIZED HIKE JUST FOR YOU
Yellowstone is home to over 1,000 miles of hiking trails, leading to some of the most breathtaking and lesser-known wonders in the park. This fully customized private tour allows you to explore hidden gems, diverse ecosystems, and incredible geological features, all while learning from your knowledgeable guide about the park’s history, wildlife, and unique landscapes. Your hike will be tailored to your fitness level, group size, and interests, with options ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous mountain treks.
Some of the incredible trails we may explore include:
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Seven Mile Hole – A challenging canyon descent leading to thermal features along the Yellowstone River.
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Specimen Ridge – A rugged trail offering panoramic views, wildflower meadows, and fossilized forests.
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Trout Lake – A short but scenic hike to a pristine alpine lake, perfect for photography.
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Pebble Creek – A remote trail through lush forests and meadows, home to abundant wildlife.
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Hell Roaring Trail – Cross a historic suspension bridge and hike through Yellowstone’s Northern Range wilderness.
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Yellowstone River Picnic Area Trail – Follow the rim of the Yellowstone River Narrows with stunning canyon views.
From hidden thermal features and towering peaks to wildlife encounters in remote valleys, every hike offers a unique way to connect with Yellowstone’s wild side.
Why Take a Guided Hiking Tour?
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Avoid the Crowds – Escape the busy boardwalks and main roads for a peaceful, immersive experience.
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See More of Yellowstone – Venture into pristine backcountry landscapes that most visitors never reach.
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Customizable to You – Whether you want a leisurely scenic walk or a demanding full-day trek, your guide will tailor the experience to your group.
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Learn from an Expert – Gain insights into Yellowstone’s wildlife, geology, and history from a professional guide.
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Safer Hiking – Hike confidently with a guide who knows the area, trail conditions, and safety precautions.
Includes:
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Private, guided hiking tour tailored to your group’s fitness level & interests
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Expert naturalist guide providing insights into Yellowstone’s landscapes & wildlife
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Custom route selection based on your preferences, fitness level & seasonal conditions
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Opportunities to see wildlife, remote geysers, waterfalls, alpine lakes & more
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Hearty trail snacks, picnic lunch, and non-alcoholic beverages
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Use of binoculars & spotting scopes for enhanced wildlife viewing
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Safety gear, including bear spray and hiking sticks, provided
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MEETING TIMES & LOCATIONSGuests will meet their guide at Skyline Guest Ranch (31 Kersey Lake Road, Cooke City, Montana) or at a predetermined location in Cooke City or Silver Gate, Montana. If you’re staying in another region of Yellowstone and are interested in booking this excursion, please fill out the inquiry form at the bottom of the page. We’ll do our best to accommodate your request. For tours running July through September, the standard departure time is 5:30 AM, unless otherwise requested or arranged with the guide in advance.
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WHAT KIND OF WILDLIFE CAN YOU SEE IN YELLOWSTONE?Yellowstone National Park is home to one of the most diverse and intact ecosystems in North America. Thanks to its long history of protection, the park offers a rare chance to see wildlife thriving in their natural habitat. From bison roaming the valleys to grizzly bears foraging along the hillsides, Yellowstone’s landscapes are teeming with life. You may also spot wolves moving through the sagebrush, elk grazing near rivers, or bighorn sheep navigating steep cliffs. Beyond the large mammals, the park is also home to foxes, otters, bald eagles, and a variety of reptiles and amphibians. While wildlife is abundant, knowing where and when to look is key. However, it's important to remember that wildlife is unpredictable, and factors like weather, temperature, and time of day all play a role in animal activity. Sightings can never be guaranteed, but a guided tour significantly improves your chances by taking you to prime locations at the best times. With expert insight into animal behavior and the park’s delicate ecosystem, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Yellowstone’s wild inhabitants—whether they choose to make an appearance or not.
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WHAT FOOD AND DRINKS ARE INCLUDED ON THE TOUR?Full-Day Tours & Experiences: All full-day tours include a hearty sack lunch packed with everything you need to stay energized. Lunches feature a meat and cheese sandwich, chips, fresh fruit, homemade cookies, nuts/trail mix, and more—we promise you won’t go hungry! Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request. Hot and cold beverages are provided throughout the experience. Sunrise Tours: For early morning adventures, guests will enjoy an assortment of fresh fruit and breakfast snacks, along with a homemade pastry to start the day right. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and water will also be available. If you have specific dietary needs, let us know in advance, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you!
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ARE SAFARIS & TOURS PRIVATE?Yes! All safaris and tours are completely private and limited to a maximum of 5 guests to ensure a personalized and intimate experience. If you have a group larger than 5, please submit an inquiry, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your needs.
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DO I NEED RIDING EXPERIENCE TO PARTICIPATE?No prior riding experience is necessary! All riding levels are welcome, from beginners to experienced riders. Our knowledgeable guides tailor each ride to match your comfort level, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you're a seasoned rider looking for adventure or a first-timer eager to explore the West on horseback, we’ll make sure you feel confident in the saddle. Please note: All participants must be able to mount and dismount their horses without the use of a mounting block.
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WHAT HAPPENS IF THE WEATHER IS BAD?All experiences operate rain or shine, but safety is our top priority. In the event of severe weather, we will communicate any necessary adjustments or cancellations. Refunds will not be issued for client cancellations due to weather unless the conditions are officially deemed unsafe by our team.
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WHAT SHOULD I WEAR FOR THE TOUR?Dress in layers, as mornings can be chilly, even in summer. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and supportive shoes for walking on uneven terrain. A rain jacket is highly recommended, as mountain weather can change quickly. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended. For those sensitive to cold, lightweight gloves may be appreciated, especially while holding binoculars. A small pack can be useful for carrying personal items like a camera, extra layers, and your sack lunch if participating in any hiking. If participating in the Safari to Saddle Excursion, closed-toe shoes and long pants are required for safety and comfort.
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HOW LONG DOES THE EXPERIENCE LAST?All full-day safaris and tours last approximately 8–10 hours. Half-day experiences, such as the Sunrise Safari in Lamar Valley and the Beartooth Pass Guided Scenic Drive, last approximately 4–5 hours.