Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Safari From Gardiner

Gardiner , United States

Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Safari From Gardiner

Active

(4 reviews)

6h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

While winter may bring cold temperatures, snowy days and a resounding stillness to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, it is also undoubtedly one of the most exciting seasons to go on a wildlife safari.

Yellowstone in winter is an extreme, exclusive place. Of the 300 miles of road in the Park, only 50 miles are open to regular vehicles between the months of November to April. A full-day winter tour with Yellowstone Safari Co. focuses on this region, the spectacular Northern Range between Mammoth Hot Springs and Cooke City, Montana, where some of the best wildlife viewing in North American can be found.

The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is a region steeped in history and wildness, where nature thrives as it did prior to human settlement. On your safari you will have an opportunity to view hundreds, if not thousands, of large mammals and other wildlife, including herds of bison and elk, gray wolves, mule deer, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goats and more.

Available options

Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Safari From Gardiner

What's included

Picnic lunch sourced locally with seasonal ingredients and packaged with recyclable and compostable materials.

Non-alcoholic beverages

Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Safari

Use of UHD binoculars and spotting scopes

A variety of snacks, sourced locally and organic when possible.

Professional naturalist guide

Detailed itinerary

The Yellowstone River originates in the Absaroka Range at the Continental Divide and flows north through Yellowstone National Park and Paradise Valley before heading east across the plains of Montana and eventually flowing into the Missouri River. It is a large-volume river, fed by several tributaries on its journey eastward. The river provides habitat for many species in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and is known for its excellent trout population. Our safari makes a stop here in search of wildlife. Your guide will educate you on the historical or geological significance of your stop.

Stop 2

The Lamar Valley is located in the northeastern region of Yellowstone National Park and is well known for its natural beauty, flora and fauna. Such an abundance of wildlife exists here that it has been dubbed "the Serengeti of North America". Our safari makes several stops here in search of wildlife. Your guide will educate you on the historical or geological significance of your stop.

The Roosevelt Arch, built in 1903, is constructed of hexagonal blocks of columnar basalt and stands 52ft (16m) high. The arch stands at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park in Gardiner, MT. The original conception was to provide a grand entrance to the world's first National Park but subsequent features were never installed and the official park entrance was relocated south of Gardiner. The arch itself remains standing and is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Our safari makes a stop here. Your guide will educate you on the historical or geological significance of your stop.

The Albright Visitor Center, located in the northern region of Yellowstone, is housed in a historic structure that originally served as quarters for cavalry troops charged with protection of the park prior to the creation of the National Park Service. Our safari makes a stop here. Your guide will educate you on the historical or geological significance of your stop.

Stop 5

Mammoth Hot Springs is a collection of thermal features at the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It is best known for the travertine terraces that form from mineral deposits, but there are many other observable geothermal features in this area. The algae living in the pools creates the distinct brownish, reddish colors. Our safari makes a stop here. Your guide will educate you on the historical or geological significance of your stop.

The Absaroka Range forms the eastern boundary of Yellowstone National Park and stretches from Wyoming into Montana. The mountain range is considered a sub-range of the Rocky Mountain Range that stretches from Canada into the United States. Our safari makes several stops here in search of wildlife. Your guide will educate you on the historical or geological significance of your stop.

Yellowstone National Park Entrance Gate - North Entrance

What's not included

Gratuities

Yellowstone National Park

Hotel pick-up and drop off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

If your child requires a booster or car seat, please be sure to bring it with you.

Children 8 and older may participate.

Meeting point

Meet at the Gardiner Chamber - 216 W Park St, Gardiner, MT.

Important notes

Gratuity and Park fees are not included

About Gardiner

Gardiner, Montana, is a charming gateway town to Yellowstone National Park. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich wildlife, and historic charm, Gardiner offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and small-town hospitality. It's the northern entrance to Yellowstone, providing easy access to some of the park's most iconic sights and activities.

Top Attractions

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first national park in the world. It is known for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots, as well as its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Nature Multiple days recommended Entry fee: $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)

Yellowstone River

The Yellowstone River flows through Gardiner and offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, rafting, and wildlife viewing. The river is home to a diverse range of fish species, making it a popular destination for anglers.

Nature Half day to full day Varies by activity and tour operator

Sacajawea Statue

The Sacajawea Statue is a tribute to the Shoshone woman who accompanied the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The statue is located in a small park in downtown Gardiner and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Historical 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Absaroka Mountain Range

The Absaroka Mountain Range is a stunning backdrop to Gardiner, offering a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing. The range is known for its rugged peaks, dense forests, and diverse wildlife.

Nature Half day to full day Free (unless using a tour operator)

Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary

The Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of native wildlife. The sanctuary offers educational programs and guided tours, providing visitors with an up-close look at the region's diverse wildlife.

Nature 1-2 hours $10-$20 per person

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison Burger

A classic American burger made with locally sourced bison meat, often topped with cheddar cheese, bacon, and huckleberry sauce.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat, can be made gluten-free upon request

Huckleberry Pie

A sweet and tangy pie made with wild huckleberries, a local favorite in Montana.

Dessert Contains gluten, can be made with gluten-free crust upon request

Trout Almondine

A delicate dish featuring fresh trout fillets cooked in butter and topped with toasted almonds and lemon.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish and dairy, can be made gluten-free upon request

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Whitewater rafting Horseback riding Wildlife viewing Fishing Picnicking Scenic drives

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Gardiner, offering the best weather for outdoor activities and easy access to Yellowstone National Park. The town is bustling with visitors, and all attractions and facilities are fully operational.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations

Gardiner is a generally safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming community. However, visitors should exercise caution when exploring the great outdoors, as wildlife encounters and natural hazards can pose a risk. Additionally, visitors should be aware of potential scams and pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious when exploring the great outdoors, and be aware of wildlife and natural hazards
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas
• Research and choose reputable tour operators and guides

Getting there

By air

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport • 90 km (56 miles)
Billings Logan International Airport • 320 km (200 miles)

By train

Gardiner Amtrak Station

By bus

Gardiner Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Shuttle services are available for visitors without private transportation, offering scheduled trips to popular attractions and nearby locations.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Local taxi companies do not operate via apps; phone booking is required

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Downtown Gardiner Yellowstone Gateway Absaroka Foothills

Day trips

Livingston

50 km (31 miles) • Half day to full day

Livingston is a charming town located along the Yellowstone River, offering a variety of historical sites, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Bozeman

90 km (56 miles) • Full day

Bozeman is a vibrant college town located in the heart of Montana, offering a variety of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.

Big Sky

100 km (62 miles) • Full day

Big Sky is a popular resort destination located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, offering a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities and luxury accommodations.

Festivals

Gardiner Music Festival • July Yellowstone Wildlife Festival • May Montana Folk Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit Yellowstone National Park early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and see wildlife at its most active
Pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions, as temperatures can vary greatly throughout the day
Bring bear spray and know how to use it when hiking or exploring the great outdoors in bear country
Book accommodations and popular tours well in advance, especially during peak season, as they can sell out quickly
Explore the town's historic downtown and support local businesses by shopping and dining locally