Experience Yellowstone's Lamar Valley: A Wildlife Hiking Safari
Step beyond Yellowstone’s crowded roads into Lamar Valley’s wild heart with a hiking safari that leads you into the bison herds and past wolf sightings. This guided tour blends rugged terrain with expert insights, delivering an immersive wildlife adventure in one of North America’s richest ecosystems.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring Layered Clothing
Lamar Valley’s weather shifts quickly; pack layers to adjust comfortably throughout the day.
Carry Bear Spray
Always keep bear spray accessible and know how to use it — wildlife encounters are a real possibility.
Start Early
Meeting at 8 AM helps you avoid midday heat and makes wildlife sightings more likely during cooler hours.
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Choose hiking boots or trail shoes with good traction to handle uneven terrain and occasional rocky patches.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Soda Butte, a small dormant thermal feature nearby with unique white mineral deposits
- •Swinging Bridge along the Lamar River, a peaceful spot for quiet wildlife viewing
Wildlife
- •Gray wolves
- •American bison
Conservation Note
Guided hikes follow established paths to minimize disturbance to wildlife and vegetation, emphasizing Leave No Trace principles throughout the valley.
Lamar Valley has been a critical habitat for Yellowstone’s wolf reintroduction efforts since the 1990s, helping restore natural predator-prey balance.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lamar River Footbridge
- • Picnic spot with river views
- • Bison grazing areas along the trail
What to Bring
Hiking BootsEssential
Protect your feet and provide traction on dirt and rocky trails commonly found in Lamar Valley.
Bear SprayEssential
Essential safety gear for encounters with Yellowstone’s bears and other wildlife.
Water Bottle or Hydration PackEssential
Stay hydrated during the 6-mile hike, especially in warmer months.
Layered Clothing with Sun ProtectionEssential
Weather can be cool to warm and sunny; layers and sun protection help you adapt and stay comfortable.
Common Questions
How difficult is the Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour?
The hike covers about 6 miles with moderate elevation gain, suitable for people with a moderate fitness level and some hiking experience.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include bison, elk, pronghorn, ground squirrels, and occasionally wolves and bears at a distance.
Is bear spray provided on the tour?
Yes, guides provide bear spray and instruct on its proper use for safety during the hike.
When does the tour operate?
Tours run from May through September, meeting at 8 AM at the Lamar River Trailhead.
Are restrooms available at the trailhead?
There are two latrines on a nearby stock trailhead but not at the main hiking trailhead parking area, so plan accordingly.
Can I do this hike independently?
Navigating safely through large bison herds and spotting elusive wildlife is challenging without a guide, so this tour is recommended to maximize safety and experience.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Gardiner, MT
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for hikers with moderate fitness who can handle uneven terrain and moderate elevation.
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