Lamar Valley Wildlife Tour & Riverside Picnic in Yellowstone National Park
Spend a full day in Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley with a wildlife-focused guide, stopping for short walks and a riverside picnic along Soda Butte Creek. Expect close views of bison, wolves, and elk, expert narration, and a practical rhythm of morning wildlife watching and relaxed midday dining.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring layered clothing
Mornings start cold and afternoons warm quickly; pack a windproof outer layer and insulating mid-layer.
Use binoculars and a telephoto lens
Binoculars are supplied but a 200–400mm lens will capture wildlife at a safe distance without disturbing them.
Stay with the group
For safety around megafauna and to ensure others’ viewing, follow the guide’s placement and distancing instructions.
Protect against sun and insects
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a small insect-repellent go a long way during midday stops by the river.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Soda Butte Creek picnic pullout—quiet water and often overlooked birdlife
- •Slough Creek meadows—less busy early-morning vantage for wolves and elk
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Gray wolf
Conservation Note
Visitors are required to keep distance from wildlife and pack out all trash; guides enforce rules to minimize disturbance to sensitive habitats.
The route follows corridors used historically by the Nez Perce and later by Euro-American explorers; nearby towns like Cooke City grew as trapping and mining supply points.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bend of the Lamar River (for river reflections and animals)
- • Soda Butte Creek picnic site
- • Slough Creek overlook
What to Bring
Telephoto camera lens (200–400mm)
Captures distant wildlife without approaching animals or breaking park rules.
BinocularsEssential
Useful for spotting animals before the group moves to a viewing spot (provided by operator, but bring your own for best optics).
Layered clothing and windproof jacketEssential
Keeps you comfortable through temperature swings at elevation.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Needed for short walks on uneven, sometimes muddy ground.
Common Questions
Is park entrance included?
Yes—entrance to Yellowstone National Park is included with the tour price.
Will I see wolves or bears for sure?
No wildlife sightings can be guaranteed; guides increase your odds by targeting known areas, but animals move on their own schedule.
Can children join the tour?
Yes—this tour is family-friendly and suitable for most ages; infant seats are available on request.
Are meals customizable for dietary restrictions?
Yes—picnic meals are tailored to guests’ dietary needs when you provide information at booking.
How accessible are the stops?
Stops are mostly vehicle-accessible with short, flat walks; not all areas are wheelchair accessible—check specifics with the operator.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund if canceled at least 24 hours before departure; no refund within 24 hours.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–9 hours
Location
Cooke City, Montana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short flat walks and several hours seated in a vehicle
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