Yellowstone Private Guided Hiking: Lamar Valley, Fairy Falls & Secluded Trails
Escape the mile-long radius that sees most Yellowstone visitors and spend a full day hiking remote trails with a naturalist guide. From dawn in Lamar Valley to the mist of Fairy Falls, this private, customizable trek focuses on wildlife, geology and solitude.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start at first light
Wildlife is most active in the early morning and the light is best for viewing and photos; aim to be on trail within an hour of sunrise.
Carry bear spray and know how to use it
Even with a guide, encounters happen—keep spray accessible on your chest strap and review usage before setting out.
Layer for fast-changing weather
Temperatures can swing dramatically at elevation—bring a breathable insulating layer and a waterproof shell.
Give wildlife space
Binoculars and spotting scopes are provided—do not approach animals; keep at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other wildlife.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet ridge viewpoints off the main trail in Lamar Valley that offer panoramic big-sky vistas without the crowds
- •The lower trail toward the pool at the base of Fairy Falls—often less visited in the afternoon when buses leave
Wildlife
- •Gray wolf
- •American bison
Conservation Note
Guided groups help minimize impact by staying on durable routes when possible and practicing Leave No Trace; visitors should avoid off-trail trampling of fragile riparian vegetation.
This landscape was inhabited and traveled by Crow, Shoshone and other tribes for centuries; Yellowstone became the world’s first national park in 1872, shifting land use toward preservation and public access.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lamar Valley meadows for wide big-sky shots
- • Artist Point/Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone for dramatic river-and-cliff compositions
- • The pool below Fairy Falls for long-exposure waterfall images
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking bootsEssential
Support and traction for rocky, uneven trail sections and wet riverbanks.
Layered clothing (base, insulating mid, waterproof shell)Essential
Quickly adapt to temperature changes and afternoon showers at higher elevations.
Bear spray (personal or rented)Essential
A critical safety tool for backcountry wildlife encounters; know how to deploy it.
Camera with telephoto or smartphone + backup battery
Wildlife and wide landscapes benefit from reach and extra power for a full day of shooting.
Common Questions
How long is the hike and how far will we go?
The full-day excursion runs about 8–9 hours; route length varies with customization but typically covers 6–12 miles depending on stops and off-trail sections.
Are kids or beginners allowed?
Yes—this private tour is adaptable for different fitness levels; note that full-day hiking can be tiring for young children and infants should be in a pram if needed.
Is bear spray provided?
Guides discuss bear safety; participants are expected to bring or rent bear spray—guides will ensure everyone knows how to use it before leaving the vehicle.
What wildlife can we expect to see?
Common sightings include bison, elk, pronghorn and often raptors; Lamar Valley has the highest chance of wolf sightings but wildlife is never guaranteed.
Are meals included?
Yes—breakfast pastries, hot drinks, snacks and a deli-style lunch from a Gardiner cafe are included in the tour price.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refund for cancellations at least 24 hours before departure; the operator cancels if weather makes the trip unsafe.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–9 hours
Location
Gardiner, Montana
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for hikers in good walking condition who can handle several miles and intermittent off-trail sections at moderate altitude.
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