Yellowstone Winter Wildlife and Snowshoeing VIP Experience in Lamar Valley
Experience Lamar Valley’s winter wildlife from telescopes and snowshoes. This VIP half-day blends focused wolf and bison viewing with a guided snowshoe walk through Yellowstone’s steaming, snowy landscapes.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for subzero mornings
Start with a moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, and a windproof outer; temperatures can swing widely during the 6‑hour tour.
Bring optics — or use ours
Guides supply scopes and binoculars, but bring your own if you prefer familiar equipment for wildlife shots.
Respect wildlife distances
Stay with the group and follow guide instructions — animals are unpredictable in winter and park rules require safe spacing.
Footwear trumps fashion
Waterproof insulated boots with good traction are essential; snowshoes add flotation on deep drifts if you’ll be in fresh snow.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Soda Butte Creek pullouts — quieter spots for lone predator sightings
- •Slough Creek access points — excellent for late-winter track identification and serene views
Wildlife
- •Gray wolves
- •Bison (American buffalo)
Conservation Note
Stay on designated routes, pack out all waste, and follow guide directions to minimize disturbance to wintering wildlife and fragile thermal features.
Lamar Valley was surveyed during late-19th-century expeditions and later became a focal point for wildlife conservation, including wolf reintroduction in the 1990s.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lamar Valley pullouts along the valley floor
- • Low ridgelines overlooking the valley for sweeping compositions
- • Near thermal vents where steam meets snow (from a safe distance)
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and dry on snow and around geothermal steam fields.
Layered clothing (base, fleece, shell)Essential
Allows quick temperature regulation during long periods of still observation and active snowshoeing.
Binoculars or spotting scopeEssential
Essential for identifying distant wolves, elk, and coyote from vehicle pullouts and ridgelines.
Camera with telephoto lens
Helps capture wildlife behavior from a safe distance; a phone works for wide landscapes.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what does it include?
The experience is approximately six hours and includes private transportation, a prepackaged breakfast, bottled water, snacks, and scopes/binoculars; snowshoeing and guided wildlife viewing are part of the itinerary.
Do I need to bring my own snowshoes?
Snowshoes are typically provided by the operator; confirm at booking if you prefer to use personal gear.
Is this tour good for beginners?
Yes — guides design the snowshoe portion for all skill levels, though participants should be comfortable walking in cold conditions and at higher elevation.
Will we definitely see wolves?
No wildlife can be guaranteed, but winter improves visibility in Lamar Valley and guides choose locations with recent activity to maximize chances.
What is the pickup policy?
The tour offers hotel pickup from Gardiner-area properties or a designated meeting point; operator will finalize pickup details before departure.
What is the cancellation policy if weather is bad?
You can receive a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; operators may cancel in severe weather and offer refunds per policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Gardiner, Montana
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in average physical condition; snowshoe section is low-to-moderate effort (1–3 miles) but conducted at high elevation and in cold conditions.
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