Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Day Tour with Snowshoeing — Mammoth & Lamar Valley
Trace steam and tracks through Yellowstone in winter on a private full-day tour that pairs Mammoth Hot Springs with predator-rich Lamar Valley. Snowshoe optional, expert guide included — a compact, high-impact way to see the park’s thermal and wildlife highlights in one day.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures swing rapidly; base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof shell keep you comfortable during van stops and snowshoe hikes.
Bring a zoom lens
A 200–400mm range helps capture wildlife at safe distances without stressing animals or leaving the van.
Hydrate and eat
Cold suppresses thirst; bring a reusable bottle and plan to eat the provided hot picnic to maintain energy for snowshoeing.
Respect wildlife boundaries
Stay with the group and follow guide instructions — approaching animals in winter can be deadly for wildlife and dangerous for people.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Bunsen Peak roadside viewpoints for panoramic park views with fewer crowds
- •Less-visited pullouts on Blacktail Plateau Drive for quiet bison watching
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Wolves
Conservation Note
Winter tours minimize disturbance by keeping visitors in vehicles and using short, guided snowshoe excursions; follow guide rules to avoid stressing animals and trampling thermal crusts.
Yellowstone sits atop a volcanic caldera whose hydrothermal activity formed terraces like Mammoth over thousands of years; the area was inhabited and traveled by indigenous peoples long before park status.
Photographer's Notes
- • Mammoth Hot Springs terraces
- • Lamar Valley overlook at dawn
- • Yellowstone River canyon overlook
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and dry during snowshoe segments and when standing for photos.
Layered clothing systemEssential
Base, mid, and outer layers let you adjust for changing temperatures during the day.
Binoculars or spotting scope
Helps identify distant animals in Lamar Valley without closing distance.
Sunglasses and sunscreenEssential
Bright snow reflects UV; protect eyes and exposed skin even on cold, cloudy days.
Common Questions
Is prior snowshoeing experience required?
No; guides provide instruction and snowshoe or crampon rentals are included if needed.
What wildlife can I expect to see in winter?
Common sightings include bison, elk, coyotes, foxes, and in Lamar Valley you have a good chance of seeing wolves and raptors.
How far from the vehicle will we go on foot?
Most hikes are short — typically 1–3 miles round-trip to overlooks or thermal areas, accessible with snowshoes.
Are park entry fees included?
Yes, the tour includes park entry fees in the listed inclusions.
What should I bring for lunch?
A gourmet picnic lunch is provided and can accommodate dietary needs with notice; bring snacks if you have specific preferences.
Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility limits?
The tour notes stroller access and suitability for various fitness levels; contact the operator to discuss specific mobility needs before booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–8 hours
Location
Gardiner, Montana
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in average fitness; ability to walk 1–3 miles in snow is helpful
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