Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Safari: Lamar Valley Snow Tours from Bozeman
Spend a full winter day tracking wolves, bison, and elk through Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley from Bozeman. Travel in a heated AWD vehicle with expert guides, scopes, and a catered lunch while stopping at Mammoth Hot Springs and other winter highlights.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures can swing and winds bite—use a moisture-wicking base, insulating mid-layer, and windproof outer shell.
Bring a telephoto lens or binoculars
Scopes are provided but your camera or binoculars will let you capture distant wildlife without disturbing animals.
Plan for a long day
This is an 8–10 hour outing—pack snacks, water, and any personal medications for comfort.
Follow guide distance rules
Wildlife are wild—always stay with the vehicle and obey the guide to avoid stressing animals or creating dangerous situations.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Slough Creek gravel approach—less trafficked in winter and ideal for wolf watching at dawn
- •Undine Falls pullout for dramatic icy cascades off the Mammoth-Tower road
Wildlife
- •American bison
- •Gray wolf (plus frequent elk and occasional grizzly)
Conservation Note
Guides emphasize low-impact viewing and maintaining legal distances; winter closures and route restrictions exist to protect wildlife energy budgets and thermal areas.
The Roosevelt Arch at Gardiner marks Yellowstone’s northern entrance and symbolizes the early-20th-century conservation movement that created the world’s first national park.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lamar Valley pullouts overlooking the Lamar River
- • Slough Creek meadows for wolf activity
- • Mammoth Hot Springs terraces for close geology and steam textures
What to Bring
Insulated waterproof bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and dry on snow-covered pullouts and short walks.
Warm layers (base, fleece, windproof shell)Essential
Layering lets you adjust to vehicle heat and icy winds on stops.
Binoculars or monocular
Useful for initial scanning before the guide sets up scopes; preserves quiet distance.
Camera with telephoto lens
A 200–400mm-equivalent lens captures distant wildlife behavior through scopes or from roadside pullouts.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour runs about 8–10 hours (480–600 minutes) with hotel pickup in Bozeman and multiple stops in Yellowstone including Lamar Valley and Mammoth Hot Springs.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No—winter concentrates wildlife and increases odds, but sightings aren’t guaranteed; guides maximize opportunities through experience and scopes.
What should I wear for winter conditions?
Wear moisture-wicking base layers, an insulating mid-layer, a windproof/waterproof outer layer, insulated boots, warm hat and gloves; hand warmers are recommended.
Is snowshoeing required?
No—snowshoeing is an optional short walk. The main experience is vehicle-based; snowshoes are provided if you choose to step into the snow.
Are meals included?
Yes—a burrito and brown-bag lunch, snacks, and hot beverages are provided during the tour.
Where does the tour begin and end?
The tour begins and ends in Bozeman, MT, with hotel pickup within 12 miles of Bozeman Public Library; guests outside that radius meet at a central Bozeman location.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–10 hours
Location
Bozeman, Montana
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Appropriate for most fitness levels; being on your feet during short roadside stops and an optional easy snowshoe walk helps.
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