Frost & Fur: Yellowstone’s Premier Two-Day Winter Safari

Tour Overview

Step into a Yellowstone transformed by winter’s quiet majesty. Over two days, you’ll explore the Northern Range—the park’s most wildlife-rich corridor—while your seasoned guide provides expert wildlife tracking and insider interpretation. Expect to see free-ranging bison, elk, bighorn sheep, coyotes, river otters, and possibly Yellowstone’s famous wolves, all framed by steaming hot springs, frozen waterfalls, and snow-covered peaks.

This immersive adventure balances wildlife encounters, cultural history, and scenic landscapes with opportunities to capture epic photographs of a winter wonderland. From wolf tracks in the Lamar Valley to glistening terraces at Mammoth Hot Springs, you’ll experience Yellowstone at its most magical—and end with a rejuvenating soak in natural mineral pools.

Day 1 — Bozeman → Gardiner → Lamar Valley → Cooke City

• Pickup in Bozeman and scenic drive to the park’s North Entrance.
• Gardiner comfort stop, then pass through the historic Roosevelt Arch into Yellowstone.
• Fort Yellowstone & Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel: discover the Army’s role in the park’s early history.
• Visit Undine Falls and Junction Butte, prime winter habitat for bald eagles and bighorn sheep.
• Short hike to Calcite Springs Overlook, where steaming vents rise from the Yellowstone River canyon.
• Wildlife-focused safari through Specimen Ridge, Slough Creek, and the world-renowned Lamar Valley—one of the best places in North America to search for wild wolves.
• Evening arrival in Cooke City, MT, a quiet mountain town tucked against the Absaroka Range.

Why this day matters: By overnighting in Cooke City, we’re positioned for sunrise and sunset wildlife tracking in the Lamar Valley—the two most productive times of day for sightings.

Photography Focus: Capture snow-dusted ridges, wide-open valleys, and wildlife moving against a pristine white backdrop.

Note: Accommodations in Cooke City are based on double occupancy; single-room requests may be available for an additional cost.

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Day 2 — Cooke City → Lamar Valley → Mammoth Hot Springs → Chico → Bozeman

• Early morning departure to retrace our route through Lamar Valley and Slough Creek, watching for fresh tracks and wildlife activity.
• Mammoth Hot Springs Upper Terrace Trail: a snowshoe (or hike, conditions permitting) along steaming travertine features like Canary and Orange Mound Springs—ethereal against snow and ice.
• Afternoon mineral hot spring soak at Chico Hot Springs Resort, a perfect warm-up after crisp winter air.
• Return to Bozeman in the evening.

Why this day matters: We spend twice as much time in prime wildlife country, then shift our focus to Yellowstone’s living geology and conclude with restorative relaxation.

Photography Focus: Steaming terraces, icy waterfalls, and the dramatic contrast of geothermal features framed by snow.

Inclusions

• National Park entry fees
• Private AWD Ford Transit Van (high roof, panoramic windows).
• Professional guide with avalanche safety, CPR, and Wilderness First Aid certifications.
• Spotting scopes, binoculars, snowshoes, and poles are provided.
• Light breakfast, picnic lunches, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Day passes at Chico Hot Springs Day Spa & Resort

Exclusions

• Accommodations, airfare, and meals unrelated to the tour
• Optional guide gratuity (15% recommended)

Weather

Winter temperatures in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem can range from zero to 20°F (-18°C to -7°C) throughout the day. Sub-zero temperatures are common, especially at night and at higher elevations. The record low temperature is -66°F (-54°C). The first heavy snows fall by November 1 and continue through April. Annual snowfall averages nearly 150 inches in most of the park, and at higher elevations, 200–400 inches of snowfall have been recorded.

What to Wear

Stay Warm, Comfortable, and Ready for Adventure

Winter in Yellowstone is both beautiful and extreme — temperatures can plunge well below zero, and sudden weather changes are common. The key to enjoying this remarkable season is layering and choosing the right fabrics.

Layering Basics

• Base Layer (Next to Skin): Start with moisture-wicking thermal underwear made of wool or synthetic fabric (avoid cotton). This keeps you dry and warm even if you sweat or snow gets inside your clothing.
• Mid Layer (Insulation): Add a fleece jacket or lightweight down sweater to trap body heat. On the coldest days, a thicker insulated parka or vest adds extra warmth.
• Outer Layer (Shell): Top it off with a windproof, waterproof jacket with a hood. This layer blocks snow, wind, and moisture, keeping you comfortable during wildlife stops and photo sessions. Lower Body
• Wear thermal leggings or long johns beneath insulated or soft-shell pants. Skip jeans and cotton sweats—they absorb moisture and will leave you cold.
• Bring warm, waterproof boots with good traction for icy surfaces. Insulated snow boots are ideal.

Hands, Head & Feet

• Warm hats are essential — up to half of your body heat can escape through your head.
• Choose insulated gloves or mittens (mittens tend to be warmer). For added comfort, tuck in disposable hand-warmers — a small luxury that makes a big difference during long viewing stops.
• Thick, moisture-wicking socks (merino wool or synthetic) keep toes warm and dry. Pack an extra pair in case your feet get wet.

Pro Tips

• A neck gaiter or balaclava helps block wind and snow.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen protect against glare from bright snowfields.
• Small backpack: handy for stashing layers, snacks, or camera gear as conditions change throughout the day.