Stargazing Tour in Gallatin Valley with Yellowstone Safari
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness required; guests should be able to comfortably sit outdoors for hours.
Overview
Experience Gallatin Valley’s night sky like never before with Yellowstone Safari Company’s guided stargazing tour. High-powered telescopes and expert guides bring the cosmos within reach, offering a unique adventure for visitors in Montana’s Big Sky Country.
Stargazing Tour | North - Public Tour
2-4 hours • Ages 8+ • Maximum per vehicle: 6-8 guests • Season: Apr - Oct
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About This Adventure
Destination: Gallatin Valley
Recommended for guests who are staying in Bozeman, Paradise Valley, Gardiner, or Big Sky
Duration
2-4 hours
Overview
Our region offers some of the best night-sky viewing in the United States. Here in Big Sky country we can provide a very special experience to view the stars, planets, moon, and milky way in an immersive and educational format. Using high-powered, computerized telescopes we can hone in on all of the usual visible elements such as constellations, stars and the moon, and further into deep-space on the clearest evenings to see nebulae and other galaxies. Viewing the night sky broadens our experience and is a perfect compliment to any visit to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Highlights
- Guided Stargazing in Gallatin Valley
- Educational & Immersive Night Skies Experience
- Sunset Wildlife Sightings & Photography Opportunities
Your exact route and itinerary will be determined by your interests, current weather, night sky and road conditions. Our guides are all highly experienced, with thousands of hours in the field, and will expertly tailor your safari to you and your group. This tour requires a minimum of four booked guests in order to run. If we do not have the required minimum, we will contact you with alternative options and either provide a rescheduled option or a refund, as you wish.
What's Included
- central meeting point pickup
- professional astronomer guide
- public safari: 8 guests per vehicle, maximum
- assorted snack basket
- non-alcoholic beverages (hot and cold)
- use of binoculars and spotting scopes
- use of high powered telescope
- reclining chairs and blankets
- red light headlamps
Pick-up
We pick up at a central meeting point in Bozeman. Your exact pickup time and tour duration will be determined by the season. Please make note of your pickup time and location, and save it for your reference.
Please be ready and waiting in the central meeting location a few minutes before your pickup. Please allow an additional 5-10 minutes for your guide to arrive just in case they are delayed for any reason.
Changes to trip timing may be made to accommodate night sky conditions.
Adventure Tips
Dress in Layers
Even summer nights can turn chilly in the Gallatin Valley; wear layers to stay warm during extended stargazing sessions.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at the central pickup location in Bozeman a few minutes early to ensure timely departure for the best viewing spots.
Use Red Light Headlamps
Keep night vision intact by using the provided red light headlamps instead of bright white lights during the tour.
Check Weather Forecast
Clear skies are essential for a quality stargazing experience; verify weather and tour conditions in advance.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Great Horned Owl
History
The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, established in 1872 with Yellowstone National Park, protects one of the last intact temperate ecosystems in the world.
Conservation
Efforts in this region balance visitor access with preserving night sky quality by minimizing light pollution and respecting wildlife habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bozeman
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Jacket
Essential for staying comfortable during cool night temperatures in the Gallatin Valley.
spring|summer|fall specific
Closed-Toe Shoes
Protects feet during outdoor walks to viewing spots, especially on uneven terrain.
Red Light Headlamp
Preserves night vision without disturbing others or the wildlife.
Binoculars
Useful for preliminary or casual viewing before focusing with the provided telescope.