Discover Yellowstone's winter wilderness on a guided safari in Lamar Valley, home to wolves, bison, and dramatic snowy landscapes. Join expert-led wildlife viewing and uncover the secrets of this iconic park's cold-season ecosystem.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness needed to sit or stand outdoors in cold conditions and walk short distances over uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
Yellowstone was established in 1872 as the first national park, pioneering wildlife conservation in the U.S.
Conservation
Winter tours follow strict guidelines to minimize disturbance and protect hibernating and feeding wildlife.
Obsidian Expeditions
Discover Yellowstone's winter wilderness on a guided safari in Lamar Valley, home to wolves, bison, and dramatic snowy landscapes. Join expert-led wildlife viewing and uncover the secrets of this iconic park's cold-season ecosystem.
Obsidian Expeditions is a West Yellowstone, Montana–based tour operator that offers guided experiences across Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Glacier National Park, Utah’s Mighty 5, and regional itineraries such as the Badlands to Black Hills route.
The company focuses on private and customizable tours that range from single-day Upper and Lower Loop trips in Yellowstone to multi-day journeys across the American West. Several offerings are explicitly private, and many itineraries include expert guides, snacks, beverages, and high-quality spotting equipment for wildlife viewing.
Obsidian Expeditions operates luxury vehicles with seating configured for comfort and can accommodate groups up to 14 passengers for select private tours. For specific itineraries, participant counts are limited—examples include an intimate six-day trip through Utah’s Mighty 5 restricted to eight participants.
Services include hotel and airport pick-ups in Bozeman, Big Sky, West Yellowstone, and Gardiner, Montana. The company accommodates families and multi-generational groups with child seats and attention to mobility concerns. Special dietary requirements can be handled with advance notice.
Seasonal departures include winter wildlife safaris focused on Lamar Valley and the Northern Range, as well as two-day winter options. Obsidian Expeditions emphasizes wildlife safety, personalized attention, local route knowledge, and flexible itineraries to craft memorable national park experiences.
Base Location
West Yellowstone, MT
Gateway to Yellowstone National Park
Tours Offered
11 tours
Day and multi-day experiences
Private Tours
Private & customizable
Custom itineraries available
Seasonal Tours
Winter wildlife safaris
Yellowstone winter experiences offered
Reserve a date for a private, customizable experience — expert guides, wildlife-focused routes, and seasonal departures available.
Dress in layers for freezing temperatures
Yellowstone winters are brutally cold; wear moisture-wicking base layers plus insulated jackets to stay warm.
Use binoculars for distant wildlife spotting
Animals often stay far from roads; quality binoculars enhance close-up views without disturbance.
Keep a safe distance from animals
Maintaining at least 100 yards from wildlife like bison and wolves protects both you and the animals.
Bring traction devices for icy trails
Snow and ice cover many areas; crampons or Yaktrax can prevent slips during walks or short hikes.
Insulated waterproof boots
Keeps feet warm and dry during cold, snowy conditions.
winter
Thermal base layers
Provides essential warmth when exposed to subfreezing temperatures.
winter
Binoculars
Helps to see distant wildlife clearly without disturbing them.
Waterproof gloves and hat
Protects extremities from frostbite during long outdoor stays.
winter