Are pets allowed on the walking safari?

Pets are not permitted on the walking safari to protect wildlife and adhere to park regulations.

What is the best time of year for this tour?

Late spring through early fall offers the best weather and most accessible trails, though spring brings wildflowers and fall offers vibrant foliage.

Is prior hiking experience necessary?

No expert hiking skills are required, but guests should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain for several hours.

Are meals provided during the safari?

Meals are not included, but guides can recommend nearby dining options before or after your hike.

How large are the private tours?

Tours are small and personalized, usually limited to 2-6 participants for a tailored experience.

What wildlife might I see?

You may see elk, mule deer, river otters, and various migratory birds along the trail, especially in early morning or late afternoon.

Yellowstone Walking Safari: Hiking & Wildlife Viewing in Montana

Yellowstone National Park, centered primarily in Wyoming but stretching into Montana, ranks among the world’s most dynamic natural wonders. Just outside the park near Bozeman, Montana, the Yellowstone Walking Safari offers a private, guided hiking experience through lesser-known trails and secluded spots. This intimate approach to Yellowstone unveils the park’s iconic geothermal features, rare wildlife, and diverse landscapes without the typical crowds.

On this private tour, seasoned guides tailor each hike to your interests and pace—whether a brisk walk to a hidden waterfall or a gentle stroll across thermal basins. Unlike many standard tours, this safari ventures beyond the popular boardwalks to reveal secret thermal areas characterized by vibrant mineral deposits and subtle steaming vents, exposing the park’s raw geothermal power up close. Along the way, you’ll traverse forested valleys and sparkling creek beds, observing native flora like Engelmann spruce and lodgepole pine and perhaps spotting elusive wildlife such as mule deer or river otters.

Yellowstone Walking Safari stands out not only for its custom itineraries but also for its commitment to responsible travel. Guides emphasize low-impact practices, fostering a deep respect for the park’s fragile ecosystems. The private nature of the tour creates a rare opportunity to experience Yellowstone’s raw wildness in near-solitude, a stark contrast to the busy main visitor spots.

Bozeman, the nearest city, offers a vibrant outdoor culture and convenient access to Yellowstone’s northwest entrances. Starting here means you can combine your safari with other Montana adventures, like fly fishing or mountain biking.

For travelers eager to connect deeply with Yellowstone’s volcanic landscapes and abundant wildlife while avoiding the tourist throngs, the Yellowstone Walking Safari delivers a unique, immersive experience that redefines hiking in America’s first national park.

About Yellowstone Safari Company

Yellowstone Safari Company is a guided-tour operator based in Gallatin Gateway, Montana, specializing in wildlife safaris, snowshoe adventures, walking excursions, and multi-day tours through Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

The company offers private and public options, including half-day snowshoe safaris, full-day wildlife drives, and multi-day photography and wildlife safaris led by professional naturalists and photographers. Tours emphasize wildlife observation—bison, elk, bears, wolves, bighorn sheep—and exploration of geothermal features, waterfalls, and high-country scenery. Safety, leave-no-trace practices, and small group sizes are core operational standards; routes are tailored to seasonal conditions and current wildlife activity to maximize viewing opportunities. Guided trips include interpretive commentary on ecology, geology, and local history, and many itineraries offer catered meals or picnic stops and visits to educational centers such as the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. Accommodations on multi-day safaris are selected for comfort and proximity to park access points when included. Customized private tours accommodate different interests and experience levels, from beginner snowshoers to serious wildlife photographers seeking instruction. Booking details, seasonal availability, and meeting locations are provided at reservation; vehicles and necessary equipment for listed activities are supplied or arranged as noted per trip. Yellowstone Safari Company operates within park regulations and works to promote responsible wildlife viewing. The operator’s portfolio of half-day, daylong, and multi-day experiences makes it suitable for visitors seeking guided interpretation, photographic opportunities, and immersive wildlife encounters in Yellowstone and Grand Teton country. Reservations are recommended during peak seasons to secure preferred dates and guide availability across popular itineraries.