6 Day Winter Wonderland Tour in Yellowstone National Park

Explore Yellowstone in Winter with a 6-Day Guided Tour

The 6 Day Winter Wonderland Tour in Yellowstone National Park offers a comprehensive winter experience for those eager to see Yellowstone’s stunning landscape in the snow. Priced at $3,995 per person, this tour departs from Bozeman, USA, and is designed to give travelers a deep dive into Yellowstone’s winter wildlife, scenery, and activities over six days. The tour is notably booked about 160 days in advance, reflecting its popularity among winter explorers.

This tour is well-suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, with options adaptable to different skill levels. It includes a variety of highlights such as wolf tracking, visits to Mammoth Hot Springs, snowcoach excursions, and a dog sledding adventure. While the experience offers incredible value with all transportation, guides, and most meals included, it does not cover evening meals or gratuities. The small group size of 13 travelers ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Key Points

• Six-day guided Yellowstone winter tour with expert guides
• Includes snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, snowcoach rides, wolf tracking, and dog sledding
• Highlights: Mammoth Hot Springs, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, wildlife viewing, and the Wolf and Grizzly Bear Center
• All transportation and most meals included, with luggage transfers and specialized equipment provided
• Limited to 13 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience
• Bookers usually plan well in advance, with many booking 5-6 months ahead

The Tour Begins at Mammoth Hot Springs with Snowshoeing Adventures

The journey starts in Bozeman at the Best Western Grantree hotel at 8 am, where travelers gather for a welcome meeting with the local, expert guide. The first day introduces snowshoeing, with gear provided, at Mammoth Hot Springs. This easy snowshoe walk covers 3-5 miles and is designed to accommodate various skill levels, making it accessible for most participants.

After the outdoor activity, the group enjoys a winter picnic before heading to Gardiner for the overnight stay. The day offers a gentle start to the tour, combining scenic outdoor activity with comfortable accommodations and a chance to settle into Yellowstone’s winter atmosphere.

Cross-Country Skiing at Bunsen Peak

Day 2 centers on cross-country skiing, starting with an included breakfast. The group departs via a ski shuttle to Bunsen Peak, where a half-day guided ski session awaits. The experience is tailored to the group’s abilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy the glide over snow-covered trails.

Participants can expect to enjoy a picnic along the trail before returning to the hotel late afternoon. This active day further emphasizes Yellowstone’s winter landscapes, offering an authentic outdoor experience that highlights the park’s natural beauty in a quiet season.

Wildlife Tracking and Mammoth Hot Springs Exploration

Day 3 is dedicated to Yellowstone’s wildlife and natural wonders. The day kicks off early with a wolf tracking tour, where an expert wolf tracker guides the group to observe wolves in their winter habitat. This 6-hour tour offers excellent opportunities to see wolves, bears, bison, and elk feeding and defending themselves in the snow.

In the mid-afternoon, the group visits Mammoth Hot Springs, where steaming terraces provide unique photo opportunities. This 3-hour stop allows for exploration and appreciation of Yellowstone’s geothermal features, all while soaking in the winter scenery before heading back to Gardiner.

Snowcoach Ride to West Yellowstone and the Wolf & Grizzly Center

Day 4 marks a move to West Yellowstone, with travel in specialized snowcoaches mounted on low-pressure tires for smooth travel over snow. This full-day transfer includes wildlife viewing along the route and stops for photos, offering a comfortable way to see the park’s winter landscape.

In West Yellowstone, the group visits the Wolf and Grizzly Bear Center, a rescue facility where visitors can observe these majestic animals up close. This 8-hour visit provides insights into wildlife conservation and the chance to see bears and wolves in a controlled, educational environment.

Exploring the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone by Snowcoach

Day 5 features a full-day snowcoach tour to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Visitors witness frozen waterfalls, the Lower and Upper Falls, along with Gibbon Falls and Beryl Spring. The tour also includes wildlife sightings along the Madison River, making it a scenic highlight of the trip.

Lunch is provided en route, and the day is filled with breathtaking views of Yellowstone’s iconic canyon and waterfalls, all experienced from the warmth and comfort of the snowcoaches. Returning to West Yellowstone in the evening, the group shares a final meal together.

Dog Sledding and the Final Yellowstone Adventure

The last day begins with a half-day dog sledding adventure in Big Sky Country. Participants learn to mush their own team of huskies from Yellowstone Dogsled Adventures, interacting directly with the dogs and mushers. The 3-hour experience includes plenty of time for photos and petting, with stunning snow-covered mountain backdrops.

After the sledding, the tour concludes with a return to Bozeman by approximately 6 pm, bringing an end to the six-day adventure. The experience leaves travelers with lasting memories of Yellowstone’s winter landscape and wildlife.

Practical Details and Inclusions

This tour is led by expert and engaging local guides who ensure safety, knowledge, and fun at every stop. All transportation within Yellowstone—including snowshoes, cross-country skis, snowcoaches, and dog sleds—are included in the package. The tour also offers five breakfasts and six lunches, providing energy for daily outdoor activities.

While gratuities and evening meals are not included, the tour’s value is enhanced by most meals, transportation, and activities being covered. The group size is capped at 13 travelers, fostering a friendly and personalized atmosphere. The tour’s mobile ticket makes it easy to manage bookings and plan ahead.

The Unique Experience of Yellowstone in Winter

What sets this tour apart is its focus on Yellowstone’s native flora and fauna in winter. From wolf tracking to wildlife viewing along the Madison River, the trip offers authentic encounters with animals in their winter habitat. The snowcoach rides provide access to remote areas like the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and the waterfalls, which look especially captivating under a blanket of snow and ice.

The inclusion of dog sledding adds an adventurous element, giving participants a chance to try mushing and interact with energetic huskies. Each day balances active outdoor pursuits with opportunities to relax and appreciate Yellowstone’s geothermal features and scenic vistas, making the experience both engaging and comfortable.

Is This Yellowstone Winter Tour Right for You?

This 6-day tour is best suited for active travelers looking for a comprehensive winter experience with a focus on wildlife and natural beauty. The activities are designed to be accessible for most fitness levels, but some walking and outdoor exposure are expected. The tour’s small group size enhances the experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions and personalized attention.

If you prefer guided excursions, wildlife encounters, and scenic journeys over independent exploring, this tour offers a well-rounded and immersive Yellowstone winter adventure. Keep in mind that most bookings are made months in advance, so early planning is recommended.

Final Thoughts on the Yellowstone Winter Wonderland Tour

This tour provides a balanced mix of outdoor activities, wildlife observation, and scenic exploration, all led by knowledgeable guides who make the experience enriching. The full schedule of snowshoeing, skiing, snowcoaching, wolf tracking, and dog sledding ensures there is never a dull moment, and each highlight emphasizes Yellowstone’s stunning winter landscape.

While the cost of $3,995 reflects an all-inclusive, expertly guided experience, travelers should consider that evening meals and gratuities are not included. The small group size offers a more personal touch, making it ideal for those who value intimacy and expert guidance.

The Yellowstone Winter Wonderland Tour is an excellent choice for adventurous, wildlife-loving travelers eager to discover Yellowstone in its snowy season, with a perfect blend of activity and relaxation in a breathtaking setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes all transportation, guided activities, snowshoes, cross-country skis, snowcoaches, wolf tracking, and dog sledding, plus five breakfasts and six lunches.

How physically demanding are the activities?
Activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and dog sledding are generally suitable for most fitness levels, with options adaptable to group abilities. The tour is designed to be accessible, but some walking and outdoor exposure are expected.

Are evening meals provided?
No, evening meals are not included in the tour price, so participants plan accordingly for dinners outside of included lunches.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Highlights include wolf tracking in Yellowstone, visits to Mammoth Hot Springs, snowcoach rides to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, wildlife viewing along the Madison River, and dog sledding.

Is the group size small or large?
The tour is limited to 13 travelers, providing a more personal and engaging experience with guides.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 5 to 6 months in advance due to the tour’s popularity and limited spots.

What makes this tour special compared to other Yellowstone winter trips?
Its focus on native wildlife during winter, combined with excursions like wolf tracking and dog sledding, offers a uniquely active and wildlife-centered Yellowstone experience in winter.