Best Time to Visit Yellowstone: Winter

We focus our wildlife and snowshoe full day safaris in Yellowstone’s Northern Range. This is an area of 50 miles of roads between the North Gate and Northeast Gate where the highest concentrations of wildlife and great snowshoe opportunities are to be found. In this region we can visit one of the most amazing thermal features in the Park which is Mammoth Hot Springs. Looming over the historic Ft Yellowstone, now Yellowstone’s Park Headquarters at Mammoth, this mountain of Travertine Terraces are dappled with hot springs sending plumes of steam into the cold winter air and living bacteria in the super heated waters. We will not visit the “Interior” of Yellowstone where geysers and hot springs are prevalent over the top of the volcanic caldera. In order to visit these visitors need to be a snowcoach or snowmobile tour from the towns of West Yellowstone or Gardiner.

Yes we operate tours in all weather and temperature conditions, unless road closures prevent our ability to access the Park. Winter weather can be variable, and even predictions and outlooks do not always accurately reflect what occurs on any given day in any given region we traverse on our tours. We can see snowstorms, wind, frigid temperatures, clouds and fog, or beautiful clear sunny days. Our guides know how to optimize every weather condition for our best potentials to view wildlife and snowshoe into the areas where we feel safe and protected. Snowfall is beautiful and calming. Wind will isolate birds to their safe havens and we can find them there. Frigid temperatures bring a crystal clarity to the air, and rainbows of light and glimmering ice appear for our enjoyment. Clouds and fog lend a mysterious elusive palette to the landscape and the sunniest, clearest days occur when it is the coldest. Every condition is beautiful and unique and we always work to highlight each days potential to maximize our joy.

Winter in Yellowstone is one of the best times for wildlife viewing. The park’s famous wolf packs are more visible against the snowy landscape, offering a rare opportunity to witness these majestic predators in action. You’ll also likely see bison covered in frost, herds of elk, bighorn sheep, coyotes, bald eagles, and trumpeter swans. Our experienced guides use high-powered spotting scopes to ensure you get the best possible view of Yellowstone’s incredible wildlife.

We have the opportunity to see bison as they move from their summer ranges to their winter ranges which could be as close as the town of Gardiner or nearby, and certainly the low-lying valleys at the Northernmost point of Yellowstone’s boundary. We may see herds of female elk and their yearlings, or the errant big bull scouring for food on their own in the deep snow. We can view bighorn sheep grazing in sage flats or mountain goats high on the cliff sides of the Absaroka mountains. We may see pronghorn antelope as close as the North Gate as they are inclined to go towards the least snow possible so they can run if needed. Moose are sometimes visible amongst willow and aspen groves. And certainly wolves are most active in the winter and can be viewed from various points around the Park depending on their hunting and mating cycles throughout the winter. Our guides are in touch with wildlife movements daily so they will know the best opportunities, with the acknowledgement that they are wild, and will go where they will.

Yellowstone National Park transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland, offering a variety of guided tours to experience its stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife. Our Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Safari or Big Sky Wildlife Safari are among the top choices, providing an immersive experience with expert naturalist guides who help you spot wolves, bison, elk, and other iconic species in the Lamar Valley.

Booking a winter tour in Yellowstone National Park is simple! You can reserve your spot online through our website or call our team for personalized recommendations based on your interests and schedule. Since winter tours have limited availability due to park restrictions and high demand, we recommend booking early to secure your preferred date. Yellowstone Safari Company also offers customized private tours, and multi-day tours, allowing you to tailor your itinerary for an exclusive, unforgettable experience.

Absolutely! Our winter tours are designed for adventurers of all ages, including families with children. We offer heated vehicles that keep younger travelers warm while still providing breathtaking views and exciting wildlife encounters. Our guides make the experience engaging for kids, sharing fascinating facts and stories about Yellowstone’s history, geothermal activity, and animals. If you have specific needs or requests, we can customize a private, family-friendly tour to ensure an enjoyable and comfortable experience for everyone.

Yellowstone’s winter temperatures can be extreme, so dressing appropriately is essential. We recommend wearing layered, insulated clothing, waterproof boots, gloves, a hat, and a windproof jacket. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also helpful for bright snowy conditions. If you’re joining a photography tour, bring your camera and extra batteries, as cold weather can drain battery life quickly. Don’t worry if you’re unsure—our team will provide a full checklist before your trip so you’re fully prepared for an unforgettable winter adventure.

While there are several excellent tour providers in the Yellowstone region, our Yellowstone Safari Company stands out with expert naturalist guides, small group sizes, and fully customizable itineraries. Unlike corporate operators, we focus on personalized experiences, ensuring guests receive in-depth knowledge and prime wildlife viewing opportunities. Our tours also prioritize sustainability and conservation, helping protect Yellowstone’s delicate ecosystem while delivering an unparalleled adventure. Whether you choose a private safari, a public safari, a snowshoe tour, or photography tour, we go above and beyond to create an unforgettable winter experience.