Located at the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, West Yellowstone offers unparalleled access to the park’s top wildlife-viewing destinations. Its proximity to iconic areas like Madison Valley, Old Faithful, Lamar Valley, and the Yellowstone River makes it one of the most convenient—and rewarding—places to begin your journey. Whether you’re visiting in summer for full-day safaris or exploring snow-covered terrain in winter, West Yellowstone tours deliver wildlife, scenery, and excitement all year long.
Top Wildlife Safari Tours Departing from West Yellowstone
Whether you’re looking for wildlife, interested in the rich natural history of the park, or simply looking to have a fun, relaxing day with the kids, we have a tour that will fit perfectly with your itinerary!
Full-Day Yellowstone Wildlife Safari
This signature full-day safari is a must for anyone eager to see Yellowstone’s legendary wildlife. Led by expert naturalists, the tour takes you into prime viewing areas where you’re likely to encounter bison, elk, bald eagles, and with luck, wolves or grizzly bears. With comfortable transportation, spotting scopes, and professional insights, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the park’s natural wonders—and likely a few unforgettable photos.
Full-Day Best of Yellowstone Safari
If you’re interested in Yellowstone wildlife but also wish to experience the geological wonders that the park has to offer, our Best of Yellowstone tour takes you to some of the most famous highlights such as Old Faithful Geyser, Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, a variety of thermal features, and more! As Yellowstone is such a rich and abundant ecosystem, there are always wildlife viewing opportunities along the way while exploring these fascinating attractions.
Multi-Day Bear and Wolf Safari
If you’re serious about wildlife, consider a multi-day safari focused on Yellowstone’s apex predators. These tours offer early-morning and dusk excursions—prime times for observing wolves and bears in the wild. You’ll visit historic wolf reintroduction sites, observe grizzly bear habitats, and learn about ongoing conservation efforts that make Yellowstone a global model for predator preservation.
Family-Friendly Wildlife Tours
Traveling with kids? Our private tours from West Yellowstone are designed to be educational, safe, and fun for all ages. With engaging guides, kid-friendly activities, and plenty of wildlife stops, these tours are a great way to introduce younger travelers to Yellowstone National Park wildlife in a memorable way.
Don’t Miss: The Bear and Wolf Discovery Center
One of the most popular stops in West Yellowstone is the Bear and Wolf Discovery Center—a nonprofit wildlife sanctuary that offers guaranteed views of two of the park’s most elusive species. Here, you can observe live grizzly bears and gray wolves in spacious, naturalistic enclosures while learning about their behavior, diet, and role in the Yellowstone ecosystem.
The center also features:
- Indoor educational exhibits
- Animal enrichment programs
- Seasonal raptor demonstrations
- Special activities for kids
Open year-round and just minutes from the park entrance, the Bear and Wolf Discovery Center is a must-visit—especially if you didn’t spot a bear or wolf during your safari.
Planning Your West Yellowstone Adventure
During your planning, it’s important to consider what you most wish to see to decide what the best time of year is for you to visit Yellowstone.
Best Times for Wildlife Viewing
Each season in Yellowstone offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities:
- Spring (April–June): See baby animals and active bears waking from hibernation.
- Summer (July–August): All park roads are open; best time for accessing high-altitude habitats.
- Fall (September–October): Elk and moose rutting season and brilliant foliage create unforgettable scenes.
- Winter (November–March): Spot wildlife against the stark beauty of snow-covered terrain, especially wolves and bison.
What to Bring on Your Safari
To make the most of your tour, consider packing:
- Phone or a camera with zoom lens
- Weather-appropriate layers (mornings can be chilly, even in summer)
- Personal medications
- Sturdy and comfortable shoes for uneven terrain
On our tours, we provide water, snacks, a picnic lunch, and binoculars for each guests’ individual use.
How to Book Your Tour
Tours from West Yellowstone fill up quickly, especially in peak season. We recommend:
- Booking at least 2–4 weeks in advance
- Checking for multi-day tour packages for a deeper experience
- Reviewing cancellation policies and included amenities before confirming
If West Yellowstone is your home away from home on your adventures, don’t pass up the opportunity to join us for a fun, exciting, and memorable wildlife safari with our expert and professional guides!
FAQs
Are West Yellowstone tours suitable for children?
Yes! We offer kid-friendly options with guides trained in education and safety. These tours often include hands-on learning and the option for shorter drive times with more stops, making them ideal for families.
What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include bison, elk, grizzly bears, bison, deer, eagles, and more. Every tour is different, but chances are high you’ll see Yellowstone’s iconic animals—especially with a trained guide.
Can I take a wildlife tour in winter?
Absolutely! Winter tours offer a completely different perspective of the park, with smaller crowds, dramatic landscapes, and an increased chance of seeing predators like foxes and wolves.
Wildlife Safari
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