Why These 6 Yellowstone Tours from Bozeman Are a Hit in Every Season
Looking for the best summer or winter Yellowstone tours from Bozeman, Montana?
Well, this is the right article for you, as all the best Yellowstone Tours from Bozeman are featured here, covering you all year round! After spending 5 days here, Yellowstone is one of my favorite national parks in the US, and I’ve been to 28 of them.
Don’t have time to read this whole list? Book this Yellowstone Day Tour from Bozeman for a 5 Star private experience to all the most famous Lower Loop attractions.
And if you’re there for the winter, book this 4 Day Wolves & Winter Yellowstone Adventure Tour. Plus, Yellowstone really should be seen for more than a day.
If you’d like to scout all your options, here is a list of 6 excellent tours, categorized by summer and winter trips, all with a near 5-star rating.
Top 3 Picks: Best Yellowstone Tours from Bozeman
Note: Round-trip transportation from Bozeman is included on all tours
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Private VIP Yellowstone Day Tour
✅ Grand Loop Attractions
✅ Flexible Schedule
Yellowstone Wildlife Safari
✅ Upper Loop Attractions
✅ Focus on Wildlife
Yellowstone Wolves & Winter 4D/3N Adventure
✅ Best Winter Tour
✅ Upper Loop Winter Wildlife Search
✅ All-Inclusive
A Bit About Yellowstone National Park
Did you know that Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is the oldest national park in the United States? It covers 3,472 square miles of Wyoming wilderness, making it one of the largest in the federal park system.
Yellowstone National Park is a natural treasure featuring incredible landscapes, including the Grand Canyon, geysers, and hot springs. The park also offers abundant opportunities to view wildlife, such as bison, elk, and grizzly bears.
How far is Bozeman from the entrance to Yellowstone?
Yellowstone is a massive park with five entrance stations, each several hours apart by car. Bozeman is a popular northern jumping-off point to exploring Yellowstone, just a 1.5 hour (80 miles) drive from the north entrance, the only gate open all year!
Top 6 Yellowstone Tours from Bozeman
If you’re trying to avoid the drive or are short on time, here are the best Yellowstone tours from Bozeman.
I’ve separated the following into two categories:
- Best Yellowstone Summer Tours
- Best Yellowstone Winter Tours
Best Summer Yellowstone Tours from Bozeman
1. Private VIP Boutique Yellowstone Day Tour from Bozeman
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8-12 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Take in the stunning views of Wyoming’s untouched wilderness with this Private Yellowstone Day Tour from Bozeman. Your expert guide will take you on a journey through the rugged landscape, all while indulging in the comfort and luxury of private transportation.
Break for lunch at the start of the Lower Loop tour, marveling at the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail and the beauty of Artist Point on the south rim of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Spot some of the park’s abundant wildlife in Hayden Valley and observe the boiling-hot thermal features of Sulphur Caldron.
This Yellowstone tour includes visits to some of the park’s most popular landmarks, including West Thumb Geyser Basin, the Kepler Cascades, and Old Faithful Geyser, which has consistently erupted for 140 years.
Next, make time for the largest hot spring in the United States, the Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, with its bright colors that match those of a rainbow.
Great way to see the park in a single day. Tin was great and knowledgeable on the park. She kept us on a good schedule to see the main things we wanted too
– Mark (Read more reviews)
This all-inclusive package ensures you have everything you need for an unforgettable adventure, from snacks to bottled water, air-conditioned transportation, and drop off and pick up from your hotel or Airbnb.
2. Yellowstone Wildlife Safari Full-Day Private Guided Tour from Bozeman
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8-10 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Unleash the wild side of Yellowstone National Park in a way that few have on this Private Safari Tour from Bozeman. This vast landscape is home to one of the most remarkable ecosystems in the world, boasting one of the highest levels of wildlife diversity in North America.
This full-day safari aims to showcase the 100s of species of animals and plants that inhabit this area, such as in Paradise Valley and Lamar Valley, and the impressive geological features of Mammoth Hot Springs, Petrified Tree, Tower Fall, Yellowstone River, and Slough Creek.
Your enthusiastic and knowledgeable naturalist guide will educate you about natural habits and the significance of the animal’s role on the landscape. Get up close and personal with the majestic creatures that roam these lands. Binoculars and spotting scopes are also offered to help bring the animals to life.
Exceeded expectations. Our guide, Nate, was excellent from pick up to drop off…We went there with hope rather than expectations to see all of the animals, but ended up being really lucky and seeing them all.
– Michael (Read more reviews)
The package includes a delicious breakfast, lunch, and snacks to keep you fuelled and ready to explore. You’ll also be kept hydrated with a cute custom souvenir water bottle.
3. Full Day Best Of Yellowstone National Park Tour From Bozeman
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8-10 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Step into a world of unrestrained beauty and natural wonders with this small group Yellowstone National Park Tour. With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour highlights Yellowstone’s volcanic thermal features, thundering waterfalls, wildlife viewing, and surreal landscapes.
Take a scenic drive through the famous Grand Loop Road, traversing to all the major highlights of the park, all while on the lookout for the park’s vibrant wildlife and flora.
This adventure makes many stops at the geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles, with Old Faithful, the rainbow-colored Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Fountain Paint Pots being some favorites.
Dip your toes in the clear waters of Yellowstone Lake, and witness the renowned Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River with its dramatic Lower and Upper Falls.
Great memorable tour! Randolph Russell, our tour guide, was very nice and knowledgeable. He illustrated all the information regarding any place beautifully. Would love to visit Yellowstone again! Highly recommended!
– Smruthi (Read more reviews)
Your professional certified guide will educate you on these stops’ historical, geological, and ecological significance – all in the comfort of a small, intimate group.
Best Yellowstone Winter Tours from Bozeman
4. Yellowstone Wolves and Winter 4Day/3Night Adventure from Montana
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 Days | 🦬 Book it!
Imagine being surrounded by the crisp, clean air and snow-topped mountains of Yellowstone Park in the winter season. With so many road closures in the wintertime, it’s an experience few have had the privilege to enjoy. However, with this exclusive 4-day Yellowstone tour from Bozeman, you can witness the splendor of this snowy wonderland and the creatures within!
This small-group tour, limited to 10 travelers, takes you on an incredible, once-in-a-lifetime adventure, seeking out the wolves of Yellowstone alongside other stunning beasts.
Day 1: Journey through Paradise Valley, where you can spot white-tailed deer, pronghorn antelope, and majestic eagles soaring overhead. Overnight in Gardiner
Day 2, 3, & 4: Head off to the famous Lamar Valley, known as the “American Serengeti.” You’ll spend most of your time here spotting wolves and other elusive wildlife like bighorn sheep, elk, and moose. You may even be lucky and catch some wolves on the hunt.
When you’re not searching for wolves, soak in the sight of Mammoth Hot Springs and other hidden gems around the park.
This tour was fabulous! We saw wolves every day as well as other wildlife that live in the Park. Our Guide Neil was energetic, enthusiastic, and could find the animals from miles away.
(Read more reviews)
This all-inclusive package gives you access to transportation, knowledgeable guides, snacks, beverages, and 3 nights’ accommodation. Enjoy your breakfast each morning, included in the tour, fueling you for the incredible adventure that awaits.
5. Private Full-Day Yellowstone Snowshoe Safari from Bozeman
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8-10 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Experience the magic of Yellowstone in winter on this unique Snowshoe Safari. This tour provides a one-of-a-kind backcountry experience, surrounded by the winter ecology of Yellowstone National Park.
This full-day snowshoe trek explores the Yellowstone environment in an in-depth and hands-on way. Reflect on the resilience of the plants, rivers, and wildlife that thrive in the harsh winter environment. Wildlife also migrates from summer to winter ranges, and you’ll get to see their tracks frozen in time.
The tour begins at Paradise Valley and continues onto the Lamar Valley, a region dubbed “the Serengeti of North America.” You’ll be snowshoeing in this area, tracking and spotting wildlife in their natural habitat.
A stop at Mammoth Hot Springs follows, a collection of mineral deposits with a distinct brownish and reddish color due to the algae present.
Worthwhile Winter Wildlife Safari. Yes, you could drive through the park on your own, but the knowledge of what trails to snowshoe when everything is covered, the binoculars and scope, and the general spotting ability of our guide made the day feel truly worthwhile.
(Read more reviews)
The Yellowstone Tour is all-inclusive or snowshoe & wildlife equipment, guide, and hotel pickup, and it comes with breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
6. VIP Private North Yellowstone National Park Winter Excursion
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5-7 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Escape the crowds and bask in the winter wonderland of Yellowstone on this Private North Yellowstone Tour from Bozeman designed just for you.
Via the North Entrance, stop at Paradise Valley to glimpse the expansive valleys before continuing the adventure to Yankee Jim Canyon, a dramatic landscape of Yellowstone River rapids.
Moving deeper into Yellowstone, arrive at Mammoth Hot Springs, Undine Falls, a picturesque frozen waterfall. The final stop will be at Slough Creek, which is highly probable for wildlife sightings.
Highly recommend touring Yellowstone National Park with this group. Mimi was fantastic and extremely knowledgeable/gifted.
– Milton (Read more reviews)
With private transportation, expert guides, bottled water, snacks, and binoculars included, this tour is a hassle-free way to see the best of Yellowstone in winter.
Where to Stay in Bozeman, Montana
Bozeman offers many accommodation options ranging from upscale hotels to cozy cabins. However, it’s worth noting that most accommodations in Bozeman lean toward the expensive side.
Kimpton – Armory Hotel Bozeman
⭐ RATING: 8.8 out of 10 Stars | $$$
From the moment you step inside, you’ll feel like royalty at Kimpton – Armory Hotel Bozeman – one of the best hotels in the city. The hotel is truly a work of art, with stunning architecture and elegant decor that will take your breath away. Rooms are spacious, with luxurious bedding and high-end amenities. But what really sets the Kimpton – Armory Hotel apart is the level of service, the complimentary wine, and just try a meal at their on-site restaurant.
RSVP Hotel
⭐ RATING: 9.0 out of 10 Stars | $$
Looking for modern and chic for your next stay in Bozeman? Well, RSVP Hotel has unique decor filled with eye-popping artwork. This trendy hotel is the epitome of artsy vibes and a welcoming atmosphere. Rooms come with all the modern amenities, plus they have free bikes to borrow and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool.
Baymont by Wyndham Bozeman
⭐ RATING: 7.8 out of 10 Stars | $
Staying at Baymont by Wyndham Bozeman is a top (relatively cheaper) pick if you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient stay in Bozeman! The hotel boasts an indoor pool with a waterslide and fitness center to keep you entertained. Plus, fuel up with a free continental breakfast served daily.
Tips To Prepare For Your Yellowstone National Park Tour
Before embarking on a Yellowstone tour, it’s essential to prepare accordingly. Here are some tips:
- What to pack: Be sure to pack for the weather, including layers, comfortable walking shoes, and rain gear. Outside of summer, it is pretty cold for most of the year.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit is May through September when the weather is mild and the park is fully open. But winter provides some super unique snowy sceneries, with very few crowds.
- Wildlife safety: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO PET THE ANIMALS! I’m not kidding; people every year get killed by buffalo. They are not pets. If they are in your way, go around.
- Geothermal Safety: DON’T POKE OR STEP ON THE GEOTHERMAL FEATURES! Yes, even if the wind blows your hat off the boardwalk. Aside from destroying the formation, you might literally fall in and get burned.
FAQs about Summer & Winter Yellowstone Tours
Yes, it is possible to do a day trip to Yellowstone from Bozeman. However, Yellowstone is a large park, and it would be difficult to see all the attractions in just one day. I recommend spending at least 2-3 days in the park to fully experience it.
Yes, Bozeman is a great place to visit if you plan to explore Yellowstone National Park. Bozeman offers a variety of resources, amenities, and attractions for travelers to enjoy before, after, and during their Yellowstone adventure.
While there aren’t any shuttles directly from Bozeman to Yellowstone, all the tour companies listed here offer guided tours from Bozeman to Yellowstone. These tours often provide door-to-door transportation, making it easy for visitors to sit back and relax while enjoying the tour itinerary.
The North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park is the closest entrance to Bozeman. Depending on traffic, the drive from Bozeman to the North Entrance can take anywhere from 1.5-2 hours.
The town closest to a Yellowstone entrance varies depending on which entry you plan to use. For example, if you plan on using the West Entrance, the town of West Yellowstone is the closest. If you plan on using the East Entrance, Cody, Wyoming, is the closest. North is best for Bozeman, and South is best for Jackson.
Jackson Hole is closer to the south entrances of Yellowstone National Park, while Bozeman is closer to the north entrance. So, the choice between Bozeman and Jackson Hole depends on which direction you are coming from and which part of the park you want to explore.
Yes, you can drive from Bozeman to Jackson Hole through Yellowstone, except in the winter, due to road closures. When the road is open, the drive takes approximately 4 hours. Due to traffic, road construction, and wildlife blocking the road, extra time may be needed.
The best time of year to visit is the summer months (June-August), with the warmest weather and the most things to do. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) have cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and a chance to see wildlife and changing foliage. Most roads are closed in the winter months unless you sign up for winter outdoor activities like snowshoeing or guided snowmobile tours.
Many visitors to the area are often torn between which park to spend more time at, but, in my opinion, Yellowstone is way better. As subjective as I’m trying to be, as Grand Teton does have an impressive mountain range and alpine lakes to kayak on, Yellowstone’s geothermal and canyon sceneries are just so unique, I think every traveler to America should visit this park.
The most popular loop in the park is the Grand Loop (Lower Loop), which covers almost 142 miles and takes approximately 8 hours to complete. This loop takes visitors to the park’s most famous things to do, including Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
The entire Yellowstone loop takes approximately 5- 8 hours to drive without stops. But so much more time is needed for stops and sightseeing. Herds of bison may also completely block traffic, potentially adding hours to your drive.
While it’s possible to drive the Yellowstone loop in one day, it’s not recommended. The loop covers over 300 miles and offers countless attractions and scenic spots. It’s recommended to take at least 2 -3 days to enjoy everything on the loop.
🤩 I never leave home without my Sony Mirrorless Camera A6400, an amazing travel camera. For wildlife, a smartphone just isn’t going to cut it. You need some zoom on that thing – I recommend this Tamrom 70-300mm budget-friendly option.
Final Thoughts: Best Summer & Winter Bozeman Yellowstone Tours
Exploring Yellowstone National Park in any season will leave you speechless. From the exclusive full-day safari tours to snowshoe and snowmobile tours through magnificent winter scenery, you won’t be disappointed!
All tours are led by expert naturalists and guides and include round-trip transportation from Bozeman.
In case you’re still not sure which to pick:
- See the best attractions on the Grand Loop in summer; join this Private Day Adventure.
- Focus on spotting wildlife in the summer; sign up for this Private Wildlife Safari.
- Go on a multi-day hardcore safari in the winter; book this 4D/3N Wolf & Winter Safari.
- For a unique winter experience, go snowshoeing by joining this tour.
No matter which tour or package you choose, you are guaranteed to experience the best of Yellowstone National Park and gain a deep appreciation for nature and history.
Where to Next?
Interested in other tours and activities in the area? Check out these other Yellowstone or Grand Teton National Park posts.
- 7 Best Yellowstone Tours From Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- How To Kayak Jenny Lake To Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point In The Grand Tetons
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Catherine Xu is the founder and author of Nomadicated, an adventure travel blog that helps travelers cross off their bucket list. Since discovering traveling in 2015, she has lived and journeyed to 65 countries across 5 continents and vanlifed the west coast USA for 2+ years. These days, she splits her time in Southeast Asia and California while sharing her travel stories and resources based on first-hand experiences. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.