Discover Yellowstone's wild heart on guided hiking and backpacking trips, from geyser basins to backcountry wilderness.
Compare the best hiking and backpacking trips in Yellowstone National Park — see prices, durations, and book with instant confirmation.
Compare top-rated hiking and backpacking trips in Yellowstone National Park. Small-group and guided options with local experts — see prices and availability below.
Yellowstone National Park, a geological marvel and a sanctuary for wildlife, offers unparalleled opportunities for those eager to explore its vast landscapes on foot. Beyond the boardwalks and pull-offs, a world of alpine meadows, dense lodgepole forests, and remote valleys awaits. Hiking and backpacking trips in Yellowstone, whether guided half-day excursions or challenging multi-day expeditions, provide an intimate encounter with this iconic wilderness, allowing you to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in its raw beauty. These tours are expertly crafted to showcase the park's diverse ecosystems, from the steaming, vibrant geyser basins to the serene shores of Yellowstone Lake and the dramatic canyons carved by its rivers. Guided trips take the guesswork out of navigating Yellowstone's extensive trail system, often leading adventurers to lesser-known viewpoints and providing insights into the park's natural and human history. Experienced guides are crucial for safety in bear country and for understanding the delicate balance of this protected environment. For the more intrepid, multi-day backpacking tours offer a chance to truly disconnect, camping under the vast Western sky, with the sounds of nature as your only companion. These excursions are designed for varying levels of fitness and experience, ensuring that anyone with a desire to explore can find an adventure that suits them, from introductory nature walks to demanding backcountry treks. Whether you're drawn by the chance to spot bison herds grazing in Hayden Valley, to marvel at the power of waterfalls along the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, or simply to breathe in the crisp mountain air far from the developed areas, a hiking or backpacking trip in Yellowstone promises a profound connection with one of America's most treasured natural landscapes. TopTours.ai aggregates a wide range of these experiences, making it easy to compare options and book your perfect adventure into the wild heart of Yellowstone.
Compare top-rated hiking and backpacking trips in Yellowstone National Park — guided experiences, local experts, and small-group options. See prices, durations, and availability.
Looking to book? View all available hiking and backpacking trips in Yellowstone National Park with live pricing and instant confirmation.
Access remote areas and experience Yellowstone's natural grandeur away from the usual tourist paths.
Benefit from the knowledge of experienced guides for safety, wildlife spotting, and understanding park ecology.
Witness iconic landscapes like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, geyser basins, and vast wildlife habitats.
Guides are trained in wilderness safety, including bear awareness and first aid, crucial for Yellowstone's environment.
Increased chances of safely observing bison, elk, bears, wolves, and other iconic Yellowstone wildlife in their natural habitat.
Explore trails less traveled, uncovering secluded spots and breathtaking vistas often missed on self-guided visits.
These excursions typically last from a few hours to a full day, focusing on specific areas like the Grand Prismatic Spring overlook, Lamar Valley for wildlife, or trails within the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. They are ideal for visitors with limited time or those new to the park.
For a truly immersive experience, multi-day backpacking tours delve deep into Yellowstone's backcountry. These trips require permits and often involve camping overnight, offering solitude and a profound connection with the wilderness. They are designed for individuals with backpacking experience and good physical condition.
Tailored for avid wildlife watchers, these hikes prioritize areas known for bison, elk, bears, and wolf activity. Guides use their expertise to track animals and ensure safe viewing distances, providing a thrilling and educational experience.
These tours offer a chance to venture further into the park's interior on day hikes without overnight camping. They might involve longer distances or more challenging terrain than standard day hikes, providing a taste of the backcountry for those not wanting to camp.
Guided day hikes typically range from 3 hours to a full day (8-10 hours). Multi-day backpacking trips can last anywhere from 2 days and 1 night to 7 days or more.
Yellowstone weather is notoriously unpredictable. Expect variable conditions year-round, including sunshine, rain, snow, wind, and temperature swings. Layering is essential. Higher elevations can be cold even in summer.
Day hike group sizes can range from small intimate groups of 4-8 people to larger groups of 10-15. Backpacking trips are often smaller, focusing on a more secluded experience, typically 4-8 participants.
Day hike tours often include guide services, park entrance fees (if not already covered), and sometimes snacks or water. Backpacking trips may include permits, group camping gear (tents, cooking equipment), and meals. Always check the specific tour details.
Meeting points vary but are typically at designated visitor centers, park entrance stations, or specific hotels/lodges within or just outside the park. Confirmation details will be provided upon booking.
Prices for guided day hikes start around $75-$150 per person. Multi-day backpacking trips are significantly more, often ranging from $400 to $1500+ per person depending on duration, inclusions, and guide ratio.
Book in advance, especially for multi-day trips and peak season (July-August). Permits and guides can be limited.
Always carry bear spray and know how to use it. Many tours provide this, but confirm beforehand.
Wear sturdy, broken-in hiking boots. Blisters can ruin a trip. Consider bringing trekking poles for stability on varied terrain.
Pack layers! A waterproof and windproof outer shell is non-negotiable, even in summer.
Stay hydrated. Carry more water than you think you'll need, or bring a filter/purification tablets for longer treks.
Be aware of altitude. Yellowstone's average elevation is around 6,000 feet (1,800 meters). Take it easy on your first day.
Inform someone of your hiking plans, especially if going on a self-guided or less structured excursion.
Respect wildlife. Maintain safe distances, never feed animals, and be aware of your surroundings, particularly in areas with dense vegetation or blind corners.
A: The prime hiking season is generally from late June through September when most trails are free of snow and accessible. July and August offer the warmest weather but also the most crowds. September provides cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors, with fewer people.
A: Yes, wilderness permits are required for all overnight backcountry camping in Yellowstone. Many guided backpacking tours handle permit acquisition as part of their package, but it's essential to confirm this when booking.
A: Yellowstone is renowned for its abundant wildlife. You can expect to see bison and elk on many trails. Bears (black and grizzly), wolves, pronghorn, and other mammals are also present, especially in backcountry areas. Always maintain a safe and respectful distance.
A: Many guided day hikes are designed for beginners and offer easier trails with minimal elevation gain. Multi-day backpacking trips, however, are generally recommended for those with prior camping and hiking experience due to the remoteness and physical demands.
A: Essential items include comfortable hiking shoes, layered clothing (including rain gear), sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, plenty of water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit. Many tours will provide a list of recommended gear.
A: Strenuousness varies greatly by tour. Day hikes can range from easy, flat strolls to moderate climbs. Backpacking trips are generally strenuous, requiring sustained effort over multiple days at elevation.
A: While many trails can be hiked independently, guided tours offer significant advantages: expert knowledge of the terrain, wildlife safety, insights into the park's ecology, and access to areas that might be challenging to navigate or permit alone, especially for backpacking.
A: The primary safety concerns are wildlife encounters (especially bears), unpredictable weather, potential for sudden storms, and the vastness of the wilderness. Having a knowledgeable guide significantly mitigates these risks.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Explore the wonders of Yellowstone with convenient and enriching day trip options.
Discover Yellowstone with exceptional tours, designed for an unforgettable experience.
Discover the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone National Park with guided tours showcasing its iconic geysers, colorful hot springs, and bubbling mudpots.
Discover breathtaking viewpoints and geological wonders of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone on guided tours from multiple operators.
Discover the wonders of Yellowstone with a perfectly-sized half-day exploration.
Discover Yellowstone's amazing wildlife with tours focused on animal encounters.
Save up to 70% on car rentals in Yellowstone National Park when you compare and book in advance.