Gardiner, Montana, is a prime spot for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers eager to experience Yellowstone’s spectacular scenery. Its proximity to the park’s north entrance makes it an ideal base for exploring on foot, by water, or on snow. What makes Gardiner especially appealing is the variety of tours available — whether you want to raft Yellowstone’s roaring river, spy wildlife in Lamar Valley, or hike along canyon rims. Among these, the Yellowstone River whitewater rafting stands out for its combination of adrenaline and wildlife sightings. It’s a fast-paced way to feel the power of the river and see deer, elk, ospreys, and bald eagles along the way. Plus, it’s perfect for those short on time but craving a thrill. For a more relaxed but equally engaging experience, the Yellowstone Lake Guided Kayak Tour offers a peaceful paddle with wildlife viewing and geothermal sights, making it perfect for nature lovers.
If wildlife is your focus, the Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch is hard to beat — it immerses you in the iconic North American big game habitat, with expert guides helping you spot wolves, bears, and more. For those interested in geology and waterfalls, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Loop Hike takes you along uncrowded trails with stunning canyon views and waterfalls. And for winter visitors, Gardiner turns into a quiet snow paradise, with options like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing that let you explore the snowy landscape at a leisurely pace.
Quick Overview
This list covers a range of tours tailored to different interests and seasons, from whitewater rafting in summer to snowshoeing in winter. Whether you’re after adrenaline on the Yellowstone River (Yellowstone River Half-Day Whitewater Rafting), want to spot wildlife on a Lamar Valley safari (Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch), or prefer a scenic hike of the Grand Canyon area’s rim (Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Loop Hike), there’s something here to match your style and season of visit.
1. Gardiner: Yellowstone River Half-Day Whitewater Rafting
At number 1, the Yellowstone River Half-Day Whitewater Rafting delivers a lively 2-hour adventure that’s perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. This tour includes a certified safety guide and takes you through some of the best rapids Yellowstone has to offer. What makes this trip stand out is not just the adrenaline rush, but the chance to see wildlife like deer, elk, and even bald eagles soaring overhead as you paddle. The guides are experienced and share insights about the river’s ecology and geology, enriching the experience far beyond just whitewater.
The tour includes transportation along the river route, with pickup and drop-off at a convenient meeting point. Dipping into the Yellowstone River to cool off after a splashy ride is a refreshing way to end the adventure. Reviewers consistently rate this tour highly, with a 4.7 out of 5 based on 69 reviews, praising its balance of excitement and safety. It’s ideal for those wanting a quick but memorable dose of Yellowstone’s wild side.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a fantastic mix of thrill, scenery, and wildlife in a manageable time frame.
2. Lamar Valley: Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch
Next up, the Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch takes you into the heart of Yellowstone’s most famous wildlife habitat. With a 4.7-star rating from 43 reviews and a price of $192, this 6-hour outing is suited for those eager to walk and observe. Your local guide is an expert, helping you spot bison, pronghorn, bears, and wolves using binoculars and a spotting scope. The tour emphasizes learning about the animals’ behaviors and the landscape, offering a rich, contextual experience.
What makes this hike special is how it immerses you in the Serengeti of North America, with wide-open vistas, herds of bison, and the chance to see predators in action if luck is on your side. The included picnic lunch allows you to relax and take in the scenery without rushing. This tour is perfect for travelers interested in wildlife photography or those wanting a deeper connection with Yellowstone’s ecology.
Bottom Line: A quiet, informative hike that combines wildlife viewing with scenic grandeur, suitable for active outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Loop Hike with Lunch
Number 3 on our list is the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Loop Hike with Lunch. This 6-hour tour is rated an impressive 4.9/5 from 17 reviews and costs $192 per person. Led by a naturalist guide, you’ll trek along less-frequented trails that offer spectacular views of the canyon, waterfalls, and thermal features. The focus here is on avoiding tourist crowds and experiencing the canyon’s colorful cliffs, Lower and Upper Falls, and the river’s meanders up close.
What sets this experience apart is how it combines geology, flora, and waterfalls into a manageable hike. Your guide explains the formation of the canyon, making it educational as well as scenic. The included lunch is a nice touch, allowing you to rest and reflect on the impressive scenery.
Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and the uncrowded trails, making this a top choice for nature lovers seeking tranquility and geology buffs. Be prepared for some moderate walking, but the views make it worth the effort.
Bottom Line: A rewarding hike for those wanting intimate canyon vistas and an educational experience.
4. Grant Village: Yellowstone Lake Guided Kayak Tour
Number 4, the Yellowstone Lake Guided Kayak Tour, is a top pick for serenity and wildlife viewing. For $127 per person, this 4-hour tour with a naturalist guide offers a chance to paddle across Yellowstone’s largest high-altitude lake. You’ll glide past geyser basins, gas bubbles, and hot waterfalls, all while keeping an eye out for bald eagles and waterfowl along the shoreline.
The tour’s small-group setting and expert guide make it a great option for those seeking a peaceful experience away from crowds. The calm waters of Yellowstone Lake provide a perfect backdrop for photography and wildlife observation. The guide shares stories about the lake’s geothermal activity and history, adding an educational touch.
Rated 5/5 from 9 reviews, this tour is a favorite among travelers looking for a relaxing yet deeply engaging activity. It’s especially suited for families or couples who want a gentle adventure with stunning scenery.
Bottom Line: Unique, tranquil, and informative — ideal for paddlers of all skill levels wanting a quiet lake experience.
5. Yellowstone: Upper Geyser Basin Hike with Lunch
Number 5, the Yellowstone Upper Geyser Basin Hike with Lunch, is perfect for those eager to see Old Faithful and the geothermal features that put Yellowstone on the map. For $182, this 6-hour tour includes a guided walk through the world’s most famous geyser basin, with a focus on learning about geothermal activity.
The guide takes you off the busy boardwalks to lesser-known pools, hot springs, and bubbling fumaroles, providing a more intimate view of Yellowstone’s geothermal landscape. You’ll see the iconic Old Faithful erupt and visit the historic Old Faithful Inn. The explanation of the supervolcano beneath the park adds a fascinating geological layer to your visit. The included snacks and lunch make it a relaxed day.
Rated 4.9/5, travelers love how this tour combines education, scenic sights, and wildlife spotting. It’s well-suited for curious travelers who want more than just photos — they want to understand the forces creating Yellowstone’s unique terrain.
Bottom Line: An educational, scenic tour that makes the most of Yellowstone’s geysers and geothermal wonders.
6. Gardiner: Yellowstone National Park Half Day Guided Hike
The Gardiner Half-Day Guided Hike is a popular choice for travelers who want to explore Yellowstone’s geothermal features and wildlife on foot. Costing $550 per group (up to 1 person), this 5-hour guided walk is highly personalized, starting right from your Gardiner hotel.
Your guide, with their focus on safety and natural history, leads you through trails to see geyser basins, hot springs, and thermal pools. Along the way, you’ll look for bald eagles, deer, and coyotes in the wild. The tour balances light hiking with plenty of opportunities for photography and wildlife observation. The included snacks and coffee bar are a nice touch, especially if you’re combining this with winter activities.
Rated 5/5 from 1 review, the intimate setting and expert guidance make this ideal for travelers who prefer a personalized, small-group experience. It’s suited for those with moderate fitness levels and a curiosity for Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders.
Bottom Line: A personalized, interpretive hike perfect for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Yellowstone’s geothermal activity.
$550 per group up to 1
7. From Gardiner: Yellowstone National Park Snowshoe Tour
Number 7, the Yellowstone Snowshoe Tour, offers a winter escape into Yellowstone’s snowy landscape. At $600 per group, this 5-hour tour is tailored for those who want to experience Yellowstone in its winter dress. The guided snowshoe adventure takes you across Lamar Valley’s snow-covered meadows and forests, with chances to see wolves, grizzly bears (hibernating, of course), and bald eagles.
The guide’s expertise ensures a leisurely pace suitable for beginners or experienced snowshoe enthusiasts. Snowshoeing is a great way to enjoy the quiet of Yellowstone’s winter without the crowds typical in summer. You’ll be transported from Gardiner, allowing you to focus on the scenery and wildlife.
Rated for its natural beauty and the chance to see winter wildlife, this tour is ideal for visitors looking for a peaceful winter experience. Be prepared for cold weather and dress in layers.
Bottom Line: A serene winter outing that combines wildlife viewing, snowshoeing, and mountain scenery.
$600 per group up to 1
8. From Gardiner: Guided Yellowstone Cross-Country Skiing Tour
Finally, the Cross-Country Skiing Tour is perfect for those wanting a fully immersive winter adventure. At $600 for a group, this 5-hour experience takes you through Yellowstone’s northern range, with expert guides leading the way on scenic trails. Along the route, you’ll likely see wolves, bison, and bears (in their winter hibernation or nearby), making wildlife sightings a highlight.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, so your focus remains on the snow-covered landscape. Coffee and snacks keep energy levels up while you enjoy the peaceful silence of snow-laden trees and frozen lakes. Cross-country skiing offers a different perspective on Yellowstone’s winter beauty—more active than snowshoeing but still accessible.
Rated without reviews yet, this is suited for fit travelers who want a comprehensive snowy wilderness experience. It’s best for those comfortable with skiing or eager to learn in a stunning setting.
Bottom Line: For active winter travelers, this tour provides an authentic, quiet way to experience Yellowstone in winter.
$600 per group up to 1
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your perfect Yellowstone adventure, consider your interests, fitness level, and the season. For adrenaline junkies, the whitewater rafting (Yellowstone River Half-Day Whitewater Rafting) offers excitement, but if wildlife and scenery are your priority, the Lamar Valley safari (Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch) or the Grand Canyon hike (Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Loop Hike) are excellent choices. For a peaceful water-based experience, the Yellowstone Lake kayak (Yellowstone Lake Guided Kayak Tour) provides tranquility and wildlife viewing.
In winter, snowshoeing (Yellowstone Snowshoe Tour) and cross-country skiing (Guided Yellowstone Cross-Country Skiing) let you enjoy the snowy landscape away from crowds. Think about your fitness level and whether you prefer a guided, educational experience or a more adventurous, independent outing.
Booking early is advised, especially in busy months like summer or winter holidays. Check the weather and dress appropriately — layers and waterproof gear are essentials.
Final Thoughts
Gardiner offers a wonderful array of tours, whether you’re after whitewater thrills, wildlife encounters, scenic hikes, or winter solitude. For adrenaline lovers, the raft trip is unbeatable, while those wanting a more contemplative experience may prefer a wildlife hike or a kayak trip. Seasonality matters — winter tours transform Gardiner into a snowy wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing and skiing.
No matter your style, these tours provide a genuine connection to Yellowstone’s rugged landscape and fascinating wildlife. Book early, prepare well, and enjoy your adventure in this stunning corner of Montana and Wyoming.