West Yellowstone stands out as a prime base for Hiking and Trekking Tours thanks to its proximity to Yellowstone National Park’s stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and fewer crowds in the surrounding areas. Unlike more heavily visited parts of the park, West Yellowstone offers access to quieter trails and exclusive experiences, such as private tours, which allow a closer encounter with Yellowstone’s famous animals. Whether you’re a casual hiker or a dedicated trekker, the options here cater to all levels—especially appreciated is the chance to view wildlife like wolves, bears, and bison in their natural habitat.
For those wanting a comprehensive day inside this wild territory, the variety of guided tours available — both summer and winter — are designed to maximize your experience. From private wildlife safaris to tailored hikes, West Yellowstone’s offerings help you explore with expert guidance, making every step both educational and memorable.
Quick Overview
This list features seven of the best hiking and trekking experiences in West Yellowstone. They include private Yellowstone safaris, full-day guided hikes, and winter tours with snowshoeing or optional hikes, all led by knowledgeable naturalists. If you’re after personalized attention, tours like the Private Yellowstone Tour top the list, while those seeking a flexible, custom itinerary might prefer the Yellowstone Full Day Private Hike. For winter enthusiasts, the Yellowstone Full Day Winter Tour offers a cozy, wildlife-focused trek. The following sections detail each experience.
1. Private Yellowstone Tour: ICONIC Sites, Wildlife, Family Friendly Hikes + lunch
Starting with the most personalized option, this private tour is perfect for families, small groups, or couples wanting an intimate Yellowstone experience. Led by a naturalist guide, you’ll visit famous sites like Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, and explore lesser-known geysers and hot springs off the typical tourist path. The tour emphasizes wildlife viewing, with frequent stops in Hayden Valley to see bison, wolves, and bears using spotting scopes and binoculars provided.
What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility — you set the pace, and your guide customizes the itinerary, including secluded hikes and scenic viewpoints. The inclusion of a picnic lunch at a scenic spot adds a relaxed, personal touch, while the private setting ensures you avoid crowds. Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, often remarking how it felt like “packing a full week into one day.”
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you want a highly personalized, wildlife-rich, and flexible Yellowstone adventure, perfect for families or small groups who appreciate expert guiding and scenic stops.
2. Yellowstone Full Day Private Hike
At number 2, the Yellowstone Full Day Private Hike offers an entirely customized experience tailored to your interests and fitness level. Led by guides with advanced degrees in outdoor and sustainability education, this tour is perfect if you want to explore Yellowstone’s hidden trails without the guesswork.
The guides will design an insider’s itinerary, choosing hikes that match your preferences—whether it’s a gentle walk through wildflower meadows or a more challenging trek to panoramic viewpoints. Included is a delicious picnic lunch, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors and scenic vistas. The guide’s deep knowledge means you’ll learn about Yellowstone’s geology, flora, fauna, and history, with plenty of chances to observe wildlife like elk, bison, and even bears.
Guests rave about guides like Troy, who “hiked and toured the sites, saw grizzly bears, elk, bison,” and provided binoculars for close wildlife viewing. This is a fantastic choice for those wanting an expert-led, flexible day that prioritizes your interests.
Bottom Line: If you’re a hiker seeking a personalized, in-depth Yellowstone experience with expert guidance, this full-day private hike offers tailored trails and insider knowledge.
3. Yellowstone Full Day Winter Tour (With Optional Hike or Snowshoe)
Winter in Yellowstone has a quiet magic, and this Full Day Winter Tour captures it perfectly. Led by a master naturalist, this tour takes you to Mammoth Hot Springs, the Lamar Valley, and Calcite Springs overlook, with options to hike or snowshoe depending on your interest and snow conditions.
What makes this experience special is the chance to see Yellowstone’s winter wildlife, from bison and wolves to bighorn sheep, with provided binoculars and spotting scopes. The gourmet picnic lunch midday keeps you warm and energized. The tour’s vehicle is a luxury SUV, making the day comfortable despite the cold.
Guests describe guides like Kelsey as “impeccably knowledgeable, funny, and down-to-earth,” making winter wildlife viewing both fun and educational. The snowshoe option is great for those who want some light physical activity, while the scenic drives offer spectacular snowy vistas.
Bottom Line: Perfect for winter travelers or those who want to combine wildlife watching with light winter hiking or snowshoeing, this tour offers a cozy, wildlife-focused Yellowstone experience.
4. Guided Hiking Adventure in Yellowstone with Lunch
For a carefully paced guided hike tailored to your needs, this Guided Hiking Adventure delivers a memorable outdoor experience. Led by an experienced wilderness guide and naturalist, the tour involves hiking a trail specifically chosen for your group’s interests and ability.
What sets this apart is the focus on flora, fauna, and landscape learning. The guide comes equipped with bear spray and wilderness gear, ensuring safety as you explore. The tour includes snacks and a delicious lunch, perfect for a relaxed picnic in the park. Whether you want to explore geyser basins, waterfalls, or scenic ridges, your guide will tailor the route.
Guests like Jack appreciate the guide’s patience and knowledge, especially when accommodating children or less experienced hikers. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a personalized, educational outdoor experience.
Bottom Line: This guided hike suits visitors who want a custom trail, a knowledgeable guide, and the flexibility to focus on specific sights or wildlife.
5. Hiking Tour: Hidden Gems | West Yellowstone | PRIVATE + Lunch
This Hidden Gems Hiking Tour offers a private, tailored day of exploring Yellowstone’s lesser-visited spots, perfect for those who want a less crowded experience. Led by a guide who knows the park intimately, you’ll visit sites like Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley, and Bunsen Peak, climbing 1,300 feet for panoramic views.
What makes it stand out is the customization—you can choose to hike, observe wildlife with scopes, or combine both. The guide’s expertise in wildlife timing increases your chances of seeing wolves, bears, and bison in their natural habitat. The tour includes a lunch, making it easy to enjoy a full day outside.
Guests mention feeling like VIPs, with the guide’s tailor-made approach and high-powered scopes enhancing wildlife sightings. It’s ideal for adventurers who prefer a private, flexible itinerary with a focus on wildlife and scenic landscapes.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want exclusive access to Yellowstone’s quiet spots, with the flexibility to hike and watch wildlife at your own pace.
$424.99 per person
6. Private Tour Yellowstone CONIC Sites, Wildlife, Friendly Hikes
This nearly 10-hour private tour offers a comprehensive look at Yellowstone’s main attractions with an emphasis on wildlife and scenic landmarks. Starting from your hotel, the guide takes you through Yellowstone National Park to iconic spots like Yellowstone Falls, the Grand Canyon, and Hayden Valley.
Although this tour does not have reviews listed, its itinerary suggests a balanced mix of driving and short walks designed to maximize exposure to Yellowstone’s highlights. It’s suited for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace but still want to see the park’s most famous sights, with plenty of time for wildlife observation and photography.
The advantage here is the personalized service and the ability to customize stops based on your interests. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time but eager to see a wide array of Yellowstone’s signature landscapes.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded tour for those wanting a private, flexible experience with expert guidance covering Yellowstone’s top landmarks.
$1,736.40 per person
7. Yellowstone Hidden Gems Hiking Tour West Yellowstone
Our final pick is for the adventurous who want to explore Yellowstone’s quieter trails. This Hidden Gems Hiking Tour takes you to Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley, and Bunsen Peak in a full-day tailored experience.
The guide’s knowledge of wildlife movement and best spotting locations means your chances of seeing animals like wolves and bison are high. The climb up Bunsen Peak offers spectacular views after a 1,300-foot ascent. The tour emphasizes nature observation and off-the-beaten-path adventures, perfect for those with a good fitness level and a desire for authentic Yellowstone experiences.
While reviews are not available, the focus on wildlife sightings and scenic hikes makes it a strong choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers aiming to discover Yellowstone’s lesser-visited trails and wildlife in one full-day outing.
$399.99 per person
How to Choose the Right Yellowstone Hiking and Trekking Tour
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interest in wildlife or scenery. For a luxurious, personalized experience, the private Yellowstone Tour or Private Yellowstone CONIC Sites Tour are excellent. If you prefer a guided, customizable day hike, the Full Day Private Hike offers deep immersion.
For winter travelers or those seeking a wildlife-focused adventure with snowshoeing or winter hikes, the Yellowstone Winter Tour combines comfort with wildlife sightings. Budget-conscious explorers may appreciate the Hidden Gems Tours, which focus on fewer crowds and authentic landscapes.
Booking early, especially in peak seasons, ensures availability and the best guides. Make sure to match the tour to your interests—whether that’s seeing wolves in Lamar Valley or climbing Bunsen Peak for a panoramic view.
Final thoughts
West Yellowstone offers a wide range of hiking and trekking tours that suit all preferences. For those who want a personalized experience, the private tours shine, especially with wildlife viewing and scenic stops. Families and casual hikers might prefer the flexible day hikes or winter tours, which blend education, scenery, and wildlife in comfortable settings.
If you’re an active traveler craving an authentic Yellowstone adventure, booking one of these tours early will secure your spot and ensure a memorable experience. Whether you’re chasing wolves in Lamar Valley or exploring geysers off the beaten path, West Yellowstone’s outdoor tours promise a rugged, rewarding outdoor adventure.