Private Big Sky Snowshoeing Tour

No previous snowshoeing experience is required. Our guides will provide an introduction to snowshoeing and ensure that you feel comfortable before embarking on the safari. It’s a fun and accessible way to explore Yellowstone’s winter landscape.

Yes. Include your dietary restrictions at checkout. It's important that we have a list of any food allergies and dietary restrictions for your group. Please be sure to list any food allergies that may result in anaphylaxis. We cannot guarantee allergen-free meals.

We start with with a drive through the Gallatin River Canyon heading south toward Yellowstone’s wild northwest boundary. We make stops at a little-known thermal feature as well as for any wildlife we see from the road. We stop and strap our snowshoes on at the trailhead where we can choose our adventure. We can either climb a nearby hill through mixed live and burnt forests for a fantastic bird’s eye view of the surrounding mountain ranges, or traverse the flats across frozen meadows and the riparian zone. We will spend about 2 hours in total on our snowshoes. There will be ample opportunities to learn about winter wildlife and ecology from your naturalist guide, play in the snow, take photos, and enjoy a trail snack with a view. We will snowshoe within Yellowstone National Park, but we will not enter the park through a gate and therefore, no park pass is necessary.

Snowshoeing is accessible for anyone capable of taking a walk in the woods. It is equally enjoyable for first-timers and seasoned enthusiasts. The learning curve requires getting used to the extra-large set of shoes on your feet! It can feel awkward at first, but after a few minutes you will feel the comfort and advantage they give you in deep snow. Your guide is there to help keep your gear tight and working properly. Poles will help you stay steady and upright. For those looking to get their heart rate up, we can climb several hundred feet in elevation up a fairly steep hillside. For those looking for a more relaxing pace, we can stay on flat ground the whole time. While snowshoeing we do not utilize a trail but make one ourselves. The joy is in the exploration.

We provide a variety of snacks for the morning and while we are out snowshoeing. We offer assorted breakfast bars, fig bars, protein bars, goldfish, nuts and fruit. We also offer coffee, tea, cocoa or cider for the car ride or a hot pick-me-up on the trail.

Yes, reservations are required for all of our safari tours. This allows us to provide properly fitted snowshoes and poles, and to match the route to your preferred activity level. Your confirmation email will include everything you need to bring, as well as what we provide during the tour. If you have additional questions before your trip, our friendly office staff is available by phone to assist.

Yes, children can join our tours, but they must be safely secured in an appropriate winter-rated carrier. Parents should bring a backpack-style child carrier designed for snowshoeing or winter hiking, with proper insulation and harnesses to keep your child safe and warm. The carrier must be compatible with your snowshoes and allow you to maintain balance and control while walking.

Keep in mind that winter weather can be unpredictable, so dressing your child in multiple warm layers, waterproof outerwear, and insulated gloves, hat, and boots is essential. Our guides can provide additional tips for keeping children comfortable and safe on the trail.