DISCOVER
Explore the Wonders of Yellowstone National Park
Nestled in the heart of the American West, Yellowstone National Park is a treasure trove of natural wonders and breathtaking beauty. As the first national park in the world, it boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes, from lush forests and expansive meadows to towering mountains and geothermal marvels.
Yellowstone’s diverse landscapes are a testament to the park’s dynamic geological history. As you traverse its vast expanse, you’ll encounter an array of natural features that captivate the imagination. The park spans over 2.2 million acres, encompassing a variety of ecosystems that host an incredible diversity of plant and animal life.
A stay at Lone Mountain Ranch wouldn’t be complete without venturing into the awe-inspiring wilderness of Yellowstone National Park—one of the true highlights of the guest experience. Our guided tours offer an intimate, expertly curated way to explore the park’s iconic landscapes, geothermal wonders, and incredible wildlife. Guests can choose between two adventures: the Lower Loop Tour or the Lamar Valley Tour. Both depart the ranch at 7:30am and return between 4:30–6:30pm, depending on traffic and your preferences and include lunch. Our guides are happy to tailor each tour to guest interests or adapt plans based on weather conditions, ensuring your Yellowstone day is nothing short of extraordinary.
Please note: Yellowstone Tours are exclusively for Lone Mountain Ranch overnight guests only.
TOUR OPTION ONE
The Lower Loop Tour: Geysers, Grandeur & Geothermal Wonders
Experience the classic Yellowstone highlights on our comprehensive Lower Loop tour. Your adventure begins with entry at West Yellowstone, followed by a scenic drive along the Madison River, pausing at picturesque pullouts for stunning photo opportunities. Witness the mesmerizing Fountain Paint Pots, a half-mile boardwalk showcasing all four unique geothermal features found in Yellowstone. Just a short drive away, prepare to be captivated by the majestic eruption of Old Faithful geyser, where we’ll enjoy lunch and have time to explore the historic Old Faithful Inn and charming park shops.
Our journey continues over the Continental Divide, leading us to the breathtaking expanse of Yellowstone Lake, offering a chance to stroll along its scenic shores. Traverse the renowned Hayden Valley, a prime area for spotting diverse wildlife. The grand finale awaits at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, an absolute must-see with its vibrant colors and cascading waterfalls. The return trip to Lone Mountain Ranch is a scenic two-hour drive, allowing you to reflect on a day filled with awe-inspiring sights. While this is a long day, we prioritize getting you out of the vehicle as much as possible to fully immerse yourself in the park’s beauty.
TOUR OPTION TWO
The Lamar Valley Tour: Serengeti of North America
Please Note: This tour has limited availability based on demand and may require a private tour.
For wildlife lovers, the Lamar Valley tour offers an unforgettable experience. Entering through either the North or West Gate, this journey is crafted for exceptional animal sightings, including opportunities to see wolves, bears, bison, elk, and more. Highlights include the striking travertine terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs and a walk through the storied past of Fort Yellowstone. From there, we head into the renowned Lamar Valley—often called the “Serengeti of North America”—home to over 70% of the park’s wildlife population.
While the tour covers more ground and involves longer drive times, the rewards are immense. If time permits, we may also include a stop at the breathtaking Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
MEET THE WILDLIFE
The Iconic Yellowstone Wildlife
Both our Yellowstone tours offer incredible opportunities to observe magnificent wildlife. Yellowstone’s wildlife is one of its most enthralling aspects, offering a window into the natural world that few other places can match. The park’s expansive habitats provide refuge for species that have roamed the region for millennia. Observing these animals in their natural environment evokes a sense of connection to the Earth’s untamed past.
The majestic bison, often seen in large herds, are a testament to the park’s commitment to conservation. As the largest land mammals in North America, their presence is both imposing and awe-inspiring. Meanwhile, the elusive wolves, reintroduced to the park in the 1990s, play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Their haunting howls echo across the valleys, adding a mystical quality to the wilderness experience.
Not to be overlooked, the iconic grizzly bear symbolizes the wild heart of Yellowstone. Spotting a grizzly is a highlight for many visitors, embodying the thrill and unpredictability of nature. These bears, along with other species like elk and moose, contribute to the rich tapestry of wildlife that defines the park.
NATURE'S GEOTHERMAL WONDERS
Geothermal Hot Springs
and Geysers
Yellowstone is a geothermal wonderland, with features that captivate scientists and tourists alike. The park sits atop a massive supervolcano, and the resulting geothermal activity shapes much of the landscape. This geothermal energy fuels hot springs, geysers, fumaroles, and mud pots, creating a dynamic and colorful spectacle.
The vibrant hues of the hot springs, such as those found at the Grand Prismatic Spring, are caused by thermophilic bacteria thriving in the mineral-rich waters. These colors shift with temperature changes, offering a living palette that changes throughout the seasons.
Mammoth Hot Springs presents a strikingly unique landscape within Yellowstone National Park, standing apart from the geysers and mudpots found elsewhere. Here, hot, calcium-rich water rises from deep within the earth, depositing vast quantities of travertine as it cools and reaches the surface.
Of all the geysers, Old Faithful stands as the most renowned. Its reliable eruptions, occurring approximately every 90 minutes, draw crowds from around the world. Witnessing the geyser’s plume of steam and water shoot into the sky is a breathtaking experience, a reminder of the powerful forces that shape our planet.
CANYONS & WATERFALLS
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a breathtaking geological marvel within Yellowstone National Park, famed for its vibrant, multi-hued canyon walls and the powerful Yellowstone River carving its way through. Stretching approximately 20 miles long, over 1,000 feet deep, and up to 4,000 feet wide, this dramatic landscape showcases the park’s complex volcanic and hydrothermal history. Two magnificent waterfalls, the 109-foot Upper Falls and the impressive 308-foot Lower Falls, add to the grandeur as the river plunges into the canyon. The striking yellows, oranges, and reds of the canyon’s rhyolite rock are a result of hydrothermal alteration and oxidation, creating a constantly evolving natural masterpiece accessible via numerous overlooks and trails along its North and South Rims.
CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE
All-Inclusive Yellowstone Packages
Experience all-inclusive luxury at Lone Mountain Ranch with our curated Yellowstone National Park packages. Choose the Yellowstone Pack Trip for an authentic backcountry immersion, or our Summer and Winter Discovery Packages for family-friendly ranch adventures. Enjoy farm-to-table dining, diverse activities, and unforgettable access to Yellowstone’s wonders.
Yellowstone National Park Pack Trip
Channel the spirit of Yellowstone’s earliest explorers on a seven-day adventure that begins with fine dining and a night in downtown Bozeman before heading deep into the park’s untouched backcountry for a three-night pack trip. After days of riding, luxury camping, and gourmet meals under the stars, you’ll return to Lone Mountain Ranch for two nights of refined comfort.
Summer Discovery Package
Experience the authentic Old West on our Summer Discovery Package, recently voted "Best Family Ranch" by Top 50 Ranches! Stay in a luxury cabin and enjoy farm-to-table dining, horseback riding, campfires, and Western music, plus a captivating tour to Yellowstone National Park. Create unforgettable family memories and see why guests return year after year!
The LMR Big 3 Fly Fishing Package
Experience the pinnacle of fly fishing in Montana with this 4-night all-inclusive fly fishing package. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Big Sky Country and cast your line on three of the region’s most iconic rivers: the Gallatin, the Yellowstone, and the Madison. In addition, this package includes the option to tour Yellowstone National Park.
LEARN MORE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park?
The “best” time depends on your preferences. Summer (June-August) offers full road access, all services, and warmer weather, but it’s also the busiest. Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer fewer crowds, good wildlife viewing opportunities, and vibrant colors, though some roads and services may be limited. Winter (November-March) provides a unique, snowy experience with access primarily via snowcoach or snowmobile, and limited open entrances.
Where is Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park’s boundary is just a short 18 miles from Lone Mountain Ranch. There are several beautiful trails for horseback riding and hiking around this area including the Bacon Rind Trail, Big Horn Pass & Fawn Pass. The famous “West Gate”, located in West Yellowstone, Montana, about 45 minutes from Lone Mountain Ranch, is the main entrance where most Lone Mountain Ranch based tours begin.
How big is Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park is vast! It encompasses approximately 3,472 square miles (or about 2,221,766 acres). To put that into perspective, it’s larger than the states of Rhode Island and Delaware combined.
Can I swim in the hot springs or other thermal features?
No, swimming or soaking in Yellowstone’s hot springs and other thermal features is strictly prohibited due to extreme temperatures, fragile formations, and dangerous toxic gases. There are developed hot springs outside the park, like Yellowstone Hot Springs and Chico Hot Springs, where soaking is allowed.
When does Old Faithful erupt?
Old Faithful erupts approximately every 90-92 minutes, though the exact interval can vary by about 10 minutes depending on the duration of the previous eruption. Check prediction boards at the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center for the most accurate current times.
Where are the best places to see wildlife in Yellowstone?
Lamar Valley (in the northern part of the park) and Hayden Valley (in the central part) are renowned for wildlife viewing, particularly for bison, elk, and often wolves and bears. The early morning and late evening hours are generally the best times for sightings when animals are most active.
What are the rules for viewing wildlife safely?
Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife. The park requires visitors to stay at least 100 yards (91 meters) away from bears and wolves, and at least 25 yards (23 meters) away from all other animals, including bison and elk. Never feed wildlife, and never approach them.
What are some popular geysers and hot springs to see besides Old Faithful?
Don’t miss the Grand Prismatic Spring (Midway Geyser Basin) for its vibrant colors, Mammoth Hot Springs for its travertine terraces, and Norris Geyser Basin for its diverse and active features, including Steamboat Geyser (the world’s tallest active geyser, though eruptions are infrequent).
Are there accessible options for visitors with disabilities?
Yellowstone’s front-country attractions are quite accessible, with many thermal features viewed from well-maintained boardwalks and paved paths. Parking lots often have disabled spots and accessible restrooms. An “Accessibility Guide” is available at entrance gates and visitor centers.
Is there public transportation within Yellowstone National Park?
No, there is no public transportation within Yellowstone National Park. Most visitors explore by private vehicle. Guided bus tours are available.
Can I fish in Yellowstone National Park?
Yes, fishing is permitted in Yellowstone National Park with a valid Yellowstone National Park fishing permit and a state fishing license for the state in which you are fishing (Wyoming, Montana, or Idaho, depending on the body of water). Regulations vary by location, so check current rules.
What should I do if I encounter a bear or other large animal while hiking?
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals. If you encounter a bear, make yourself look as large as possible and back away slowly. Do not run. If a bear charges, use your bear spray. For other large animals like bison or elk, give them a wide berth and never approach.
Is cell service available in Yellowstone National Park?
Cell service in Yellowstone is generally limited and spotty, especially outside of major developed areas like Old Faithful, Canyon Village, and Mammoth Hot Springs. Don’t rely on it for navigation or emergencies. Download maps and information before you arrive.
