The 11 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours in Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park isn’t just about geysers and hot springs—it’s a hiker’s paradise. The park’s diverse landscapes, from deep canyon walls to sprawling meadows teeming with wildlife, make it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Unlike many parks, Yellowstone offers guided hikes that take you beyond the typical tourist spots, giving you intimate access to its natural wonders. Whether you want a challenging summit, a wildlife-focused trek, or a gentle family-friendly walk, there’s a tour here for you. With expert guides who know the area inside and out, these trips promise enriching experiences and a chance to see Yellowstone’s fauna and flora up close and personal.
Among these options, you’ll find everything from full-day excursions along the Yellowstone Rim with lunch to private adventures exploring hidden corners away from crowds. These tours provide not only stunning scenery but also in-depth knowledge, safety gear, and sometimes, a picnic lunch to keep your energy up. Planning your trip shouldn’t be a guessing game—each of these carefully curated hikes offers a unique taste of what makes Yellowstone special.
Quick Overview
Our list features 11 of the best guided hiking and trekking tours in Yellowstone, covering a range of interests and difficulty levels. From the iconic Grand Canyon of Yellowstone to wildlife-heavy Lamar Valley safaris, each experience is designed to deliver something memorable. You’ll find full-day hikes, family-friendly options, and private custom adventures. Many tours include lunch, snacks, and necessary gear, making it easy to focus on the scenery and wildlife rather than logistics. Ready to hit the trail? Let’s explore what each tour offers.
1. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Rim and Loop Hike with Lunch
At number one, this Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Rim and Loop Hike is a must for anyone wanting a comprehensive day in the park. Starting at the Upper Falls Parking Area, your guide will lead you on a 6-mile loop along the canyon rim. You’ll pass Ribbon Lake, see geyser basins, and enjoy views of Wapiti Meadows and Hayden Valley. The hike is perfect for those who want an active day mixed with spectacular scenery. Included in the price are lunch, snacks, and all gear—no need to pack a thing.
What makes this tour stand out is its diverse scenery—from dense forests to open meadows—and the opportunity to learn from guides with deep local knowledge. Reviews highlight the breathtaking views and the friendly, informative guides like Nakul and Dallas. If you’re after a balanced hike with wildlife sightings and a good pace, this is a top pick.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a full day of varied landscapes and expert guidance, plus a delicious lunch included.
2. 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch
Next, at number two, we have the 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour, which offers an up-close look at Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders. Starting at Biscuit Basin Trailhead, this hike takes you along the Firehole River, passing steaming geysers, bubbling mud pots, and hot springs—far from the crowds at Old Faithful. This tour is about six hours, covering 6 miles with some elevation changes, making it suitable for those who want a moderate challenge.
What sets this tour apart is the focus on Yellowstone’s geothermal activity, with plenty of opportunities to see geysers erupting from different perspectives. Guides are highly knowledgeable—Marissa and Chris, for example, are praised for their in-depth insights and engaging storytelling. The included packed lunch and snacks keep everyone fueled, and the small group size ensures a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for geothermal enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a mix of hiking and geothermal exploration in a small-group setting.
3. Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch
Number three features the Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour, where wildlife viewing takes center stage. Known as the “America’s Serengeti,” Lamar Valley offers unparalleled chances to spot bison, wolves, and eagles. This 6-hour trek is led by guides like Emily and Spencer, who are experts at locating elusive animals and sharing interesting facts about their behavior and habitat.
The tour’s main advantage is off-the-beaten-path exploration—your guide will steer you to spots where wildlife is most active, often away from the crowds. The included lunch and binoculars help maximize your chances of wildlife sightings, and with a maximum of 15 hikers, it’s intimate yet adventurous.
Reviews rave about the guides’ ability to spot wildlife and their deep park knowledge, making this a great choice for wildlife enthusiasts. It’s suited for active travelers who want a more immersive experience.
Bottom Line: If spotting animals in their natural habitat is your priority, this safari hike offers an authentic and educational Yellowstone experience.
4. Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Day Hike
Number four on the list, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Day Hike lets you explore this stunning natural marvel at your own pace. Starting with a visit to Artist Point, you’ll enjoy some of the most famous views of Lower Falls before heading into the canyon. The hike can be tailored to your preference, choosing between a 3.5- or 8-mile route. The tour includes a picnic lunch, and the smaller group size (up to seven hikers) ensures a more personal experience.
What makes this outing special is the flexibility and the chance to see a variety of ecosystems—from waterfalls and colorful canyon walls to quiet backcountry geyser basins without crowds. Adriana, the guide, receives praise for her knowledge and friendliness, making this an ideal choice for a more relaxed but still adventurous day.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a customizable, private experience of the canyon with stunning views and a picnic lunch.
5. Private Hidden Gems of Yellowstone! Lunch w/ family friendly hikes included!
Number five is the Private Hidden Gems of Yellowstone. This tour is perfect if you prefer a personalized adventure tailored to your family or group. It ventures beyond the usual paths, avoiding crowds and revealing lesser-known geysers, waterfalls, and wildlife hotspots. The tour includes a locally sourced picnic lunch and is designed to be family-friendly and accessible for all ages and abilities.
Guides like Mitchell and Riley have earned rave reviews for their engaging, informative style and their ability to keep everyone comfortable and entertained. The flexibility of the private tour means you can focus on your interests, whether that’s wildlife, geothermal features, or scenic views.
Bottom Line: A great option for families or groups seeking a custom, relaxed Yellowstone experience away from the crowds.
6. Lamar River Valley Day Hike Tour
Sixth, the Lamar River Valley Day Hike offers an immersive wildlife experience. This private 4- to 7-hour trek takes you along backcountry trails, with guides leading you to see bighorn sheep, pronghorns, and possibly wolves. The route crosses Soda Butte Creek and meadows filled with bison, providing excellent photo opportunities and chances to observe animals in their natural habitat.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on quiet, off-the-radar locations, with a personalized itinerary that adapts to wildlife movement. The included packed lunch keeps you energized as you explore remote areas away from busy roads.
Reviews highlight the guides’ expertise in animal spotting and their friendly approach, perfect for travelers eager for an authentic wildlife encounter.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nature lovers wanting a personalized, close-up experience of Yellowstone’s backcountry wildlife.
7. Fairy Falls Day Hike Tour
Number seven, the Fairy Falls Day Hike, combines breathtaking views with a visit to one of Yellowstone’s most photogenic waterfalls. Starting with a climb to a viewpoint over the Grand Prismatic Spring, you’ll then trek through pine forests to Fairy Falls, a spectacular 200-foot cascade. The tour includes a picnic lunch and the option to extend further to Imperial Geyser.
This hike is especially well-suited for those who want impressive landscapes and photo opportunities. Guides like Emily Jo are praised for their deep knowledge of the park’s thermal features and their ability to craft a safe, enjoyable experience. It’s perfect for active travelers who want a full day of scenery, with the flexibility to explore more with the optional extension.
Bottom Line: Excellent for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, looking for a scenic, well-rounded hike.
8. Private Guided Hike in Yellowstone National Park
At number eight, the Private Guided Hike offers a highly customizable experience tailored entirely to your interests and pace. Led by expert guides, this roughly 5-hour tour allows you to choose specific areas or ecosystems to explore, whether it’s geysers, waterfalls, or wildlife habitat.
This private option is perfect for travelers who want a flexible schedule or specific sites in mind. The guides’ extensive knowledge ensures you’ll see the park’s highlights while also discovering hidden corners. It’s a more intimate experience, with all logistics taken care of.
Bottom Line: Best for groups or individuals seeking a personalized, flexible Yellowstone adventure with expert guidance.
9. Classic Yellowstone Hike to the Shores of Lake Shoshone (Private)
Number nine is the Classic Yellowstone Hike to Lake Shoshone, a peaceful, scenic trek ideal for those wanting to enjoy open meadows and forest with minimal elevation gain. This private tour takes you to the largest backcountry lake in the lower 48 states, accessible only by foot or kayak. Great for a relaxed day with a picnic by the lake.
The guides are passionate and flexible, working with your group to tailor the hike to your needs. It’s suited for those seeking a mellow day in nature, away from busy trailheads but still immersed in Yellowstone’s wilderness.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or couples looking for a gentle, scenic escape with a private guide.
10. Bunsen Peak Day Hike Tour
Number ten, the Bunsen Peak Day Hike offers an engaging climb with rewarding panoramic views. Starting from the trailhead, the hike gains about 1,300 feet in elevation, passing through wildflower-filled meadows and intermittent forest. The final ascent reveals views of the Gallatin Range and surrounding valleys, topped by an old fire lookout to rest and enjoy lunch.
This hike is especially recommended for those who want a solid workout with great payoff. Guides like the guide are praised for their knowledge of Yellowstone’s geology and history, adding educational value to the experience. The hike takes roughly 5 to 7 hours, making it a good choice for active travelers.
Bottom Line: A high-quality day hike for those wanting a bit of a challenge with spectacular 360-degree views.
11. Private Full-Day Grand Canyon of Yellowstone Hiking Adventure
Rounding out the list, this Private Full-Day Grand Canyon of Yellowstone Adventure offers a tailored experience focusing on the park’s most iconic canyon. Your guide will customize the route, possibly including views of Lower Falls, Ribbon Lake, and areas away from crowds. The tour lasts 5 to 6 hours and includes a delicious picnic lunch.
The private format means you control the pace and sites, ensuring a personalized, relaxed experience. The guide’s expertise ensures you see diverse ecosystems and thermal features, all while avoiding the busier sections of the canyon.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors wanting an exclusive, customizable day in Yellowstone’s most famous canyon with a private guide.
How to Choose Your Yellowstone Hiking Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interest level, fitness, budget, and preferred experience. If wildlife watching is your priority, Lamar Valley Safari offers the best chances to see animals. For geothermal fans, the Geyser Tour provides close-up views of geysers and hot springs. If you want a private, flexible day, the Hidden Gems or Lake Shoshone tours are excellent choices.
Consider your fitness level: challenging hikes like Bunsen Peak or Grand Canyon suit active hikers, while gentler options with stunning views are better for families or casual walkers. Booking well in advance is recommended, especially during peak summer months, to ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Yellowstone’s terrain offers a wide spectrum of hiking adventures. Top-tier options like the Grand Canyon Rim Loop and the Wildlife Safari serve different interests but both promise unforgettable experiences. For a more personalized touch, private tours such as the Grand Canyon Private Hike can make your time in Yellowstone truly special.
Whatever your fitness level or interests, these guided hikes ensure you’ll see the park’s highlights from perspectives many visitors miss. Remember, early booking is wise—Yellowstone is popular, and these hikes fill quickly. Prepare your gear, pick your adventure, and get ready to discover Yellowstone from the trails—an experience you’ll carry long after you leave.