Saddle & Paddle Deluxe - Whitewater Rafting & Horseback Riding

The Saddle & Paddle Experience

Best Yellowstone Raft & Ride Trip – The Ultimate Saddle & Paddle Adventure

Planning the perfect Yellowstone adventure can feel overwhelming with so many incredible activities to choose from. If you’re looking for a thrilling, all-in-one experience, the Saddle & Paddle package is the ultimate way to explore Montana’s wild beauty. This Yellowstone raft and ride trip combines two of the most iconic outdoor adventures—rafting the Yellowstone River and horseback riding through the stunning Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.

With two package options to choose from, you can customize your adventure based on your schedule. Whether you’re seeking a quick, action-packed excursion or a full day of exploration, our Saddle & Paddle trips offer the best of both worlds.

Which Yellowstone Raft & Ride Trip Is Right for You?

1. Saddle & Paddle Express – A Quick & Thrilling Adventure

Saddle & Paddle: Express

If you’re short on time but still want an unforgettable Yellowstone experience, the Saddle & Paddle Express is your best option. This package includes:

  • 1-hour guided horseback ride through Montana’s breathtaking wilderness
  • 8-mile whitewater rafting trip featuring thrilling rapids and scenic river stretches

This express version of our Yellowstone raft and ride trip is perfect for families, first-time rafters and riders, and travelers looking to fit multiple activities into their day. With Montana’s long summer days, you’ll even have time to explore Yellowstone National Park after your adventure.

2. Saddle & Paddle Deluxe – The Ultimate Full-Day Experience

Saddle and Paddle: Deluxe

For those who want more time in the saddle, the Saddle & Paddle Deluxe offers a more immersive experience. This package includes:

  • 2-hour guided horseback ride through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness at almost 7,000 feet elevation
  • 8-mile whitewater rafting trip with thrilling rapids and stunning views
  • Lunch break in town before rafting

Start your day with a scenic drive up to Jardine, Montana, where you’ll embark on a 2-hour trail ride through breathtaking mountain landscapes, taking in 360-degree views of the Gallatin and Absaroka Mountain Ranges. Along the way, your guides will share fascinating insights about the area’s wildlife, and terrain.

For rafting, please meet us at our office in Gardiner. There you will meet your guide, change into your rafting gear and head to the river. After the safety speech, you will push off for your thrill-packed journey down Yellowstone’s famous rapids.

“Beautiful doesn’t begin to explain this place. We took the 2-hour tour and loved it. The views were amazing, and we saw some great wildlife. The guide and horses were fantastic. Highly recommend!” – Tom K.

Why Choose a Yellowstone Raft & Ride Package?

  • Two unforgettable experiences in one day
  • Perfect for all skill levels – no experience needed!
  • Guided by experienced professionals for a safe and fun adventure
  • Breathtaking views of Yellowstone and Montana’s wild landscapes
  • Family-friendly excursions suitable for kids 7+

Whether you’re looking for a quick adventure or a full day of exploration, our Saddle & Paddle trips offer the best Yellowstone raft and ride experience available.

🔥 2025 bookings are now open! Don’t miss your chance to experience the thrill of whitewater rafting and the serenity of horseback riding in one incredible day.

📅 Book your Saddle & Paddle adventure today and make unforgettable memories in Yellowstone!

image of cookout in montana

Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Montana Rafting Adventure

The Yellowstone River, renowned for its breathtaking beauty and diverse landscapes, stands as one of Montana's premier destinations for rafting adventures. Whether you're chasing the adrenaline rush of whitewater rapids, enjoying a peaceful float through stunning mountain vistas, or grabbing a paddle to ride the rapids and chart your own course in a kayak, the river has something for everyone. With 2025 bookings now open, this is the perfect time to plan your extraordinary Montana rafting journey. Let this guide help you choose the trip that matches your adventure style and the dynamic of your crew—balancing skill levels, preferences, and how everyone comes together for an epic day on the water!

 

1. Understanding Your Adventure Style

Every great river trip starts with understanding your adventure style—the kind of experience that matches your energy and how you want to connect with the river. Are you a thrill-seeker who craves the rush of whitewater rapids? Whitewater rafting on the Canyon Run’s Class II-III rapids will have you cheering as you navigate twists, turns, and splashes of excitement. More of a relaxation enthusiast? Scenic floats are perfect for families or anyone who loves Montana’s beauty—think towering mountain backdrops and peaceful riverbanks—all with less work and more time to soak it all in. Prefer a hands-on adventure? Kayak trips let you grab a paddle, take charge, and guide yourself through the river’s calm stretches and playful rapids.

Whatever your style—adventure junkie, relaxation guru, or paddle pro—the Yellowstone River has your perfect match!

 

2. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Trip

 

Skill Level and Experience

Before booking your trip, chat with your group about their comfort levels and past experience. If they’re new to rafting but love adventure, an 8-mile whitewater trip is a great start before tackling the 18-mile option. For kids, they must be at least 6 years old, weigh 40 pounds, and fit the gear properly. Make sure everyone is ready for fast-moving rapids and big splashes!

  • Beginner-Friendly Options: Scenic floats and mellow kayaking trips are ideal for all ages and experience levels. With little to no whitewater and no paddling required on floats, they’re perfect for a relaxed, easy-going day.
  • Intermediate and Advanced Trips: Whitewater rafting and longer kayaking excursions are best for those excited to take on a challenge within the age limits. These trips involve bigger rapids and more effort, so it’s great for those eager to dive into the action.

Group Type and Dynamics

The type of trip you choose should match the makeup of your group, whether you’re planning a family outing or a private adventure with friends. Here’s what to consider:

  • Families with Kids: Scenic floats are a great option for families, offering calm waters, stunning views, and no paddling required. If your kids love adventure and you feel they’re ready for it, whitewater rafting can be a fantastic choice. It’s all about knowing what they’re comfortable with and how much excitement they’re up for!
  • Private Groups: For a more personalized experience, Yellowstone Raft Company offers private rafting trips, where your group gets the boat all to yourselves. If you’re the type who enjoys meeting others, sharing a raft can be a fun way to connect with new people. Either way, it’s worth discussing with your crew to see what suits their vibe best.

Time Commitment

How much time does your group want to dedicate to the adventure? Choosing between a half-day and full-day trip depends on how much excitement you’re looking for—and how long you want to spend enjoying the experience!

  • Half-Day Trips: These trips last about two hours, making them ideal for groups who want a shorter outing that still packs in plenty of fun. Since it’s a quick trip, food isn’t necessary, but water bottles are welcome (just no glass or cans). After the trip, your guides will share their favorite local restaurants—many of which are just a short walk from the office!
  • Full-Day Trips: These trips run about five hours and are perfect for those wanting to fully immerse themselves in the Yellowstone River experience. Lunch is provided, so you can recharge and enjoy a break before heading back out.

Explore the Trip Options

Understanding what each trip offers will help you choose the one that best matches your group’s interests and energy levels. Here’s a closer look at the options waiting for you:

  • Whitewater Rafting Trips:
    Adventure seekers, this one’s for you! The 8-mile trip, including the thrilling Canyon Run, delivers splashes and excitement with Class II-III rapids—perfect for those wanting a taste of whitewater thrills without committing to a longer trip. For those ready to amp up the excitement, the 18-mile option offers a longer ride through even more rapids, blending stunning scenery with heart-pounding moments.
  • Scenic Floats:
    For those looking to relax and soak in the surroundings, scenic floats offer a peaceful journey through calming stretches of the river with minor whitewater. You’ll pass iconic landmarks like Electric Peak, Boiling Beach, and the Devil’s Slide, all while enjoying stunning views of Paradise Valley. Great for families, wildlife enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a laid-back way to experience the Yellowstone River, these floats are both tranquil and full of Montana’s natural beauty.
  • Guided Kayak Trips:
    For a hands-on adventure, guided kayak trips let you paddle the longest free-flowing river in the continental U.S. Take in breathtaking views of Mount Sepulcher and Electric Peak as you float past Yellowstone National Park. These trips are available as half-day or full-day options, with options for all experience levels. Along the way, you’ll navigate calm waters, tackle playful rapids, and maybe even spot some wildlife. It’s an active and unforgettable way to explore the river.

3. Why Choose a Custom or Combo Package?

Custom and combo packages let you add more adventure, relaxation, and connection with Yellowstone’s incredible surroundings. They’re a chance to make your trip truly your own, blending river fun with unique experiences that celebrate Montana’s natural beauty.

  • Tipi Glamping & Rafting: Spend the day rafting and then continue the adventure with a one-of-a-kind experience sleeping in a luxury tipi. Just a mile from the Roosevelt Arch, these tipis provide a cozy and memorable way to immerse yourself in the Yellowstone atmosphere. With their convenient location, you can settle in and make the most of your Yellowstone adventure without needing to venture far after your day on the river.
  • Rafting & Riding: Combine the thrill of rafting with a horseback ride through the breathtaking Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Led by professional wranglers, this journey is great for riders of all skill levels, including kids aged 7 and up, and offers an authentic Montana experience through stunning mountain terrain.
  • Cowboy Cookout: Wrap up your river adventure with a hearty meal while watching the sunset over the Montana landscape. As you relax, kids can roast marshmallows at the campfire, making for a delicious end to the day.

4. Booking Your 2025 Montana Rafting Trip

Planning ahead is the key to creating an incredible Montana rafting adventure on the Yellowstone River. Booking early gives you better availability, secures your preferred dates, and lets you design the trip or package that fits your group’s style.

  • How to Book: Reservations are easy to make online, and our friendly customer service team is ready to assist. Call us at 406-848-7777 or email [email protected] for guidance. With flexible package options, it’s simple to customize your adventure.
  • Seasonal Factors to Consider: The rafting season runs from May through September, with each time of year offering its own highlights. Early in the season, May and June bring thrilling rapids fueled by melting snow. The water is cold, but our wetsuits and gear will keep you comfortable, and the adrenaline from big rapids ensures plenty of excitement. As summer progresses into July and August, the weather warms up, making it nice to wear lighter clothing in the boat and soak up the sun while enjoying a mix of fun rapids and scenic stretches. By September, the river flows through quieter, cooler days surrounded by Yellowstone’s breathtaking fall colors, offering a peaceful and picturesque way to enjoy the natural beauty.

Lock in your 2025 trip today and begin the countdown to rapids, scenic views, and all the wild beauty Montana has to offer!

Yellowstone Hot Springs

Best Montana Hot Springs for a Relaxing Soaking Experience

Discover the soothing hot springs of Montana’s Yellowstone Country, where relaxation meets the beauty of nature. Just beyond Yellowstone Park’s North Entrance, these geothermal treasures invite you to soak away your stress in mineral-rich waters, all while enjoying the stunning mountain landscapes. Whether it’s a crisp winter day or a warm summer evening, these hot springs provide an unforgettable experience year-round.

 

1. YELLOWSTONE HOT SPRINGS

image of ywlJust eight miles north of Yellowstone’s North Entrance, at the south end of Paradise Valley, Yellowstone Hot Springs provides a peaceful and rejuvenating soaking experience. Surrounded by two breathtaking mountain ranges and perched along the bank of the Yellowstone River, it’s an idyllic retreat for relaxation. The property boasts multiple pools, including a soothing hot plunge, a refreshing cold plunge, and a main pool that averages 98-100-degree temperatures year-round. With its mineral-rich waters and stunning natural surroundings, this tranquil oasis offers an outdoor soaking experience that will leave you refreshed and recharged.

  • Location: Gardiner, MT
  • Distance: Approximately 8 miles from Yellowstone’s North Entrance
  • Route: From the North Entrance, head north on U.S. 89. Turn right onto East Gate Road at Corwin Springs and follow the signs.

 

2. CHICO HOT SPRINGS

image of Montana hot springIn the heart of Paradise Valley near Pray, Montana, Chico Hot Springs offers an unforgettable retreat just a quick drive from Gardiner. Its two open-air geothermal pools, maintained at soothing temperatures year-round, invite you to relax and recharge in a breathtaking setting. Start your day soaking as the sun rises over the Absaroka Mountains or unwind under a blanket of stars at night. With its renowned mineral-infused waters and tranquil charm, Chico Hot Springs is the perfect addition to any Yellowstone adventure.

  • Location: Pray, MT
  • Distance: Approximately 36 miles from Yellowstone’s North Entrance
  • Route: From the North Entrance, take U.S. 89 North through Paradise Valley. Turn right onto East River Road/Old Yellowstone Trail and follow the signs.

 

3. BOZEMAN HOT SPRINGS

image of BOZEMAN HOT SPRINGS in montanaPhoto credit: Bozeman Hot Springs Facebook

Bozeman Hot Springs offers the perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment just north of Yellowstone. With 12 pools featuring a range of temperatures, guests can unwind with a soothing soak or cool off with a refreshing dip. The indoor area includes the hottest and coldest pools conveniently situated side by side, along with a steam room and dry sauna. Outside, the four main pools steal the show, serving as the centerpiece for live music events. With its additional amenities like a fitness center and saunas, Bozeman Hot Springs is a lively destination for families and solo travelers alike.

  • Location: Bozeman, MT
  • Distance: Approximately 80 miles north of Yellowstone’s North Entrance
  • Route: From the North Entrance, take U.S. 89 North to Livingston. Merge onto I-90 West and continue to Bozeman. Follow local signs to Bozeman Hot Springs, located just outside the city.

 

4. NORRIS HOT SPRINGS

Photo credit: Norris Hot Springs Facebook

Norris Hot Springs, affectionately known as the "Water of the Gods," offers a truly unique soaking experience. Nestled near Bozeman, this hot spring pool was built using locally milled fir planks directly over natural artesian springs. The water is naturally cooled in summer and winter, providing the perfect soak year-round. The pool is drained nightly to refill with clean spring water and undergoes a weekly pressure wash without chemicals. Guests can enjoy live music and delicious locally sourced food and beverages, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and entertainment in Montana’s beautiful countryside.

  • Location: Norris, MT
  • Distance: Approximately 90 miles northwest of Yellowstone’s North Entrance
  • Route: From the North Entrance, head north on U.S. 89 to Livingston. Merge onto I-90 West toward Bozeman and exit at MT-84 West. Continue west, following signs to the location.

 

FIND THE PERFECT PLACE TO STAY NEAR YELLOWSTONE’S HOT SPRINGS

As you explore the incredible hot springs, finding the perfect accommodations can make your adventure even more memorable. Choose from a variety of lodging options near North Yellowstone tailored to your style—luxurious penthouse suites offer a pampered stay with modern comforts, while handcrafted canvas Tipis let you experience the magic of glamping under the Montana sky.

Looking for something with more everyday comforts? Try our beautiful vacation rentals. With full kitchens, gorgeous views and all the amenities, they make a wonderful retreat after a long day of exploring! No matter your preference, you’ll find the perfect place to relax and recharge while enjoying the wonders of Yellowstone.

image of Yellowstone's north enterance

Best Things to Do in and Around Yellowstone’s North Entrance

Yellowstone’s North Entrance, marked by the iconic Roosevelt Arch, offers a gateway to some of the park’s most breathtaking sights and one-of-a-kind wildlife encounters. From steaming geothermal wonders to trails teeming with natural beauty, this region showcases the park’s incredible landscapes. Beyond the entrance, nearby adventures call to outdoor enthusiasts, with thrilling rafting trips, horseback rides through rugged wilderness, soothing hot springs, and serene glamping sites that balance comfort with the great outdoors. Whether you’re exploring the heart of the park or its surrounding wonders, this guide will ensure your journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

Things to Do in Yellowstone North

1. Take a photo at the Roosevelt Arch

image of Roosevelt Arch

No visit to Yellowstone’s North Entrance is complete without snapping a photo at the iconic Roosevelt Arch. This towering structure marks the entrance to the park and is practically a required picture stop to show you’ve made it! The cornerstone was laid by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903, and its inscription, “For the benefit and enjoyment of the people,” beautifully captures the spirit of Yellowstone. It’s the perfect start to your adventure.

2. See geothermal features at Mammoth Hot Springs

image of Mammoth Hot Springs

For those drawn to Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, Mammoth Hot Springs is an absolute must-see. Its intricate limestone terraces, shaped like giant steps, are formed by mineral-rich hot water that’s been bubbling and sculpting for thousands of years. This ever-changing natural artwork is a dream for photographers and a favorite for nature enthusiasts. While the steaming water might look inviting, soaking here isn’t allowed — but don’t worry, there are other spots nearby for a relaxing dip. Stroll the boardwalks and let the beauty of this geothermal marvel take your breath away.

3. Tour Historic Fort Yellowstone

image of historic yellowstone

As you journey through Yellowstone, a stop at Fort Yellowstone offers a fascinating glimpse into the park’s early days. This former military post played a key role in protecting the world’s first national park and preserving its treasures for future generations. Many of the buildings from the Army era are still standing, now serving as park headquarters or housing for National Park Service employees.

4. Hike the Beaver Ponds Trail or Bunsen Peak Trail

image of Beaver Ponds Trail

Exploring a park like Yellowstone is all about soaking in its natural beauty, and there’s no better way to do that than by hitting the trails. The Beaver Ponds Trail offers a peaceful loop through shady forests, open meadows filled with sage, and groves of fir and aspen trees, leading to calm ponds where you might spot muskrats, water birds, and even signs of busy beavers.

If you’re up for more of a challenge, the Bunsen Peak Trail takes you to the top of a striking mountain. From the summit, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Swan Lake Flats, the Gallatin Mountain Range, and the Mammoth Hot Springs area.

5. Watch wildlife in the Lamar Valley

Known as the “Serengeti of North America”—a nod to Africa’s wildlife-rich plains—Lamar Valley is considered the best place in Yellowstone to see wildlife. Its wide-open meadows and grasslands, shaped by the Lamar River, provide ideal habitats for a diverse range of animals, including bison, elk, pronghorn, wolves, and even bears.

For the best wildlife-watching experience, aim to arrive at dawn or dusk when animals are most active. Being in the valley before sunrise gives you the highest odds of spotting these incredible creatures. Be sure to bring binoculars or a spotting scope, as many animals are hard to spot with the naked eye.

6. Enjoy the views at Calcite Springs Overlook and Tower Falls

Yellowstone’s awe-inspiring views and captivating waterfalls are highlights of any visit. At Calcite Springs Overlook, the Yellowstone River carves through towering volcanic cliffs, creating a dramatic landscape enhanced by the steam vents rising from the hot springs below. It’s a striking display of nature’s power and beauty.

Just a short distance away, Tower Falls adds to the wonder with its 132-foot drop, cascading down rugged cliffs framed by unique rock spires. The nearby trails provide even more chances to marvel at the scenery, with vantage points to feel the mist and hear the thunderous roar of the falls.

7. Stroll through Norris Geyser Basin

image of Norris Geyser Basin

If you’re looking for Yellowstone’s most intense geothermal experience, Norris Geyser Basin is the place to be. As the park’s hottest and most dynamic thermal area, it’s a landscape alive with steaming vents, bubbling mud pots, and brilliantly colored pools. Beneath its surface, temperatures often exceed 200°F, making it one of the most extreme environments in the park.

At the heart of this geothermal marvel is Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world, capable of erupting over 300 feet into the air. As you stroll along the boardwalks, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world, where the raw energy of the earth is on full display.

Things to Do Near Yellowstone North

1. Float or raft the Yellowstone River

image of family floating the yellowstone river

Few experiences showcase Yellowstone’s wild beauty quite like a trip down the Yellowstone River. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of whitewater rafting or savoring the serenity of a peaceful float, Yellowstone Raft Company offers an adventure tailored to everyone’s style.

Thrill-seekers can take on Class II and Class III rapids as they navigate the historic Yankee Jim Canyon and the breathtaking Tom Miner Basin. With 8-mile or 18-mile options, the trip is packed with rugged scenery and remarkable landmarks unique to this region.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, a scenic float brings stunning views of Electric Peak and landmarks such as Boiling Beach, La Duke Hot Springs, and the Devil’s Slide. Drift through gentle stretches of the river, encounter wildlife, and uncover the rich history of the area. Every mile of the journey promises connection, awe, and memories your group will treasure long after the adventure.

2. Go horseback riding in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness

image of yellowstone horseback riding with yellowstone raft

For a classic Montana experience, head to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and explore its mountain terrain on horseback. Guided by professional wranglers, these rides offer a memorable way to connect with the striking landscapes while riding well-trained horses.

A one- or two-hour trail ride is the perfect introduction, offering peaceful paths that wind through the captivating scenery. For an extra layer of adventure, choose the cowboy cookout option, where the ride ends with a hearty steak dinner around a campfire under Montana’s expansive sky. You can also elevate the experience by combining your trail ride with a whitewater rafting trip, blending the tranquility of horseback riding with the thrill of the river. Whichever you choose, these adventures promise cherished moments and an authentic taste of Montana’s wild beauty.

3. Soak in the hot springs at Yellowstone Hot Springs

image of hot springs

After a day of exploring, there’s no better way to relax than by soaking in the mineral-rich waters of Yellowstone Hot Springs. Just eight miles north of Yellowstone’s North Entrance, this peaceful retreat features naturally heated pools with a continual flow-through system, ensuring fresh mineral water for every soak. Spanning 4,000 square feet, the pools offer a serene setting to unwind while enjoying breathtaking views of Montana’s big sky and the occasional sight of eagles gliding above. The mineral waters soothe the skin and provide relief for tired muscles, leaving you refreshed and ready for whatever adventure comes next.

4. Go glamping in luxurious Yellowstone tipis

image of yellowstone tipis

For a stay that’s as iconic as the park itself, try glamping in a luxurious tipi just a mile north of the Roosevelt Arch. Once used by Native Americans as portable shelters for living in the wild, tipis bring a sense of connection to history and the outdoors. At Yellowstone Tipis, this iconic design has been elevated into a one-of-a-kind glamping retreat, where rustic charm meets modern comforts.

For kids, sleeping in a tipi feels like stepping into a real-life adventure, blending the thrill of the outdoors with the warmth of cozy amenities. Inside, you’ll find spacious interiors, soft bedding, and a tranquil escape surrounded by Montana’s breathtaking wilderness. Pair your stay with a river trip through Yellowstone Raft Company for a full day of excitement, and enjoy discounts when you book both. Whether you’re waking to the sounds of nature or gazing at stars under Montana’s expansive sky, this glamping experience offers memories you’ll treasure forever.

5. Hike one of the trails in the Custer Gallatin National Forest

For hiking enthusiasts, there’s even more to explore just outside Yellowstone in the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Trails like Bear Creek Trail and Pine Creek Falls offer stunning waterfalls, lush forests, and sweeping mountain views. The fresh mountain air and the thrill of seeing these unbelievable landscapes make every step a joy. Bring your camera—you’ll want to capture the cascading falls and the vibrant scenery along the way.

Plan Your Yellowstone Adventure

Whether you’re exploring the geothermal wonders of Mammoth Hot Springs, rafting the Yellowstone River, or glamping under a star-filled sky, Yellowstone’s North Entrance and its surroundings offer something for every traveler. Let Yellowstone Raft Company make your trip even more extraordinary with river excursions, horseback riding adventures, and a stay in luxurious tipis. Your adventure awaits — start planning your Yellowstone escape now.

Yellowstone Raft Company Fire

Legends Never Die

On July 14, we lost our beloved Yellowstone Raft Company office, but today we remember the wonderful memories that have been made here since 1978. Our YRC family, friends and neighbors are safe, and we appreciate all of the hard work from our first responders. We are devastated to lose such an icon, but YRC will live on!

We are still running our trips and taking bookings during this time. If you book with us, you will now check in at our sister company, @paradiseadventurecompany just around the corner. If you have any questions about your bookings, please reach out on our webchat feature on our website and we will get back to you as soon as we can!

We are absolutely devastated, but we’re so lucky that everyone is safe. Thank you for your understanding and flexibility during this difficult time. Our purpose is to provide adventure to all, and we don’t plan on stopping.

During this time, if you need to make a cancellation or need a refund, you must speak with a staff member to cancel, do not leave any messages to cancel. No shows will be charged the full price of the trip. PLEASE give us a call if you are expecting a delay or are not able to go on the day of your scheduled trip. We would be happy to reschedule your trip.

#GardinerStrong #YellowstoneRaftCompany

Yellowstone Raft Company Fire

Bear Aware: Yellowstone’s First Bear Spotting of 2020.

The first confirmed sighting of a grizzly bear in Yellowstone has been announced by The National Park Service (NPS), as male grizzlies begin to make their way out of hibernation.

The bear was spotted prowling the ground near Grand Prismatic Spring on Saturday, March 7, by biologists tracking wildlife in the park by air.

Most of the bears seen emerging are adult males, which exit their dens in early March. Females with cubs tend to wake up in April and early May. This year’s first sighting took place a day earlier than 2019’s.

“Now that bears are emerging from winter dens, visitors should be excited for the chance to view and photograph them, but they should also treat bears with respect and caution,” bear management biologist Kerry Gunther said in a statement.

 

“Many visitors think bears are ravenously hungry and more likely to attack people for food after emerging from hibernation, but almost all bear attacks result from surprise encounters when hikers startle bears at close distances and the bears react with defensive aggression.”

Yellowstone National Park officials spotted this grizzly bear during a Saturday flight, making it the first confirmed grizzly sighting of 2020.
PHOTO COURTESY KIRA CASSIDY, NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

 

Gunther advises hikers, skiers and other visitors to travel in groups of three or more people. Guests should also make sure they are carrying bear spray and to create noise, so as to alert any wandering bears to their presence.

The park says visitors should try to avoid hiking at dusk, dawn or at night, make sure they remain alert and keep food, garbage and other items that might attract attention in bear-proof storage boxes.

Anyone who does come into contact with a bear is asked not to run, keep at least 100 yards away and report any sighting to a park ranger as soon as possible.

Information by Newsweek

Spring 2020 Yellowstone Road Opening Dates

Park Roads

All information from https://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/parkroads.htm 

Feeling Chilly? These Hot Springs Will Warm You Up!

Is there really any better way to warm up on a cold winter day in Yellowstone Country than soaking in a hot spring? We think not. If you’re visiting in the winter, make sure to visit one of the local hot springs for a fun and relaxing way to beat the cool temps!

1. THE BOILING RIVER IN YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

You’ll find this natural wonder is just south of the 45th Parallel Bridge, located in the Mammoth area of the park. It’s right near the North Entrance to Yellowstone (just minutes from our store)! Don’t forget your suit, and don’t bring any alcohol, it’s not allowed. The boiling river closes at dark around 6:00pm. This is a can’t-miss winter activity in Yellowstone.

 


2. CHICO HOT SPRINGS

Take the plunge into Chico’s two open-air natural mineral hot springs pools. Guests soak, swim, play and relax in their chemical-free, geothermally heated pools every day of the year. Watch the sun rise over the Absaroka Mountains or gaze into the night sky while soaking in soothing waters. Not far from Gardiner, Chico is a great escape to have fun, eat, drink and be merry! Learn more here.

 


3. YELLOWSTONE HOT SPRINGS

Yellowstone Hot Springs is just up the road near Corwin Springs, located just eight miles north of the North entrance to Yellowstone Park, at the south end of beautiful Paradise Valley (24 E Gate Rd, Gardiner, MT 59030). Yellowstone Hot Springs is a soaking experience unique to this area. Settled between two mountain ranges, and nestled on the bank of the Yellowstone River, peace and serenity are the keynotes of this location. Their winter hours are:
Oct. 15: Open Friday 2:00pm – 9:30pm.
Sat. and Sun., 10:00am – 9:30pm.
Closed: Mon. – Thurs.

Record-Smashing, Historic September Snowstorm

At a Glance

  • A snowstorm is slamming the northern Rockies this weekend.
  • Some parts of Montana may see blizzard conditions at times with well over a foot of snow.
  • Wet snow and high winds will lead to tree damage and power outages.
  • Other lower elevations in the northern Rockies and High Plains may see their first snow of the season.
  • Record cold with dangerous wind chill temperatures is expected as well.
  • A historic September snowstorm is blasting parts of the northern Rockies with heavy, wet snow and high winds, leading to power outages and tree damage, and will be accompanied by record cold temperatures for the end of September and early October.

Happening Now

Snow continues to fall from eastern Washington across the high country of Idaho and western Wyoming, western and central Montana, and as far south as the Great Basin or eastern Nevada.

 

Several locations in northern Montana have already picked up over a foot of snow. The highest snowfall total so far is 23 inches in Browning, Montana. East Glacier Park has already measured 21 inches of snow.

Over 9 inches of snowfall was recorded by the National Weather Service in Great Falls, Montana, Saturday, alone, an all-time record daily snowfall in September, there. Their total of 14 inches since Saturday is closing in on an all-time autumn two-day snowstorm record of 16.1 inches from Nov. 26-27, 2005, according to NOAA’s ACIS database records dating to 1937 and is already the snowiest September, there, topping September 1934’s 13.2 inches of snowfall.

Tree limbs were reported downed on “most, if not all, side streets” due to the weight of 14 inches of wet snow and winds in Choteau, Montana, about 45 miles northwest of Great Falls along the Rocky Mountain Front Range, according to a report relayed to NWS-Great Falls. Two to three-foot drifts were reported in Augusta, Montana, Sunday morning.

 

View the Rest of the Article on the Weather Channel

 

 

Beartooth Pass closes in Wyoming

The Beartooth Pass has closed in Wyoming for the season but remains open from Red Lodge to Montana’s border with its southern neighbor.

The Montana side of U.S. Highway 212 is expected to close sometime over the Columbus Day week, but adverse weather could lead to an earlier closure, according to the Montana Department of Transportation.

Read More

Photo by Billings Gazette