Wildlife Wonders of Yellowstone National Park

October is an excellent time to visit Yellowstone National Park. Summer crowds are almost entirely gone so it’s much easier to find solitude in America’s first national park. As fall progresses, bison and elk herds gather in the lowlands to build fat reserves for the coming winter. Grizzly and black bears are still active, with male grizzlies shadowing wolf packs to steal final meals, and females scouting for denning sites. Meanwhile, wolves patrol Lamar and Hayden Valleys, where large concentrations of elk and bison make these areas prime predator-prey arenas.

As the landscape begins to frost over, Yellowstone’s wildlife dons their winter attire. Birds that stay year-round, including eagles and corvids, can be seen soaring overhead, while the park’s smaller predators—bobcats, coyotes, foxes, and badgers—are busy hunting rodents and preparing for pending winter conditions.

We’ll travel in the Roaming Bison American safari van, complete with a pop-top for panoramic views. Custom-designed by two wildlife biologists, this one-of-a-kind vehicle combines comfort with optimal wildlife viewing—it’s a game changer for any nature expedition. October’s cool dawns and dusks are prime times for wildlife observation, and we’ll work to get you to the heart of the action in prime time.

Join Reefs to Rockies and Denver Audubon this October for an unforgettable journey into Yellowstone’s autumn spectacle.

 

ABOUT YOUR EXPEDITION LEADERS

Sheridan Samano: Reefs to Rockies Co-Founder and Lead Biologist Guide, Sheridan thrilled to lead this fall wildlife expedition to Yellowstone. Timing for this trip was developed with an emphasis on getting you into the “right place at the right time” for exceptional sightings with fewer crowds. Alongside Hannah, they’ll take you to some of the park’s best locations for wildlife viewing with an emphasis on finding charismatic species including bears, bison, wolves and eagles, and an array of other park specialties.

Hannah Beroske: After earning her bachelor’s degree in wildlife sciences, Hannah quickly ventured west to Yellowstone National Park where the wildlife is abundant. She fell in love with the Park’s natural wonders and surrounding forests. With 5 years’ experience as a wildlife research technician, she has worked with many animals such as wolves, cougars, birds, and more.

Hannah spends most of her time exploring and appreciating everything that nature has to offer. Hannah finds joy in sharing her passions with guests and hopes to facilitate a memorable experience and inspire action.

CONSERVATION IMPACT

The Whitebark Pine Ecosystem Foundation is a science-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting the conservation and restoration of whitebark pine and other high-elevation, five-needle white pines in western North America. Since 2001, they have been supporting restoration, education, management, and research projects that enhance knowledge and stewardship of these valuable ecosystems. A conservation donation to support the Whitebark Pine Ecosystem Foundation’s efforts will be made on behalf of all trip participants.

ITINERARY

Day 1 (Thursday, Oct 9): Arrival – Bozeman to Gardiner
Welcome to Montana! Upon your afternoon arrival at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), you’ll embark on a scenic transfer to Gardiner, the gateway to Yellowstone National Park. This evening, enjoy a delightful Welcome Dinner, where you’ll connect with fellow adventurers and set the stage for an unforgettable journey.
Accommodations: Big Rock Inn
Meals Included: Dinner
Plan to arrive at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) by 2:00 PM.

Days 2-4 (Friday, Oct 10 – Sunday, Oct 12): Discover Yellowstone National Park
Get ready for an immersive, three-day exploration of Yellowstone’s breathtaking landscapes and iconic wildlife. In Lamar Valley, often called the “Serengeti of North America,” you’ll seek out the park’s legendary Big 5—bears, bison, elk, moose, and wolves. But that’s not all—Yellowstone is a haven for bird lovers, featuring corvids, raptors, and waterfowl that thrive year-round.

Beyond the wildlife, prepare to be amazed by Yellowstone’s extraordinary geothermal wonders, with visits to some of the park’s most famous geysers, steaming hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and dramatic steam vents. From sunrise wildlife safaris to geothermal marvels, each day is designed to inspire and awe.
Accommodations: Big Rock Inn
Meals Included: Brunch daily and a Farewell Dinner on Oct 12

Day 5 (Monday, Oct 13): Departure – Gardiner to Bozeman
We still have a final morning to explore outside the park for another chance to spot birds and wildlife before heading back to Bozeman for your journey home. Reflect on the memories and connections made as you bid farewell to this wild and wonderful landscape.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Plan to depart Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) at 4:00 PM or later.

 

DETAILS

Price: $3795* per person based on double occupancy accommodations, i.e. two people sharing a room. If you prefer a private, single occupancy room, add $330*.

Includes: accommodations (double occupancy); two expedition leaders; transportation in the Roaming Bison Safari Vehicle (starting and ending at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport); meals as listed; daily guided wildlife viewing with spotting scopes available; entrance fees; gratuities for your guides and at restaurants for included meals; and a conservation donation.

Excludes: flights, travel insurance, 2 dinners, optional activities, optional gratuities for hotel staff, and personal items.

*Reflects payment by check or ACH. Credit card fees, if applicable will be assessed at time of booking.

**If you are a solo traveler that prefers to share a double occupancy room, but we aren’t able to find a suitable roommate for you, the private room surcharge will apply.

Group Size: min of 4 and max of 6 participants + 2 Expedition Leaders. We are known for smaller group sizes with a better participant to guide ratio than most companies offering similar itineraries.

A Note About Gratuities: Your trip cost includes gratuities for your guides, as well as at restaurants for included meals. This allows us to reliably and equitably compensate everyone working so hard to keep you happy, healthy, and safe during your trip.

Level of Difficulty – Moderate: Prepare for an exciting adventure in Yellowstone’s autumn wilderness! Weather during this time can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from 20°F to 65°F, and days growing shorter as winter approaches. Mornings and evenings tend to be brisk, so layers are best.

This trip is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of wildlife viewing by vehicle and on foot. You’ll spend up to 2-3 hours at a time outdoors, combining scenic drives in our 4WD Roaming Bison van with on-foot adventures to maximize your sightings. From spotting iconic wildlife to exploring geothermal wonders, you’ll experience Yellowstone in all its glory.

Our journey includes walking on uneven terrain and making frequent stops, so being comfortable outdoors in variable conditions and getting in and out of a lifted van is essential.

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