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Yellowstone Forever Institute

Yellowstone Forever, in partnership with the National Park Service, delivers immersive educational experiences that helps people discover, experience, and connect with the park’s wildlife, geology, and cultural history.

Since 1976, we’ve been connecting people to Yellowstone through transformative learning adventures—cultivating a community of stewards who care deeply about this extraordinary place.

Ready to go beyond sightseeing? Join us on a journey of discovery and experience Yellowstone in ways you never imagined. Explore our tours and programs below and start your adventure today.

Field Seminars

Field Seminars

Dive deep into Yellowstone’s natural and cultural history with multi-day seminars led by renowned scientists, artists, and Indigenous knowledge keepers. These programs go beyond typical tours—they’re designed for adults and college students seeking a truly academic, immersive experience.

Highlights:

  • Offered: Year-round to explore in every season
  • 1 – 6 day immersive learning experiences
  • Small group format for deeper engagement
  • Based at Lamar Buffalo Ranch—accessible only through Yellowstone Forever programs—or our Gardiner learning campus
  • Topics range from wildlife tracking to photography and cultural perspectives
  • Perfect for students and lifelong learners to deepen understanding of Yellowstone’s complexity
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Lodging & Learning

Lodging & Learning

Experience Yellowstone with ease through immersive Lodging & Learning programs that combine guided educational excursions with comfortable in-park lodging. Enjoy a deeper connection to the park with everything arranged for you—without sacrificing comfort.

Highlights:

  • Offered: December – February, May – October
  • 4 – 6 day options of guided learning and adventure
  • Daily excursions led by Yellowstone Forever educators, lodging, transportation, and most meals included
  • Based at interior park lodges like Canyon, Old Faithful, & Mammoth Hot Springs for access to iconic areas
  • Family-friendly programs with choices that let every generation participate comfortably
  • Topics include wildlife, geology, ecology, and cultural history for a well-rounded experience
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Private Tours

Private Tours

Book a truly customizable experience perfect for all ages and ability levels, with a private guide who tailors the day to your interests, pace, and group size. Whether you’re traveling with kids, grandparents, or friends, this is a flexible and personal way to explore.

Highlights:

  • Offered: December – February, May – October
  • Full day guided adventure
  • Choose your focus: geysers, wildlife, hiking, etc.
  • Customizable activity level, from relaxed roadside viewing to strenuous hikes
  • Great for families, couples, or small groups
  • Includes high-quality spotting scopes, engaging insights from a Yellowstone Forever educator, and locally sourced meals.
  • Pickup available in Gardiner, MT or Mammoth Hot Springs
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Yellowstone Day Adventures

Yellowstone Day Adventures

Join us for a half-day journey into the northern range, where wildlife and seasonal changes come alive. These adventures are designed for all ages and activity levels. Plus, they’re not only one of Yellowstone Forever’s most affordable options, but also among the most budget-friendly guided experiences in Yellowstone.

Highlights:

  • Offered: December – February, May – October
  • Full day guided adventure
  • Focus on wildlife, ecology, and storytelling
  • Easy walking and roadside viewing
  • Great for first-time visitors and families (children ages 5 and up)
  • Includes high-quality spotting scopes and engaging insights from a Yellowstone Forever educator
  • Pickup available in Gardiner, MT or Mammoth Hot Springs
Register Now

Naturalist Day Hikes

Naturalist Day Hikes

Spend an active, educational day exploring Yellowstone’s stunning trails with expert guidance from Yellowstone Forever naturalists.

Highlights:

  • Offered: May – October
  • Guided hikes on a variety of scenic Yellowstone trails, each emphasizing seasonal highlights and natural features
  • Leisurely pace to maximize wildlife sightings and time for observation
  • Led by expert naturalists who provide interpretation, risk management, and storytelling throughout the hike
  • Transportation included from Yellowstone Forever headquarters in Gardiner, MT (or meet at trailhead).
  • Hikes range from 3 – 10 miles with varying elevation gains/losses
  • Open to adults and families with children ages 12+ (accompanied by an adult)
REGISTER NOW

Group Programs

Group Programs

Bring your school, college, or group to Yellowstone for a shared learning experience that builds connection and curiosity. Programs are tailored to your group’s goals and interests.

Highlights:

  • Offered: Year-round
  • Custom itineraries led by Yellowstone Forever educators and designed for school, college, youth, and adult groups with personalized themes and activities
  • Explore Yellowstone through hands-on learning, guided hikes, and cultural experiences
  • Ideal for educational institutions and outdoor clubs
  • Support for trip planning and logistics provided
  • Lodging available at our learning campuses for a truly immersive experience
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Speaker & Engagement Requests

Speaker & Engagement Requests

Thank you for considering us for a future event. At Yellowstone Forever, we welcome the opportunity to engage with groups to discuss and educate on a range of topics from the park’s geology to wildlife to the cultural history of the park.

Please email us at [email protected] with any questions.

Request Form

STEAM Teacher Workshops

STEAM TEACHER WORKSHOPS

Empower your teaching with Yellowstone as your classroom. These workshops blend science, Indigenous knowledge, and place-based learning to help educators bring the park into their curriculum.

Highlights:

  • Multi-day professional development offering CE credits
  • Hands-on fieldwork and curriculum design
  • Focus on STEAM, NGSS, and Indigenous perspectives
  • Lodging and meals included
Apply Now

Tour Operators/Travel Agencies

Tour Operators/Travel Agencies

We specialize in providing enriching educational experiences in Yellowstone National Park, tailored to enhance the multiday packages offered by tour operators and travel agencies. Our programs are designed to seamlessly integrate into larger travel itineraries, whether they span across the United States, internationally, or focus on more local adventures.

Contract us for guest speaking, half days, one day, or multi day programs, including step-on guiding services, as a part of your broader package, allowing your guests to delve into the natural wonders and ecological significance of Yellowstone. Our expert field educators and engaging activities ensure that visitors leave with a deeper understanding and appreciation of this iconic destination.

Collaborate with us to elevate your tour offerings and provide your clients with unforgettable educational experiences in Yellowstone!

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