Naturalist Day Hikes are the perfect way to spend an active day in Yellowstone!
Each Naturalist Day Hike takes advantage of the extensive hiking trails found throughout Yellowstone National Park by showcasing a different trail each day. Hikes are led by a Yellowstone Forever naturalist who will provide a guided experience that will emphasize seasonal highlights. Hikes will be taken at a rather leisurely pace to ensure we optimize wildlife sightings and take the time to smell the flowers!
Minimum age and activity level requirements apply. Click here.
Free with your Yellowstone Forever membership discount code! If you are not yet a member you can become one by clicking here and donating.
SUMMER 2026 HIKES
In order to register, please click the green button above to navigate to the next page. Select your desired date and your trail choice during the registration process.
Lodging may be available at our Overlook Field Campus. Click here to learn more.
Looking for a more personalized experience? Click here to view our Private Tour availability.
Please see the hike itinerary specific to your date for a full trail description.
Hikes are offered on pre-defined dates. The group will depart from the Yellowstone Forever Headquarters located in Gardiner, MT. Please check the course letter for your specific hike’s start time (start times vary by season and trail length). Participants may also choose to meet at the trailhead if desired.
All day hikes include:
- Transportation via a 14-passenger minibus and/or transit van (round trip) from Yellowstone Forever
- Educational programming with a Yellowstone Forever Field Educator
- Park entry fees (for the duration of the program IF meeting at Yellowstone Forever Headquarters)
What to bring:
- Meals are not included. Please pack meals for in the field – lunch, snacks, and water.
- Close-toed hiking shoes.
- Layered clothing to best prepare for all weather types, especially cold weather.
- Camera, if you desire to take photos, however, note that this not a photo tour.
- Gratuities are not included but are recommended and greatly appreciated.
Activity Levels: Most Naturalist Day Hikes will be activity level 3 or 4, however, there are a couple activity level 5 programs. Changes to activity level can be made if all group members are in agreement.
- Level 3: Be prepared to hike up to 5 miles per day, comfortably, with occasional elevation gains up to 1,000 feet in undulating terrain.
- Level 4: Be prepared to hike up to 8 miles per day, at a brisk pace, comfortably, with climbs up to 1,500 feet on dirt trails. Loose rocks, uneven footing, and off trail hiking are possible. Good coordination is required.
- Level 5: Be prepared for brisk aerobic, destination-oriented hiking up to 12 miles a day. You should be physically conditioned to do these hikes comfortably. Elevation changes up to 2,000 feet on dirt trails or off-trail. Loose rock, uneven footing, steep hillside traverses, and stream crossings are possible. Good coordination is required.
