Backpacking in Yellowstone & Backcountry Camping Trips

August 11 through 16, 2023 - Hot Springs, Meadows & Rivers - Bechler River Area

This is my absolute favorite backpacking area for moderately easy hiking (max 7 miles per day) on gentle terrain in a remote, wild, stunning part of Yellowstone that very few people visit. It is a gnarl of big meadows, geothermal features, rivers, mystical forests, pika paradise. There are two locations where we have the opportunity to soak where backcountry hot springs mix with river water. If you’re looking for a wonderful backpacking trip that will blow your mind but not your knees, this is it!

Cost: $1,800 per person without equipment, $2,000 per person with full backpacking equipment. Minimum of 3 people needed to run trip; max 9 participants

Moderate routes fully immerse you in the wonder of Yellowstone’s splendor. Choose routes with hot springs, water falls, abundant wildlife, peaceful lakes, or mountain scenery. We recommend at least 2 nights/3 days to give us time to get to the best of the backcountry. Longer itineraries are available.

Our favorites include:

Bechler’s waterfalls and hot springs (easy to moderate 4-5 days)
Black Canyon of the Yellowstone (moderate 2-3 days)
Pebble Creek to Slough Creek (moderate 2-3 days)
Heart Lake (and Mt Sheridan) (easy to moderate 2-4 days)

Short and Sweet Family Friendly Backpacking Trips (June-October)

Short, beautiful, easy overnight hikes are great for those short on time, or who want to introduce kids to the joys of camping under the stars. We recommend 1 night/2 days or 2 nights/3 days with not more than 5 miles hiking per day on easier terrain.

Rates

Backpacking trips are $700 per day for the first guest and $100 per additional person.

All food, food storage equipment, First Aid kit, and bear spray is included.

If you don't have your own backpacking gear, it is available for rent. Full gear is $200 per trip and includes a high-quality, light-weight backpack, inflatable mat, sleeping bag, tent, and dishware.

If you like getting away from the crowds but are not keen to sleep on the ground with bears all around, stay in a cabin surrounded by stunning landscape vistas. The cabin can sleep up to 10 people.

Hiking conditions are best after July 1st, once the snow has melted at this higher elevation.

Rates

Cabin-based backcountry trips are $700 per day for the first guest and $100 for each additional person.

All food, food storage equipment, First Aid kit, and bear spray is included.

Sleeping bags and backpacks are available for rent. If you do not have your own. Just let us know.

Join us for a unique backcountry pack trip through the wild landscapes of Yellowstone National Park in the company of charming llamas. We work with experienced llama handler Susi from Yellowstone Llamas, who can answer all of your questions about the llamas. You will also have the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge of Yellowstone National Park and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, its wildlife, history, and geology from your In Our Nature trail guide. Our treks are suitable for families with young children, as well as adults of any age.

Rates

Multi-Day Llama Treks: $440 per person per day, based on a minimum of 4 participants. Please ask us for smaller parties.

Rate includes all meals and beverages, tents, sleeping bags/pads, food storage equipment, First Aid kit, and bear spray. A detailed list of what we provide and what you will need to bring will be emailed to you with your reservation documents. To book a llama trek, please contact Susi directly at (406) 580-5954 or treks@yellowstonellamas.com.