Yellowstone Adventure Trip

ADVENTURE TYPE | ●︎ Introductory
TRIP DURATION | 5-Days
SEASON | July – August
PRICE | $2,245 pp

Experience the heart of Utah’s diverse geology on this "view a minute" adventure in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument that pairs a comfortable lodge stay with three nights of supported camping under the stars. From the famous Burr Trail, to Capitol Reef National Park to sweeping viewpoints of the towering Henry Mountains, our guides handle all the logistics and gourmet cooking so you can focus entirely on the spectacular riding and scenery.

Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventure.

Road Surface: Packed dirt and gravel roads, some sand and some loose rock, pavement.
Overall Rating: Introductory
Technical Difficulty: Easy
Physical Difficulty: Moderate.
Altitude: 5,000 - 9,000 feet
Packing for your trip

Day 1: Bozeman, Gravelly Range Biking, and Yellowstone Geology

  • We leave Bozeman, Montana, and head for the town of Ennis, where we will shuttle up into the Gravelly Range, a place where time seems to slow right down.
  • At Clover Meadow, we begin our bike ride along the ridge with sweeping views in all directions, and if we are lucky, wildflowers of every description.
  • Our destination is Black Butte. Here we will hike to the outcropping and begin to learn about the geology of the region. Yellowstone is the center of a continental-scale hotspot, whose massive eruptions created the Yellowstone Caldera over 2 million years ago.
  • Our camp for the night will be at the base of the Butte, where the guides will use the same type of cast iron Dutch ovens that kept Lewis and Clark alive and happily fed.

Total mileage: 12 miles biking, 4 miles hiking

Day 2: Madison River Descent and Fly Fishing Practice

  • Today we will continue biking along the rolling ridgeline, with several stops to check out the view and look around for wildlife and wildflowers.
  • Around lunchtime, we descend into the trees, where there will be a whole different group of wildflowers as we make our way down to the Madison River.
  • This river is one of the most celebrated fly fishing rivers in America, with its pristine headwaters in Yellowstone National Park. Once we arrive at our camp on the banks, we will have a chance to practice casting along the river in preparation for our guided float trip tomorrow.

Total mileage: 21 miles biking

Day 3: Guided Fly Fishing Float on the Madison River

  • Get ready for one of the best chances you will ever have to hook a beautiful rainbow trout!
  • After a hearty breakfast, we will head out to meet our professional fishing guides for our float down this amazing river. With two fisher people and one guide in each boat, there will be plenty of individual instruction and support.
  • Floating down this river is a real treat, as many sections look just like they did when Lewis and Clark first named this river for Secretary of State James Madison on July 25th in 1805.

Total mileage: Full day drift trip

Day 4: Yellowstone's Geysers, Grand Prismatic, and Old Faithful Inn

  • This morning we leave our camp on the River and head into the heart of Yellowstone National Park itself.
  • We will utilize our bikes to avoid the crowds and make our way to the Grand Prismatic Spring—the largest hot spring in Yellowstone (330 feet in diameter and 121 feet deep!). The amazing bright oranges and yellows are caused by micro-organisms that love the hot water and put on quite a show for us.
  • Next stop is Old Faithful, and as we await the next eruption, we can check out the historic Old Faithful Inn, designed by architect Robert C. Reamer and completed in 1904. The curved logs that hold up the indoor balconies were individually chosen by the architect himself.
  • Here we will have a chance to learn about all the many characters who were instrumental in the creation of this and many other national parks. Our camp tonight will be at Yellowstone Lake.

Total mileage:10-14 miles biking

Day 5: Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Mammoth Hot Springs

  • Today we explore some of our favorite areas in the park. We begin at Artist's Point with its famous view of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, where once again we have those hydrothermals to thank for the vibrant color of the rock. Hot, mineral-laden water created rhyolite, which—wait for it—is very yellow!
  • We will hike along the Canyon in the morning before we visit Mud Volcanoes and Mammoth Hot Springs, before we make our way back to Bozeman, concluding a spectacular multi-adventure trip.

Total mileage:1-3 miles hiking, sight seeing

Bozeman, MT
This trip will meet at 8:00 AM MST at the Hampton Inn Bozeman, 75 Baxter Lane, Bozeman, Montana, 406-522-8000. You will need to spend the night before in Bozeman and we recommend the Hampton Inn.

ENDING TIME

We will return to the Hampton Inn Bozeman between 3:00 - 4:00 PM on the last day.

Driving
Interstate 90 runs directly through Bozeman. It is located 3 hours east of Missoula and 2 hours west of Billings. There is parking available at the hotel.

Flying into Bozeman, MT
Airport Code: BZN

Flying into Billings, MT
Airport Code: BIL
Rent a car and drive to Bozeman, a 3 hour drive. You can park the car at the Hampton Inn while on the tour.

TAXI SERVICE
Greater Valley Taxi: 406-587-6303,
greatervalleytaxi.com

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

Bozeman is a popular vacation spot. It is a good idea to book your rooms several months in advance if possible; here are a few options:

Hampton Inn Bozeman (This is our recommendation and also where the trip starts and finishes. You can leave your car here while on the trip.)
406-522-8000

Homewood Suites by Hilton Bozeman
406-587-8180

Holiday Inn Bozeman
406-587-4561

Comfort Inn of Bozeman
406-587-2322

Voss Inn Bed & Breakfast
406-587-0982

Need more information about our bike trips? Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page,  what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by .

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732 

ADVENTURE TYPE | ●︎ Introductory

TRIP DURATION | 5-Days

SEASON | July - August

Yellowstone and the Gravelly Range Adventure Trip

Yellowstone and the Gravelly Range Adventure Trip: Montana's Best Kept Secret

This trip begins with a few days in the backcountry near Yellowstone National Park. We head up into the Gravelly Range, a picturesque, rolling ridgeline that looks and feels a lot like it did before Yellowstone became a National Park. The Gravellys are a secret little range that folks in the know call the most scenic road in Montana. We will bike along the ridge top and explore the river valley below before we head into Yellowstone itself to visit some of our favorite lesser-known spots, and of course, Old Faithful and the amazing Old Faithful Lodge. We will do some hiking, biking, and swimming, as well as get a fantastic chance to either learn about fly fishing or perfect your technique in one of the most sought-after fishing rivers in the country.

Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventure.

Road Surface: Packed dirt and gravel roads, some sand and some loose rock, pavement.
Overall Rating: Introductory
Technical Difficulty: Easy
Physical Difficulty: Moderate.
Altitude: 5,000 - 9,000 feet

MEETING PLACE AND TIME

Bozeman, MT
This trip will meet at 8:00 AM MST at the Hampton Inn Bozeman, 75 Baxter Lane, Bozeman, Montana, 406-522-8000. You will need to spend the night before in Bozeman and we recommend the Hampton Inn.

ENDING TIME

We will return to the Hampton Inn Bozeman between 3:00 - 4:00 PM on the last day.

GETTING TO BOZEMAN, MT

Driving
Interstate 90 runs directly through Bozeman. It is located 3 hours east of Missoula and 2 hours west of Billings. There is parking available at the hotel.

Flying into Bozeman, MT
Airport Code: BZN

Flying into Billings, MT
Airport Code: BIL
Rent a car and drive to Bozeman, a 3 hour drive. You can park the car at the Hampton Inn while on the tour.

TAXI SERVICE
Greater Valley Taxi: 406-587-6303,
greatervalleytaxi.com

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

Bozeman is a popular vacation spot. It is a good idea to book your rooms several months in advance if possible; here are a few options:

Hampton Inn Bozeman (This is our recommendation and also where the trip starts and finishes. You can leave your car here while on the trip.)
406-522-8000

Homewood Suites by Hilton Bozeman
406-587-8180

Holiday Inn Bozeman
406-587-4561

Comfort Inn of Bozeman
406-587-2322

Voss Inn Bed & Breakfast
406-587-0982

Be sure to bring everything on this list. We have carefully developed this list to ensure your comfort on the tour regardless of the weather. If you are prepared for extreme weather, it is an adventure. If you are not prepared it can be a serious problem. We recommend the layering system, including a wicking or long underwear layer, an insulating layer and a weather barrier for wind and rain. This list reflects that philosophy. Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable so be sure to bring all the warm clothing and rain gear listed!

HOW TO PACK: The bulk of your gear and clothing will ride in the Western Spirit support vehicle (preferably in a large duffle bag) and will not be accessible during the day.

For this trip, you will need a riding pack and optional day bag:

  •  Your riding pack may be a hydration pack, but needs to carry 2-3 liters of water, rain gear, other warm clothing, and food for the day. You may be away from camp and the support vehicle all day and need to be self-sufficient.
  • A small day bag is optional and may be used to store things you’d rather not ride with, but would like to have access to during the day. This day-pack will remain with the support vehicle and may not be accessible, depending on the day.

WHAT WE PROVIDE:
✓ meals, snacks, water, electrolyte drinks, non-alcoholic drinks
✓ camp mugs, all kitchen and dining ware
✓ 2 large cycling water bottles
✓ camp chairs
✓ solar showers
✓ sunscreen & bug spray
✓ bike stand and lube
✓ guides bring their own tools
✓ first aid kit with basic medications

BRINGING OR RENTING

o bike (Our rentals come with flat pedals. You are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.)
o helmet (gratis w/rental bike)
o tent
o sleeping bag
o sleeping pad

CYCLING CLOTHING

o cycling shoes
o 3 - 5 pair cycling shorts
o 3 - 5 cycling shirts
o long sleeve cycling shirt
o long sleeve cotton shirt or solar sleeves
o cycling socks
o windbreaker
o tights or leg warmers
o 2 pair cycling gloves (1 pair full length for warmth)
o rain jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
o rain pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
o warm layer (lightweight synthetic puffy jacket or long sleeve fleece shirt)
o sunglasses or other eye protection

CAMP CLOTHING

o camp shorts
o shirts
o warm socks
o long underwear, top and bottom (wicking layer, not cotton)
o 2 pair warm long pants
o long sleeve fleece or sweater
o pile or down jacket (insulating layer)
o warm gloves and hat
o brimmed hat or visor
o bathing suit (for solar showers on the trip and at the hotel before/after your trip)
o hiking shoes
o sandals
o cheap PVC rain gear (to wear in camp)

PERSONAL

o toiletries
o medication (daily and emergency)
o towel
o biodegradable soap
o wet-wipes
o flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)
o sunglasses
o optional day bag
o stuff sacks or reusable grocery bags (or separate compartments for your dry bag)
o cash for tipping guides: your guides work as a team and share all of their gratuities. A tip of 10-20% of the price of your trip given to either one of your guides when you return to civilization is a great way to say thanks for a job well done.

OPTIONAL

o camera, extra batteries
o binoculars
o alcoholic or any of your favorite beverages (your guides will pack these)
o books or maps
o we encourage you to turn your devices off, but if you cannot, please bring a way to charge them. We recommend a portable USB charger with 1-2 charges. Also, putting your phone on airplane mode to save power is recommended.
o If you plan to fish on the trip, you must obtain a Montana fishing license. They are available at Powderhorn Sporting Goods right across the street from the bike shop.

Print This

Need more information about our bike trips? Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page,  what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by .

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732 

Yellowstone Adventure Trip

PRICE | $2,245 pp

Private Departures Available
Call  435-259-8732

Gallery

2 excited mountain bike guides jumping up.

A Day With Western Spirit

Rise & Shine
How do you like to start your day? If you like waking up to hot coffee and unforgettable sunrises you’re in luck. Delicious cowboy coffee, fresh fruit salad, pancakes, bacon, granola, yogurt and more.

>>> Read More

Hit The Trail
Whether your trip includes: riding
the Rainbow Rim Trail; enjoying breathtaking views of the
Grand Canyon; leading your
friends on the White Rim Road in Canyonlands; or ripping down.

>>> Read More

Apres
We base our itineraries around the trails that we love to ride, but also around great camp locations. We love to find the perfect place next to rivers or lakes , or by vistas
and sunset spots.

>>> Read More

BIKE TRIP TESTIMONIALS

“The trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life… the scenery, the views, the guides, and the food! I loved how great the meals were!!! The guides were unbelievable cooks! After biking all day, to be able to sit down and eat a great meal & drink a beer …man, it was great!”

~ Gary
“I was worried riding and camping with a group… could I keep up?… would I “fit in”? I was able to keep up and push myself and was challenged by the terrain, I loved it! The group was great I had nothing to worry about, everyone was friendly and supportive.”
~ Robin

“Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!”

~ Teri

“I had been to Canyonlands two years prior so knew scenery was outstanding but it takes on even more magnificence when seen from seat of bike. The guides were awesome and supportive. Food was better than in most restaurants and more than you could eat.”

~ Michael

“It’s been a long time since I’ve been on any organized event and this one was simply amazing. My skill and fitness level were not up to those as others in the group but never once did I feel intimidated…”

~ Nick

“I was tired at the end of each day and to have everything taken care of as far as dinner and cleanup, it was so nice to have that not be my issue. The guides were amazing, simply amazing….the food was always excellent, their personalities are different but blended with everyone perfectly!”

~ Pam

The guides made the trip totally beyond awesome. They were fun, the food was WAY better than I expected, the rides could be were tailored, guiding was superb, trails were a blast, our campsite was sweet. I have zero complaints.

~ Wendy

“Very accommodating of me being vegan, very cheerful and nice.”

~ Jason

The food was fantastic! I didn’t expect such meals. The guides were so friendly, helpful, and entertaining. They really worked well together. Also, they made sure that everyone in their various skill levels enjoyed the rides and that there was enough for everyone.

~ Nichole

“Food was WAY better than I expected. I like to eat healthy and was worried about “camping food.” The guides prepared amazing food. The trip was a blast in general with gorgeous scenery and good campsites. Guides were very friendly, patient and helpful”

~ Erika

Your guides are your ambassadors, they are fun, energetic and very knowledgeable. I would not do anything different.

~ Paul

Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!

~ Teri

“To begin with the landscape and scenery was majestic and awesome. The guides were all instrumental in enhancing the experience with their knowledge, skills, and out of the goodness of their character.”

~ Edward

“Normally I do self supported but having someone else make excellent food makes me want to do it again”

~ Christl

“Warmth, humor, seriously good people skills,professionalism, competence. They execute their very serious responsibilities with confidence-inspiring grace.”

~ David

“This was our 3rd trip with Western Spirit, so we knew what to expect from the guides and the support they’d provide. The trip itself was spectacular – the scenery was unbeatable and the weather was perfect.”

~ Jennifer

=========   More Trips Like This  =========