Private Full-Day Cougar Tracking Tour in Yellowstone
Read the signs of Yellowstone's elusive cougars with an expert tracker and filmmaker
Duration
6–8 hrs
Ideal For
Up to 14 people
Includes
Guide, transport, optics
Highlights
Explore Yellowstone's cougar habitat on a private outing with a naturalist who has tracked and filmed these predators for over a decade. Spend most of the day away from the vehicle in wild country. Seeing a cougar is unlikely; the reward is learning to understand an animal that usually stays out of sight.
- Search for tracks in the snow and interpret the signs cougars leave behind
- Learn about cougar behavior, ecology and current research
- Discover the geology and ecology of the landscapes cougars call home
What's Included
- Transportation in a touring vehicle
- High-powered binoculars and spotting scopes
- Hot coffee, tea and cocoa
- Light snacks
Important details
- Requires extended off-trail hiking or snowshoeing over steep terrain with uneven footing. Routes can be tailored somewhat to your physical ability, but the terrain remains demanding.
- Park entry is not included in the listed price: $20 per adult U.S. resident or $100 per adult non-resident. Children ages 15 and under enter free. An annual or lifetime National Park pass covers up to 4 adults; the value of a 7-Day Yellowstone pass can be applied toward entry fees. Bring your park pass and ID if you have them.
- Discretionary guide gratuity is not included in the listed price.
- Snowshoes may be required depending on conditions.
- Bring an age-appropriate car seat or booster seat for each child who requires one. Wyoming law generally requires a federally approved child restraint for children under 9.
- Follow your guide's safety instructions and keep at least 100 yards from wolves and bears and 25 yards from other wildlife. Unsafe behavior or failure to follow instructions may end your tour.
Cancellation Policy
Full refund for cancellations more than 30 days before the tour; no refund within 30 days. No refund for cancellations due to circumstances beyond the operator's control, including extreme weather, wildfire or park closure. Rescheduling is free, subject to availability. If you reschedule within 30 days of the original departure date, your booking becomes non-refundable.
Product ID: PWQQC7
FAQs
Snowshoes may be available to borrow on request for your cougar tracking tour. Some trekking poles are also available to lend on request.
Wear warm, adjustable layers, windproof and waterproof outerwear, a warm hat, gloves or mittens, and insulated winter boots suitable for extended hiking over rough terrain. Avoid cotton. Temperatures may range from -20°F to the 30s°F. Bring hand and toe warmers, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a backpack for your supplies and extra layers.
Yes. Bring a field-friendly lunch for the hike and a reusable water bottle, preferably insulated to help prevent freezing. Hot drinks and light snacks are provided, but lunch is not. Hydration bladder hoses and mouthpieces can freeze in winter.