What to Pack for Your Yellowstone Day Tour. Yellowstone Packing List.

What to Pack for Your Yellowstone Day Tour.

The most common questions we receive from guests joining our tours is surrounding how to dress and what to bring. Mountain weather can be unpredictable, the landscape is remote, and a Yellowstone tour is a full day excursion. Here are some tips to help you dial in your Yellowstone National Park packing list, so you know what to wear and what to bring on your Yellowstone tour!

Yellowstone National Park - What to Expect

Yellowstone National Park sits at an average elevation of 8,000 ft with some roads and trails leading much higher. Surrounding peaks reach elevations of 13,000 ft, with the Grand Teton sitting at 13,775 ft. Anywhere you stay or go in our area is sitting at an inherently high elevation, and mountain weather can be wild! While the typical day from late-spring into early-fall is beautiful, t-shirt weather - wide temperature swings are common throughout the day, especially when afternoon thunderstorms come through. 

Layers, Layers, Layers!

It is always a good idea to go into the park ready for anything. While our vans will obviously protect you from the elements, between comfortable temperatures inside the vehicle, to hot or rainy weather outside - you don’t want to find yourself over or underdressed!

• Base Layer: A moisture-wicking t-shirt or long-sleeve sunshirt is ideal. Avoid cotton as it stays wet and will make you cold.

• Mid-Layer: (Just for mid-Sept thru Oct) A fleece jacket, lightweight sweater/hoodie, or even a light puffy jacket will provide warmth if the temperatures drop randomly.

• Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket is essential, even on clear days. It protects against unexpected showers and the wind often present in open areas or at higher elevations.

• Pants: Comfortable hiking pants or convertible pants are the best. Jeans and other thicker pants will work fine, but can be uncomfortable in different temperatures.

Footwear: Comfort is King

You'll be doing a bit of walking on our Yellowstone Day Tours, from boardwalks around thermal features to short trails and steps.

• Comfortable Sturdy Walking Shoes: Opt for comfortable, broken-in shoes with good ankle support and grip.

Gear

• Camera. You don’t want to miss the shot of a lifetime!

• Snacks. We provide breakfast and a delicious, filling lunch; however, if your metabolism races - bring further snacks. There are some shops we can stop along the way, but options can sometimes be limited.

• Reusable water bottle. We provide bottled water for guests, however, it is always a good idea to do your part to reduce plastic waste. There are plenty of water fountains that we can refill along the way!

• Sun protection. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.

What We Provide (What You Don’t Need to Bring)

• Breakfast & lunch. We will take your order before your tour!

• Bear spray

• Bug spray

• Bottled water

• Binoculars

• Long-range scopes

• First aid kit

Ready for Your Yellowstone Adventure?

Packing smart means you can focus entirely on the stunning beauty and unique experiences Yellowstone has to offer. By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared for any weather or wildlife encounter during your unforgettable day tour.

Ready to explore? Browse our incredible Yellowstone Day Tours departing daily from Jackson Hole, WY & West Yellowstone, MT and secure your spot today!