Horseback Riding
Reservations are recommended for horseback riding in the park. Don't worry about experience, as rangers estimate 90% of riders have not been on a horse in at least 10 years.
About 50 area outfitters lead horse-packing trips and trail rides into Yellowstone. Expect to pay from $250 to $400 per day for a backcountry trip, including meals, accommodations, and guides. A guide must accompany all horseback-riding trips.
Private stock can be brought into the park. Horses are not allowed in frontcountry campgrounds but are permitted in certain backcountry campsites. Day-use horseback riding does not require a permit, but overnight trips with stock are $5 per person per night with no cap.
Tours and Outfitters
About 50 area outfitters lead horse-packing trips and trail rides into Yellowstone. Expect to pay from $250 to $400 per day for a backcountry trip, including meals, accommodations, and guides. A guide must accompany all horseback-riding trips.
Wilderness Pack Trips. Mike and Erin Thompson at Wilderness Pack Trips have led small group trips exclusively in Yellowstone National Park for many years. Popular destinations include the spectacular remote waterfalls and wildlife-rich regions often closed to the general public. Families are welcome for these excursions. Backcountry fishing trips and other day and overnight adventures can also be arranged. 172 E. River Rd., Emigrant, Montana, 59027. 406/581–5021; www.yellowstonepacktrips.com. From $375.
Yellowstone National Park Lodges. The park's largest concessionaire offers one-hour horseback rides at Mammoth, and one- and two-hour rides at Tower-Roosevelt and Canyon Village. You can also book an Old West Dinner Cookout, which includes a ride. Wyoming. 307/344–7311; www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com. From $55.
