Top 5 Gardiner Day Trips: See Yellowstone’s Gateway

So, you’re thinking of making Gardiner, Montana your basecamp, that is awesome. You know, it’s that kind of charming little town right at the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park. But hey, just sticking around Gardiner wouldn’t let you experience what it can really offer, it’s almost as though you have a lot of choices for some pretty awesome day trips. We can help you out, alright? This can mean getting super close to some incredible wildlife, hitting those trails for awesome hikes, or basically just soaking in those views, so it’s kind of breathtaking, isn’t it? Let’s talk about some absolutely unforgettable day trips you can plan from Gardiner.

1. Yellowstone’s Northern Range: Wildlife Spotting Bonanza

Alright, if you’re an animal lover, that’s where you wanna be. The northern part of Yellowstone, you know, is like, it’s really a magnet for wildlife. Very often called “America’s Serengeti,” it really is a home for loads of bison, elk, pronghorn, and even some wolf packs if you’re pretty lucky. The drive through the Lamar Valley early in the morning or near sunset can be, just a bit magic. Really, it’s those times that, well, the animals are really most active. Get your binoculars ready; basically, you’re gonna want to see all these animals just doing their thing in the wild. It’s definitely very special.

Plus, make sure to check out places just like Mammoth Hot Springs. You know, it’s super close to Gardiner. Those terraces are kind of unreal, alright? That geological activity is really amazing to see. Plus, keep your eye out for elk just casually hanging around town. You know, they can be right there! The whole area basically offers that kind of chance to see cool wildlife up close, it really is something to write home about. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Northern Range)

2. Hiking to Trout Lake: A Picture-Perfect Escape

For a hike that’s rather rewarding but not very hard, Trout Lake really hits that sweet spot. It’s very located a bit south of Cooke City. That trail there is only about a mile and a half round trip, so too it’s fairly manageable for almost anyone. Once you get to the lake, that’s really when the magic kind of begins. The water’s super clear, so it’s really mirror-like, just reflecting all those mountains and trees, it’s almost as though that spot there is, basically, just perfect for a picnic or, arguably, a bit of quiet reflection.

If you’re into fishing, Trout Lake is also rather popular for anglers trying to hook a cutthroat trout, that is, you know, the local celebrity fish. But still, remember that a Yellowstone fishing permit is, very likely, required. Also, that trail can be very muddy during the spring. Or after it has rained, basically, so wear the correct footwear. Trout Lake’s scenery and serenity basically make it a must-do for those seeking a bit of peace not too far from Gardiner. Read our full review: Hiking Trout Lake Full Review and Details

3. Cooke City and the Beartooth Highway: Scenic Mountain Drives

Take a short drive from Gardiner. Basically, you find yourself in Cooke City, an old mining town that really feels straight out of an old Western film. That is such a sweet spot! Also, this little town there sits at the start of the Beartooth Highway, you know, just an amazing scenic byway that is seriously famous for some reasons. Opening usually around Memorial Day, and also very dependent on snow conditions. This highway winds its way up some of Montana’s highest peaks. Seriously, the views are very spectacular, and it provides a unique overlook point. It could be, it’s a drive you absolutely won’t regret, very.

Just pull over at those scenic overlooks and stretch your legs a bit, you should bring a camera! Maybe, grab a bite to eat in Cooke City. It does really add to that experience. Also, a bit of that charming, rugged mountain character of the area is nice, don’t you think? Just that the weather in that area can be very unpredictable, alright, especially at higher altitudes. But yeah, with a bit of planning, the drive is worth it! See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Beartooth Highway)

4. Rafting the Yellowstone River: An Active Adventure

Okay, are you feeling that little desire to add some, like, adventure to your Gardiner visit? Well, a rafting trip on the Yellowstone River could just be the way to do that. There are so many tour operators around town that kind of offer trips that, too it’s suited for all sorts of experience levels. You see, that could just be a calm, scenic float. Or, very, that is depending on what part of the river you are on, it’s really an exciting whitewater adventure.

That views from the river there kind of give you an angle on Yellowstone’s landscape you just won’t get otherwise, alright. So just imagine you’re drifting down the river there, really. You see the towering cliffs, you know, and wildlife coming down to the water’s edge. Hey, even on a calm float trip, just like that the opportunity to see bald eagles or even deer can, typically, make the experience. Still, plan to book in advance, alright, especially during the peak summer months when tours are really popular. Read our full review: Yellowstone River Rafting Full Review and Details

5. Chico Hot Springs: Relaxation and Rejuvenation

Okay, are you ready to wind down and seriously relax a bit? Why not take a short drive to Chico Hot Springs? That is really a historic resort not very far from Gardiner. Those hot springs themselves, alright, they’ve got a little history of their own. Very originally used by Native Americans, and too, now, they are open for all. You can come and enjoy the very soothing mineral waters. Also, Chico offers a lot more, you know. Basically, the options can go as far as staying there, you should if you can. Because it has a restaurant, and even spa services, and other options there, really it gives you a bit of a comprehensive wellness escape.

Think about relaxing in those warm waters after a day of hiking or sightseeing. It just is something else! Chico Hot Springs is an excellent getaway for anyone who is just wanting a bit of rest during their visit to Gardiner. This will also let you do some exploring around the southern end, more or less. Very easy to spend an entire day there without doing much else. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Chico Hot Springs)