Yellowstone National Park side by side tours offer an exhilarating way to explore the park’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. These tours combine the thrill of off-road driving with the beauty of America’s first national park. Visitors can choose from guided tours or rental options, with various routes and durations available. Side by side vehicles, also known as UTVs, provide a unique perspective on Yellowstone’s geothermal features, canyons, and diverse ecosystems.
What Are the Best Yellowstone National Park Side by Side Tour Routes?
Yellowstone National Park side by side tours offer a variety of routes to suit different preferences and time constraints. Some popular options include:
- Grand Canyon of Yellowstone Tour: An 8-hour adventure showcasing the park’s iconic canyon.
- Old Faithful Excursion: A tour that includes a visit to the famous geyser and surrounding thermal areas.
- Wildlife Watching Tour: Focused on spotting Yellowstone’s diverse fauna in their natural habitats.
- Multi-day Expeditions: For those seeking a more immersive experience in the park’s backcountry.
These tours often combine side by side UTVs with other modes of transport, such as snowmobiles in winter, to provide a comprehensive Yellowstone experience.
How Long Do Yellowstone Side by Side Tours Typically Last?
The duration of Yellowstone National Park side by side tours can vary significantly:
- Half-day tours: Usually 4-5 hours, perfect for a quick adventure
- Full-day tours: Typically 8-10 hours, offering a more in-depth exploration
- Multi-day tours: Ranging from 2-5 days, ideal for those wanting to fully immerse themselves in the Yellowstone experience
Tour operators like Scenic Safaris offer flexible options to accommodate different schedules and interests.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for Side by Side Tours?
Group sizes for Yellowstone National Park side by side tours are generally kept small to ensure a personalized experience:
- Private tours: Available for couples or small families
- Small group tours: Usually up to 4-6 people per guide
- Larger groups: Can be accommodated by splitting into multiple smaller groups
The exact capacity depends on the type of UTV used. For example:
| UTV Model | Maximum Capacity |
|---|---|
| Can-Am Maverick Sport Max | 4 passengers |
| Can-Am Maverick Trail | 2 passengers |
| Can-Am Commander Max | 4-6 passengers |
What Unique Features Do Yellowstone Side by Side Tours Offer?
Yellowstone National Park side by side tours provide several unique features:
- Off-road access to remote areas of the park
- Opportunity to see wildlife in their natural habitat
- Guided interpretation of Yellowstone’s geological and ecological features
- Seasonal experiences (e.g., winter snowmobile tours)
- Customizable itineraries for private tours
- Combination with other activities like hiking or photography
These tours offer a blend of adventure and education, making them suitable for a wide range of visitors.
How Much Do Yellowstone Side by Side Tours Cost?
The cost of Yellowstone National Park side by side tours can vary based on several factors:
- Duration of the tour
- Type of vehicle used
- Season (peak vs. off-peak)
- Group size
- Inclusions (meals, equipment, etc.)
While specific prices are not always listed publicly, here’s a general range:
- Half-day tours: $150 – $250 per person
- Full-day tours: $250 – $400 per person
- Multi-day tours: $500 – $1000+ per person
For those preferring to rent and self-guide, daily rental rates typically range from $219 to $349, depending on the UTV model.
What’s Included in a Typical Yellowstone Side by Side Tour Package?
A standard Yellowstone National Park side by side tour package usually includes:
- UTV rental
- Safety gear (helmets, goggles)
- Professional guide
- Basic orientation and safety briefing
- Fuel for the duration of the tour
Some tours may also include:
- Meals and snacks
- Park entrance fees
- Additional activities (e.g., snowcoach tours in winter)
- Photography services
Always check with the specific tour operator for a detailed list of inclusions.
Where Can I Rent a Side by Side Vehicle Near Yellowstone?
Side by side rentals for Yellowstone National Park are available in several locations:
- West Yellowstone, Montana: The most popular location, with multiple rental companies
- Jackson Hole, Wyoming: Offers rentals for exploring Grand Teton and southern Yellowstone
- Cody, Wyoming: Eastern access point with rental options
- Gardiner, Montana: Northern entrance with some rental availability
Companies like Yellowstone Vacation Tours and Yellowstone Adventures offer a range of UTV models for rent.
What Are the Age and Licensing Requirements for Side by Side Tours?
To participate in Yellowstone National Park side by side tours, there are specific requirements:
- Minimum age to rent and drive: 21 years old
- Valid driver’s license required for all drivers
- Passengers must be at least 6 years old for most UTV models
- Some tour operators may have additional age restrictions or requirements
It’s important to note that while side by side tours are available in areas surrounding Yellowstone, ATV and UTV use is not permitted within the park boundaries.
When Is the Best Time for Yellowstone Side by Side Tours?
The best time for Yellowstone National Park side by side tours depends on your preferences:
- Summer (June – August): Peak season with warm weather and all roads open
- Fall (September – October): Less crowded with beautiful fall colors
- Winter (December – March): Unique snowmobile and snow coach tours available
- Spring (April – May): Wildlife viewing opportunities as animals become more active
Rental availability is typically from May 1 to September 30, subject to weather and trail conditions.
How Can I Book a Yellowstone Side by Side Tour?
Booking a Yellowstone National Park side by side tour is straightforward:
- Research tour operators online (e.g., Scenic Safaris, Yellowstone Vacation Tours)
- Choose your preferred tour package or rental option
- Check availability for your desired dates
- Book online through the operator’s website or call directly
- Provide necessary information (group size, preferences, etc.)
- Pay a deposit or full amount (varies by operator)
- Receive confirmation and tour details
Most operators require a minimum of 14 days’ notice for cancellations to receive a full refund.
By offering a unique blend of adventure and natural wonder, Yellowstone National Park side by side tours provide an unforgettable way to experience America’s first national park. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, geological marvels, or simply the thrill of off-road exploration, these tours cater to a wide range of interests and skill levels.
References:
1. Side-by-Side Rentals – Yellowstone National Park
2. UTV and Snowmobile Tours in Jackson Hole
3. Side By Side Rentals | Yellowstone National Park | UTV Rentals