Frequently Asked Questions
When are tours offered?
Ursa Major Tours offers tours from May 1 through October 31. However, during the shoulder seasons (May 1 - Memorial Day weekend, Labor Day to October 31), not all interior park roads are open. Roads are subject to closures year-round due to weather and traffic conditions.
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When is the best time to come?
This depends on you! Late spring is a great time for less crowds and baby animals, however the weather can be temperamental and not all interior roads are open before Memorial Day weekend. July and August tend to be hotter, making animal sightings more difficult, however the weather is more consistent. That being said, it can (and does) snow every month of the year in Yellowstone! Fall is a wonderful time to be in Yellowstone as many animals are coming down from the high country and eating as much as they can to prepare for winter. Wildlife are also more active in the cooler temperatures of fall. Late September - early October is also a great time to hear the otherworldly sound of bull elk bugling as they begin their breeding season (rut).
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How many people can come on the tour?
Our tour vehicle can comfortably fit 5 adults and 2 children, or 7 adults if everyone snuggles up!
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Will anyone else be on the tour with us?
No! Only your guide and your party will be on a tour or hike. Because of this, all tours can be customized to your party!
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What kind of vehicle are tours conducted in?
You will be riding in a comfortable Honda Pilot with plenty of space for your group and storage for all of your gear. Our large windows and sunroof provide expansive views no matter where you're sitting!
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What is provided by Ursa Major Tours?
We provide water, coffee, tea, assorted pre-packaged snacks, hand sanitizer, baby wipes, insect repellent, bear spray, several pairs of binoculars, and two spotting scopes.
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What should I bring?
Please refer to our BEAR Necessities page for recommended items to bring.
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What kind of animals will I see?
Yellowstone is the only place in the Lower 48 with a fully functioning ecosystem containing all of the animals present pre-European expansion. The possibility of animal sightings depend on time of year, time of day, and weather. We always strive to provide the most robust experience that we can, however wildlife are on their own schedule and sightings cannot be guaranteed. Learn more about all of Yellowstone's wildlife at https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/nature/wildlife.htm
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Do I really need a guided tour?
While Yellowstone is very accessible and much can be seen without a guide, authorized guides typically know the best places for wildlife, seasonal wildlife patterns, current wildlife activity, and the lesser-known (and less crowded!) areas of the park.
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What will the weather be like?
Weather in Yellowstone can change quickly and without warning, and varies throughout the park's 2.2 million acres. The weather can also be surprising: from freezing temperatures and snow in mid-August, to 90 degree temps in September. We encourage you to check the forecast and pack as close to your arrival as possible, as forecasts past a few days are not always reliable. It is wise to pack for all weather possibilities: layers are your best friend!
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Should we tip our guide?
Tipping is not required and never expected. If you enjoyed your trip and would like to show extra appreciation, any tips are welcomed! 100% of tips go directly to our guides.
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