Cast a line into paradise

Searching for the Perfect Angler’s Gift? You’re off the Hook.

With its panoramic views of the Absaroka Mountain Range and backyard fly-fishing access on the Yellowstone River, the Lodge is a straight-up paradise for fly anglers- in fact, it’s the only riverfront property in a 100-plus mile stretch. This area of Montana is home to hundreds of miles of blue ribbon trout streams, private spring creeks and is considered the mecca of trout fishing in the western United States.
While it’s amazing to cast a line from our own backyard, we’ve also partnered with Montana Fly Fishing Guides to offer professionally guided fly-fishing trips and all-inclusive packages. Not an angler yourself? Montana Fly Fishing Guides is the first company to operate scenic river trips on the Yellowstone in their own handmade, wood drift boats.
In his article 6 Tips for Planning a Memorable Fly Fishing Trip, author Steve Mathewson suggests: “Hire a guide for a day. Go ahead and splurge… My podcast partner, Dave, and I split the cost to make it more affordable. The benefits really outweigh the costs. You’ll sharpen your fly fishing skills, but you’ll also gain ‘intel.’ We’ve often returned a couple days later to wade stretches we’ve floated or waded with a guide.
Besides, unless you have access to a drift boat (and have the skills needed to row one), it’s the only way to float some of the notable stretches of the blue ribbon waters in the western states.”

Imagine the look on your favorite angler’s face when they tell the tale of the epic fish netted with skills honed at Yellowstone Valley Lodge— they’ll thank you graciously, and often.
Contact our team at the Lodge today, and start planning a fly fishing gift of adventure!

Gateway to Yellowstone

That’s right, Yellowstone, with its sweeping vistas, steaming geysers and remarkable diversity of wildlife, is America’s first national park. Overwhelmed? Well, Yellowstone Valley Lodge has teamed up with Yellowstone Guidelines to help you explore this vast wonderland!
Yellowstone Guidelines offers guided wildlife viewing tours, day hiking trips, geology and sightseeing tours. Contact the Lodge for rates and availability.

A Few of Yellowstone Guidelines’ Top Offerings:
Yellowstone In A Day
This tour focuses on a combination of wildlife observation in the Hayden Valley, sightseeing through the Canyon area, and exploring the thermal basins of Mammoth and the Norris Geyser Basin. The tour itinerary provides plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs with short hikes throughout the day.
Areas visited can include Mammoth Hot Springs, the Back Basin of Norris Geyser Basin including Steamboat Geyser, Hayden Valley, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Lower Falls, Mud Volcano, and overlooks of Yellowstone Lake.

Yellowstone Day Hiking
Did you know that less than 4% of visitors to Yellowstone leave the main roads? Hiking in Yellowstone is the best chance to ditch the crowds, explore the park, and a great way to experience the peace and solitude of Yellowstone’s 2.2 million acres of wilderness. All the hikes are designed around the customer’s fitness level and athletic ability*. During the hike we’ll look for animals, identify flora/fauna, and engage in conversation about the park’s history, wildlife, geology, and all things Yellowstone! All of our guides carry bear spray and we’ll have extra cans available for guests during the hike. We suggest focusing on hikes in the north of Yellowstone to reduce the drive time in the park. IMP: A pre-trip conversation with the clients is recommended to secure details and specific routes. Popular routes include the Beaver Pond Trail, Bunsen Peak, Garnett Hill Loop, Lamar Valley Trail, and Slough Creek.
* A combination of ½ day wildlife and ½ day hiking is also available.

Yellowstone Geology and Geyser Tour
Geology is the essence of Yellowstone! The park is home to 2/3 of the world’s geysers, over 10,000 geothermal features, and a spectacle of hot springs, mud pots, geysers and fumaroles. The diversity of geothermal activity is amazing! The Yellowstone Geology and Geyser Tour will explore the geologically active areas on the southwest portion of Yellowstone. The Geyser and Geology Tour itinerary will cover the geological highlights like Old Faithful, Lower Geyser Basin, Grand Prismatic Springs, and many more. To maximize the experience, we recommend a short hike of about 1.5 miles to the overlook of Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in Yellowstone.

What’s Provided:
Yellowstone Guidelines provides transportation, a deli-style lunch (vegan and gluten-free lunch options available), snacks and water. They’ll have spotting scopes and binoculars to view the
animals.
What to Bring:
Be prepared for a day of adventure! Keep in mind that evenings can get chilly, so bring extra layers. Also: Good shoes, phone, camera, hat, sunglasses, water bottle, a snack or two, and a small daypack.

Livingston is for Art Lovers

Reece's work has been described by the New York Times as "Montana-style surrealism." Recent works include “Live Bait,” in which a huge trout threatens to eat a fisherman, and “Adam and Eve Tour Yellowstone,” a lithograph depicting two nude figures riding in a trout’s mouth. Robert Redford, Waylon Jennings and Whoopi Goldberg are among Reece’s celebrity collectors. "Think Van Gogh meets 'The Far Side' and you might begin to understand artist Parks Reece" says Montana Living Magazine.
The Livingston Center for Art and Culture is run by a local nonprofit with a mission to provide a location for classes, meetings and an exhibition gallery.
This summer, in celebration of the 30th year of the release of locally-shot A River Runs Through It, "Art on the Fly" will feature art inspired by the culture of fly fishing and its history in Southwestern Montana. The week-long "Plein Air Painting on the Yellowstone" class draws students from all over the country, culminating with a month-long exhibit in August.
The best travel is inspiring. Spark your own creativity and broaden your horizons in the land of Lewis and Clark.

A Mother’s Day Mountainside Sanctuary

Our perfect Mother’s Day itinerary starts with a complimentary breakfast that will fuel the family for a day of activities. Head to the river for some yoga with a view, or make sure to book your reservations ahead of time for Painting in Paradise; a unique, guided, 2-hour experience led by a professional artist as you bring to life your own Plein Air Painting. All materials and instructions are provided to create the perfect Mother’s Day souvenir. Surprise mom with one last treat before dinner and head back to your room where our team will be waiting for a massage and facial. If she’s up for it, you can also book a yoga session by the river! After getting ready for a night of locally sourced cuisine at Yellowstone Valley Grill, head outdoors to meet your professional photographer for your 1-hour Mother’s Day family photoshoot. Contact the lodge directly for availability and rates so you don’t miss out on the opportunity to take home 40-50 edits of unforgettable memories.

There’s no denying that a Livingston getaway is necessary, and when it’s for mom. Locals looking to spoil their matriarch for a quick weekend, or even looking to get away for any long weekend like Memorial Day, can book with us directly and save up to 20% off.

Endless Fly Fishing Opportunities Await in Yellowstone, Montana

Our rivers span 140 miles of Blue Ribbon waters, and if you prefer seclusion, there are plenty of uncrowded spring creeks and lakes in our network of fisheries to choose from. Yellowstone River, the longest un-dammed trout stream in the world, spans over 300 miles of abundant waters. From hatches and cutthroat fishing to rainbow fishing, there is truly no end to memorable experiences.

Located in Paradise Valley, The Spring Creeks offer nymphing and dry fly fishing for selective anglers. Slough Creek, Lamar, and Soda Butte are all accessible from Yellowstone Valley Ranch and offer anglers the unique opportunity to cast alongside grazing bison. Firehole, upper Madison, and the Gibbon are amazing locations as well.

To provide you with the best fly fishing opportunities on the iconic Yellowstone River, we've partnered with Montana Fly Fishing Guides. With professional fly-fishing guides and all-inclusive packages, you're sure to have the fishing experience of a lifetime.

Summertime at Yellowstone Valley

Families of all ages can experience and learn about local wildlife at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center or test their wild side by taking on the zipline at Yellowstone Aerial Adventures. Thrill-seekers can raft through the canyons, mountains, and valleys of Yellowstone National Park with one of the many available whitewater rafting trips. Summer is also the best time to get out and explore one of the beautiful hiking trails in and around Yellowstone—you will have no trouble finding the perfect path with over 900 miles of trails ranging from easy to difficult.

Alternatively, if you are looking for something more laid-back to do on a hot day, you can always sit back, relax, and enjoy the views on a Summer Bus Tour. With all of the possibilities that Yellowstone has to offer, you may want to stay a little longer.

Plan Your Day The Bozeman Way

Start the day at the Bozeman Winter Farmer’s Market, where you can sip on some ethically sourced coffee while enjoying live music. Indulge in fresh baked goods and get a taste of what Bozeman’s local vendors have to offer. Walk off those extra calories touring the Museum Of The Rockies. Examine Montana’s finest paleontological specimens as they take you on a journey millions of years into the past. Current exhibits include Reptiles: The Beautiful And The Deadly and Siebel Dinosaur Complex. Finish your adventure getting lost in the Cannery District, a stretch of lively shops and breweries where you can settle down and sip the end-of-vacation blues away. However you chose to spend your day in Bozeman, there’s a little something for everyone. 

Baetis, Midges and Brown's, Oh My!

With the hustle and bustle of the holidays, you might have forgotten about that spring fishing trip you planned with the family months ago. Here at Yellowstone Valley Lodge, we want you to come prepared for all water activities. You can check out a simplified guide here, including specific lingo, how to tie proper knots, and knowing the proper gear to bring. However, if you want everything taken care of for you, to accommodate for shorter days and early season conditions, Montana Fly Fishing Guides will be offering $75 off early season rates from January 1st to May 31st. Found on their website, you can choose between a couple of packages, including various excursions on the Yellowstone River, Missouri River, and Madison River. Coming prepared or booking reservations in advance is the way to go for our angler-enthusiasts to catch some trout!

Celebrating Love in the Mounatins

Whether you’re planning a wedding of your own or planning to attend someone else's special celebration in the coming months, Yellowstone Valley Lodge wants to be the home base for your mountain stay. Just 40 minutes from Yellowstone National Park, you can find yourself lost amongst the geysers for the perfect wedding photoshoot. High or low, options are endless for the perfect backdrop to your dazzling dress. You can explore Montana’s Absaroka Mountain Range or the various fish-filled creeks throughout the area. Assuming you've already explored your way through Livingston, be sure to check out the rest of the cozy town of Bozeman for last-minute wedding essentials such as a warm after-party outfit. Need a pre-party pick-me-up? Make sure to stop at any of the locally-owned coffee shops before returning to the lodge for festivities. The wedding might be in spring, but we’re booking guests now through mid-October. Trust us, you don’t want to miss out on these perfect photo ops!

A Yellowstone Getaway the Right Way

At Yellowstone Valley Lodge, we know how planning vacations can go—so we’re taking the meaning of a relaxing getaway to the next level. With sweeping views of Montana’s Absaroka Mountain Range just outside your window and some of the best Yellowstone River fly-fishing right outside your door, all you have to do is unpack your suitcase and settle in. At the end of the day, find a table at the on-site Yellowstone Valley Grill, where the farm-to-table fare and cool drinks will have you and your taste buds feeling refreshed. As the only riverfront property in a 100-mile stretch, catch the sunset from the comfort of your own cabin, wine glass in hand, with nothing but nature to distract you.

Rafting Yellowstone's Rapids

Strap on your helmet, life jacket, and water shoes and prepare to get wet as your raft and guide lead you through the Yellowstone River’s white water rapids. Paradise Adventure Company's 8 and 18-mile rides are matched by the scenery as your raft courses through the canyons, mountains, and valleys of America’s longest free-flowing river. If the adrenaline is still pumping, take in the full spectrum of nature and keep the adventures going with a horseback ride after your rafting trip. If you want to enjoy the river’s views with fewer rapids, follow your guide on a flat-water float followed by a 5-star dinner at Yellowstone Valley Grill. With a table overlooking Paradise Valley’s natural playground and a glass of wine in hand, watch the sun set on a summer day well spent.

Guided Fly Fishing Tours

With more than 300 miles of river shore along more than 12 rivers and 3 spring creeks, all resting in the picturesque valley of Yellowstone’s mountains, the options for fly-fishing in the area are endless. It’s true that it’s hard to go wrong here, but cast your line to the limit and make the most of the area’s experts. Montana Fly Fishing Guides have taken the guessing out of the game with carefully designed tours for the fly-fisher of any skill level. From tours like a Walk & Wade day trip for the more experienced angler, to a Float & Drift Boat Trip for all angler abilities, and scenic foodie trips like the Breakfast in Big Sky, for those simply looking to catch sight of wildlife and birds, every adventurer and explorer will find their fill of fun and fish.

Montana's Wineries with a View

Savor some of the finest vintages west of the Mississippi at Yellowstone Valley Grill where you can simply relax without having to worry about the drive home. Vintners like Secret Squirrel and Buty Vineyards from Washington’s Walla Walla Valley have perfected their craft. Those looking for something closer to home and on the hoppier side should try the Bent Nail IPA out of Red Lodge, Montana. The farm-to-table inspired menu — think 100% grass-fed Icelandic lamb out of Paradise Valley, locally grown produce from DND West Greenhouses, and Huckleberry ice cream from Livingston’s Wilcoxsins Ice Cream — provides a fresh perspective of Big Sky Country while the vast views remind you why you came here to begin with.

Plan Your Wedding at YVL

If you’re one of the lucky lovebirds that decided this December to start laying out your “I Do’s,” let us at Yellowstone Valley Lodge be the first to say congratulations! Well, we know we may not be the first, but we’d like to be one of the first when your big day comes. The majestic Montana mountains make one of the best backdrops to begin a new life with the one you love. From the fabulous food to the entertainment, your day should be one that is filled with ease and enjoyment. As you flip through photos of that perfect day, may the memories be those of the magical moments you share with the one who has your heart.

A Look Back at the 2018 Season

As always, our scenic spot on the banks of the river brought in visitors and stole their hearts. From Instagram posts of people fly-fishing in our backyard to reviews from guests—“The Yellowstone River was roaring behind our unit and the snow-covered mountains in the distance was a sight to behold.”—it’s clear to see that our location captures senses and sentiment.

But the river isn’t the only thing worth remembering. Good food is worth going far for and our Yellowstone Valley Grill is geared toward greatness. Our farm-to-table tastings had our guests satisfied from the complimentary breakfast to the sophisticated wine list. We’re honored when we hear guests say this is the place for people looking who “want a quiet cabin right on the Yellowstone River that has a restaurant with a fantastic chef.” Thanks for another outstanding year!

Why Plan Your Next Adventure at Yellowstone Valley Lodge

There aren’t too many places that combine sweeping views of the Absaroka Mountain Range with backyard fly-fishing access on the Yellowstone River and diverse farm-to-table dining at our onsite Yellowstone Valley Grill. And, as the only riverfront property in a 100-plus mile stretch, distractions are sure to be limited so you can focus on the natural beauty that surrounds you. As one of our guests said, “The Yellowstone River was roaring behind our unit and the snow-covered mountains in the distance was a sight to behold. We didn’t want to leave.” We wouldn’t want Fido to miss out on the fun, so bring the whole family and settle in for a vacation you’ll never forget!

Make the Most of Summer at Montana's Music Fests

Start things off right at the annual Summerfest held in the scenic Sacajawea Park. Take the family, fuel up at the food trucks, and get down by the flowing rushes of the Yellowstone River. Once you’re warmed up, head to the Red Ants Pants Music Festival—named Montana’s 2018 Event of the Year. The non-profit festival, with big-name headliners such as Shovels & Rope and Ruby Boots, is dedicated to supporting women in leadership, working farms and rural communities. Round out the weekend music at the Beer Garden, take a hayride or enjoy breakfast served by the Meagher County CattleWomen. Wrap up the month of music at the Montana Old Time Fiddler’s Picnic. For more than 35 years musicians have joined together for the 3-day, all spontaneous jam session in celebration of bluegrass, swing, country, and folk!

Find Nature's Finest in the Lamar Valley

The Lamar Valley, just a couple hours from Livingston, is the best year-round destination to spot herds of buffalo, elk, coyotes, grizzlies and even wolves. We understand the idea of going after wolves and grizzly bears may be a bit intimidating. Don’t worry, though. That’s why there are tour companies who will plan the excursion for you and give you the best tips to make spotting the wildlife more likely. Yellowstone Tours offer a variety of options to fit your adventure and dare level, from a single day in Lamar Valley to multi-day adventures. The tour includes a naturalist guide, transportation, a viewing scope, binoculars and a lunch to keep you fueled up as you keep a lookout. So embrace your wild side and hit the valley hunting!

Take a Hike Through the History of Yellowstone

What better way to honor the heritage of preserving our nation’s natural wonders than with a tour through the history of our landmark park. The Yellowstone Gateway Museum was founded in 1977 and since that time has accumulated a collection of over 50,000 pieces, including photographs, books, maps, art and oral histories. Some items even date as far back as 12,000 years.

The museum is hosting a 4-part program—Speaker Series: A Moving History. The series runs every other Wednesday and covers the railroads that brought people west, the ancient trail system that has become the foundation of modern-day highways, convicts on the early transcontinental highway that led all the way to the Puget Sound, and the journey of Lewis and Clark who set up camp nearby in July of 1806. This is certainly a glimpse into the past you won’t want to miss!