Lunch options in Gardiner, Montana combine great food with spectacular Yellowstone views. This small gateway town serves as the perfect jumping-off point for park adventures with meal included. I’m particularly fond of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone loop hike – the picnic spots overlook dramatic waterfalls. The Upper Geyser Basin trek offers front-row seats to Old Faithful while you eat, and the Lamar Valley safari lets you spot wildlife between bites. For extra excitement, try the Yellowstone River rafting tour, where guides prepare lunch on scenic riverbanks. Most tours include experienced guides and flexible booking policies. Let’s explore my favorite lunch tours in detail.
Good To Know
- The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Loop Hike offers a 6-hour guided tour with a picnic lunch and diverse landscapes for $192 per person.
- The Upper Geyser Basin Hike is a 6-hour guided experience with a picnic lunch and showcases over half of the world’s thermal features for $182 per person.
- The Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour is a 6-hour guided safari-style hike with a picnic lunch and opportunities to see bison, bears, and wolves for $192 per person.
- The Yellowstone River Whitewater Rafting adventure is a 4.5-hour whitewater rafting trip with a picnic lunch and navigates Class II and III rapids for $160 per person.
- These tours in Gardiner, Montana provide a range of scenic diversity, guided expertise, meal inclusions, and varying levels of physical demand, catering to different preferences.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Loop Hike With Lunch
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Loop Hike with Lunch whisks visitors on a captivating 6-hour journey along the rim of the iconic Yellowstone River gorge.
This guided tour offers a chance to encounter the Upper and Lower Falls, Yellowstone’s famous waterfalls, and explore the region’s diverse landscapes, including thermals, lakes, valleys, and abundant wildlife.
Departing from the Upper Falls Viewpoint Parking Area, the small group experience provides personalized attention from knowledgeable naturalist guides. Included in the $192 per person price are morning snacks, hot drinks, a picnic lunch, and essential gear like binoculars, trekking poles, and bear spray.
With a 5/5 rating based on 12 reviews, this hike is praised for its knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, the variety of scenery, and the overall safety and quality of the experience.
However, it’s not suitable for those over 80, with heart problems, children under 8, wheelchair users, or people with mobility issues.
Read our full review: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Loop Hike With Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Yellowstone: Upper Geyser Basin Hike With Lunch
Traversing the captivating Upper Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park, this guided hike immerses visitors in the park’s unparalleled geothermal wonders.
Priced from $182 per person, the 6-hour experience showcases over half of the world’s thermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful Geyser and the stunning Morning Glory Pool.
Led by a knowledgeable naturalist guide, the hike provides the opportunity to observe rare wildlife, such as elk, black bears, and bison, while also educating participants on the signs of the park’s supervolcano.
Included in the experience are a morning snack, hot drink, backpack, trekking pole, bear spray, and a picnic lunch.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required, this tour offers flexibility and convenience.
Based on 5 reviews, the Upper Geyser Basin Hike with Lunch boasts an impressive 4.8/5 rating, with customers praising the knowledgeable guides and tailored hikes for various fitness levels.
Read our full review: Yellowstone: Upper Geyser Basin Hike With Lunch Review
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Lamar Valley: Safari Hiking Tour With Lunch
Embark on an immersive safari-style hiking adventure through the captivating Lamar Valley, often referred to as the “Serengeti of North America.” Priced from $192 per person, this 6-hour guided tour takes you deep into the heart of Yellowstone’s premier wildlife viewing destination.
Equipped with binoculars and a group spotting scope, you’ll have the best chance of spotting bison, bears, wolves, pronghorn, elk, and a variety of bird species. Your local guide will share their expertise on Native American history and park ecology as you hike across varied terrain at an elevation of 6,500 feet.
Refuel mid-hike with a delicious picnic lunch by the Lamar River, and enjoy complimentary morning snacks and hot drinks. This tour is suitable for adults and children over 8, with gear like backpacks, trekking poles, and bear spray provided.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable and safety-conscious guides, as well as the incredible wildlife sightings and scenic vistas.
Read our full review: Lamar Valley: Safari Hiking Tour With Lunch Review
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From Gardiner: Yellowstone River Whitewater Rafting & Lunch
Thrill-seekers exploring Gardiner, Montana can enjoy a captivating 4.5-hour whitewater rafting adventure down the renowned Yellowstone River.
This guided journey navigates through Class II and III rapids, covering 18 miles, including the scenic Yankee Jim Canyon. With a small group limited to 8 participants, the tour offers an intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides.
Along the way, rafters can spot diverse wildlife like deer, elk, osprey, and bald eagles. They’ll also have the opportunity to swim in the river and enjoy a picnic lunch on an island, complete with sandwiches, chips, and cookies.
The tour’s safety is top-notch, with experienced guides certified in First Aid, CPR, and Swift Water Rescue. All necessary gear, including wetsuits, splash jackets, and life jackets, is provided.
Priced at $160 per person, this whitewater rafting experience allows for flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
It’s an adventurous and scenic way to savor the natural beauty of Gardiner and the greater Yellowstone region.
Read our full review: From Gardiner: Yellowstone River Whitewater Rafting & Lunch Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Lunch Experiences?
There’s generally no strict dress code for the lunch experiences in Gardiner, Montana. Visitors can dress comfortably, though some restaurants may have a slightly more formal atmosphere that calls for slightly nicer attire.
Can I Bring My Own Food to the Lunch Spots?
Bringing your own food to the lunch spots is generally not allowed, as these establishments serve their own meals and beverages. It’s best to inquire about their policies before visiting to ensure you have the most enjoyable dining experience.
Are the Lunch Menus Customizable for Dietary Restrictions?
Many Gardiner lunch spots accommodate dietary restrictions by offering customizable menus. Patrons can work with staff to modify dishes to meet their specific dietary needs, whether they’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or have other restrictions.
How Far in Advance Should I Book the Lunch Experiences?
Booking lunch experiences in advance can ensure availability, especially during peak seasons. Many restaurants recommend reserving a table at least 1-2 weeks prior to the desired date to secure your spot and accommodate any dietary restrictions.
Is There a Discount for Booking Multiple Lunch Experiences?
Many lunch experiences in Gardiner, Montana offer discounted packages for booking multiple reservations. It’s best to inquire with each hotel about their specific policies and potential savings for making multiple lunch bookings in advance.
The Sum Up
The best lunch experiences in Gardiner, Montana, offer a variety of outdoor adventures. Travelers can explore the stunning landscapes of Yellowstone National Park with guided hikes and river rafting tours that include a delicious lunch. Whether hiking the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, trekking through the Upper Geyser Basin, or embarking on a Lamar Valley safari, these experiences provide an unforgettable combination of breathtaking scenery and satisfying meals.