Bone Hunting in Wyoming

Bone Hunting in Wyoming: An Unforgettable Treasure Hunt

Imagine wandering off the beaten path in Wyoming, not just to take a scenic hike, but to actively seek out the skeletal remains of animals that once roamed these plains. That’s exactly what this Bone Hunting in Wyoming tour promises. Led by a seasoned bone hunter with a social media following, this experience is a rare chance to combine outdoor adventure with a touch of archaeology and natural history — all in a small, intimate group setting.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the off-trail hiking takes you where few visitors venture, adding an element of discovery and exclusivity. Second, the hands-on approach — learning about “vulture culture,” bone-cleaning techniques, and understanding the stories bones tell — elevates this from a simple walk to an educational, memorable experience. The only downside? It’s quite physically active, requiring moderate fitness and comfort with hiking over flat but unmarked terrain at nearly 7,000 feet elevation.

This tour is ideal for animal lovers, photographers, or anyone with a curiosity for natural history and a sense of adventure. If you’re looking for a unique pastime that’s both fun and informative, and don’t mind getting a little dusty and muddy, this might just be your new favorite Wyoming story.

Key Points

• Unique Off-Trail Experience: A rare opportunity to hike in less-visited areas and find animal bones firsthand.
• Educational Focus: Learn about “vulture culture,” bone cleaning, and what bones reveal about animal life and death.
• Hands-On Collecting: Legal and permitted collection of skulls and bones, with professional cleaning options available.
• Small Group Setting: Just up to four participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Duration & Logistics: About 4 hours of adventure, with transportation included from a central meeting point.
• Physical Demands: Several hours of fairly flat hiking at high altitude, suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.

What to Expect from this Wyoming Bone-Hunting Tour

This experience is unlike any typical outdoor activity. It combines the thrill of treasure hunting with education, all set in Wyoming’s rugged landscape. Led by the person behind the viral TikTok account “RollBones,” you’ll venture into secluded areas where animal remains have often been overlooked or forgotten.

The Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins with convenient pickup from the Wagner Chevron Food Mart & Liquor in Diamondville. From there, your guide — an expert in bone hunting — will drive your small group in a comfortable van to the starting point. This private transportation ensures a smooth and personalized experience.

Once on-site, the real fun begins. Expect to trek over non-trail terrain that is flat but may be uneven or rocky. The guide will lead you to areas where bones are likely to be found, like old carcass sites or natural accumulations. The guide’s expertise means you’ll quickly learn to distinguish between different species and determine if a bone is worth collecting.

What You’ll Learn and Do

The guide will share insights about “vulture culture,” explaining the role of scavengers in ecosystems and why bones are vital clues in understanding wildlife. You’ll learn about bone-cleaning methods, which are practical skills you can take home. If you choose, professional cleaning and shipping of your finds can be arranged for an additional fee, turning your outdoor discoveries into tangible keepsakes.

Participants will be allowed to collect certain bones and skulls, but the guide will emphasize legality and ethical considerations, such as which bones are permissible to keep and how to secure permits if needed. This educational component adds a responsible dimension to an otherwise adventurous activity.

From Treasures to Knowledge

As you gather your finds, the guide will help you identify what species they belonged to, often with fascinating details like age or cause of death. One reviewer noted, “You’ll love the way the guide explains what these bones tell us about the animals’ lives.” This interpretive element transforms what could be a simple hunt into a storytelling session rooted in science.

Post-Hunt Activities

After the hunt, the group will return to the starting point, where your guide will provide tips on bone cleaning. For those wanting to preserve their discoveries, options for professional cleaning and shipment exist. This makes the experience not just a one-time adventure but an opportunity to build a collection or gift meaningful souvenirs.

Additional Practicalities

The tour lasts about 4 hours, making it a manageable outing that combines outdoor activity with education. The small group size means personalized attention — ideal for asking questions and learning directly from an expert. While transportation and guiding are included, you’ll want to bring a snack or plan a meal afterward, as no meals are provided.

Analyzing the Cost and Value

At $590 for up to four people, this tour may seem pricey compared to typical hikes or sightseeing trips. However, when weighing the value, consider the exclusive access to seldom-visited areas, the personalized guidance, and the hands-on educational component. You’re not just watching wildlife from a distance but actively participating in a form of natural history exploration.

The price also covers transportation, expert instruction, and the chance to keep bones legally, which can be expensive and complicated without proper guidance. Plus, the opportunity to learn bone-cleaning techniques adds a craft element that could spark a new hobby.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for adventurous families, natural history buffs, wildlife photographers, or anyone looking for a quirky, educational activity in Wyoming. It’s especially appealing if you’ve already explored the state’s iconic sights and want to try something different, memorable, and hands-on.

The Small Group Advantage

With a maximum of four travelers, this tour offers an intimate environment. You’ll get plenty of time for questions and personal attention from your guide, which enhances the educational value. The small size also means less environmental impact and a more personalized connection to the landscape.

Final Thoughts

This Wyoming bone-hunting tour offers a rare peek into the world of scavengers and animals long gone. It’s a mix of outdoor recreation, learning, and a bit of treasure hunting — all wrapped into a manageable 4-hour outing. The guide’s expertise turns what could be a simple hike into an immersive educational experience, making it ideal for curious travelers eager to learn about nature’s recyclers and the stories bones can tell.

While it demands a moderate level of physical activity and an interest in natural history, it rewards participants with unique memories, hands-on skills, and maybe even a new collection of bones. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photographer, or just someone eager to do something truly different, this tour promises an authentic, memorable adventure.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes private transportation in the guide’s van from the designated meeting point.

What is the meeting point?
Participants meet at the Wagner Chevron Food Mart & Liquor, 35 US-189, Diamondville, WY.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 4 hours, from pickup to return.

Can I bring my own bones or skulls?
The guide will advise on which bones you can keep and how to get permits if necessary. The focus is on legal collection and educational value.

Is this suitable for children?
The activity requires several hours of hiking on non-trail terrain at high elevation, so it’s best suited for those in moderate physical condition and comfortable with outdoor adventures.

What should I bring?
Bring sturdy footwear, water, a snack, and possibly gloves for handling bones. The guide might provide some tools but confirm with the provider.

Are there any age restrictions?
No specific age restrictions are listed, but physical demands suggest it’s better suited for older children and adults comfortable with hiking.

Can I have bones professionally cleaned and shipped?
Yes, professional cleaning and shipping are available for an additional fee.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 4 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is there any cancellation policy?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

This bone-hunting tour in Wyoming combines the thrill of discovery with educational insights, making it a truly unique way to explore the state’s wild side. If you’re ready for an adventure that’s a little weird, a lot fun, and deeply informative, this might just be your next favorite story from Wyoming.