Now’s Your Last Chance for Backpacking Reservations to Get the Best Campsites!

Jim Holstein |

Interested in setting up a Yellowstone backpacking trip this season? Make sure you get your reservations in now, and don’t delay! The best campsites fill up quickly, so advance planning is necessary to make sure you get an ideal spot.

We’re encouraging all guests to make their reservations by Monday, February 15, 2021. We will be putting in our first round of campsite requests on February 20, so please be prompt with your reservations!

Hiking in the time of COVID-19

We’re still expecting to be dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic throughout much of the year, so if you’re looking for a fun, socially distant outdoor adventure to enjoy, look no further than a Yellowstone backpacking trip.

If you’re wondering about the safety of hiking and backpacking during the time of COVID-19, here are a few tips to help you enjoy your journey responsibly:

  • Behave like you have the virus: This is a good general rule for your interactions when out in public. You might not have any symptoms or be aware of an exposure, but that doesn’t mean you absolutely are not carrying the virus asymptomatically. Be considerate in your interactions, leave plenty of space, keep groups small and limited to people who are in your bubble and do not behave recklessly when you encounter other groups of people on the trails or at campsites.
  • Stick to your campsite: It’s true that one of the great parts of backpacking or camping is coming across other groups of people at campsites and bonding around the fire. But this time around, you’re probably better off staying at your own campsite and keeping socialization limited to the group of people you’re traveling with.
  • Don’t congregate in areas: Avoid congregating in the parking lot at the trailhead, and don’t carpool with anyone who’s not in your bubble or your group.
  • Be smart on the trail: It’s important to practice social distancing while out on the trail. Try to keep at least six feet of distance from other hikers and groups. Step off the trail to let people pass, and pick wider trails whenever possible.
  • Keep your groups small: Try to keep your groups small. You’ll probably get more enjoyment out of the solitude of nature this way anyway, but remember that the more people you bring along with you, the greater the chances you’re camping with someone carrying the virus. Try to stick to traveling only with people in your household.
  • Bring a mask: Even though you are outdoors, it is still polite to have a mask or face covering with you if you’re going to be on busy trails. Putting on a mask briefly while passing others is polite during the pandemic, and simply the responsible thing to do.

These are just a few examples of some of the ways you can adjust your hiking habits to stay safe during the coronavirus pandemic. Backpacking trips in Yellowstone are still safe, fun adventures to take on, so make your plans now to get your campsite, and get yourself ready for a fun time!