Come alive with Backcountry Yoga as we explore the North West tip of Yellowstone National Park and Bozeman Montana!
On this 8 Day adventure we’ll spend 5 days & 4 nights sleeping under the stars, moving campsite to campsite, learning backcountry cooking, and so much more!
Once off trail we'll enjoy 2 days and 2 nights at the Chico Hot Springs Resort & Day Spa where you'll have access to comfortable beds, showers, amenities and an opportunity to reflect on our time out in the wild.
August 1: Arrive in Bozeman, Montana
Fly into Bozeman Airport.
We will meet and stay at La Quinta in Belgrade for the night, meet our Breakwater Expedition Guides and prepare for our 5 day, 4 night backpacking adventure. (Meals covered: D)
August 2-August 6: Backpacking
Begin 5 days of hiking & camping in Yellowstone National Park. Please be prepared to carry up to 40 pounds of weight on your back during this time. We will be in the backcountry, thus electricity and plumbing will not be accessible. (Meals covered 5-B,L,D)
August 6: Off the trail and head to Chico Hot Springs
After we come off the trail, we will drive to our lodging at Chico Hot Springs for our long awaited showers, hot spring soak and relaxation. Dinner is on your own for this evening. (Meals covered B,L)
August 7: Whitewater Rafting
On this day we will enjoy one of the many summer time activities that Montana has to offer by heading out and experiencing the scenic Yellowstone River and whitewater rafting. The afternoon is intended for a little rest and relaxation and exploring the town. Meals are on your own during this day. Chico Hot Spring does have a wonderful restaurant and there is a small cafe as well. (No Meals)
August 8: Fly out of Bozeman Airport
**If you wish to extend your stay let us know! This part of Montana gets very busy during the summer and you will want to make accommodation reservations asap!**
There is nothing better than exploring a National Park away from the bustling crowds of people, (especially in the times of covid)
Backpacking in Yellowstone is a way to do just that. We'll see some of the iconic features, but quickly escape into the serene silence of wildflowers, bison and sweeping mountain views.
Location: Northwest Yellowstone (Montana)
Approximate Backpacking Distance: TBD
Approximate miles/day: TBD
Elevation Starting Point: Yellowstone sits at about 8,000 feet above sea level
Elevation Gain: TBD
Elevation Loss: TBD
Trail Names ( these are subject to change): TBD
This will be a true backpacking experience that will test your physical and mental limits. We will not have access to front country amenities like running water, bathrooms, showers, electricity, or cell phone service.
In your pack you will carry your personal gear and a portion of group gear based on your physical size. The weight of your backpack could reach up to 40lbs depending on what you pack.
We will camp in groups of 2 sharing tents and collaboratively cooking backcountry meals. (You are welcome to request a solo tent)
To join this retreat you will need to be in peak physical condition without any underlying injuries. To learn more on how to condition your body for backpacking see our "physical training" tab
Incase you are still wondering... YES you will have to go to the bathroom outside (:-P) If this will be your first time digging a cat hole, please don't let it stress you out. Going #2 outside with a view is one of the more liberating human experiences you'll have in your life.
Take a moment to watch this video to learn everything you need to know about having a pleasant and proper backcountry poop:
Yoga is all levels!
We also encourage you to consider the full picture of what yoga truly is.
"Yoga is a discipline to improve or develop one's inherent power in a balanced manner. It offers the means to attain complete self-realization." (The Ministry of AYUSH) In this framework our entire week is in fact a practice of yoga. From the moment we meet one another and set intentions, to the the first steps on the trail we are practicing yoga.
This means, that while we offer the asana (the posture practice of yoga) throughout the week, everything is subject to weather and trail conditions.
We appreciate your willingness to leave all expectations at the door and give into the flow of our adventure!
We highly recommend that you start training now!
When hiking at elevation, your body is working a little harder to get the oxygen it needs, being in peak physical shape gives your body one less thing to have to compensate for.
Exercises we recommend:
-Ability to run 3 miles in 30 minutes, or run at a consistent pace for 60+ minutes
-Include hills in your running route
-Include sprints in your flat land running
-Hiking uphill ( you can run all you want on flat land, but it won't prepare your muscles for going up hill) If you're training inside try putting a treadmill on its maximum incline or use a stair-master.
-Weighted squats & Lunges ( Try loading up a backpack at home!)
-Step downs to strengthen muscles for descending
-High Intensity Interval training ( Increase your cardiovascular strength)
-Yoga for building mobility and balance
- Get used to wearing a heavy backpack ( Make sure you buckle it at your hips to take pressure off your shoulders)
Dates: August 1 -August 8, 2021
Cost Includes: 3 Nights lodging, ground transport, expedition expenses, and food while on expedition.
Guides: Backcountry Yoga’s qualified guides will provide a safe, fun, and meaningful adventure.
Climate: July/August temperatures in Yellowstone range from 50’s to 70’s.
Clothing: See Packing List.( Sent upon registration)
Gear: Any additional gear needed for the trip will be provided.
Cuisine: Healthy fresh food, vegetables, fruits, nuts, grains, and dried meats.
Your $499 deposit is nonrefundable.
Cancellations outside of 90 days will be given a 75% refund minus your nonrefundable $499 deposit
Cancellations inside 90 days and outside 60 days will be given 50% refund minus your nonrefundable $499 deposit
Cancellations inside 60 days are nonrefundable.