Montana Old West Towns: Virginia and Nevada City Private Tour
Active
7h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour takes you to two of The wild West most historic sites. Explore an open air living museum. Tour what has been in actual movie sets. See wildlife along the way. Your personal photographer will take actual antique photos for your memory book.
Available options
Montana Old West Ghost Towns Private VIP Tour - From West Yellowstone MT
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Snacks
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel or AirBnB Drop off and Pick Up included.
Detailed itinerary
1
Quake Lake is a lake in the western United States, on the Madison River in southwestern Montana. It was created after an earthquake struck on August 17, 1959, with 28 fatalities. Northwest of West Yellowstone, Quake Lake is six miles in length with a maximum depth of 125 feet. A stop at the Visitor Center is included (only during the spring and summer)
2
Nevada City was a mining ghost town until the Bovey family restored it between 1945 and 1978. The entire town of Nevada City is a living historical museum. Today it is a famous tourist attraction with many original log buildings and an outstanding collection of old-time music boxes, player pianos and calliopes.
3
Stop 3
What was once the largest town East of The Mississippi. Rich in Western Culture.
4
The Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center is a not-for-profit wildlife park and educational facility opened in 1993 that is located in West Yellowstone, Montana, United States. It is open 365 days a year, and admission is good for two consecutive days
5
Stop 5
Founded in 1908, the community of West Yellowstone began with the arrival of rail service to this location. Explore the stories of the growth and changes that occurred in this town as it developed into a true community. The railroad facilities built by the Union Pacific Railroad in West Yellowstone are encompassed in the West Yellowstone Oregon Shortline Terminus Historic District. Discover the stories of the buildings and structures in the Historic District, and see historic photos of them. (* this stop is only available from May 14th to Oct 6th)
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone, Montana, is a charming town that serves as the western gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Known for its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities, it's a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The town offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring one of America's most famous national parks.
Top Attractions
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is the world's first national park, renowned for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, and wolves.
Nature
Multiple days recommended
Entry fee required (valid for 7 days): $35 per private vehicle, $30 per motorcycle, $20 per person on foot or bicycle
Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center
This educational facility provides a unique opportunity to observe and learn about grizzly bears and gray wolves in a naturalistic setting. The center focuses on conservation and research.
Nature
1-2 hours
Adults: $18, Seniors (65+): $16, Children (5-12): $10, Children under 5: Free
Yellowstone Giant Screen Theater
This theater offers immersive giant screen films about Yellowstone National Park and other nature-related topics. It's a great way to learn about the park's history and wildlife.
Entertainment
1-1.5 hours
Adults: $12, Seniors (65+): $10, Children (6-12): $8, Children under 6: Free
Ranger Station Museum
This museum showcases the history of Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding area. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bison Burger
A burger made from lean, flavorful bison meat, often served with local toppings and sides
Main Course
Gluten-free options available
Huckleberry Pie
A sweet pie made with wild huckleberries, a local favorite
Dessert
Vegetarian
Trout Almondine
Fresh trout cooked with butter, lemon, and almonds, a classic dish in the region
Main Course
Gluten-free options available
Popular Activities
Hiking
Wildlife viewing
Camping
Whitewater rafting
Mountain biking
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Photography
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The summer months offer the best weather for exploring Yellowstone National Park, with warm days and cool nights. This is the peak tourist season, with all park facilities and attractions fully operational.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
West Yellowstone is a generally safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should be aware of wildlife, including bears, bison, and elk, and take precautions to avoid encounters. The town is small and walkable, but petty crime can occur, so always be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- • Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife
- • Be cautious when driving; watch for wildlife on the roads
Getting there
By air
- Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport • 90 miles (145 km)
- Idaho Falls Regional Airport • 160 miles (257 km)
By bus
Bozeman, MT, Idaho Falls, ID
Getting around
Taxis
Available • Apps: Local taxi companies do not typically use apps; bookings are usually made by phone.
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown West Yellowstone
Madison Junction Area
Day trips
Big Sky, Montana
50 miles (80 km) • Full day recommended
Big Sky is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The area is known for its stunning mountain scenery and luxury resorts.
Ennis, Montana
70 miles (113 km) • Full day recommended
Ennis is a charming town known for its fly fishing, historic buildings, and scenic beauty. The town is located near the Madison River, a popular fly fishing destination.
Grand Teton National Park
90 miles (145 km) • Full day or overnight recommended
Grand Teton National Park is known for its stunning mountain scenery, including the iconic Grand Teton peaks. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Festivals
Yellowstone Winter Festival • February
Yellowstone Summer Festival • July
Pro tips
- Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds at popular attractions
- Dress in layers, as weather can change rapidly and temperatures can vary significantly
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it when exploring the park
- Download offline maps and use a reliable GPS or navigation app, as cell service can be spotty in the park
- Book accommodations, guided tours, and popular restaurants well in advance, especially during peak season
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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