When I first came across a tour promising to turn you into a bone hunter, I was intrigued but also a little skeptical. How often do you get to combine a rugged outdoor hike with the chance to find actual bones, learn about animal remains, and even take home your discoveries? This Bone Hunting in Wyoming experience stands out because it’s not your typical nature walk; it’s a rare chance to connect with the wild in a very literal, hands-on way.
What really caught my attention are two things. First, the expert-led element—you’re guided by someone who’s clearly passionate and experienced, sharing insights that go beyond the usual nature tour. Second, the “find, identify, and keep” aspect makes it feel more like treasure hunting, which is just plain fun. That said, it’s a physically moderate activity with several hours of walking on uneven, off-trail terrain, so it’s not suited for everyone. If you’re into quirky, educational adventures or have a curiosity about animals and their remains, this might be right up your alley.
One point to consider: it’s a small-group tour, maxing out at four people, which means a more personalized experience but also could feel a bit tight if you prefer larger groups. Plus, the cost at $590 per group might seem steep for some, but when you think about the expertise, the hands-on learning, and the rarity of the activity, it’s a unique value—especially if you’re into fossil or bone collecting.
This tour suits those looking for a distinctive outdoor experience. Photographers, animal lovers, or anyone wanting to do something a little different from the usual Wyoming adventures will find this both interesting and memorable. Just remember, it’s an adventure that combines physical activity, curiosity, and a bit of a treasure hunt, all led by a knowledgeable guide.
Key Points
- Unique Off-Trail Hike: Venture into less-visited areas to find animal bones, away from typical tourist paths.
- Expert Guidance: Led by a professional bone hunter who shares insights about bones, species, and animal history.
- Hands-On Learning: Identify bones, learn about cleaning methods, and understand legalities around collecting remains.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups ensure personalized attention but mean booking early is advisable.
- Price and Value: At $590 for up to four people, it offers a tailored, educational experience, especially if you’re into fossils or nature.
- Physical Requirements: Moderate hiking on fairly flat but uneven terrain at nearly 7,000 feet elevation, suitable for those with a reasonable fitness level.
The Experience in Depth
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The Setting: Wyoming’s Rough and Tumble Wilderness
This isn’t a scripted, touristy walk through a park. The tour takes you into Wyoming’s more remote areas, where the terrain is fairly flat but requires several hours of walking on uneven, non-trail ground. The elevation is nearly 7,000 feet, so some physical exertion and moderate fitness are recommended. You’ll be driving in a private van to reach your starting point, which ensures comfort and flexibility.
What You’ll Actually Do
Once you arrive, the adventure begins. You’ll join your guide, a bone hunter with a TikTok following behind the account “RollBones,” on an off-trail quest for animal remains. The guide will explain “vulture culture”, shedding light on how scavengers contribute to bone preservation, and teach you various methods of cleaning bones—a skill that’s surprisingly satisfying to learn.
The core of the experience involves finding bones, which means exploring areas where animals have left behind their remains over time. Your guide will help you distinguish between different species, age, and even potential causes of death based on bone clues. You’ll learn about which bones you are allowed to keep, how to get permits if necessary, and which ones you should leave behind—important info for anyone interested in legal and ethical collecting.
What’s the Prize?
Apart from the thrill of discovery, you’ll get to collect skulls and bones during the hike. Afterward, your guide will teach you bone-cleaning techniques — an art that involves safely preparing your finds for display or storage. If you decide you’d rather have your bones professionally cleaned and shipped, that’s an option for an additional fee, making this a great opportunity to start your own collection.
Learning and Sharing
This isn’t just about picking up bones—your guide will tell you what each find can tell us about the animal, including details like age or cause of death, turning each discovery into a mini lesson. You’ll also get a peek into “vulture culture”, which adds a fascinating ecological perspective.
The Logistics
Your tour lasts about 4 hours, which is enough time to explore, find some bones, learn techniques, and get back. The cost is $590 per group (up to four people), which, when split, isn’t too bad considering the personalized guidance and the educational value. The experience includes pickup, eliminating the hassle of logistics, and the ticket is mobile, so it’s flexible.
Real-World Feedback
While the tour has no reviews yet, based on the description and features, it’s likely to appeal most to adventure seekers and animal enthusiasts. The small group size promises a more intimate, tailored experience. If you’re someone who enjoys learning new skills, or you’re curious about animal remains and nature’s recyclers, this could be a highlight.
Practical Considerations
Since the terrain is off-trail and the activity involves walking on uneven ground, it’s wise to have moderate physical fitness. Wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring water, and be prepared for variable Wyoming weather. The elevation might cause some fatigue, especially if you’re not used to higher altitudes.
The tour is priced at a premium, but the value hinges on your interest in bone discovery, wildlife, or collecting. If it’s your first time, or if you’re traveling with someone equally curious, the shared experience can be quite rewarding.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect if you’re craving something different and educational. It’s well-suited for adventure travelers, photographers looking for unique shots, or animal lovers who want to understand more about wildlife and their remains. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate a personalized experience and don’t mind a bit of physical activity.
On the flip side, if your idea of a vacation is lounging by the pool or a more relaxed sightseeing tour, this might be too hands-on and physically demanding. Also, the cost could be a barrier for some, but if you view it as a niche, memorable experience, it could be worth the investment.
The Sum Up
The Bone Hunting in Wyoming tour offers a truly distinctive way to connect with the natural world. It combines adventure, education, and the thrill of discovery into a manageable four-hour package. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore areas most visitors never see, learning how to find and care for animal bones. It’s a great pick for those who want to add a bit of curiosity and hands-on learning to their Wyoming trip.
While it’s not for everyone—especially not those seeking calm, leisurely activities—it’s likely to be a highlight for travelers interested in wildlife, fossils, or just wanting to try something new and a little bit different. If you’re willing to venture off the beaten path and get your hands dirty, this could be a memorable, rewarding experience.
Bone Hunting in Wyoming
FAQ
Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes private pickup in a van, making it easy to reach the off-trail locations without hassle.
How physically demanding is the hike?
It involves several hours of walking on fairly flat but uneven terrain, so moderate fitness is recommended. You should be comfortable with some off-trail walking.
Can I keep the bones I find?
Your guide will inform you which bones you can legally keep. Permitting is handled if necessary, and you’ll be taught how to properly collect and handle the remains.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for uneven ground, bring layers for Wyoming’s variable weather, and have water handy.
Is it suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults and older teens comfortable with physical activity; it’s not specifically tailored for young children.
What happens if I want my bones cleaned and shipped?
You can opt for professional cleaning and shipping for an additional fee, making it easy to start your own collection.
If you’re looking for an adventure that’s a bit quirky, educational, and physically engaging, this Bone Hunting in Wyoming tour delivers. Just be prepared for a day of exploration that could leave you with more than just memories—you might come home with actual bones to show off.