Our first night at Under Canvas North Yellowstone, a gentle rain turned into a ferocious storm, blowing gusts of wind across the Paradise Valley right down the flue of the tiny but mighty wood-burning stove in our tent. We unzipped the heavy duty canvas door and window flaps for a few minutes, stoked the fire and crawled back under the down duvet of the king bed to listen to the drama outside. We felt completely safe and cozy in the sturdy safari-inspired tent, designed by the founders of Under Canvas, now with 13 locations, all near national parks.
The next morning after a hot shower (each tent has a bathroom stocked with organic bath products), I wandered down to the Yellowstone River just outside our tent, where a fly angler was already casting into the clear water.
Up at the expansive lobby tent, furnished with West Elm classics, hot breakfast was being served (healthy, hearty and really delicious) and guests were chatting about the day’s plans. The historic lively town of Livingston, Wyoming is an easy 20 minute drive and the entrance to Yellowstone National Park is an hour south. Stop at Chico Hot Springs for a long soak and lunch and watch for elk, moose, wolves and grizzly bears. The Paradise Valley, aptly named, offers glorious views of the Absaroka Beartooth Mountains and Gallatin Range, ranging in elevation from 4,500 to 10,921 (at Emigrant Peak).
One morning (we visited in September), we woke to find the season’s first snow on the peaks of the mountains. From the deck of our tent, coffee in hand, I watched the clouds part revealing the bright white peaks. The staff was nonchalant while guests excitedly peered through the lobby telescope searching for wildlife amongst the snowy ridges. Each Under Canvas lobby tent is stocked with books on local history, games, gear, merch and snacks. While tents have USB battery packs to power the lamps, you’ll find outlets (if you must) in the lobby. The experience encourages you to live your best “Out of Africa” life, without the inconveniences of camping.
Two new camps are opening this summer at Yosemite (80 acres among towering California Black Oak and Ponderosa Pines) and the Columbia River Gorge (120 acres in the White Salmon River Valley). Mini kids tents are adorable and adjacent to mom and dad’s and the Stargazer tent offers a skylight above the bed for the ultimate sweet dreams.
When City Lifestyle readers book two or more nights at any Under Canvas location this season, receive a $100 adventure credit to use on unforgettable experiences, bookable through Under Canvas’ official Adventure Concierge. Book your stay using code ADVENTURE100 and receive a $100 adventure credit for this summer.