Specimen Creek Outfitters

Specimen Creek Outfitters sits just north of Yellowstone National Park in Gardiner, Montana. The Johnson family homesteaded in Jardine back in 1932, and Ralph Johnson carries forward that legacy today as a Montana State licensed outfitter (Permit #49714), operating in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness under special use authorization from the Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Guided Big Game Hunts - 5-day elk and mule deer combos—both lodge-based ($5,800) and backcountry wilderness ($5,800) - 5-day mule deer hunts from the lodge ($5,600) - Bighorn sheep hunts in Hunting Area 303 ($5,000 + trophy fee) - Buffalo hunts near Gardiner ($6,000 + trophy fee) - Bow and rifle hunt options with detailed packing lists

Horseback Riding Experiences - 1-hour scenic rides ($100/person) - 2-hour rides—their most popular option ($200/person) - Half-day rides through higher alpine terrain ($300/person) - Full-day backcountry adventures with lunch included ($600/person) - Lead rides for young children starting at age 5 ($30/person)

Custom Wilderness Pack Trips - $650 per person, per day - Fully outfitted camps with cook tents, sleeping tents, and essentials - Build your own itinerary: mountain passes, alpine lakes, backcountry exploration - Minimum age 6 with legal guardian for overnight trips

Choose between lodge-based comfort and full backcountry immersion. Lodge hunts include cozy cabin lodging and hearty meals. Backcountry hunts require a full day riding in, 5 days of horseback hunting, and a day riding out—staying in traditional wall tents with campfire-cooked meals.

Wildlife is real here. Elk, deer, bears, and even wolves are possible along the trails. Remote, private terrain means you rarely see other riders.

Ralph hunts and guides with three loyal companions—Sammie, Spruce, and Sage—who are part of every adventure. The horses are well-trained, gentle, and suited for riders of all skill levels.

All trips operate in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness near Yellowstone's northern edge. Riders and hunters explore aspen groves, pine forests, mountain meadows, and high alpine lakes with views overlooking the park. This is untouched country—no busy commercial trails here.

Contact: - Phone/Text: (406) 548-2742 - Office: (406) 640-7774 - Physical: 14 Hanlon Hill Drive, Gardiner, MT 59030 - Mailing: 579 Jardine Road, Gardiner, MT 59030 - Hours: Monday–Sunday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM

Payment & Policies - Accepts cash, check, credit card (2% fee), and Venmo - Rides are non-refundable; gratuity appreciated but not included - Pack trip deposits are 50% of trip cost (non-refundable), balance due at start - Cancellation due to extenuating circumstances may allow deposit to roll to another trip within one year - Trips book fast during Montana's short summer season

Private, personalized experiences. No commercial crowds. Deep family roots in the region spanning over 90 years. A professional outfitter who knows every ridge and pass in the Absaroka-Beartooth. Whether you're a first-time rider or a seasoned hunter, Ralph tailors the adventure to what you want.