yellowstone national park tour

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The 16 best yellowstone national park tours of 2024.

Make the most of your trip to the oldest U.S. national park with these guided excursions.

The Best Yellowstone National Park Tours

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Home to more than 2.2 million acres, hundreds of geysers and waterfalls, as well as Yellowstone Lake – the largest high-altitude lake in North America – Yellowstone National Park is a bucket list vacation destination for many travelers. For an unforgettable visit to America's oldest national park, consider a guided tour. In addition to in-the-know locals, these tours provide hassle-free transportation from nearby cities like Jackson Hole, Wyoming . With the help of traveler and expert input, U.S. News determined that the following tours offer the best ways to take in everything the park has to offer. All of these top-rated excursions feature skillful guides who are eager to share their knowledge of the park's unique geologic features and wildlife.

Note: Because of weather and other factors, Yellowstone's roads are not accessible all year, and its entrances in Wyoming and Montana have differing seasonal opening and closing dates. Additionally, tour companies' prices typically do not include the park's $20 entry fee for each visitor 16 and older.

BrushBuck Wildlife Tours – Yellowstone Old Faithful, Waterfalls and Wildlife Day Tour

Price: From $299 Duration: 12 hours

Take a day to observe Yellowstone's scenery and wildlife on this tour. After passing through Grand Teton National Park , buses proceed to highlights of Yellowstone National Park, such as Old Faithful , Yellowstone Lake , the Upper and Lower Falls, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and numerous geyser basins. Throughout the journey, guides provide commentary on the area's history, flora and fauna, which travelers typically find very insightful.

Buses depart Jackson Hole daily from April through November starting at 6 a.m., and tour-takers must be at least 6 years old. Fees include the use of binoculars and spotting scopes, as well as a picnic lunch. Private outings and multiday tours are also available.

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Teton Floats – Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour

Price: From $299 Duration: 11 hours

See many of Yellowstone's top thermal attractions on this small-group outing, which also travels through Grand Teton National Park. Marvel at the famously reliable Old Faithful, which erupts every 90 minutes, as well as geysers such as Beehive, Castle, Daisy, Grand and Sawmill. Other highlights include the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the Grand Prismatic Spring . In addition to enthusing about the scenery and wildlife, tour-takers frequently praise the guides for their valuable information and entertaining stories.

Pickups from lodging in Jackson and Teton Village occur around 7:30 a.m., and buses return to the starting point between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Tours happen daily from May to mid-October. Prices include transportation, use of binoculars, snacks and a picnic lunch. Groups are limited to eight people, all of whom must be at least 4 years old. The company also operates tours in Grand Teton National Park, in addition to fly-fishing trips.

Scenic Safaris – Yellowstone Snowmobile Tour (Old Faithful)

Price: From $525 (single) or $855 (tandem) Duration: 12 hours

While certain parts of the park may be inaccessible by conventional four-wheeled vehicles in winter, that doesn't mean there aren't adventures to be had. This 45-mile snowmobile tour beside the Yellowstone River takes riders past points of interest, such as Moose Falls, Lewis Canyon and West Thumb Geyser Basin, to Old Faithful. Rides are offered daily from mid-December to mid-March, a period when some of the park's larger animals move down to its lower valleys. Tripgoers generally find snowmobiling in the park a memorable experience, one enhanced by the helpful, informed guides' commentary.

Jackson Hole-based Scenic Safaris picks up tour-takers in the area between 6 and 7:30 a.m. and returns them to their lodgings between 6 and 7 p.m. Prices vary throughout the season, but they always include the use of a snowmobile, a helmet and a snowsuit, as well as morning snacks and lunch. Drivers must be at least 16 years old, and riders must be at least 8 years old. Private tours are also available.

Yellowstone Adventure Tours – The Best of Yellowstone

Price: From $1,250 Duration: 8 to 10 hours

Visit the best-known Yellowstone spots – including Old Faithful and the Upper and Lower Falls – but also several lesser-known geysers, hot springs, waterfalls and wildlife viewing areas on this private excursion. Trip-takers consistently praise the enthusiastic, personable guides' commentary about the park's remarkable landscape and wildlife.

Tour prices vary based on the size of your party. Prices include pickups from locations in West Yellowstone, Bozeman, Big Sky, Livingston, Paradise Valley, Gardiner and Mammoth, Montana, as well as locations within the park. You'll also get a picnic lunch, use of binoculars and scopes, and snacks. The expeditions occur between May and October. Start times vary by season, but tours generally begin early in the morning. Yellowstone Adventure Tours also offers private outings devoted strictly to off-the-beaten-path locations, as well as multiday tours of the expansive park.

Yellowstone Raft Company – Scenic Float

Price: Adults from $74; kids from $64 Duration: 2 hours

Sights on this raft ride include Boiling Beach, LaDuke Hot Springs, the Devil's Slide (a cliff with a distinct stripe of red rock) and Electric Peak. Reviewers frequently praise both the beautiful scenery and the engaging guides.

From May through September, tours are available daily starting at 9 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. The company asks that participants arrive about 30 minutes prior to departure to get ready and sign paperwork. Prices include transportation from the meeting point at the northern border of the park to the river. Gardiner-based Yellowstone Raft Company also offers whitewater rafting, as well as kayaking and horseback riding. Private tours start at $600 for parties of six; each additional person pays $74.

Flying Pig Adventures – 8-Mile Rafting Trip

Experience Yellowstone by rafting its eponymous river. On this trip, you'll paddle through Class II and III (novice- and intermediate-level) rapids with names like Queen of the Waters, Rock Garden and Sleeping Giant, and pass sights such as Devil's Slide and the nearly 11,000-foot tall Electric Peak. Participants consistently describe this tour as fun and deem its guides friendly and entertaining.

Trips operate daily from May through August starting at 9:15 and 11:15 a.m., as well as 1:15, 3:15 and 5:15 p.m. Rafters must weigh at least 45 pounds to participate. In addition to this 8-mile trip, Flying Pig offers an 18-mile ride, as well as an overnight expedition.

Wild West Rafting – Classic Half-Day Whitewater Experience

Price: Adults from $69; kids from $59 Duration: 2 hours

Ride mild and intermediate rapids on an 8-mile stretch of the Yellowstone River on this outing. You may also glimpse deer, elk, osprey, bald eagles and other wildlife inhabiting the area as you paddle down the river. In addition to enjoying the views, travelers typically find the guides knowledgeable, enthusiastic and helpful.

Raft trips run daily from May through September at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Prices include use of life jackets, water shoes and (on colder days) wetsuits. They also cover transportation from Wild West Rafting's Gardiner office to the river. Full-day paddling trips, in addition to private outings are also available.

Yellowstone Geyser Kayak Tours – Day Paddle

Price: From $200 (single) or $175 (tandem) Duration: 5 hours

Kayaking in the West Thumb Geyser Basin – the largest geyser basin in Yellowstone Lake – allows you to see geothermal features, some of them underwater, that would otherwise be inaccessible. This outing also travels to Potts Basin, an area with no boardwalk and, possibly, no other visitors. Travelers report enjoying the scenery and appreciate the informative guides.

Tours begin and end at the marina in Grant Village on the western side of Yellowstone Lake. Trips are available daily from late May through late September at 9 a.m. (though they may begin at 10 a.m. toward the end of the season) and conclude at around 2 or 3 p.m. Prices include a picnic lunch and use of all necessary kayaking gear. No prior experience is required, and children ages 5 to 12 must ride in a tandem kayak with an adult. The company also operates sunset paddling trips.

Wildland Trekking – Private Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Price: From $550 Duration: 4 to 7 hours

This private trek through the park can be tailored to suit your preferences, with possible routes ranging from 3.5 to 8 miles long. Whatever way you go, you're likely to see Artist Point overlook, as well as forests, lakes, geysers, mud pots and meadows in areas away from the park's boardwalks. Reviewers enjoy the beautiful scenery and appreciate the helpful, patient and personable guides.

You can sign up for this excursion from mid-May through September. Prices vary depending on group size and include lunch, snacks and use of trekking poles. Participants will be notified of their exact start times a week before their hikes. Wildland Trekking also organizes multiday tours around the national park.

Yellowstone Hiking Guides – Grand Canyon Rim Hike

Price: From $182 Duration: 6 hours

Walk the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone on this 6-mile trek and see Yellowstone landmarks like the river's Upper and Lower Falls, as well as forests and meadows. Hikers find the views spectacular and the guides both knowledgeable and entertaining.

Tours take place every day except Sunday from June through September. Groups meet at the Upper Falls View parking area off of South Rim Drive at 8 a.m. Prices include lunch, snacks and use of trekking poles. The company leads a variety of hikes around the park, including the Lamar Valley.

Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris – Best of Yellowstone

Price: From $345 Duration: 10 to 12 hours

Observe the wildlife and landscape of Yellowstone on this full-day, small-group tour, during which naturalists offer insights on the area's ecology, wildlife and geology. In addition to animals, you'll see the park's famed geysers, hot springs and waterfalls. Tourgoers regularly report seeing ample wildlife and appreciate the friendly, informative guides.

Excursions are available from mid-April through October. Pickup from lodging in Jackson and Teton Village typically begins around 6:30 a.m. (or 7 a.m. later in the season). Prices include transportation, breakfast and lunch, as well as use of binoculars and spotting scopes. Groups are capped at eight participants. Half-day (four- to five-hour) iterations of this tour are also available.

Grizzly Country Wildlife Adventures – Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour

Price: From $365 Duration: 12 hours

This tour hits many of Yellowstone's top attractions – including Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River, Fountain Paint Pots and Yellowstone Lake – as well as some lesser-known geological formations. In addition to seeing multiple geysers, lakes and waterfalls, you'll have opportunities to glimpse some of the park's diverse wildlife. The trip also includes a morning drive through Grand Teton National Park on the way to Yellowstone. Travelers frequently rave about the scenery and appreciate that the engaging guides try to visit off-the-beaten-path locations within the busy national park.

Tours typically take place from mid-May through December. Departures from Jackson and Teton Village begin at 7 a.m., and vans return approximately 12 hours later. Fees include transportation, lunch, snacks, and use of spotting scopes and binoculars. The company also leads wildlife safaris year-round.

Old Faithful Snowmobile Tours – Yellowstone Snowmobiling Day Tour

Price: From $425 Duration: 12 hours

Marvel at a snow-covered Yellowstone on this daylong snowmobile tour to Old Faithful. Stops along the way include Black Sand Basin and Moose Falls. During the approximately 100-mile ride (which lasts about six hours), you'll likely see multiple geysers and waterfalls, as well as an array of wildlife. Reviewers consistently gush about the views and appreciate the professional and accommodating guides.

Fees include pickup in the Jackson area between 6 and 6:30 a.m., as well as a continental breakfast and lunch. Groups typically return to Jackson between 4:30 and 5:30 p.m. Tours run daily from mid-December to mid-March, and the company also operates multiday adventures.

Yellowstone Vacations – Snowcoach Tour Old Faithful

Price: Adults from $240; kids from $220 Duration: 9 hours

Snowcoaches – buses with oversized, low-pressure tires – allow you to experience Yellowstone during the less accessible winter months. This tour's vehicles take passengers to popular locales within the park, such as Biscuit Basin, Black Sand Basin, Fountain Paint Pot, Madison Junction and, of course, Old Faithful. Passengers generally find the coaches warm and comfortable and the drivers (who double as guides) knowledgeable and passionate about the park.

From mid-December to mid-March, daily tours begin at 8 a.m. and end at 5 p.m. Yellowstone Vacations also conducts snowmobile tours and, during summer months, bus tours.

Yellowstone Wild – Bear and Wolf Watching Tour

Price: From $900 Duration: 8 hours

Calling all wildlife lovers! As its name suggests, this tour centers on seeing bears, wolves and other animals that call Yellowstone home. Travelers regularly report seeing a wide array of wildlife and praise the guides for their animal-spotting skills and overall professionalism.

This tour is private and fully customizable, and it is available from May through October. Fees depend on group size. In addition to a light breakfast and a full picnic-style lunch, prices include pickup from hotels in the Gardiner, Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Junction and Roosevelt Lodge areas. Additional fees may apply for round-trip transportation to some other locations. Departures begin between 5 and 6 a.m. (depending on the time of year), and kids must be at least 5 years old to participate.

Yellowstone Insight – Day Tours – Wildlife Tour

Price: From $850 Duration: 12 hours

This tour goes where the animals are, which means routes may vary, but a focus on the park's Northern Range (including Mammoth Hot Springs ) is fairly standard. Bears and wolves are among the wildlife you may spot during this daylong expedition. Tourgoers enthusiastically praise the guides for their expertise.

Tours, which are available to book year-round, generally start at around 5 a.m. in the summer and 6:30 a.m. in the winter. Prices include round-trip transportation to locations in the Bozeman area, as well as a continental breakfast and use of spotting scopes.

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Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Yellowstone National Park

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BrushBuck Wildlife Tours

Yellowstone Tours

Yellowstone National Park is a vast and rich national park, filled with an abundance wildlife and hydrothermal features like the famous Old Faithful geyser. Book an unforgettable tour of Yellowstone National Park with the expert guides at BrushBuck Wildlife Tours!

Did you know the Old Faithful geyser is just one of over 10,000 active hydrothermal features within Yellowstone National Park?

Our Yellowstone tours focus on viewing these geothermal features and vast wildlife including grizzly and black bear, wolves, elk, moose, bison, bald eagles, and so much more. Get the most out of your Yellowstone National Park vacation by booking a tour with the veteran guides at BrushBuck Wildlife Tours. We offer summer and winter tour options with single day and multi-day tour formats. Tours embark from Jackson, WY, and West Yellowstone.

BrushBuck Wildlife Tours is a veteran owned business based out of Jackson Hole, Wyoming for over 10 years with perfect, 5-star ratings on TripAdvisor, Google, and Viator. We are the largest Yellowstone tour company in the Jackson area.

Grand Teton Dawn or Dusk Four Hour Tour

Our Grand Teton Dawn or Dusk tours are 4-hour guided tours centered on wildlife observation throughout Grand Teton National Park. Guests traveling between June-September on the public four-hour tour will be in our EXCLUSIVE BrushBuck Wildlife Tours Open-Air Safari Vehicle *weather dependent. In colder weather conditions tours will be an enclosed vehicle.

Grand Teton / Yellowstone 2 Day / 1 Night Wildlife Tour

This two day tour is perfect for seeing the vast wildlife of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. We’ll start early in the morning from Jackson Hole, Wyoming and venture into Grand Teton National Park where you’ll have a chance to spot a variety of wildlife. You’ll see the beautiful Upper and Lower Falls of Yellowstone. Your group will also stop at the famous and Old Faithful Geyser.

Grand Teton / Yellowstone 4 Day / 3 Night Wildlife Adventure

Our 4 day / 3 night tour of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park is perfect for those who want to really experience everything these parks has to offer. Guests will truly get to immerse themselves in the beautiful scenery and vast wildlife. See famous attractions including Oxbow Bend, Yellowstone Lake, West Thumb Geyser Basin, Hayden Valley, and the famous Yellowstone geyser basins. We will walk around the boardwalks at Mammoth Hot Springs, Fountain Paint Pots and Mud Pots, and the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser!

Grand Teton Winter Wonderland – Full Day Tour

Our Grand Teton Winter Wonderland Day Tour includes a horse drawn sleigh ride on The National Elk Refuge. The National Elk Refuge is the wintering ground for thousands of elk that seek the low valley in order to better endure the harsh winter.

Yellowstone Private Wildlife & Scenic Day Tour

Our expert guides will take you and your party on a private tour focusing on the vast wildlife of Yellowstone National Park. Enjoy possible sightings of grizzly and black bear, wolves, elk, moose, bison, bald eagles, and so much more. We’ll make stops at The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone to view the Upper and Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River.

Yellowstone Old Faithful, Waterfalls and Wildlife Day Tour

Take a day tour through the Lower Loop of Yellowstone National Park with BrushBuck Wild life Tours! You’ll spot various wildlife throughout the tour and walk the boardwalks at hydrothermal features such as Old Faithful Geyser, Fountain Paint-Pots and Mud-Pots, West Thumb Geyser Basin.

Yellowstone Winter Wolf Tour 4 Day / 3 Night

If you are looking to see the wolves of Yellowstone this tour is for you! On our 4 day / 3 night Yellowstone Wolf Tour we’ll travel into Yellowstone National Park from Bozeman, Montana to the northern range of Yellowstone when wolves were first reintroduced in 1995 – the best place on earth to view wolves! Guest will have the opportunity to see a variety of wildlife and attractions along the way. We’ll be communicating with other guides and wolf researchers to offer you the best wolf sightings!

4 Day Grand Teton and Yellowstone Winter Adventure

Visit Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park on this 4 day / 3 night Winter Tour with BrushBuck Wildlife Tours! We’ll depart from Jackson Hole, Wyoming to the National Elk Refuge for a sleigh ride, travel from Grand Teton to West Yellowstone stopping for wildlife and scenic photography. We’ll take a Snowcoach though Yellowstone up the Madison River stopping at Old Faithful, the Fountain Paint Pots and so much more!

Yellowstone Grand Canyon Snowmobile Tour

Explore the Yellowstone wilderness, viewing wildlife, fantastic scenery, majestic waterfalls, and thermal features on this private tour of Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon!

Yellowstone Old Faithful Snowmobile Tour

Take a guided snowmobile tour through Yellowstone National Park to see the majestic Old Faithful geyser erupt in a plume of steam into the winter air, or experience the two spectacular waterfalls at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

WHAT’S YOUR PERFECT YELLOWSTONE TOUR?

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What Our Guests Say

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of wildlife can you see in yellowstone national park.

Possible wildlife sightings in Yellowstone National Park include grizzly and black bear, wolves, elk, moose, bison, bald eagles, and so much more. Yellowstone’s abundant and diverse wildlife are as famous as its geysers.

According to NPS.gov: There are nearly 300 species of birds, 16 species of fish, 5 species of Amphibians, 6 species of Reptiles, 2 species of Bears and 67 species of mammals.

What Tour Formats Do You Offer?

We offer summer and winter tour options with single day and multi-day tour formats. Private Tours are also available for small groups. All tours embark from Jackson, WY, and West Yellowstone.

Our expertly guided tours focus on the geothermal features and vast wildlife including grizzly and black bear, wolves, elk, moose, bison, bald eagles, and much more.

Summer Tour Options

During summer we offer single and multi-day tour options to destinations including Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone to view the Upper and Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River.

Winter Tour Options

During winter we offer half-day/full-day tours to Grand Teton National Park , and can book Yellowstone snowcoach and snowmobile tours to destinations like Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

We also offer multi-day tours through Grand Teton and Yellowstone. View all our winter tours .

How Do I Book A Tour?

Feel free to book your tour online or call us directly at  (307) 699-2999 . We can also answer any of your questions via our LiveChat service, or our  contact form  for more information and booking a tour.

What Precautions Are You Taking To Keep Guests Safe?

BrushBuck Wildlife Tours takes the health and safety of our guests seriously. We want you to have the peace of mind that our tour guides will take the following precautions:

• Cleaning and sanitizing vehicles after every tour
• Use of disposable items like tablecloths, paper plates and cups
• Operating vehicles at 50% capacity to provide a greater social distance for customers throughout the tour.
• Operating private tours so each group one family or travel group
• Guests will have availability to face masks and hand sanitizer throughout the tour

How Many People Will Be On The Tour

Our 10 passenger vehicles will be booked at a 5 passenger capacity. Perfect for booking accommodations as private family or travel groups vacations.

What Type of Vehicles Will We Be Traveling In?

Our fleet is made up of SUVs and 10 Passenger vans. Vehicles are fully enclosed with heat and air conditioning.

• Dodge Promaster 10 Passenger Vans
• Chevrolet 10 Passenger Vans
• Chevrolet Suburbans

GUIDED TOURS & RENTALS

Your gateway to adventure.

You want to make the most of every moment in Yellowstone country — and we can help.

Guided Tours

Our comfortable bus and snowcoach tours will power you into the park so you can experience Yellowstone’s wildlife.

• Summer Bus Tours
• Snowcoach Tours
• Snowmobile Tours

Side-by-Side Rentals

The sharpest way to get from A to B, on any terrain, in any weather, fully-loaded or not.

Snowmobile Rentals

Chase thrills on the ride of your life on some of the most spectacular snowmobiling trails in North America.

Rental Cars

Explore the wonders of Yellowstone on the open road with the vehicle of your choice.

• 150-mile free mileage radius
• Compact size to SUV options

LIVE WEBCAM

The best thing about our tours? Gas is on us. Skip the pump and join us for a comfortable, exhilarating bus tour of Yellowstone National Park. We offer Bus Tours during the summer, and Snowcoach Tours and Guided Snowmobile Tours in winter. We also offer Snowmobile Rentals, for a more personalized experience.

SUMMER BUS TOURS – WEST YELLOWSTONE

Make your Yellowstone National Park vacation one your family and friends will never forget by taking a summer bus tour with Yellowstone Vacation Tours! Experience an informative and entertaining tour of Yellowstone’s Upper or Lower Loop with a professional certified guide. These tours depart from West Yellowstone, MT, just outside Yellowstone’s west entrance.

• Lower Loop tours available Apr. 19 to Oct. 31
• Upper Loop tours available May 3 to Oct. 30
• Custom and private tours available

Contact Information: Yellowstone Vacation Tours (West Yellowstone) 415 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 800-426-7669

SNOWCOACH TOURS – WEST YELLOWSTONE

See Yellowstone National Park from the warmth and comfort of our popular Yellowstone snowcoach tours! Let our professional certified guides take you to some of the most breathtaking winter vistas Yellowstone has to offer. These experienced pros know all of the best vantage points. These tours depart from West Yellowstone, MT, just outside Yellowstone’s west entrance.

• Old Faithful tours available Dec. 15 through Mar. 15
• Canyon tours available Dec. 15 through Mar. 4

SNOWCOACH TOURS – GARDINER

Your winter vacation in Yellowstone National Park isn’t complete without an engaging and one-of-a-kind snowcoach tour from Yellowstone Vacations – now departing from Gardiner, MT, just outside Yellowstone’s northern entrance! Explore the frigid tranquility of Yellowstone in winter while staying comfortable and warm, and learn about the park from our professional certified guides.

• Tours available Dec. 15 through Mar. 2

Contact Information: Yellowstone Vacation Tours (Gardiner) 905 Scott Street W Gardiner, MT 59030 406-848-5171

TWO TOP SNOWMOBILE TOURS

Snowmobile Yellowstone — it’s good clean fun! Touring by snowmobile is very comfortable and enjoyable. Two Top Snowmobile Rental, Inc. is dedicated to making your trip as fun and safe as possible. Our knowledgeable guides will ensure you have a good feel for your machine before you set out on your exciting Yellowstone ride. Day trips are our specialty, with a variety of tours to choose from.

• Tours available Dec. 15 through Feb. 28

Contact Information: Two Top Snowmobile (West Yellowstone) 645 Gibbon Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 406-646-7802

YELLOWSTONE VACATIONS SNOWMOBILE TOURS

Experience Yellowstone National Park with a guided Yellowstone snowmobile tour to either Old Faithful or the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone! View wildlife, learn interesting facts about the park and see Yellowstone’s star attractions in winter with one of our professional certified guides. Kick your Yellowstone experience into high gear with a guided snowmobile tour through a frozen winter world that looks like something from another planet.

• Private and custom tours available

Side-by-Side Off Road Vehicle (ORV) rentals from Yellowstone Vacations allow you to explore any terrain in any weather.

SIDE-BY-SIDE RENTALS

With literally HUNDREDS of miles of trails to choose from – some of which start right here in town – it’s no wonder why trail riding enthusiasts flock to West Yellowstone every summer. Our Side-by-Side Rentals are the most stylish way to get from A to B, on any terrain, in any weather.

• Rentals available May 1 to Sept. 30
• 2-seater and 4-seater models available

SNOWMOBILE RENTALS

Yellowstone Snowmobile Rentals from Yellowstone Vacations allow you to explore the surrounding National Forest to your heart’s content.

SNOWMOBILE RENTALS – WEST YELLOWSTONE

Snowmobile Rentals from Yellowstone Vacations allow you to explore the surrounding National Forest to your heart’s content. Choose from a number of Yellowstone snowmobile models, find a good trail and take off. With hundreds of miles of trails to choose from, it’s no wonder why West Yellowstone is known in many circles as the Snowmobiling Capital of the World! Adventure seekers will love it here.

• Rentals available Dec. 15 through Mar. 15

Contact Information: Yellowstone Vacation Tours 415 Yellowstone Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 800-426-7669

SNOWMOBILE RENTALS – TWO TOP

BEGINNER OR EXPERIENCED SNOWMOBILERS will be more than pleased with our brand new fleet of snowmobiles. Two Top Snowmobile Rental Inc. offers an assortment of models from Ski-Doo: from comfortable trail snowmobiles to high-performance, single-rider machines. Hundreds of miles of well-marked daily groomed trails start right at our front door.

Contact Information: Two Top Snowmobile 645 Gibbon Ave West Yellowstone, MT 59758 406-646-7802

Explore the wonders of Yellowstone on the open road with the vehicle of your choice. Check availability using the buttons below or call 406-646-9564 to reserve a vehicle for your upcoming Yellowstone vacation.

It’s easy to get around the expanses of Yellowstone in a smaller vehicle that offers good fuel economy. If you’re traveling solo, with a significant other or a small group, a compact vehicle may suit you perfectly.

Jeep Wrangler

A Jeep Wrangler makes a world of sense in the rugged Yellowstone wilderness. Prepare for all the journeys ahead with a durable vehicle that will have you covered wherever the road leads — and beyond.

If you’re traveling with a large group or family, it’s hard to beat a minivan. Practical and accommodating, a sturdy minivan will make traveling through Yellowstone a breeze. Pile in one of our minivans and watch the Yellowstone moments add up.

If a Chevrolet Equinox or SUV is the best vehicle for your Yellowstone exploration, you’re in good hands. The team at Yellowstone Vacations knows that many customers are looking for the space and performance that an SUV provides.

Tours can be booked online, or you are welcome to make reservations over the phone by calling Yellowstone Vacation Tours directly at 800-426-7669 for tours leaving from West Yellowstone, or at 406-848-5171 for tours leaving from Gardiner. We do not currently have the capability to book tours through our hotel reservation office.

During the winter we offer round-trip Snowcoach and Snowmobile Tours to Old Faithful and Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. During the summer months we offer Summer Bus Tours of the full Lower Loop and Upper Loop leaving from West Yellowstone. Custom tours are also available; for details, call 406-646-9564 .

Expect each tour to take a full day, regardless of where you’re headed. Most tours meet and/or leave around 8:00am and return around 5:00pm, but times can vary.

Yes! Park entrance fees are NOT INCLUDED in our tour prices, but a valid Park Pass IS REQUIRED for each passenger age 16 and older:

• If you are reserving a Snowcoach Tour or Summer Bus Tour with us, a $20 Park Pass is required
• If you are reserving a Snowmobile Tour with us, a $30 Park Pass is required

At Yellowstone National Park, the opportunities to explore are endless. Plan your adventure today.

Enjoy comfortable, modern, amenity-rich lodging when you stay outside Yellowstone National Park.

West Yellowstone Snowcoach Tours

Gardiner Snowcoach Tours

Yellowstone Vacation Snowmobile Tours

Two Top Snowmobile Tours

West Yellowstone Summer Bus Tours

Yellowstone Vacations Snowmobile Rentals

Two Top Snowmobile Rentals

Car Rentals

Yellowstone National Park Tours & Vacations

With rainbow-colored hot springs, gurgling geysers and bubbling mud pools, it's no wonder the tales of Yellowstone National Park sounded more like fable than fact. 

Yellowstone National Park is extraordinary. Brimming with half of the world’s hydrothermal features and landscapes that'll have you wondering if you’re still in the United States (or on Earth!). Join your local guide to uncover the beauty and mystery of the world's oldest national park. Marvel at the vivid colors of Grand Prismatic Spring. Watch steaming geysers like Old Faithful erupt. Follow a wolf-tracking expert in Lamar Valley to learn the secrets of these mysterious animals. You'll discover why Yellowstone is a national park like no other. 

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Yellowstone national park travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Where is Yellowstone National Park?

Most of Yellowstone is located in northwestern Wyoming, but some areas of the park also spread across southern Montana and eastern Idaho. 

How do I get to Yellowstone National Park?

You can get to Yellowstone by flying into one of the nearby airports, driving or taking a bus. The closest airports are:

• Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (north entrance).
• Yellowstone Regional Airport (east entrance).
• Jackson Hole Airport (south entrance).

It's also possible to fly to nearby airports like Chicago, Salt Lake City, Utah or Denver, where you can rent a car.

You can access Yellowstone via one of five entry points if you're driving. It takes 4.5 hours to drive from Salt Lake City, 1.5 hours from Idaho Falls, 1.5 hours from Jackson and 1.5 hours from Bozeman.  

It's possible to catch a bus from Bozeman in Montana to West Yellowstone all year, and you can also go directly from Idaho to West Yellowstone via bus during the summer months. 

There is no direct train into Yellowstone. However, you could catch a train to southeast Idaho, Salt Lake City, Utah and Northern Montana and go from there.

Getting around Yellowstone National Park

There is no public transport within Yellowstone, so you will need a car to get around.

Most roads are closed to vehicles during the winter months due to heavy snowfall, excluding the road to Mammoth Hot Springs, which is maintained for winter travel.

There are five entrance points that loop around the park’s main landmarks and it can take hours to drive between them.

Always check road and park conditions before you set off. 

What's the weather like in Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone National Park sits within two climate zones: cool temperate and continental. There are four distinct seasons, but the weather can be unpredictable (think four seasons in a day!) and you can't always rely on the forecast.

What to pack for Yellowstone National Park

The weather in Yellowstone can change quickly (in all four seasons), so depending on the time of year you visit, you'll definitely want to pack waterproof layers, a sun hat or warm hat, and good, comfortable footwear. 

What animals live in Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone is a wildlife lover’s paradise with an abundance of small animals and large predators. Some of the animals you might get to see include:

• Deer (mule deer, pronghorn deer, white-tailed deer)
• Bighorn sheep
• Mountain goats
• Black bears
• Grizzly bears
• Canada lynx
• River otters

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

Yellowstone National Park Tours & Trips

Yellowstone National Park is placed around a volcano area spreading mostly through the US state of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho. It is a beautiful area filled with wilderness in the form of varied wildlife, lush forests, majestic canyons, howling rivers, hot springs and flowing geysers. A fascinating area for any nature lover, Yellowstone is best explored with an adventure that will take through all major locations and reveal newly hidden jewels.

69 Yellowstone National Park tour packages with 104 reviews

• Photography
• Walking Adventure

Yellowstone / Grand Teton 4 Day / 3 Night Wildlife Adventure

Mike the guide was wonderful.. Good since of humor and very well educated on what he was talking about ,,... My husband and had a trip of a life time. Seen such beautiful and breath taking scenery and so many wild life. Thank you ! Sharon Plumb

• Hiking & Trekking

4 day Yellowstone and Tetons in depth tour from Salt Lake City Small Groups Tour

It was a great trip! GREAT leader!

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons Adventure

Tim was a great tour guide. He was knowledgeable, helpful, and always upbeat. Time with the wildlife expert was phenomenal. the tour itself was excellent. The good ranking has to do with communications from Intrepid Travel, which were poor and lead to changed air flights and other headaches.

• Sightseeing

Scenic Parks Explorer (15 Days) (20 destinations)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Mountain Hikes
• Kayak & Canoe

Yellowstone Camping Explorer

5 Days Yellowstone and Grand Tetons National Park Adventure

The Bucketlist group travel team was well organized, friendly, and excited an fun packed adventure. It was an awesome adventure. Best travel adventure I've experienced.

National Parks Family Journey: Yellowstone and Grand Teton

Yellowstone and Grand Teton Family Holiday

Yellowstone Base Camp Tour

The Yellowstone Base Camp tour was excellent. We covered a wide variety of Yellowstone sites from the popular attractions to beautiful but less frequented locations. Our guides, Chris Rapich and Ed Cochran, were great. They provided a lot of information about the park and wildlife, made great meals and did everything they could to make this a memorable experience. I'd travel with them anytime.

Best of Yellowstone Tour

USA – 6 Days Yellowstone Grand Tetons Adventure

5 Day- Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park in Depth- Hotel Based

Yellowstone Discovery (Classic, 7 Days)

Iconic Wildlife of Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Geographic Journeys

• Coach / Bus

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons (4 Days)

What people love about yellowstone national park tours.

Although the tour was very expensive- over $2000 for 3 days is over the top- it wss a great experience, saw lots of wildlife and the guide was outstanding

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• The Best Yellowstone Guided Tours The Ultimate Outdoor Experience in America’s First National Park Call Now! (406) 995-2399

Guided Tours of Yellowstone National Park

Your gateway to unforgettable summer sightseeing from west yellowstone & big sky.

Welcome to Yellowstone Tour Guides, the premier choice for exceptional guided tours of Yellowstone National Park! As the leading experts in showcasing the breathtaking beauty and awe-inspiring wonders of this iconic destination, we’re here to make your Yellowstone experience truly unforgettable. Call Now Book Now

Unparalleled Expertise in Yellowstone National Park

Knowledge and expertise in all things yellowstone.

At Yellowstone Tour Guides, we pride ourselves on our in-depth knowledge and expertise in all things Yellowstone. Our team of experienced guides, who are true lovers of nature and outdoor enthusiasts, possess an exceptional understanding of the park’s geology, ecology, and history. And as a local, family-owned business, we’ve spent countless hours exploring the various geothermal features, wildlife habitats, and famous landmarks within Yellowstone, allowing us to offer you a unique and immersive experience unlike any other. Call Now Book Now

Customizable Tours Tailored to Your Interests

We understand that everyone has their own interests and preferences when it comes to exploring Yellowstone. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a budding geologist, or simply seeking a serene escape into nature, our Yellowstone summer tours can be customized to match your specific interests. So when you book with us, you can rest assured that your tour will be tailored to provide you with the experiences that are most meaningful to you. Call Now Book Now

Small Group Environment for Maximum Enjoyment

To ensure that your Yellowstone summer tour is both intimate and engaging, we limit the size of our tour groups to no more than 6 per group. By maintaining small groups, we are able to provide a more personalized experience, allowing you to interact with our knowledgeable guides, ask questions, and truly immerse yourself in the wonders of Yellowstone. We believe that a smaller group size leads to a more enriching and memorable experience for all. Call Now Book Now

Geothermal Wonders: Witness the Power and Beauty of Yellowstone’s Geysers

Yellowstone is world-famous for its geothermal features, including the incomparable Old Faithful geyser. Our Lower Loop Adventure tour takes you on a journey through the park’s most remarkable geothermal areas, where you’ll witness the eruption of geysers, marvel at the colorful hot springs, and learn about the significance of these geological wonders. Our experienced guides will provide insight into the processes that shape these fascinating formations and share stories of their explosive past. Call Now Book Now

Wildlife Encounters: Get Up Close and Personal with Yellowstone’s Iconic Animals

Witness animals in their natural habitat.

Yellowstone National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering remarkable opportunities to witness animals in their natural habitat. Our Upper Loop Adventure tour allows you to observe iconic species such as grizzly bears, wolves, elk, and bison, while ensuring the safety and preservation of these magnificent creatures. With our knowledgeable guides by your side, you will gain a deep appreciation for the delicate balance of Yellowstone’s ecosystem and the importance of wildlife conservation. Call Now Book Now

Book Your Unforgettable Tour Today

We guarantee an unforgettable experience..

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the immense beauty and wonders of Yellowstone National Park during the summer season! At Yellowstone Tour Guides, we’re dedicated to providing you with an exceptional and personalized guided tour, tailored to your interests and preferences. With our expertise, small group environment, and passion for Yellowstone, we guarantee an unforgettable experience.

So take the first step towards your dream Yellowstone summer tour by booking with us today! We look forward to embarking on this remarkable journey with you.

Trips from Big Sky, West Yellowstone & Bozeman Book Summer Trips Book Winter Trips

Yellowstone Park Tour from Bozeman

Yellowstone Park Winter Tour from Big Sky

Old Faithful / Canyon Summer Tour

Yellowstone Summer Tour from Bozeman

Yellowstone Summer Tour from West Yellowstone

Yellowstone Summer Tour from Big Sky

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Yellowstone National Park Tours from Jackson Hole or West Yellowstone

Yellowstone national park full-day "lower loop" tour.

From Jackson Hole

Apr 19  through Oct 31

Public/Shared OR Private Tour

The "Lower Loop" is Our Most Popular Tour!   From Jackson, we will drive through Grand Teton National Park and see or visit:

the majestic Tetons* 

Mt Moran & Oxbow Bend*

Jackson Lake at base of Tetons*

After a restroom break (1st of many), we will head into Yellowstone and see:

Old Faithful

Fountain Paint Pots with all 4 types of geothermal features in one place

Upper & Lower Falls of Yellowstone's Grand Canyon

Hayden Valley .   5/5-10/31

Yellowstone Lake  5/5-10/31

AND, we'll have numerous opportunities to photograph Wildlife!  We commonly see Bison, Elk, Bears, Pronghorn, Eagles, Coyotes & more!  

Your guide will educate you on many features of Yellowstone Park incl. its history, geology, geothermals, wildlife & more.

*Tours from 4/19-5/9 will not see the Tetons since the South Gate does not open until May 10.

Hotel/Lodging Departures

  Teton Village:  6:15am  12-13 hrs

  Jackson: 6:30-6:45am   12-13 hrs

PUBLIC (Shared) Tour Costs    

Adult/Teen (13+)   $345 pp

Senior (65+)           $335 pp

Child (6-12yrs)       $295 pp

Group Size       4-18 people

PRIVATE Tour Costs            

1-3 People            from $1450

ea. add'l person + $225

Group Size     Up to 20 in same vehicle.  Up to 50 on same day.

- Pick Up at Your Hotel, Condo

- Experienced Local Guide

- Roomy AC Van/Bus with big windows

- Light Breakfast & Picnic Lunch

- Park Entry Fee

- Numerous photo opportunities

- Ample restroom breaks

- Use of Binoculars

Guide gratuity not included

Yellowstone National Park

Full-day "lower loop" tour.

From West Yellowstone

Apr 19 through Oct 31

Public/Shared OR Private  Tour

The "Lower Loop" is Our Most Popular Tour!  Enjoy a Tour of Yellowstone National Park's "Lower Loop" and visit the main points of interest including (but not limited to):

Upper & Lower Falls of the Grand Canyon

Hayden Valley   5/5-10/31

Yellowstone Lake   5/5-10/31

  W. Yellowstone: 7:30am  8-9 hrs

Public Tour Costs    

Group Size      4-18 people

  1-3 People            from $1450

  ea. add'l person + $225

Group Size    Up to 20 in same vehicle.  Up to 50 on same day.

Full-Day "Upper Loop" Tour

May 1 0   through Oct 20

Private Tour

The "Upper Loop" of Yellowstone is the less-traveled section of the Park, but it is home to Lamar Valley - the Serengeti of N. America!  We'll hit all the high points including:

Mammoth Hot Springs, travertine terraces

Lamar Valley, the wild kingdom

Norris Geyser Basin

Tower Falls

Upper & Lower Falls of the Grand Canyon (optional) 5/26-10/31

  W. Yellowstone, MT

7:30am   10-11 hr Tour

  1-3 People            from $1450/group

Group Size    Up to 12 in same vehicle.  

- Comfy SUV or Van, big windows

Yellowstone & Grand Teton 

Ultimate wildlife safari.

May 10 -Jun 20 , Sept 16-Oct 20

If you want the BEST Opportunity for seeing the coolest, most sought after wildlife in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem in ONE Day, this is the Tour!  

Our great crew of guides LOVE to seek, find, photograph and talk about wildlife.....so let's go!     This is a PRIVATE Tour for just you!

Starting from Jackson Hole, we will head into Grand Teton National Park searching for bears, moose, elk, pronghorn antelope, eagles, osprey, herons and more!   We will have some incredible views of the Tetons along the way but our focus will be on finding wildlife. 

We will continue north into Yellowstone National Park and head to prime wildlife habitat where our guides know you'll have the best chances of spotting & photographing wildlife including:  bison, grizzly and black bears, wolves, elk and more.

Throughout the Tour, your tour guide will educate you on many features of Yellowstone Park incl. its history, geology, wildlife & more.

  Teton Village:  6:30am

  Jackson:  6:30am

  12-13 hour Tour

  1-3 People            $1450/group

Group Size     1-10 people

- Many Wildlife photo opportunities

18 ABSOLUTELY Best Yellowstone Tours for 2022

Jennifer melroy.

• Last Modified May 11, 2022
• First Published on March 13, 2022

Post Summary: Best Yellowstone Tours

Yellowstone National Park became the world’s first national park in 1872 and attracts over 3 million visitors a year. It’s packed with unique geological and hydrothermal features including the famous Old Faithful geyser. However, it’s not just the incredible scenery here that makes this park so popular. Yellowstone National Park offers unparalleled opportunities to witness an array of wildlife in their natural habitat, and this includes grizzly bears, bison, elk, wolves, and eagles amongst others.

This article is going to go through the 18 BEST Yellowstone tours for 2022, so you can make the most out of your visit. That includes the best day tours for summer, the best day tours for winter, and the best multi-day tours if you’re planning to spend a couple of days in the national park. There is a lot to see at Yellowstone, and it can be pretty overwhelming if you don’t know where to start!

That’s why taking a guided tour is a great option, as they will show you all the best places and teach you about the local area. It also takes the stress out of organizing your own transport and planning a route.

So let’s dive right in, here are the BEST Yellowstone tours of 2022.

Best of Yellowstone National Park in a Nutshell THINGS TO KNOW: 25 Things to Know Before Visiting Yellowstone National Park BOOKS TO READ: 11 Books to Read Before Visiting Yellowstone National Park GETTING THERE: How to Get to Yellowstone National Park TOURS: Best Yellowstone Tour ONE DAY: One Day in Yellowstone National Park CAMPING: Camping in Yellowstone National Park NEARBY PARKS: Badlands , Glacier , Grand Teton , Wind Cave

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! Read the full disclosure policy here

Best Yellowstone Day Tours for Summer

Yellowstone park tour with local guide.

• Departure /Return Point: All hotels in West Yellowstone
• Tour Length: 9 hours
• Tour Type: Public – maximum of 10 people
• Tour Highlights: The famous Old Faithful geyser, tour the Lower Loop and stop off at highlights. Visit Lower Falls & get to see wildlife in their natural habitat

This Yellowstone tour departs at 8:30 am from the departure point and enters the national park through the West Gate. You will then go on a tour of the Lower Loop and stop at the many highlights including the Old Faithful geyser and the Geyser basins.

Throughout the tour, you’ll get to see many of Yellowstone’s popular sights including Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Hayden Valley, and Yellowstone Lake. The Fountain Paint Pots and Artist Point are also included in the tour.

Your guide will teach you all about the park including its geology, unique geothermal features, and of course, the wildlife.

This tour includes:

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off
• The National Park entrance fee
• Use of binoculars to spot wildlife
• Breakfast and lunch
• A local guide

>>> Check prices and book here.

Yellowstone Wildlife Watching Tour with Meals

• Departure /Return Point: Gardiner, MT Chamber of Commerce
• Tour Length: 8 hours
• Tour Type: Private – up to 6 people
• Tour Highlights: Using top of the range equipment to spot bears, bison, moose, wolves and other wildlife, and exploring with a knowledable guide who observes these creatures daily

If you’re heading to Yellowstone National Park primarily to see wildlife, then this is a great tour option. The local naturalist guide on this private tour will use top-of-the-line equipment to spot wildlife and help you learn about the animals that reside here.

The guides have an intimate familiarity with Yellowstone and its wildlife, so they are the best way to discover some of the park’s iconic species. During your tour, the guide will discuss observed behaviors to help you learn about the various species you see. They will also tell stories about the individuals they’ve come to know over the years including bears and wolves.

• Pick-up and drop-off
• Binoculars and high-powered scopes
• Breakfast pastries, full picnic lunch spread and snacks
• Local naturalist guide
• Transportation via an equipped touring vehicle

Yellowstone Day Tour Including Entrance Fee

• Departure /Return Point: Accommodation in Teton Village and Jackson
• Tour Length: 12.5 hours
• Tour Type: Public – maximum of 14 people
• Tour Highlights: Learn about Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park in one day, and experience wildlife in their natural habitat. See popular sights inlcuding the Old Faithful geyser, Lower Falls and tour the Lower Loop

If you’re looking for an action-packed Yellowstone tour, then look no further. This day tour departs between 6:15 am and 6:45 am and lasts for around 12.5 hours.

First of all, you will head north past Hayden Valley so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! Then you’ll drive through Grand Teton National Park, before entering Yellowstone through the South Gate. This means you’ll get to see two national parks on this day-tour, making it a brilliant choice.

After entering the park, you’ll tour the Lower Loop and see all the popular points of interest including Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake, the Geyser Basin, and the Lower falls among other sights.

Your guide will educate you on Yellowstones’ endless unique features including its geology, wildlife, and history.

• National Park entrance fee
• Local Guide
• Use of binoculars

Full-Day Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour

• Departure /Return Point: Jackson, Wyoming
• Tour Length: 10 – 12 hours
• Tour Type: Private or small groups available – up to 8 people
• Tour Highlights: Travel through Grand Teton National Park on the way to Yellowstone. See popular sights inlcuding Old Faithful and the upper Geyser Basin, and take short hikes throughout the day

This full-day Yellowstone Loop Tour is another great way to see the national park. The departure point is Jackson, which means you’ll travel through Grand Teton National Park to reach Yellowstone.

The tour will take you along the Lower Loop so you’ll get to see many of the famous sights including Old Faithful, the Fountain Paint Pots, and the Midway Geyser Basin. Other sights included on this tour are the Firehole Lake loop, the Firehole River Canyon, Gibbon Falls, and the Virginia Cascades.

Throughout the tour, you’ll also have the opportunity to take short hikes along the many boardwalks within the geyser basins. This is the perfect way to appreciate the beauty of Yellowstone.

• Pick-up and drop-off in Jackson
• Transportation in luxury vehicles
• Lunch, drinks and snacks
• Experince guide

6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch

• Departure /Return Point: Biscuit Basin Trailhead parking lot, Yellowstone
• Tour Length: 6 hours (approx)
• Tour Type: Public – maximum of 15 people
• Tour Highlights: The Upper Geyser Basin, Old Faithful, Diasy Geyser and Biscuit Basin

If you want to do a bit of hiking in Yellowstone National Park but don’t feel confident enough to do it on your own, then this tour is perfect.

The tour departs at 8 am and is a 6-mile (9.6 km) loop that will show you the best spots in Yellowstone. The hike starts from the Biscuit Basin Trailhead and takes you through the entire Upper Geyser Basin before returning to the trailhead.

Along the hike, you’ll get to see the famous Old Faithful, the Old Faithful Inn, and Daisy Geyser before hiking up the Observation Point Trail. Once you get to the top you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Yellowstone Caldera so don’t forget your camera!

During the hike, you may also encounter wildlife including bison and bears, so your guide will have bear spray on them at all times.

• Professional guide
• Lunch and snacks
• Trekking poles
• Optical gear to spot wildlife

Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch

• Departure /Return Point: Lamar River Trailhead, Yellowstone
• Tour Length: 6 hours
• Tour Highlights: Hike to a variety of wildlife viewing locations and scenic vistas that can’t be seen from the road

This is another great hiking tour in Yellowstone and is perfect for people who want to spot wildlife. Wolves and other rare wildlife are spotted regularly in this area, so make sure you bring your camera.

The tour departs at 8 am and is a 6-mile (9.6 km) loop that will take you through Lamar Valley. Lamar Valley is one of the best places to spot wildlife not only in Yellowstone but in the world.

The guide will take you to all the top wildlife viewing locations within the valley to give you the best chance to see some of the park’s native animals. You’ll also hike to viewpoints that you can’t see from the road, which offer incredible views of Yellowstone.

• Trekking poles and backpacks

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Rim and Loop Hike with Lunch

• Departure /Return Point: the pavilion next to the Upper Falls Parking Area, Yellowstone
• Tour Highlights: Ribbon Lake, Clear Lake, the Wapiti Meadows and of course walking along the Canyon Rim

The Grand Canyon Rim Hike is one of the best hikes in Yellowstone and is a must during your time in the park.

The tour departs at 8 am so hotel pickups will commence before this time. The trail is a 6-mile (9.6 km) loop that will take you along the Canyon Rim and through the forest out to Ribbon Lake. From there you’ll head past a Geyser Basin and then further along you will see Clear Lake.

However, one of the highlights of this tour (and the trail) is going past Wapiti Meadows. At this spot you’ll get incredible views of Hayden Valley, so keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.

If you don’t fancy an early start, multiple hiking times are offered throughout the day.

• Hotel pick-up

4-Hour Morning Sea Kayak on Yellowstone Lake with Lunch

• Departure /Return Point: parking lot at the end of Grant Marina Road, Wyoming
• Tour Length: 4 hours
• Tour Type: Public – maximum of 9 people
• Tour Highlights: Seeing Yellowstone from a whole new angle, as you paddle through Yellowstone Lake.

If you’re looking for a more unique Yellowstone tour, this kayaking tour may be for you!

This tour departs at 8 am, as morning is the best time to spot wildlife along the lake. It also means you won’t encounter the strong winds that occur later on in the day.

Before you head out onto the lake, your instructor will acquaint you with the kayak and paddle strokes, before the adventure gets underway. You’ll then head out from the marina to the West Thumb Geyser Basin, and paddle close to the shore. From the comfort of your kayak, you’ll get scenic views of the Absaroka Range, and you might even spot bear or elk on the lakeshore.

• Kayak instructor
• Use of kayak and paddle
• Use of personal floatation device

E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park

• Departure /Return Point: Glen Creek Stock Trail, Yellowstone
• Tour Length: 3 – 4 hours
• Tour Highlights: Cycling past Swan Lake Flats, Golden Gate Canyon and Bunsen Peak

An e-bike tour is another unique way to see Yellowstone, as the terrain of the national park makes for a thrilling adventure.

If you’re looking to head off the beaten path, then this tour is perfect. You’ll be cycling through the backcountry trails of Yellowstone, and you’ll also get to experience remote viewpoints where you can enjoy the scenery without the crowds.

One of the highlights is Swan Lake Flats which is a great area to look out for and photograph wildlife. You’ll also be treated to incredible views of Golden State Canyon and Bunsen Peak.

Exploring Yellowstone by electric mountain bike requires a good fitness level, so make sure you’re up to the task before you book.

• Use of electric mountain bike
• Helmet and bike lock
• Bottled water

Yellowstone National Park Self Driving Audio Tour

• Departure /Return Point: the tour can begin at any of the park entrances
• Tour Length: 5 – 6 hours
• Tour Type: Private
• Tour Highlights: This self-driving audio tour consists of 34 different stops including Old Faithful, the Fountain Paint Pot, Hayden Valley and Yellowstone Lake.

If you’d prefer to tour Yellowstone by yourself but don’t know where to start this is a good option.

Viator offers a self-drive audio tour for your individual vehicle, that can begin at any entrance to the national park. Make sure to download it before arrival and use it in offline mode.

The tour consists of 34 different stops and takes to you all the best spots in Yellowstone. This includes Old Faithful, the Fountain Paint Pots, Hayden Valley, Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley, and Yellowstone Lake.

Another great thing about this audio tour? There is no expiration date so you can use it again and again.

• Live GPS map
• Email, chat and call support
• Audio, images and text that work offline

Best Multi-Day Yellowstone Tours

Grand teton & yellowstone 2-day 1-night tour.

• Departure/Return Point: Jackson Hole, Wyoming
• Tour Length: 2 days, 1 night
• Tour Highlights: Wildlife viewing at Hayden Valley and Lamar Valley, and plenty of popular sights including Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake and Fountain Paint Pots

If you’re looking for a multi-day Yellowstone tour, then this is one of the best choices. The tour starts early in the morning and heads through Grand Teton National Park before heading into Yellowstone.

You’ll get to see Yellowstone Lake, the West Thumb Geyser Basin, and the magnificent Lower Falls before heading into the upper loop to spot some wildlife. During the afternoon you’ll spend your time in Lamar Valley, which is famous for wildlife viewing.

On day two, you’ll spend some more time in Lamar Valley, before you visit some of the most famous sights in the park. That includes Old Faithful, Fountain Paint Pots, and Mammoth Hot Springs. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit Hayden Valley during this tour too!

• Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Jackson Hole
• 1 night’s accommodation in Cooke City
• National Park entrance fees
• Picnic lunch in Yellowstone National Park
• Naturalist guide, and use of binoculars and scopes

Grand Teton & Yellowstone: 4-Day Nature Tour

• Departure/Return Point: Parkway Inn or Lexington Hotel In Jackson Hole, Wyoming
• Tour Length: 4 days, 3 nights
• Tour Highlights: dawn and dusk wildlife tours in Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone, driving the Upper Loop in Yellowstone and seeing some of the park highlights like Lower Falls

This is one of the longer multi-day tours at Yellowstone and is another great choice for wildlife watching. Day one of the tour starts with a 4-hour dusk wildlife tour in Grand Teton National Park before staying the night in Jackson Hole.

Day two will see you explore Grand Teton National Park and then head out to Yellowstone’s Hayden Valley which is famous for wildlife viewing. You’ll also get to see some of the park’s most famous landmarks.

You’ll be driving along the Upper Loop on day three, and departing early to make the most out of your day. The final day of the tour will primarily focus on Yellowstone’s Lamar Valley which is famous for its wildlife. Your guide will be on the lookout for bears and wolves here, but you also might spot coyotes, elk, bison, and deer among other animals.

To finish the tour off you’ll see some of the park’s popular sights including Old Faithful, the Geyser Basins, and Mammoth Hot Springs.

• 3 night’s accomodation
• Naturalist guide
• Use of binoculars and scopes
• Breakfast on days 2, 3 and 4 aswell as snacks and refreshments

7-Day Yellowstone National Park Rocky Mountain Explorer

• Departure/Return Point: Mirage Hotel and Casino, Las Vegas
• Tour Length: 7 days, 6 nights
• Tour Type: Private or small groups available – limited to 14 people
• Tour Highlights: Getting to see Yellowstone, the Grand Tetons and Bryce Canyon. Salt Lake City, Provo Lake and the Rocky Mountains are also included!

If you’re after the ultimate national park adventure, then why not go for this 7-day tour? You’ll get to see three of the best national parks in America – Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, and Bryce Canyon.

Day one will see you travel from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National park, and day two will take you to explore Salt Lake City. After an overnight stay in a hotel, you’ll explore Grand Tetons National Park on day three.

On days four and five, you will tour Yellowstone National park, before heading to the Rocky Mountains on day six. On the last day of the tour, you will visit the Valley of Fire State Park before arriving back in Las Vegas late afternoon.

Five out of the six nights are camping, so make sure you come well equipped in terms of clothing. There are also two optional day tours you can add to the package which are the ‘Death Valley Day Tour’ and the ‘Wild West Ghost Town Explorer’.

• All park entrance fees
• All camping equipment needed
• Expert guide
• Transportation throughout

Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Rockies 11-Day Tour

• Departure/Return Point: Meeting point in Las Vegas varies
• Tour Length: 11 days, 10 nights
• Tour Type: Private or small groups available
• Tour Highlights: Bryce Canyon National Park, Salt Lake City, Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, Las Vegas, Yosemite, Death Valley and San francisco

Now, this is the ultimate American adventure! This 11 day-tour takes to you a wide variety of U.S bucket list destinations starting in Las Vegas.

On day one of the tour, you’ll head to Bryce Canyon National Park, and then onto Salt Lake City for day two. During day three you’ll explore Grand Tetons National Park. On days four and five, you will tour Yellowstone National park, before heading to the Rocky Mountains on day six.

Day seven will see explore Snow Canyon State Park before heading back to Las Vegas. After exploring the city at night, you’ll wake up early to have a guided tour of Death Valley National Park. On day nine you’ll cross the Tioga Pass en route to Yosemite. Day ten will see you explore Yosemite for a full day, before taking a city tour of San Francisco on day eleven.

• Guided tour of Death Valley National Park
• City tour of San Francisco
• Yosemite, Bryce, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons hikes
• Guided jeep tour of Monument Valley
• All hotel or camping accommodation (whichever option you pick)

Best Yellowstone National Park Tours for Winter

Yellowstone snowcoach tour to old faithful.

• Departure /Return Point: Jackson or Teton Village
• Tour Length: 12 hours
• Tour Highlights: Explore Yellowstone National Park in winter and enjoy views of the Grand Tetons and Old Faithful

Exploring Yellowstone in a snow coach has to be one of the best ways to see the park in winter. A snow coach is simply a specialized vehicle designed to operate in snow, which means you can be warm and comfortable whilst witnessing the incredible scenery.

The tour starts from Jackson or Teton Village and passes through Grand Teton National Park, so you can get a winter wonderland view of the Grand Tetons. From there, you’ll head to the South entrance of Yellowstone and drive through the park for 45 miles.

There will be plenty of stops along the way for you to get out and explore before you reach Old Faithful. Points of interest on this tour include the West Thumb Geyser Basin, Moose Falls, Lewis Canyon, and Lewis Falls.

• Pick up from hotels in Jackson or Teton Village
• Experienced guide
• Breakfast and lunch.

Best Multi-Day Yellowstone National Park Tours for Winter

Yellowstone national park winter 4-day tour.

• Departure/Return Point: Bozeman
• Tour Length: 4 days
• Tour Type: Public – maximum of 12 people
• Tour Highlights: Viewing Lamar Valley in winter and getting to observe wolves in their natural habitat. Visiting popular spots like the Old Faithful Geyser and Old Faithful Inn.

If you fancy exploring Yellowstone in winter on a multi-day tour, then this one is for you!

After being picked up in Bozeman you’ll head into Yellowstone National Park and spend the day searching for wildlife. Afterward, you’ll stay in Gardiner, before spending day two searching for wolves.

Day three will see you head to Lamar Valley to look for the Lamar Canyon pack. Your guide will be in communication with other guides and wolf researchers in the area to make sure you have the best sightings possible.

On day four you’ll spend the morning searching for wildlife before making your way to see the popular sights of Yellowstone.

• Pick-up and drop-off in Bozeman
• 3 nights accommodation
• Expert adventure guide

Yellowstone Tours Frequently Asked Questions

Can you tour yellowstone on your own.

You can absolutely tour Yellowstone on your own if you wish! All you’d need to do is hire a car or use your own vehicle to explore the park. If you want to know more about visiting this incredible national park, you can read my complete guide on visiting Yellowstone National Park here.

However, if you want some more guidance, Viator offers a self-drive audio tour for your individual vehicle, that can begin at any entrance to the national park. The audio tour consists of 34 stops and takes you to all the best places in Yellowstone. This includes Old Faithful, Hayden Valley, Lamar Valley, the Fountain Paint Pots, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Yellowstone Lake. All you need to do is download it before arrival and use it in offline mode.

Are there guided tours of Yellowstone?

This article discusses 18 of the best Yellowstone Tours for 2022. All of these tours (except for one) are all guided tours with a professional, experienced guide.

They offer the chance for you to learn about Yellowstone’s unique geological and thermal features, as well as the wildlife of course. Guided tours are also a great way to take the stress out of planning an itinerary. All the work is done for you so you can simply sit back and enjoy the adventure.

Where do Yellowstone tours start?

Yellowstone tours start in a variety of locations, with many offering hotel pick-up services.

The majority of tours on this list depart from Jackson Hole, Teton Village, or from other pick-points within West Yellowstone. Some tours also depart from hiking trailheads within the park depending on the type of tour you’ve chosen.

Is it worth visiting Yellowstone if you only have one day?

It’s definitely worth heading to Yellowstone National Park, even if you do only have one day!

There are so many incredible sights to visit in the park and the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife. Going on a tour is a great way to see Yellowstone if you’re only there for one day, as the guides will take you to all the most popular locations.

You won’t have to organize your own route or itinerary, and you can simply enjoy the views as they drive you around. You can’t get much better than that!

To help you plan your visit, here is my guide on how to make the most out of one day in Yellowstone National Park .

Final thoughts on the Best Tours of Yellowstone

When it comes to choosing the best Yellowstone tours, it can be a difficult decision. There are so many incredible options, and it all depends on what you want from your visit. There are specific tour options for hiking, wildlife watching, and even multi-day tours that will take you to a variety of other parks as well as Yellowstone. Just make sure you take into account your timescale, budget, and fitness before making a decision, and also research the itinerary in depth! Which tour out of this list do you think you’ll pick?

Do you have any questions about Yellowstone National Park or need help planning your National Park trips. Let me know in the comments or join me in my National Park Trip Planning Community !

More Information for your trip to Wyoming

• DEVILS TOWER: The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Devils Tower National Monument
• The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Grand Teton National Park
• 25 Things to Know Before Visiting Yellowstone National Park
• How to Get to Yellowstone National Park
• 11 Books to Read Before Visiting Yellowstone National Park
• The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Yellowstone National Park
• 19 ABSOLUTELY Best Yellowstone Tour
• One Day in Yellowstone National Park – Yellowstone’s Grand Loop Highlights Driving Tour

More Information for your trip to Montana

• MONTANA: National Parks in Montana: Explore the 8 Montana National Parks
• Going-to-the-Sun Road: Everything You Need to Know
• The Ulitmate Guide to Camping in Glacier National Park

Pin for Later: 18 ABSOLUTELY Best Yellowstone Tour for 2022

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Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks

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EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Insider stories about the national parks during filmed narratives by Ken Burns & Dayton Duncan

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Stays at sought-after inside-the-national-park accommodations in Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks

Rafting adventure along the Snake River, surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the Tetons

Visit to the Mormon Row Historic District inside Grand Teton National Park

Extensive exploration inside the world's first national park, Yellowstone National Park

Visits to the Crazy Horse Memorial and Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Legendary Journeys and Adventures

The soul of the American West... Naturally inspiring, the landscapes of the American West challenge the imagination with jaw-dropping canyons, gurgling mud pots, geysers, and wide-open spaces... while towering mountains are a study in contrast, harboring wildlife and man-made wonders. 

A day at ta guest ranch, a taste of the cowboy life at a working wyoming ranch.

Make your way through Wyoming's breathtaking Bighorn Mountains to an authentic (and fun) western ranch experience at TA Guest Ranch in Buffalo. Homesteaded in 1884, the ranch was once the site of a shootout during the infamous Johnson County War that pitched cowboy against cowboy in these parts in 1892 – you can still see some of the old bullet holes! But today's visit will be a peaceful one… where you can choose to meet a horse whisperer, learn roping techniques from real cowboys, ride in a horse-drawn wagon, or saddle up for a horseback ride... and enjoy a private lunch on the ranch.

A night at the rodeo

Attend the exciting cody nite rodeo (seasonal, june – august).

Way out here in Wyoming, nothing promises more real Western fun than an honest-to-goodness rodeo... especially in a town named for the legendary Wild West showman, "Buffalo Bill" Cody, and often called the "Rodeo Capital of the World." Established in 1938 and operating June through August, the Cody Nite Rodeo is the world's longest-running nightly rodeo. Get set for an evening filled with bull riding, saddle bronco riding, team roping, barrel racing, rodeo clowns, and a "calf scramble" for kids 12 and under.

Old Faithful Inn

Stay in a classic national historic landmark in yellowstone national park.

One of the largest log structures in the world, Old Faithful Inn was designated a National Historic Landmark. Built in 1904 of native lodgepole pine – and the epitome of the "National Park Rustic" architectural style – it is set within walking distance of Old Faithful Geyser, just one of Yellowstone's many natural wonders... including geysers, fumaroles and boiling hot springs.

This relatively untamed territory makes you proud of those who had the foresight to set aside the space for National Parks.

Dean Horton

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Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

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Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

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Holiday inn® cody at buffalo bill village.

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Ucross, Wyoming

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks begins and ends in the U.S.

Real ID Act - Effective May 7, 2025

Beginning in May 2025, some state IDs will no longer permit you to board a domestic flight. Currently, some states are compliant, some have received extensions, and some are not compliant.  Click here  to see the status of your state. If your state license is not compliant, you can use a passport in lieu of a valid state ID. 

Please Note:  The federal government has extended the deadline to May 7, 2025 for domestic airline passengers to secure a Real ID driver's license for use as identification at the airport. Travelers without a verified license or ID card will also have the option of showing other identity documents, such as a passport or military ID to board a plane.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally,   you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department's Internet site by clicking  here.

If you are traveling by air to join and/or depart from this tour within the U.S., please read the section entitled Airline Security Measures under Additional Information to determine what travel documentation is required.

If you are a citizen of the U.S. or Canada who travels frequently between the two countries, you may benefit from the NEXUS program, which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet website by clicking here . Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposit & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $350 per person

Final Payment:

Final Payment is due to Tauck 60 days before departure for lands trips, and 120 days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement for up to $5,000 to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $349  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPDOM .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $350 per person

59-8 days before departure = $600 per person

7-1 days before departure = $900 per person

Time of cancellation  will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control,  Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify Tauck as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of another country traveling to or within the U.S., we suggest that contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information regarding vaccinations and medications for vaccine-preventable diseases and other diseases for which you might be at risk when you reach your destination in the U.S. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.

To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

Some of the excursions on this tour are:

• Whitewater rafting on the Snake River, the journey is roughly 2 hours and requires stepping in and out of an inflatable raft
• Guided horseback riding on a working cattle ranch, guests are required to show ability to mount/unmount and for safety reasons, a weight restriction of 225 pounds is in place. 

There are no elevators at The Ranch at Ucross or at the Holiday Inn® Cody at Buffalo Bill Village, and while none of the planned activities are especially strenuous or difficult, we urge caution when engaging in activities at high elevations. If you have a heart condition or lung ailment, please consult your physician before you book your trip.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it. While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

The Jackson Lake Lodge, Old Faithful Inn and Lake Yellowstone Hotel are all non-smoking hotels and a very large fine will be assessed if it is determined that anyone has smoked while on property.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey! You can view the reading list  here .

The high temperatures in the summer months average 70 to 90°F (21 to 32°C) and the lows average 40 to 60°F (4 to 16°C). The overnight temperatures can drop to the freezing point even during the summer at the highest elevations. Rainfall is light to moderate throughout the region. Salt Lake City receives the least amount of rain with an average of less than 1 in (25 mm) per month during summer; Jackson averages 1.5 in (38 mm) and Rapid City averages 2.5 in (63 mm.)

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual resort wear is appropriate; formal wear is never required.

All of our hotels offer valet laundry service for a fee except for the Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel and The Ranch at Ucross.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

The national park lodges do not have televisions or Internet hook-ups, so bring along a good book to read!

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your journey to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks:

• Comfortable walking shoes (VERY IMPORTANT)
• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• Long pants or jeans (long pants and closed-toed shoes are required for the horseback riding)
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Reusable water bottle
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm functions (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms
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• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• A book or e-reader to read in the evening, or downloaded podcasts or video programs to watch during your free time.
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Explore the National Park

Yellowstone tours.

Welcome to Yellowstone National Park, where nature unfolds in all its breathtaking glory. This iconic destination is a dream come true for nature enthusiasts, offering a symphony of ancient volcanic landscapes, vibrant colors, and untamed wildlife that roam freely in their natural habitat.

As you step into Yellowstone, prepare to be enchanted by a kaleidoscope of colors. Ancient volcanic landscapes give rise to ethereal scenes where steam dramatically rises from the ground, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Bright yellows, deep blues, and vibrant greens flood your senses, turning every moment into a visual masterpiece. Yellowstone is more than a destination; it’s a vibrant ecosystem where flora and fauna coexist in harmony. Rare and endemic species find refuge here, creating a delicate balance that adds to the park’s ecological significance, from tiny wildflowers to towering pine trees.

Every step of our Yellowstone National Park Tour is guided by a knowledgeable and passionate naturalist guide. Immerse yourself in the wonders of this iconic park as we take you right into the heart of its most captivating sights like the famous Old Faithful geyser and Grand Prismatic Spring. Tailored to your interests and the season of your visit, our tours offer a range of experiences that showcase the unparalleled beauty of Yellowstone. 

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, photography buff, or nature lover, you’ll find something that fits your preferences! Choose from a selection of wildlife safaris, Yellowstone photography tours, natural features tours, snowshoeing, and hiking.

Things to See in Yellowstone

For many visitors, the allure of this iconic destination lies in the chance to witness the park’s incredible inhabitants, making wildlife observation a cornerstone of their Yellowstone experience. Thanks to years of conservation, the park has become a sanctuary for a diverse array of species. Notably, the iconic reintroduction of the gray wolf and the recovery of the grizzly bear have marked significant milestones in Yellowstone’s conservation narrative, making it possible for us to see them in the wild! Seasonal events, such as breeding and migrations, promise a captivating display of nature’s grandeur. Experience the raw power and beauty of these magnificent creatures during the elk rut, the migration of the pronghorn, or the playful antics of bear cubs. Each season unveils a new chapter in the lives of Yellowstone’s residents.

Breathtaking Landscapes

Indulge in Yellowstone’s undeniable natural beauty, where cascading waterfalls, breathtaking canyons, expansive open spaces, and the tranquility of the forest create a symphony of awe-inspiring landscapes. Yellowstone is a sanctuary of vistas that seem plucked from paintings or nature documentaries. Everywhere you turn, you’ll be graced with scenes that transcend the ordinary, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and a rejuvenating connection with the unparalleled wonders of the natural world.

Geothermal Activity

The mere mention of Yellowstone typically conjures images of the renowned Old Faithful, a geyser that stands as a premier attraction within the park and a major highlight. Yet, what often escapes notice is that Old Faithful is just one among the 500 geysers and merely a fraction of the 10,000 geothermal features scattered throughout Yellowstone. As one of the world’s largest dormant volcanoes, Yellowstone’s fiery history dates back 70,000 years, with its colossal caldera, formed over 631,000 years ago, encompassing more than 40% of the park. This volcanic activity births a mesmerizing landscape of hot springs, mud pots, steam vents, travertine terraces, and an array of geysers. Amidst the thermal areas, vibrant hues of yellows and oranges, painted by heat-loving bacteria, create a visually striking spectacle. Steam rises across the terrain, contributing to an otherworldly ambiance. Navigating this extraordinary terrain is greatly enriched by the presence of a knowledgeable guide, unraveling the mysteries behind these phenomena and providing a deeper appreciation of Yellowstone’s captivating geological history.

Seasonal Tours

Every season in Yellowstone is so different, and that’s not limited to the weather. The wildlife patterns vary greatly depending on the time of year, and some park entrances close during certain months. Be sure to check ahead of time what will be available to you during your stay, and what animals you’ll most likely be able to see!

Spring/Summer

From May-October, we offer single day and multi-day Yellowstone tours. There are endless opportunities for breathtaking wildlife sightings and stunning vistas during these warm summer months, and the animals are on the move to take advantage of the season’s resources. This means large ungulates like the iconic bison, elk, and moose can be found along with the exciting potential for our predators: foxes, coyotes, both black bears and grizzly bears, and even wolves! Even more, several bird species including the majestic bald eagle and rarer golden eagle occupy the skies above. Our day tours visit popular highlights such as Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, with chances at encountering the local wildlife species. Our two day and three day safaris slow the pace down to truly soak it all in. You’ll become well acquainted with the unique natural wonders of the region and have several opportunities for game drives at prime wildlife viewing times, ensuring wildlife encounters that you’ll never forget!

Step into another world as Yellowstone transforms into a winter wonderland. Some may think that everything comes to a standstill in winter, but that couldn’t be further from the truth! Picture yourself traversing the serene alpine beauty on snowshoes, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the snowy surroundings. If a more exhilarating experience is on your agenda, opt for the thrill of a snowmobile tour, racing through the dramatic and steaming volcanic terrain that takes on a surreal quality in the winter frost. Looking for a unique wildlife encounter? Join us for an unforgettable wolf-watching adventure. Whatever your winter adventure desires may be, we are prepared to turn them into reality, ensuring that Yellowstone’s winter landscape becomes the canvas for your extraordinary experiences.

Our tours are flexible, so you can focus on what interests you the most. Whether you like learning about geology, watching wildlife, or just taking in the scenery, we can customize the experience for you. Your tour is designed to be all about what you enjoy the most!

We offer Yellowstone National Park tours year-round.  For general sightseeing and wildlife tours featuring bears, we recommend planning your arrival for the summer months.  For wolf watching and a spectacular wintry landscape, we recommend a winter wildlife safari .

Yellowstone & Grand Teton Day Tour

Explore the highlights of Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park with a professional naturalist guide. See impressive thermal features and stunning alpine landscapes as you travel through the parks.

Destination

Best of yellowstone.

This Yellowstone National Park safari tour covers highlights such as geysers, hot springs, waterfalls and wildlife of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

Yellowstone Wildlife Safari

Yellowstone National Park forms the core of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Its wildlife diversity and extraordinary landscapes bring wildlife enthusiasts from all around the world.

Yellowstone Winter Wildlife Safari

While winter may bring cold temperatures, snowy days and a resounding stillness to the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, it is also undoubtedly one of the most exciting seasons to go on a wildlife safari.

Big Sky Adventure

One of the best ways to explore during the wintertime is by snowshoe. Using snowshoes allows us to traverse a winter landscape like a winter hare, giving us access to places you can’t get to by vehicle.

Yellowstone Walking Safari

There are few places on Earth that can boast the diversity of landscape and wildlife as can Yellowstone. For adventurous and willing travelers, a walking safari is arguably the best way to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the incredible wildness that is the first National Park.

Yellowstone Photography Tour

Explore Yellowstone National Park through a different lens. This tour is led by a professional photography guide and it explores the landscapes and wildlife of Yellowstone’s Northern Range.

Yellowstone | Old Faithful (Winter Geysers) | Snowcoach

Yellowstone | Canyon (Waterfalls & Wildlife) | Snowcoach

2 Day Yellowstone and Grand Teton Tour

Capture the spirit of two famous National Parks – Yellowstone and Grand Teton. This 2 day tour offers you the chance to view volcanic hydrothermals, glacial lakes, impressive mountain ranges in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

2 Day Bear and Wolf Safari

Amplify your experience with Yellowstone National Park’s iconic apex predators, like black bears, grizzly bears and wolves, and immerse yourself deeper into the wilds of America’s most untamed ecosystem.

2 Day Winter Wolves and Wildlife Safari

Expand your adventure across Yellowstone National Park’s most exclusive landscape, and take a deeper dive into America’s wildest winter wonderland on a two day private safari in the Northern Range.

Yellowstone Multi-Day Photography Tour

3 Day Wild West Safari

This fantastic multi-day safari is an adventure through the wilds of Montana and Wyoming, showcasing the Northeastern corner of Yellowstone National Park and numerous hidden delights of the Rocky Mountain West, including the rare chance to see wild mustangs. 

3 Day Yellowstone & Grand Teton Tour

In three days, cover the top highlights of Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Hole with a professional naturalist guide. Search for wildlife and learn about the geological features that make this area unique.

3 Day Bear and Wolf Safari

Maximize your experience in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem with some of Yellowstone’s most fabled apex predators, like bears and wolves, and embark upon the ultimate wildlife expedition in the world’s first National Park.

3 Day Winter Wolves and Wildlife Safari

Spend three days immersed in America’s wildest winter wonderland and experience the delicate balance of life and the elements across Yellowstone National Park’s most exclusive landscape.

4 Day Yellowstone & Grand Teton Tour

5 Day Yellowstone & Grand Teton Tour

What is the best way to tour Yellowstone?

Yellowstone National Park is a vast 2.2 million acres of rugged wilderness with 250 miles of roads running through it. It is so large with so many things to see, it can be overwhelming to plan a day trip or even several days and make sure that you get the most out of your time. While you can absolutely navigate your own way around the park, booking a guided tour with us can give you the most stress free, fun, and efficient experience. Leave the driving to someone else and enjoy the view without worrying if you’re spending too much time in one spot or missing something amazing. We have well-seasoned itineraries to ensure you’re seeing as much as possible in the time you have, and our knowledgeable and passionate guide will impart so much fascinating information on the geology, history, and wildlife of the area that you wouldn’t get on your own. Your guide will also know the best places to look for animals!

What animals are on a Yellowstone winter tour?

Due to its altitude, Yellowstone experiences winters of extreme cold, wind, and heavy snowfall. Some animals like bears disappear and hibernate through the season, but many others are out and about for us to see. Bison persevere through the winter under their thick, dense coats and graze on what little vegetation they can find. Most elk migrate out of the park for the winter, but many remain. This is good news for those keen on looking for wolves as the snowy conditions make hunting elk easier for packs. Lamar Valley is famous for wolf watching as two active wolf packs reside in the valley and successfully hunt elk and bison, and are more visible and easier to spot in the bright white backdrop. Coyotes, foxes, bald eagles, and golden eagles are also common and exciting winter wildlife in Yellowstone.

What wildlife is on a Yellowstone summer tour?

Summer is a time for abundant resources and favorable weather for wildlife. Depending on where you are in the season, it is also a time for giving birth and finding a mate. There are plenty of wildlife opportunities on a summer safari! Spring is an incredible time to look for black bears and grizzly bears as they emerge from hibernation and search for mates, and they continue foraging throughout the summer. Elk and pronghorn antelope migrate back to their summer ranges to have their calves and fawns. Moose and bison calves are also taking their first steps and sticking close to their mothers. Coyotes and foxes are often seen hunting for rodents in open fields, and countless bird species migrate to the region to breed. Animals like beavers, otters, and weasels are a little more difficult to spot, just remember to keep a sharp eye out!

How many days should I spend touring Yellowstone?

This ultimately depends on what you are interested in, how much you want to see, and how much time you have available. Many people take a day tour of Yellowstone and come away thrilled with a full day packed with some of the best highlights the park has to offer, and several amazing wildlife encounters. For others, a day just isn’t enough; a slower pace is preferable to really take in the experience and to see more of Yellowstone’s unique geological features and stunning vistas. In this case, anywhere between two and five days is certainly sufficient.

What do I need to bring?

Yellowstone weather is unpredictable in every season, with large temperature swings possible throughout the day. Layers are strongly advised! In the summer, make sure you wear clothes that you would be comfortable in warm weather, adding a layer for the chilly early morning hours and in case of rain. Technically, snow is possible any time of the year because of the altitude, but particularly in the months of April and October a heavier, warmer jacket is recommended. Waterproof sneakers or boots that are comfortable to walk in are best for uneven trails and boardwalks. If you have a camera, don’t forget it at home! We provide optics such as spotting scopes and individual binoculars to get the best possible view. For multi-day tours, it’s a matter of personal preference. Clothes to sleep in, personal toiletries, and medications should be packed. Lunch, water, and plenty of snacks will be provided.

Will there be restrooms?

Absolutely! While there are flush restrooms around the park, most of them are vault toilets. They are generously scattered around the park, so you will rarely be too far from one. Our guides will provide access to comfortable flush restrooms when possible, so try to take advantage of them when you can!

What kind of vehicle will we be in?

Our group sizes are small to allow for personal attention, so we use spacious SUVs and passenger vans. Our small vehicle sizes allow for more flexible tours, and to be able to pull over for wildlife throughout the park unlike large tour buses.

Further Reading

Yellowstone’s big, wild, and wonderful landscapes, mar 15, 2021.

One of the trademark aspects of Yellowstone that amazes and bewilders so many people is how absolutely enormous the National Park is.  Yellowstone National Park encompasses more than 2.2 million acres of grasslands, forests, mountains, valleys, lakes, and rivers, all situated in or around one of the largest volcanic calderas on Earth.

A Brief History Of Yellowstone National Park

Nov 3, 2020.

Yellowstone National Park was established on March 1, 1872 as the world’s first national park. Yellowstone is an active volcano with one of the world’s largest calderas, measuring approximately 45 miles by 30 miles.

Keep Exploring

More bear and wolf adventures.

Yellowstone Summer Safaris

Yellowstone Winter Tours

Multi-Day Safaris

A first-timer’s guide to Yellowstone National Park

How to make the most of america’s first national park..

The first time I visited Yellowstone National Park , I was three. My family was scouting the area to decide if we should move to Jackson Hole, WY —one look at the mountain vistas and bubbling streams, and my parents were sold. Growing up, I returned to the park often for school field trips, fishing excursions with my dad, and as an unofficial tour guide anytime friends came to town. Even now that I live in Texas, I make it a point to visit at least once a year. And while I’ve experienced dozens of other national parks, none have been able to top Yellowstone.

With its geological wonders (the park sits above a supervolcano), abundant wildlife, and human history, there’s no shortage of things to see. In fact, it often feels like several parks in one. If you’ve never been, I promise you’re in for a treat. Below are my tried-and-true tips.

Think of the park in two parts

The park’s main thoroughfare, Grand Loop Road , consists of two routes: an upper loop and a lower loop that intersect like a figure eight. The major attractions— Old Faithful , Grand Prismatic Spring , Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone , and Mammoth Hot Springs —are all along this road. Technically, you can do both loops in a day—the actual drive is five hours, but that doesn’t include travel time into the park, inevitable traffic jams, or stops for sightseeing. For a leisurely experience, I recommend allocating at least three days to see the best of the Grand Loop.

Tip: Unlike some national parks, Yellowstone does not offer a shuttle system. There are tours you can join, like the Historic Yellow Bus Tou r, but you’ll need a car if you want to explore on your own.

Have a (flexible) game plan

You never know when you might happen upon a herd of bison crossing the river (one of my favorite things I’ve witnessed) or a rare eruption (count yourself lucky if you see Steamboat Geyser blow—with recorded heights of up to 300 feet, it’s the world’s tallest active geyser). You don’t want to miss out on the surprises that make Yellowstone so special because you’re in a rush. Pencil in just one or two major sites or timed events a day and then leave the rest open.

One thing to plan around, though, is meals, since hours and quality of in-park restaurants vary. The chuckwagon cookouts near Roosevelt Lodge are hokey in the best way, while the Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room offers more upscale, reservation-only dinners (stop by the sunroom after for string quartet performances). For lunch, I love the Old Faithful General Store , a historic gem with burlwood beams, a retro diner, and huckleberry ice cream.

Tip: Cell service is scarce, so download the NPS App , which works offline and has info on trails, self-guided tours, and predictions for when geysers will likely erupt.

Get up early and stay out late

Generally, I’m out the door no later than 7 a.m. so I can enjoy solitude at the typically crowded hotspots. Then, as parking lots fill up, I go for an afternoon picnic or hike. If you’re more of a night owl, aim to visit after 7 p.m. (in the summer, it stays light until almost 10 p.m. and most people will have returned to their accommodations by then). This is also when many animals emerge for dinner.

The Lamar Valley is arguably the best place to see wildlife, including bighorn sheep, bison, and once-endangered wolves. I’ve yet to see a wolf up close in the wild, but it’s not uncommon to find photographers lining the road, their lenses aimed at a den on the hillside. Ask nicely and they’ll let you take a peek. Head to Mammoth Hot Springs for the chance to see elk grazing on the hotel’s lawn and keep your eyes peeled for bears in Hayden Valley . If you have your heart set on seeing a moose, know that sightings are rare—your best bet is to look near bodies of water with willow trees (one of their favorite snacks). Bring binoculars and bear spray, especially if you plan to hike, and brush up on your animal-viewing etiquette .

Tip: If you strike out in the park, try the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center in West Yellowstone. The not-for-profit animal rescue provides a home for critters both big (bears, wolves) and small (otters, prairie dogs) that cannot survive in the wild.

Seek out a different vantage point

Crowds are inevitable if you visit during the summer months, but finding a moment for yourself is easy—it just requires a shift in perspective.

Yellowstone boasts roughly 1,000 miles of trails, many of which offer prime views from above the park’s most popular sites. Here are a few of my underrated favorites:

• The Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook is a mostly flat, 1.5-mile hike from the Fairy Falls trailhead. Most people only ever see the spring up close, but the overlook gives you a better sense of its sheer size and kaleidoscopic colors.
• The wheelchair-accessible Upper and Lower Geyser Basins offer a great crowd-free view of Old Faithful. Time your arrival to the eruption of Castle Geyser , then make your way to Morning Glory Pool before ending at Beehive Geyser . From there, you can see Old Faithful and the boardwalk below.
• The 5-mile, accessible route to Lone Star Geyser is even more secluded and makes for a great bike ride.
• The Canyon Rim South Trail offers postcard-worthy views of the Yellowstone River’s dramatic Upper and Lower waterfalls.

You can also get out on the water. Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America and sits in the caldera of an ancient volcano. Learn about still-active underwater thermal features and explore parts of the West Thumb Geyser Basin while on a kayak tour or hop aboard the Lake Queen II for a scenic cruise that includes possible bald eagle sightings. I also recommend a stop at Isa Lake . While tiny, it’s remarkable for its location atop the Continental Divide—it’s the only lake that drains into two oceans.

Don’t overlook the park's human history

Most of the hype occurs around the park’s geological marvels, but there’s a lot of human history here too. For starters, the park was—and still is—a sacred place for more than 20 Indigenous groups . The Yellowstone Tribal Heritage Center features live programming with native artists and scholars covering topics like storytelling, dance, and beadwork.

After the park was founded in 1872, the U.S. Army served as its stewards and old Fort Yellowstone still stands, accessible via a self-guided walking tour. (While you’re there, make a quick detour to Roosevelt Arch ). And even if you’re not staying in the park, stop by the Old Faithful Inn —the world’s largest log cabin and one of the earliest examples of “ parkitecture .” (Disney fans will recognize it as the inspiration for the Wilderness Lodge ). Join one of the free summer tours to learn more about the inn and why its staff celebrate Christmas on August 25.

Tip: The general stores throughout the park offer more than just t-shirts and tchotchkes. Many reside in historic buildings and each sells different souvenirs. On a cold day, I love to warm up by the stone fireplace in the Lake General Store .

Pick the right gateway town for you

There are four major access points: The small town of Gardiner, MT , in the north, offers easy entry in the winter; Cody, WY —founded by Buffalo Bill Cody—is not far from the east entrance and boasts Western charm (complete with a nightly rodeo in the summer); and my picturesque hometown of Jackson, WY , sits to the south and is best if you also want to explore Grand Teton National Park . Last but not least, the aptly-named West Yellowstone is at—you guessed it—the west entrance and is great for families and large groups on a budget.

Tip: Park hotel reservations open a year in advance and rooms go quickly, but check back often for cancellations. Camping is also an option and it’s possible to find availability at the largest campground, Bridge Bay , even in summer. However, my go-to is Grant Village for its central location and secluded sites among the trees.

Visit in all seasons

My last word of advice? Don’t limit your visit to the summer months. Right after Labor Day is one of my favorite times to experience the park, when crowds dwindle, the air is crisp, and the leaves start to change. Winter is also otherworldly. Cross-country ski past slumbering bison and frozen waterfalls, visit geysers surrounded by snow, and ice skate outdoors at the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel . Yellowstone is an enchanting place, whenever you go.

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The Coolest Way to Tour Yellowstone

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Yellowstone Yellow Bus Tours

Early visitors to Yellowstone explored the wonders of the park in all sorts of vehicles, from stagecoaches to surreys to snow planes (a precursor to the snowmobile).

Those transportation modes were long ago eclipsed by more modern conveyances. But one early model, the park’s yellow touring buses, remains a staple. And they’re as big a hit as they were when they first rolled onto Yellowstone’s byways in the 1920s.

These days, a fleet of eight vintage White Motor Co. historic yellow buses ferry visitors on guided tours. The distinctive antique yellow vehicles have retractable canvas roofs and panoramic windows, making them ideal for sightseeing. Plus, they’re really cool to ride around in.

At the height of their popularity within Yellowstone in the mid-1920s, more than 400 of the vehicles operated in the park.

“Yellowstone loved to brag that they had a bus for every day of the year,” says Leslie Quinn, an interpretive specialist for Yellowstone National Park Lodges, the park’s primary concessionaire. “Yellowstone had the second largest bus fleet in the country in the mid-20s, second only to Greyhound.”

As more visitors arrived in private vehicles and explored the park on their own power, the Yellowstone tour buses were gradually sold off. But in 2002, Xanterra purchased eight of the vehicles from the Skagway Streetcar Co., which had used them for touring the historic Alaska mining town. In 2006, the vehicles were refurbished to meet modern safety and mechanical standards and in 2007, Xanterra returned the buses to service in the park. They also added basic amenities like heaters. The bodies sit on 2007 Ford E450 van frames and motors, but the exteriors of the 13-passenger vehicles maintain their original appearance.

The Skagway Motor Co. had acquired these historic buses from around the country, where they’d served various duties. Each of the eight Yellowstone vehicles has a nickname related to its past life. Look for the name posted on the right-hand side above the windshield. For instance, there are “Big Rocky” and “Little Rocky,” named for their stints in Rocky Mountain National Park. “Monty” once belonged to a collector from Vermont. And “Hollywood” appeared in an episode of M*A*S*H and the movie Big Trouble in Little China, Quinn says.

The Historic Yellow Bus can take you to the heart of the greatest geyser region of Yellowstone or wildlife-rich areas like Hayden Valley. And one of the buses can even be rented for private tours . Whether you prefer sightseeing, geyser gazing, or wildlife watching we can help you create your perfect day in a Historic Yellow Bus.

But wherever they roam, Yellowstone’s historic yellow buses are certain to cause a stir among onlookers.

“If we had a nickel for every person who wants their picture taken in front of the bus, we’d make a fortune,” Quinn says. “They’re just the coolest little buggies on the planet.”

Explore all of our tours on a historic yellow bus below.

Washington, DC-based freelance writer Jayne Clark has been a travel reporter at USA TODAY and several other daily newspapers.

• Explore Historic Yellow Bus Tours

For A World of Unforgettable Experiences ® available from Xanterra Travel Collection ® and our sister companies, visit xanterra.com . Want to experience Yellowstone in-depth? See what makes Yellowstone National Park a great place to work for a season or longer!

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9 Tips to Visit Yellowstone on a Budget

Wondering whether to fly or drive where to stay to save money here’s everything you need to know to plan an affordable vacation to yellowstone without sacrificing fun..

Planning a budget friendly Yellowstone vacation isn’t as easy as it might seem. Tucked in the northwest corner of Wyoming and southern edges of Montana, Yellowstone’s remote location has, no doubt, helped preserve its natural wonders. But being so far from a metropolitan area can drive up lodging, flights, gas and food costs. After years of visiting Yellowstone, we’ve learned how to enjoy the park and not break the bank. Here are nine insider tips to save money on your next Yellowstone vacation.

Weigh Whether Driving or Flying to Yellowstone Is More Affordable

Everyone planning a Yellowstone vacation has to decide whether they will drive or fly. If you’re a family of five traveling from Chicago to Yellowstone , it may be most cost-effective to drive. You won’t spend money on airline tickets or a rental car. And while you’ll need to pay for hotels, food and gas along the way, those costs are manageable. To save on food costs, stay at inexpensive hotels where breakfast is included, pack snacks and stock your cooler with lunch foods. Better yet, if you’re a camper, pack your tent and camp stove and stay at campgrounds along the way.

If you have airline miles or limited time, it may be cheaper to fly and rent a car at the airport. Yellowstone visitors fly into a mix of regional and international airports, all with pros and cons.

Know the Cheapest Places to Fly into Yellowstone

To be clear, there’s no airport right next to the park. Regional airports within an hour’s drive of the park include Yellowstone Regional Airport in Cody, Wyoming, and Jackson Hole Airport , which sits in Grand Teton National Park in Jackson, Wyoming. Just under a two-hour drive are Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport and Idaho Falls Regional Airport . It’s worth checking flight prices to all four airports on various airlines using a tool like Google Flights. If you really want to hone in on deals, Airfarewatchdog.com can alert you when prices drop.

While farther from Yellowstone, Salt Lake City International Airport in Salt Lake City, Utah , and Denver International Airport in Denver, Colorado, offer what the small airports don’t: choice. With more flights and airlines to choose from, you may find cheaper prices. It’s a five-hour drive to Yellowstone from Salt Lake City and an 8.5-hour drive from Denver . While flying into these airports eats up time you could be spending in the park, it may also save you a lot of money.

When you’re pricing your flights, be sure to price rental cars, too. Rental car prices can vary wildly, and an overpriced vehicle can erase all the savings you got for your flights. Wherever you fly into, reserve your rental car way in advance.

Be Aware that the Cheapest Gas in Yellowstone Is Outside the Park

Whether you fly or drive there, you need a car to tour Yellowstone. The park’s vastness and its lack of a public transportation system force visitors to be completely dependent on their vehicles to explore any of the park’s gems.

While there are seven gas stations in Yellowstone, the gas in the park is more expensive than outside the park. Save money by fueling up in West Yellowstone , Gardiner and Cooke City in Montana. Because the park is larger than Delaware and Rhode Island combined, be strategic and scout out your fuel stops in advance. If you’re going to visit Mammoth Hot Springs, fuel up in the town of Gardiner, which is several minutes away. If you’re staying in West Yellowstone, fuel up there before venturing to Old Faithful. No matter where you explore, keep your eyes on your gas tank. Running out of gas in Yellowstone is no picnic, especially with all those grizzly bears roaming around.

Use These Hacks to Find the Best Hotel Deals in Yellowstone

If you have your heart set on staying in the park, there are some essentials you need to know. First, you’re battling with literally thousands of others to stay in the park, so to get the cheapest rates, book your rooms as early as possible. Yellowstone National Park Lodges, the company that runs the park’s hotels, releases rooms 13 months in advance, so be ready to book the instant rooms are released for your dates.

Second, seek out the more affordable properties. Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Old Faithful Inn are two of Yellowstone’s finest hotels, but both properties have cabins a stone’s throw away that are much cheaper. Instead of staying at Lake Yellowstone Hotel, stay at Lake Lodge Cabins . Pass on the Old Faithful Inn, and opt for Old Faithful Lodge Cabins . If you book a cabin with a communal bathroom, the price drops more.

Roosevelt Lodge Cabins are another affordable option with shared or private bathrooms. Like many things in life, as the price drops, amenities tend to disappear. If you book a Rough Rider cabin, you won’t find a bathroom, TV, internet or a coffee maker in your room. But you’ll have a cozy bed in the heart of the park.

For the best hotel rates, sign up for the park’s hotel newsletter as it often offers special promotions and book directly through Yellowstone National Park Lodges.

If you like to camp, the cheapest way to stay in Yellowstone is in your tent or RV at one of the park’s 12 campgrounds . All but Mammoth Campground in Gardiner requires advanced reservations. Book as early as possible for a night stay that could cost you the equivalent of three trips to Starbucks. Remember, camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds inside the park.

Stay in the Most Affordable Places Outside of Yellowstone

Lodging outside of Yellowstone is often more affordable. The farther you have to drive, the cheaper the prices. For instance, for the price of a no-frills cabin in Yellowstone, you may be able to reserve an amenity-filled hotel room outside the park. But pricing often depends on where and when you book. In Montana, West Yellowstone and Gardiner both sit right on the park’s boundary and Silver Gate/Cooke City are just minutes from the boundary. These towns have a mix of affordable lodging and restaurants, which means you can save money and access the park quickly. Thirty minutes from the West Entrance, you may find more bargains in Island Park, Idaho .

Even farther, Cody, Wyoming , is 55 miles east of the park’s East Entrance and Jackson, Wyoming is 57 miles from the park’s South Entrance. Both towns offer world-class museums and restaurants, and lodging for a variety of budgets. However, you’ll spend more time in the car and more money on gas driving to and from the park. While Cody offers affordable lodging, Jackson tends to offer higher-end prices in the summer. If you stay outside the park, choose a town that puts you closest to the attractions you want to see. For the cheapest options outside the park consider camping. There’s a variety of national forest and BLM campgrounds as well as privately run campgrounds and RV parks nearby that offer affordable ways to spend the night.

Make Reservations for Yellowstone’s Cheapest Time of Year

Yellowstone’s high season is June through August, but even September has become a popular time to visit, so finding good deals in summer means looking way in advance. You’ll find the highest hotel rates during peak season.

Almost all park roads close in the winter, leaving only Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Old Faithful Snow Lodge open, so adventurous travelers have to take a snowcoach to get to Old Faithful. While you’ll discover a snowy, uncrowded Yellowstone, it’s not the cheapest season because you have limited lodging and dining options and need to arrange tours into the heart of the park.

Hotel rates fall most during spring and fall in and out of the park. The park roads open in late April, and between then and early June, you’ll find some hotel rates will be between 30-50% lower than high season. The same goes for the fall season from late September to late October before park roads close for the season.

If you have flexibility with your dates, find the best deals by visiting Yellowstone National Park Lodges’ website. Select the flexible calendar option to see the lowest rates for any Yellowstone hotel on any day.

Save Money in Yellowstone by Preparing Your Own Food

Yellowstone has a variety of eateries from delis to sit-down service. While they vary in price, eating every meal in the park will empty your wallet quickly. Even Yellowstone’s convenience stores are expensive and lack a large selection of food.

For the really budget conscious, pack dishes, a camp stove, pans and a picnic blanket before you leave home. Preparing your own meals at Yellowstone’s designated picnic areas will save you a ton of money. You’ll save even more by buying your food at a grocery store outside of the park. If you’re coming from the south, Jackson has both a large Albertson’s and a Smith’s grocery store. Heading west toward the park, Cody, has an Albertson’s and a Walmart Supercenter. Heading east into the park, West Yellowstone is home to Food Roundup Supermarket and Market Place.

Whether you prepare all your meals or just some, scout out the park’s designated picnic areas to plan where to dine. Each picnic area has tables and vaulted toilets.

Dine at Yellowstone’s Budget Friendly Restaurants

If you’re an avid restaurant-goer, consider dining outside the park for lower prices and more variety . Or check out Yellowstone’s dining establishments to see what might fit your budget. Similar to lodging, there are less expensive grab-and-go options alongside pricier sit-down locales. For instance, Old Faithful Inn Bear Paw Deli offers counter service with deli style items whereas Old Faithful Inn Dining Room requires dinner reservations and offers a pricier experience with waitstaff.

The silver lining of preparing some of your own meals is you may free up some money to splurge on a special meal like dinner at Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Hall where large windows showcase stunning views of Yellowstone Lake. There’s also the Old West Dinner Cookout where you ride in a covered wagon to a cookout replete with steaks, cornbread muffins, coleslaw and cowboys singing by the campfire.

Cut Costs in Yellowstone by Buying an All-Parks Pass

Everyone has to pay a fee at the park’s entrance station. Yellowstone park passes are good for seven days and cost $35. But if you plan on visiting other federal recreation sites within the year, buy the America the Beautiful Pass. It costs $80 but gives you access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites for 12 months. It’s especially handy if you’re headed to Grand Teton National Park or Glacier National Park right after Yellowstone.

While planning a budget-friendly Yellowstone vacation requires some effort, you’ll find it was all worth it as you watch a wolf loping through the Lamar Valley, bison grazing along the road to Tower Fall and the iconic Old Faithful shooting up toward the clear blue sky.

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From Wildlife Watching to the Old West Cookout: 11 Top Things to Do at Tower Roosevelt in Yellowstone

I n a quiet corner of Yellowstone National Park, the Tower Roosevelt Junction is a getaway for exemplary wildlife viewing, stunning views of the Tower Falls and the Old West vibes of Roosevelt Lodge. The Northeast Entrance and Montana are minutes away. This area is a favorite with adventurous families, anglers and wildlife watchers. From where to stay and where to eat, here are the top things to do at Tower Roosevelt in Yellowstone.

Top 11 Things to Do at Tower Roosevelt in Yellowstone

• Take a Scenic Drive
• Learn About Geology at Petrified Tree
• Stop by Tower Fall
• Spot Wildlife in Lamar Valley
• Take a Hike
• See Yellowstone River
• Take a Horseback Ride
• Reserve a Guided Tour
• Hop the Stagecoach
• Enjoy Cowboy Coffee and a Grilled Steak
• Spend the Night in a Cabin  

Yellowstone  a t a Glance

A family guide to yellowstone national park, why visit tower roosevelt area of yellowstone.

Located in the northeast corner of Yellowstone National Park, this area gets far fewer visitors than other areas. For animal lovers and wildlife spotters, its a must since this area for its Lamar Valley. For anglers, the Yellowstone River is another top for its trout.

Take a Scenic Drive in Yellowstone

Mammoth to tower-roosevelt on the grand loop.

The upper part of the Grand Loop Road is 18 miles long between Mammoth and Tower-Roosevelt Junction. It offers wildlife, and this area is called the Blacktail Deer Plateau. Pull-outs like Undine Falls, Petrified Tree and Phantom Lake.

Take the Blacktail Plateau Drive, an unpaved 6-mile one-way scenic bypass to the Grand Loop Road. Slower going, it takes visitors through alpine meadows and forests.

Tower-Roosevelt to Canyon on Grand Loop

Heading south on the Grand Loop of Yellowstone, this route is 19 miles long. It offers views of Mount Washburn as it heads to Canyon Village. Drives will also pass Dunraven Pass at 8,859 ft.

Beartooth All-American Road

From the Grand Loop, travelers head for the Northeastern Entrance at Tower Junction. US Highway 212 is the Beartooth All-American Road and passes through Cooke City and Silver Gate, Montana, before heading through the pristine Absaroka Range (last services for over 50 miles).

At the Chief Joseph Scenic Byway or Wyoming Highway 296, roadtrippers can head into Cody, Wyoming.

Stop by Petrified Tree

Located off the Grand Loop Road, west of Tower-Roosevelt Junction, the turn-off for Petrified Tree is .5 miles down the road. The tree offers a parking lot and a boardwalk. In the area, the Lost Lake Trailhead can be found.

Due to Yellowstone’s geothermal activity, geology in the area is unique. Visitors can spot Rhyolite, a volcanic rock in Yellowstone and used in some of the buildings, like Old Faithful Inn.

For the largest concentration of petrified trees in the world, a hike to Specimen Ridge is a must. The Petrified Trees of Specimen Ridge is a strenuous back-country 3.0-mile in-and-out hike, 4.5 miles east of Tower Junction.

Top 9 Things to Do at Yellowstone’s Old Faithful

Visit tower fall.

Tower Fall is a 132-foot (40-m) waterfall on the Tower Creek. This area is easy to visit with a short walk from the parking lot to an observation platform. This is one of the top things to do in Tower Roosevelt. SEO

The area offers the Tower General Store, which has restrooms and a water filling station. It also offers a cafe, ice cream, groceries and souvenirs. The store is open from late May until late September.

Wildlife Viewing in Lamar Valley

According to several park rangers, this is one of the best places for wildlife. This area is a favorite for bison and elk, and predators like wolves and grizzlies like to hunt here. It will take a bit of luck and a little patience to spot wolves and bears.

Bison are abundant in Lamar Valley, where they graze on grass and have water sources. Wildlife is most active near dusk or dawn, though I have seen bison in this area in the middle of the day. Binoculars or a spotting scope are helpful in wildlife spotting.

Yellowstone Wildlife

• Grizzly Bear
• Bighorn Sheep

Remember to keep 25 yards from wildlife and 100 yards from wolves, bears and mountain lions. Please adhere to all posted signs from Park Rangers alerting visitors of wildlife activity.

Bear Safety in Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park features two types of bears: black bears and Grizzly bears. Knowing the difference is important since each species uses different behavior.

Park Rangers offer some guidelines to reduce bear encounters:

• Hike in groups of 4 or more.
• Make noise while hiking by wearing bear bells and talking.
• Carry bear spray. Keep it accessible when hiking, and know how to use it.
• Keep campsites clean.

Bear spray is advised and can be rented in the park. Visit a visitor center or ranger station for more information.

To learn more, attend a ranger program in Yellowstone National Park. I did, and it’s a great way to learn more about bears. My boys loved the bear programs, and I felt more confident afterward.

Top 13 Things to Do at Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone

Hiking in tower-roosevelt area.

The hiking in Tower Roosevelt is more rugged, with long trails and more elevation gain. For easier hiking, consider both Mammoth Hot Springs Area or Canyon’s Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Lost Lake Loop —A 2.8-mile (4.6 km) roundtrip trail with a 669-foot elevation gain that departs from Roosevelt Lodge and passes Lost Lake and the Petrified Tree.

Yellowstone River Picnic Area Loop Trail —A 3.7-mile (6.1 km) roundtrip trail with a 456-foot elevation gain.

Slough Creek —A 3.4 mile (5.4 km) in-and-out trail to the first meadow. The trail is 3.4 miles (5.4 km) to the second meadow.

Garnet Hill Loop— A 7.6 miles (12.5 km) roundtrip trail that passes Elk Creek and the Yellowstone River from its trailhead close to the gas station at Tower-Roosevelt.

Hellroaring Trail —A 6.2 miles (10 km) roundtrip trail that uses the Yellowstone River Suspension Bridge to Hellroaring Creek.

Mt. Washburn —A 2.5 mile one-way trail with a 1,400 feet (425 m) elevation gain to reach the fire lookout station at the summit.

Horseback Riding at Roosevelt Coral

The northeast corner of Yellowstone offers horseback riding. This area is especially picturesque with its rugged landscape of sagebrush, evergreen trees and mountains. Rides travel across the flats near Garnet Hill, then head up a hill and ford a stream. The longer ride continues past Lost Canyon to Petrified Tree.

Horseback riding is available from early June to Labor Day. A late afternoon horseback ride is available at the Old West Dinner Cookout. Reservations are required, as are closed-toed shoes.

Rides depart from the Roosevelt Corall at 105 Roosevelt Lodge Rd. Rides from from one and two hours Riders must be 8 years old, 48 inches tall, weigh under 240 lbs, and understand English. The one-hour ride is $89 per rider, and $135 for the two-hour ride.

Top 11  Things to Do at Yellowstone Lake 

Take a stagecoach ride.

For those who want a feel of the Old West without riding a horse, the Stagecoach Adventure awaits. In the park’s early days, visitors used a Tally-Ho Stagecoach to get from one area to the next.

Now, guests will travel down an old stagecoach road in an authentic replica as they make their way through Pleasant Valley, passing sagebrush and enjoying the scenery.

Rides depart from the Roosevelt Corall at 105 Roosevelt Lodge Rd. Rides are 45 minutes long and open to all ages. Stagecoaches run from early June until Labor Day. Adults are $1,9, and kids (3 to 11) are $10, with those 3 and younger riding for free. Reservations are required.

Take a Guided Tour From Roosevelt

Yellowstone National Park is a marvel, and there is so much to see. I recommend taking a guided tour. I have been on my trips and found the guides very knowledgeable.

When staying at the Roosevelt Lodge, the Wake Up to Wildlife tour takes guests on a dawn wildlife excursion with one of its experienced guides. Tour participants will explore Lamar Valley, looking for elk, bison, bears and wolves, among other wildlife.

Tours depart from early June until Labor Day from 7 to 7:30 a.m. and last 4 hours. Muffins and juice is available on the bus. Adults are $121 and kids (3 to 11) are $60.50 with those 2 and younger riding for free. Binoculars are welcome.

Biking at Tower Roosevelt

Cyclists will find dedicated bike trails in Yellowstone. Bikes are allowed on vehicular roads, though use caution during peak periods when there is a lot of traffic, including motor coach traffic.

The Mount Washburn Bike Trail is in the Tower Roosevelt Area. It is three miles to the top of Mount Washburn froom Chittenden Road parking area. A cyclist will climb 1,500 feet in 2.5 miles. Bikes are not allowed on the hiking trail to the summit.

Bikes are available for rent at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge, which is open from Memorial Day weekend until Labor Day weekend. Adults, kids, trailers, bike trains, and helmets are available for rent from one hour to all day.

Review of Old Faithful Inn

Kids  in yellowstone, junior ranger program.

The Junior Ranger Program is the go-to program for families to learn more about a National Park Service site. It takes about two hours to complete. My kids love the badges that the Rangers present them with after they complete their booklets.

Kids love Yellowstone, and kids love animals, so buy a Junior Ranger booklet at the nearest park bookstore. In Yellowstone, the Junior Ranger booklets are $3, but kids who complete their booklets get a patch.

Yellowstone National Park divides the Junior Ranger booklet into three age categories with age-appropriate activities. Kids 4 to 7, 8 to 12 and 13 and older each complete as many activities as their age.

Old Faithful Visitor Education Center also offers a  Young Scientist Patch Program . Buy the $5 booklet at the Old Faithful Visitor Center’s gift store. The visitor center also checks out a pack of equipment needed to conduct experiments. It is best suited for students spending a couple of days in the Old Faithful Area to finish the program.

Please turn in your Junior Ranger booklet at Yellowstone’s National Park Junior Ranger Station, located near Madison on the west side of the park.

Guide to Grand Teton National Park

Picnic areas near tower roosevelt.

• Yellowstone River Picnic Area near Tower Roosevelt Junction
• Buffalo Paddock Picnic Area
• Soda Butte Creek Picnic Area in Lamar Valley
• Warm Creek Picnic Area near Northeast Entrance

At Tower Fall, visitors will find Tower Fall General Store. It sells groceries and ice cream. It also offers a restaurant with burgers and sandwiches. Open seasonally from late May until late September. The general store offers restrooms and a water bottle filling station.

Where to Eat Near Tower Roosevelt 

Roosevelt lodge dining room .

Located inside the Roosevelt Lodge, its dining room is a family-style restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Breakfast is stick-to-your-ribs favorites like oatmeal, pancakes, French toast and skillet dishes with eggs. There are fruit and yogurt options as well.

For lunch and dinner, the options Montana Beef options like burgers and bison burgers. Lighter options include salads and sandwiches. There is a cocktail menu available, and it includes favorites like whiskey sours and vodka mules. The Roosevelt Lodge serves several locally produced. spirits and wines.

The Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room is open from early June to Labor Day weekend. It is open daily from 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., with brief breaks between breakfast and lunch and then lunch and dinner. The dress is casual, and reservations are not accepted.

Old West Cookout

From the Roosevelt Corral, the only way out to the Old West Cookout is the old-fashioned way: by horse. Located in the stunning Pleasant Valley, diners will have to saddle up a horse for the trail ride or take a covered wagon.

After the ride, guests are greeted by cowhands, each working on a task, from cooking to chopping wood to brewing coffee over the wood fire. The menu is simple but substantial.  Each diner gets a steak (12 oz. serving for adults, 6 oz. for children),  potato salad, baked beans, cole slaw, chuck wagon corn, corn muffins, watermelon and fruit cobbler. There are several beverages served.

The Old West Cookout is offered from early June to early September. Adults are $84 with the wagon ride or $113 with the horseback ride. Kids (3 to 11) are $65 with the wagon ride and kids (8 to 11) are $100 with the horseback ride. Reservations are required for this popular activity.

Our Experience at the Old West Cookout

When we pull through the wooden arch of the Roosevelt Corral, I know this is going to be an evening to remember.

After we checked -in, we watched the horse wranglers outfit the horseback riders and get them on their way. The horses in the Roosevelt Corral are chosen because of their docile nature and range in age from 20 to 37.

The wagon riders were next, as we climbed aboard our brightly painted yellow wagons with five padded benches. I immediately started to hum Surrey with the Fringe on Top when I saw the wagon’s canvas cover protecting  us from a passing mountain shower.

Each wagon had a pair of draft horses with a driver and another wrangler who kept us entertained with stories of the land and lore. As the wagon creaked and ebbed out of the corral, I couldn’t help but smile. This felt like a great moment.

The wagon train of eight wagons continued up through the valley unnoticed by the pronghorn and the mule deer. The wagons are as much a part of the rhythm of the valley as the swaying grass.

After a 45-minute ride through the majestic scenery, the wagon train pulled into the camp at the edge of the valley. As we climbed down from the wagon, I looked up and saw the horseback riders switch back and forth down a ridge to join our group.

We walked into camp and were drawn to the smoking coals, where a blue granite-ware coffeepot was percolating some Campfire Joe. I had two cups before I blinked my eyes. I will not lie: This Mom is fueled by caffeine. My kids grabbed a lodgepole pine stump to sit on and listened to a cowboy rattle off tall tales.

Off on the edge of the camp, a cowboy crooner sang the songs of a bygone era as men gathered to recount tales of recent animal sightings. The dinner bell rang, and all turned to the promise of a hearty meal.

We lined up and waited for our turn. As the first few walked past, I saw plates piled high with steak, potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread and apple crisp, with watermelon slices on the side.

As I finally get my rustic campware plate, I turn and find a seat at one of the long family-style tables. Sitting in an unseen valley all to ourselves with a plate heaping full of steak, enjoying the way the pines lit up in the late afternoon sun, it didn’t get any better than this.

Like all great moments, it had to end. But before I left, I got another cup of coffee so strong it would put hair on the chest of an eight-year-old.

We loaded back up in the wagon for the ride back to the corral. When we arrived back, the sun was low in the sky, but the memory of a perfect meal in a perfect valley will live in my heart forever.

Where to Stay Near Tower Roosevelt

N amed after  Theodore Roosevelt , the 26th President of the U.S. spent time camping in this area. This lodge evokes the spirit of the West–wild and free. It was built in 1920 out of logs sourced nearby. 

The Roosevelt Lodge is a log building with a restaurant, two fireplaces and a lounge area with a bar. It also offers a reception desk for checking into the nearby cabins.

Along its deep front porch, visitors will find a line of rocking chairs. The lodge offers two types of cabins and they are clumped together. The Roosevelt Lodge is open from early June to Labor Day weekend.

Frontier Cabins 

These cabins feature two full-sized beds with an en-suite bathroom with a shower only. The Frontier Cabins feature a fan, an alarm clock and heat. All linens are located in the cabin.

Rough Rider Cabins 

The Rough Rider Cabins offer 1, 2, or 3 full-size beds. There is no attached bathroom, but a bathhouse is located nearby. There is a fan, an alarm clock and a stove with wood for heat. All linens are located in the cabin.

My Stay in a Rough Rider Cabin 

My  Rough Rider Cabin had three double beds, a dresser with a mirror and a pot belly stove that the kids loved. It’s a rustic cabin, meaning simple, with a couple of overhead lights and not much else. Like most of the rooms and cabins in Yellowstone, it does not have a TV, a radio or air conditioning.

Outside our cabin, I found a couple of picnic tables, where I set out the lunch for us. They sat down and gobbled up some sandwiches before finding a stream. I chased butterflies from one wildflower to the next, trying to get the perfect photo.

My boys also spotted a small mule deer next to the last row of cabins. They started in vain to stalk it. My daughter found wild raspberries dotting the bushes. I can’t believe this place, it’s made for kids.

We whittled away a couple of hours playing and chasing before we needed to check in for our next excursion. Luckily, it’s located right around the corner in the Roosevelt Coral.

Camping near Tower Roosevelt

This is a quiet corner of Yellowstone to camp. However, due to the flood in June 2023, camping is limited in the area.

Slough Creek Campground

Seasonal from mid-June to mid-October

• Reservations are accepted through recreation.gov
• 16 sites without hookups, RV limit 30’
• Vault Toilets
• No Running Water or Dump Station

Peddle Creek Campground

This campground is closed to flood recovery

• Seasonal during summer
• 27 sites without hookups

Tower Fall Campground

This campground is closed for 2024

• 31 sites without hookups

History of Yellowstone National Park

On March 1, 1872, Yellowstone National Park became the world’s first national park, an idea that would flourish worldwide for the next 150 years.

Approximately two million years ago, a supervolcano erupted in the Yellowstone region, forming a caldera, or basin. It’s at the center of Yellowstone National Park and measures 45 miles across, home to the largest concentration of geysers in the world.

The railroad arrived at the northern edge of the park in 1883. Then, the first roads started to bisect the park, allowing visitors more access to the geothermal features and the animals. More people meant a need for more lodging, so Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Old Faithful Inn are a few of the surviving early lodges.

Yellowstone was on the western frontier, so the U.S. Army built a fort to enforce the law and chase away poachers. You can see the old Fort Yellowstone at Mammoth Hot Springs.

Yellowstone is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the world.

If It’s Your First Visit

On my first visit to Yellowstone National Park, I made every newbie mistake.

• Didn’t make reservations.
• I camped in the same campground and didn’t move around the park.
• Didn’t research.

When the time came to plan another trip, I wanted to see more of the park. I planned a Grand Tour, much like the first visitors did over 100 years ago.

I started in one area and explored before relocating to another area. It worked out great, minimized the driving and maximized the enjoying.

Top Places to Explore in Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park offers cafes, general stores and restaurants. However,  be prepared to picnic for lunch and grab some snacks and sandwich ingredients in Bozeman or Jackson.

Tower-Roosevelt isn’t the only thing to see in Yellowstone National Park. Explore the other corners of the park for more family fun.

• Old Faithful Inn and Geyser
• Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
• Lake Yellowstone
• Lamar or Hayden Valley
• Mammoth Hot Springs

Best Books for National Park Lovers

Where’s Yellowstone National Park

It’s 320 miles northeast of Salt Lake City. Unless you arrange a tour, you will need a car to explore.

Three airports serve Yellowstone National Park.

• Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)—Bozeman, Montana, offers everything you need to outfit your family for a national park adventure, from food to equipment.
• Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)—The busiest airport in Wyoming is a regional airport. Jackson is a quaint town with an Old West flavor.
• Yellowstone Regional Airport (COD) in Cody, Wyoming, is a regional airport located east of Yellowstone.

Getting Around Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park is open 365 days a year and 24 hours a day. Use an America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) or purchase a 7-day pass for $35 per vehicle.

Seasonal closures affect Yellowstone National Park. Only July and August are the months when all roads and facilities are open.

Guide to National Park Passes

The post From Wildlife Watching to the Old West Cookout: 11 Top Things to Do at Tower Roosevelt in Yellowstone appeared first on Carful of Kids .

A bison at Yellowstone National Park

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