Yellowstone National Park, United States
Visitors can explore the park's numerous hiking trails, witness the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring, and marvel at the captivating Yellowstone Falls in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The park offers camping facilities, ranger-led programs, and exceptional opportunities for wildlife watching and photography. Yellowstone's rich heritage and natural beauty make it a premier destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone seeking awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether it's the bubbling mud pots, panoramic vistas, or the tranquility of its backcountry, Yellowstone National Park is a place of unparalleled natural splendor.
What to do in Yellowstone National Park, United States
Old Faithful Geyser
Old Faithful Geyser is one of the most iconic and predictable geysers, erupting approximately every 90 minutes. Visitors gather around the boardwalk to witness the powerful bursts of steam and water. The nearby Old Faithful Inn, an architectural marvel, offers a rich historical ambiance and stunning views of the geyser. A visit to the Old Faithful area is a must, offering not only the chance to see the geyser erupt but also to explore the surrounding trails and geothermal features.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, with its awe-inspiring waterfalls and colorful rock formations, is a must-see attraction in the park. Visitors can marvel at the sight of the powerful Yellowstone River rushing through the canyon, view the stunning Lower Falls, and hike along the rim trails to enjoy panoramic vistas. Artist Point, one of the overlooks, provides a particularly breathtaking view of the canyon and is a prime spot for capturing remarkable photographs.
Wildlife Viewing
Yellowstone National Park is teeming with diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves. The Lamar Valley is renowned for its wildlife viewing opportunities, where visitors often spot herds of bison and elk, as well as wolves in the early morning or at dusk. Additionally, Hayden Valley and the Mammoth Hot Springs area are great spots for observing wildlife in their natural habitat, making it a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts.
Mammoth Hot Springs
Mammoth Hot Springs is a surreal landscape of travertine terraces formed by the flow of hot, calcium-rich water. Visitors can stroll along boardwalks to witness the ever-changing, otherworldly formations and vibrant microbial mats. The nearby historic Fort Yellowstone adds a cultural dimension to the visit, providing insight into the park’s rich human history. This area also serves as a hub for amenities and visitor services.
Norris Geyser Basin
A visit to Norris Geyser Basin offers a glimpse into Yellowstone’s dynamic geothermal features. This area is home to Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser, and several hydrothermal features such as geysers, fumaroles, and colorful hot springs. Boardwalks provide safe passage through the geothermal area, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the fascinating and volatile natural phenomena. Educational exhibits and ranger-led programs further enhance the experience, providing valuable insights into the park’s geology and hydrothermal activity.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Morning:
- Start your day early and head to Old Faithful, one of the most famous geysers in the park. Be sure to catch one of its regular eruptions, which occur approximately every 90 minutes.
Mid-morning to Afternoon:
- Take a leisurely drive along the Grand Loop Road and make a stop at the Grand Prismatic Spring in the Midway Geyser Basin, one of the most stunning thermal features in the park.
- Head towards the Norris Geyser Basin to explore the unique geysers and hot springs, including the otherworldly landscape of Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser.
Late Afternoon to Evening:
- Drive to the Mammoth Hot Springs area and visit the terraces, a masterpiece of natural architecture created by the slow flow of calcium-rich water.
Day 2
Morning:
- Start your day at the Hayden Valley, a prime wildlife viewing area. Keep an eye out for bison, elk, grizzly bears, and wolves, especially during the early hours when they are most active.
Mid-morning to Afternoon:
- Continue your journey to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Enjoy the stunning views of the Lower Falls and hike along the rim trails for different perspectives of this natural wonder.
- Visit the Artist Point for a panoramic view of the canyon.
Late Afternoon to Evening:
- Wrap up your trip with a visit to the West Thumb Geyser Basin located along the shores of Yellowstone Lake. Witness the geysers, hot springs, and the beautiful lake views.
This itinerary aims to provide a well-rounded experience of Yellowstone National Park in just two days. Keep in mind that the park is vast, and some areas may require more time for exploration.
Wildlife Viewing
Observe a variety of wildlife including bison, elk, bears, and wolves in their natural habitats throughout the park.
Private Yellowstone Tour: ICONIC Sites, Wildlife, Family Friendly Hikes + lunch
All of our private tours are led by a professional wildlife biologist. We will tour the park in a modern chevy suburban. Our goal is to view the most wildlife possible on your tour while also visiting the most ICONIC destinations in there park as well visiting many hidden locations that are off the beaten path. During our day we will see Old Faithful, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Yellowstone Falls (308'), lots of wildlife, large waterfalls, seldom seen geysers, and two historic hotels. We will provide high end binoculars and spotting scopes for the entire group so we can view animals or geysers that are far off the road! This will be an educational experience for your family/ group yet fun and entraining at the same time. Your tour will experience the wonders of hidden Yellowstone that's awaiting around each corner of Yellowstone National Park.
For lunch we will stop for an incredibly scenic picnic style lunch along the shore of Yellowstone Lake!
Book Today on Viator From $2250.00
Private/VIP Wildlife Winter Safari of Yellowstone
We pride ourselves on educating our groups while giving them an experience that they will remember for the rest of their lives. Our guides are trained and skilled but also bring loads of energy to make every experience one that will stick for life.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $350.00
Full-Day Private Safari of Yellowstone
This tour of Yellowstone National Park focuses on where we've seen or heard about wildlife in Yellowstone before your tour, as well as stopping at the other notable and must see features in the park. It is a private tour that holds up to 14 passengers and primarily takes you on either the Lower or Upper Loop of Yellowstone. Wildlife is the focus as we tour your party through Hayden Valley, Gibbon Valley, and/or the famed Lamar Valley: The 'American Serengeti'. We will have a discussion about the best route for your group to enjoy before the tour based on your needs and what we know in the area. Thanks!
Biologists say that wildlife predator populations are currently better than 1872 and we want you to be able to sit back and enjoy the experience without worrying about where and how to drive through Yellowstone. This is your tour and we are happy to accommodate customization as feasible, Thank You!!
Book Today on Viator From $2199.00
Full Day Wildlife Tour in Yellowstone Lamar Valley to Canyon
Wildlife viewing: Lamar Valley is often referred to as the "Serengeti of North America" because of its rich and diverse array of wildlife. Guests can see bison, elk, pronghorns, coyotes, and even gray wolves in their natural habitats.
Scenic beauty: Lamar Valley is known for its stunning mountain vistas, crystal-clear streams, and picturesque landscapes. The valley provides a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Cultural significance: Lamar Valley has a rich history and cultural heritage, with historic sites and cultural landmarks that tell the story of the area's people, cultures, and traditions.
Accessibility: Despite its remote location, Lamar Valley is easily accessible from many parts of the park. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful and serene experience while still being close to the park's many attractions and amenities.
Book Today on Viator From $795.00
Photography
Capture the natural beauty of Yellowstone, from colorful geothermal features to majestic wildlife, through photography.
Yellowstone Lake Twilight Tour
Escape the crowds in Yellowstone and come kayak on the crystal clear water of North Americas largest High Alpine Lake! Yellowstone is extremely busy, and for good reason, it is an amazing place. However, the crowds can take away from the enjoyment of the place. By booking with Prismatic, you will be the first group on the water and it will feel like you have the park to yourself. We specialize in small groups, keeping the experience intimate and personal. Come discover the wild side of Yellowstone today! Family friendly!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $150.00
Private Sunrise Wildlife Adventure Into Yellowstone Lamar Valley
Touring with us is unique for several reasons:
Wildlife viewing: Lamar Valley is often referred to as the "Serengeti of North America" because of its rich and diverse array of wildlife. Guests can see bison, elk, pronghorns, coyotes, and even gray wolves in their natural habitats.
Scenic beauty: Lamar Valley is known for its stunning mountain vistas, crystal-clear streams, and picturesque landscapes. The valley provides a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Cultural significance: Lamar Valley has a rich history and cultural heritage, with historic sites and cultural landmarks that tell the story of the area's people, cultures, and traditions.
These unique features make Lamar Valley a must-see destination for anyone visiting Yellowstone National Park, and a tour with Silver Gate Guides provides an expert and personalized way to explore and experience this amazing place.
Book Today on Viator From $550.00
Boating
Experience Yellowstone's lakes and rivers by boating, offering a unique perspective of the park's landscape and wildlife.
Kayak Day Paddle on Yellowstone Lake
This guided kayaking tour in Yellowstone National Park, includes an introduction to Yellowstone's history and geology of the Lake, along with the kayaking equipment and techniques, then your guides lead you around the shoreline to the West Thumb Geyser Basin where there are many geothermal features on land and under water we will explore from our kayaks, many of which are not accessible by any other means. We explore from our kayaks this primitive geyser basin where there are no signs, no boardwalks and most importantly no other people. We stop at a secluded beach for a picnic lunch which we provide, then return the same way we came arriving back to our vehicles around 2 or 3 in the afternoon, depending on the group. All necessary kayaking equipment and instruction on paddling techniques are included. No prior kayaking experience is required. All skill levels are welcome. Single and double kayaks are available. Small groups with an individual experience.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $187.50
Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour
3 Hour Paddle
We begin our 3 hour paddle of the West Thumb Geyser basin at 7:30 AM. We will traverse 3 miles of wilderness with the opportunity to view active geyser features along the way. Paddling along the shoreline allows for the best wildlife viewing opportunities. Elk are often spotted in Grant Village and sometimes other mammals such as bears and wolves frequent the lake area. A variety of bird species are spotted daily and the water is clear enough to see the native Cutthroat Trout as big as your arm if you're lucky enough. ;) The fish can get quite large in Yellowstone Lake.
Book Today on Viator From $150.00
Hiking
Explore the diverse trails that wind through the park, offering breathtaking views of geysers, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Rim and Loop Hike with Lunch
The Grand Canyon Rim Hike is one of the best hikes in Yellowstone National Park. This hiking tour is a loop. Your tour guide will watch for bears and answer your questions. Lunch, snacks, and gear provided. Not only do we hike along the Rim of the Canyon but also through the forest to lakes, mud pots, and meadows.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $182.00
Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch
Yellowstone Hiking Guides safely leads hiking groups into the Lamar Valley on a wildlife viewing day hike tour.
Our guides are experts and fun is a top priority. Regularly, we spot wolves and other rare wildlife from the trail in the backcountry of Yellowstone.
Most tour providers in Yellowstone spend the majority of the day on the road, or very close to the road. Our tours are off the beaten path.
Frequently our guests tell us that a tour with us is the best part of their vacation to Yellowstone.
Book Today on Viator From $182.00
6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch
This tour uses the Biscuit Basin Trailhead to start the six-mile loop hike through the entire Upper Geyser Basin and returning to Biscuit Basin. This is the only hiking tour of its kind offered regularly in Yellowstone. We encounter the very busy Old Faithful area as the mid-point of our hike. Sections of this hike are on boardwalk. There are also sections on dirt trail where there are few other hikers. We encounter wildlife from time to time including bison and bear. Your guide will have a bear spray.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $182.00
Wildlife Hiking Adventure in Yellowstone with Lunch
We do guided hikes to take you on some of the BEST hikes in Yellowstone. We provide a skilled and knowledgeable guide and naturalist that will take you on a hike catered to your own desires. Our guides will be equipped with Bear Spray, Field Guides to assist with identifying some incredible flora along the way, Snacks and lunch (we recommend to also bring plenty of water) First Aid and CPR certifications as well as supplies, and an AWESOME and FRIENDLY personality.
Book Today on Viator From $450.00