15 Best Yellowstone Tours

Imagine a land sculpted by fire and ice, where the earth breathes, geysers erupt with clockwork precision, and wildlife roams free in an ancient, untamed wilderness. Welcome to Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park and a true geological wonderland that captivates every soul fortunate enough to explore its vast expanse. From the iconic eruptions of Old Faithful to the vibrant hot springs of Grand Prismatic, Yellowstone is a testament to nature’s raw power and exquisite beauty. This guide will whisk you away on a journey through the 15 best tours Yellowstone has to offer, each promising a unique perspective on its geothermal marvels, stunning landscapes, and abundant wildlife.

Whether you dream of spotting a grizzly bear, feeling the spray of a powerful waterfall, or paddling serene lake waters, Yellowstone delivers. The best time to visit is late spring (May-early June) or early fall (September-October) to avoid peak summer crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. For winter enthusiasts, November to March transforms the park into a snowy paradise, accessible by snow coach or snowmobile, offering a truly magical experience. Prepare to be awestruck, inspired, and deeply connected to the wild heart of America.

Yellowstone Old Faithful, Lower Loop & Wildlife

Embark on a quintessential Yellowstone adventure that combines the park’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful, with a comprehensive exploration of the Lower Loop’s geothermal wonders and an immersive wildlife viewing experience. This tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the raw power of the earth firsthand, from the predictable eruptions of Old Faithful to the vibrant, steaming pools of the Midway Geyser Basin, including the mesmerizing Grand Prismatic Spring. You’ll traverse diverse landscapes, observing bison grazing in Hayden Valley, elk along the Yellowstone River, and perhaps even a glimpse of bears or wolves from a safe distance.

Expert guides share fascinating insights into the park’s geology, ecology, and history, ensuring you don’t miss any hidden gems or crucial facts. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want a thorough introduction to Yellowstone’s highlights and for families eager to see iconic natural phenomena and wildlife without the stress of self-navigation. The varied itinerary ensures there’s something to captivate every interest, making it a truly comprehensive and unforgettable day.

Full-Day Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour from Jackson, Wyoming

Originating from Jackson, Wyoming, this full-day Yellowstone Lower Loop tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to experience the park’s southern wonders without the hassle of driving. You’ll journey through the stunning Teton Range before entering Yellowstone, making this tour a two-for-one scenic delight. The Lower Loop is renowned for its geothermal activity, featuring not only Old Faithful but also the colorful hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles of Fountain Paint Pot and Norris Geyser Basin.

Your guide will navigate the winding roads, sharing stories of the park’s formation, its resilient ecosystems, and the diverse wildlife that calls it home. Keep your eyes peeled for bison herds, elk, and possibly even bears or wolves. This tour is ideal for those staying in the Jackson area who wish to explore Yellowstone efficiently and comfortably, benefiting from expert commentary and hassle-free logistics. It’s a fantastic option for families, couples, and solo travelers alike who want to maximize their time and learn deeply about this extraordinary landscape.

Yellowstone National Park: Lewis Lake Fishing Trip

For the angler seeking tranquility amidst breathtaking scenery, a Lewis Lake fishing trip in Yellowstone National Park offers an unforgettable experience. Lewis Lake, one of the park’s larger and deeper lakes, is a pristine aquatic environment known for its healthy populations of lake trout and brown trout. This guided excursion provides all the necessary equipment – rods, reels, tackle, and even waders if needed – along with expert instruction, making it suitable for both seasoned fishers and beginners.

You’ll learn about local fish species, casting techniques, and the regulations for fishing within a national park, all while surrounded by the stunning backdrop of Yellowstone’s wilderness. Beyond the thrill of the catch, this trip is about immersing yourself in the serene beauty of the park away from the main tourist hubs, enjoying the quiet solitude of nature. It’s perfect for individuals, small groups, or families looking for a unique, active outdoor experience that connects them directly with Yellowstone’s natural resources.

Yellowstone Old Faithful Snow Coach Tour

Experience the magic of Yellowstone in winter with an Old Faithful Snow Coach Tour, an unparalleled journey through a snow-covered wonderland. When most roads are closed to regular vehicles, specialized snow coaches provide access to the park’s interior, offering a unique perspective on its geothermal features blanketed in pristine snow. This tour primarily focuses on the Lower Geyser Basin and the iconic Old Faithful, which erupts spectacularly against a backdrop of steaming landscapes and frost-covered trees.

The silence of the winter park, broken only by the hiss of steam vents and the crunch of snow, creates an incredibly serene and otherworldly atmosphere. You’ll have opportunities for wildlife viewing, as animals are often more visible against the white landscape. This tour is ideal for those seeking a tranquil, deeply immersive winter experience in Yellowstone, perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to escape the summer crowds for a truly unique adventure.

Yellowstone National Park: 2-Day Guided Tour with Lunches

For a truly immersive and comprehensive exploration of Yellowstone, a 2-Day Guided Tour with Lunches offers an in-depth experience that covers both the famous Lower and lesser-visited Upper Loops. This extended tour allows you to delve deeper into the park’s diverse ecosystems, spending ample time at iconic sites like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Mammoth Hot Springs, while also venturing into wildlife-rich areas like Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley.

Your expert guide will provide continuous commentary, sharing geological wonders, ecological insights, and historical anecdotes. The benefit of a multi-day tour is the relaxed pace, allowing for more wildlife spotting opportunities, detailed exploration of specific areas, and the chance to witness the park at different times of day, including potentially stunning sunrises or sunsets. This tour is perfect for serious nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone who desires a more thorough and less rushed Yellowstone experience, ideal for couples and small groups.

Scenic Float on the Yellowstone River

Experience the gentle beauty of Yellowstone from a unique perspective with a scenic float on the Yellowstone River. Unlike whitewater rafting, this serene excursion offers a peaceful journey down the park’s largest river, allowing you to soak in the stunning landscapes, observe wildlife along the banks, and appreciate the tranquility of the wilderness. Your experienced guide will provide insights into the river’s ecosystem, the surrounding geology, and the animals you might encounter, such as bald eagles, osprey, elk, or even bison.

This is an ideal activity for those seeking a relaxing and non-strenuous way to connect with nature, offering fantastic photography opportunities without the adrenaline rush. It’s perfect for families with young children, seniors, or anyone who prefers a calm, scenic outing over an adventurous one. The gentle current carries you past lush forests and open meadows, providing a refreshing break from the roads and boardwalks.

Grand Teton and Yellowstone 2-day 1-night adventure

Combine two of America’s most iconic national parks into one unforgettable journey with a Grand Teton and Yellowstone 2-day 1-night adventure. This comprehensive tour highlights the dramatic, jagged peaks of the Grand Teton Range before immersing you in the geothermal wonders and abundant wildlife of Yellowstone. The first day often focuses on Grand Teton’s majestic landscapes, serene lakes, and stunning viewpoints, while the second day delves deep into Yellowstone’s Lower and Upper Loops, ensuring you experience Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, and the wildlife-rich valleys.

Staying overnight near or within Yellowstone allows for more relaxed exploration and opportunities to witness the parks during quieter times, like early morning or late evening. This tour is ideal for travelers with limited time who want to maximize their national park experience, offering a seamless blend of natural beauty, geological marvels, and wildlife encounters. It’s perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers seeking a guided, stress-free adventure through these two magnificent parks.

Yellowstone Old Faithful Full-day Snowmobile Tour from Jackson Hole

For the ultimate winter thrill-seeker, a Yellowstone Old Faithful Full-day Snowmobile Tour from Jackson Hole offers an exhilarating and unique way to explore the park’s snow-covered interior. Led by an experienced guide, you’ll ride across groomed trails, feeling the crisp winter air and witnessing the surreal beauty of Yellowstone’s geothermal features steaming dramatically against a snowy backdrop. The highlight is reaching Old Faithful, where you can watch its iconic eruption in a serene, uncrowded winter setting.

This tour provides all necessary equipment, including snowmobiles, helmets, and often warm suits, ensuring a comfortable and safe adventure. Wildlife viewing is exceptional in winter, with bison and elk often seen grazing near geothermal areas. This tour is perfect for adventurous individuals or small groups who enjoy active outdoor pursuits and want to experience Yellowstone’s winter wonderland in a truly exciting and memorable way. Prior snowmobile experience is beneficial but not always required.

Yellowstone Lower Loop Guided Tour from Cody, Wyoming

Discover the wonders of Yellowstone’s Lower Loop with a guided tour originating from Cody, Wyoming, the “Rodeo Capital of the World.” This tour offers a unique western gateway into the park, traversing scenic routes that provide stunning views of the Absaroka Mountains before diving into Yellowstone’s geothermal heart. You’ll visit iconic sites like Old Faithful, the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring, and the majestic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone with its powerful Lower Falls.

Expert guides provide insightful commentary on the park’s geology, wildlife, and rich history, making the journey both educational and entertaining. Being guided from Cody allows you to experience a different side of the park and its surrounding areas, showcasing the rugged beauty of Wyoming. This tour is ideal for visitors staying in the Cody area who prefer a hassle-free, guided exploration of Yellowstone’s main attractions, perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers interested in geology and wildlife.

Self-guided Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour from Gardiner

Embrace the freedom of exploring Yellowstone at your own pace with a self-guided Lower Loop tour, often starting from Gardiner, Montana, the park’s northern entrance. This option provides ultimate flexibility, allowing you to linger at favorite spots, adjust your itinerary based on wildlife sightings, and enjoy the park’s beauty on your own terms. The Lower Loop is a treasure trove of geothermal wonders, including Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the dramatic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

From Gardiner, you’ll have easy access to Mammoth Hot Springs before heading south. This self-guided approach is perfect for independent travelers, photographers, and families who prefer to set their own schedule and have their own vehicle. You can spend as much time as you like observing geysers, hiking short trails, or simply soaking in the magnificent views. Remember to plan your route, pack essentials, and be prepared for varying conditions.

Full day rafting on the Yellowstone River

For an exhilarating dose of adventure, embark on a full-day rafting trip on the Yellowstone River. Unlike the scenic floats, this experience offers more thrilling whitewater sections, balancing exciting rapids with stretches of calmer water where you can admire the stunning wilderness. Under the guidance of experienced river guides, you’ll navigate the river’s currents, enjoying splashes and laughs while surrounded by breathtaking canyon scenery and potential wildlife sightings along the banks.

This full-day excursion provides a comprehensive river experience, often including a riverside lunch to refuel. It’s an excellent choice for active families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for an adrenaline rush combined with natural beauty. No prior rafting experience is usually required, making it accessible to most who are comfortable with water activities. It’s a fantastic way to cool off and see the park from a dynamic, watery perspective.

Yellowstone Old Faithful and Wildlife Public Day Tour

Experience the best of Yellowstone’s iconic geysers and abundant wildlife on a public day tour focused on Old Faithful and key wildlife viewing areas. This tour is designed for maximum impact, taking you directly to the park’s most famous geothermal features, including the predictable eruptions of Old Faithful, and then venturing into prime habitats where you’re most likely to spot bison, elk, and potentially bears or wolves.

Traveling in a comfortable vehicle with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll gain insights into the park’s geology, ecology, and the behaviors of its wild inhabitants. This tour is an excellent option for those who want a guided experience without the commitment of a multi-day trip, offering a condensed yet comprehensive overview of Yellowstone’s highlights. It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors, families, and solo travelers who appreciate the convenience and expertise of a guided tour.

Kayak Day Paddle on Yellowstone Lake

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Yellowstone Lake with a guided Kayak Day Paddle. This unique experience allows you to explore the vast, pristine waters of North America’s largest high-elevation lake, offering unparalleled views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Paddling a kayak provides an intimate connection with the environment, allowing you to glide silently past geothermal features bubbling along the shoreline, spot waterfowl, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of larger wildlife from a safe distance.

Expert guides lead the way, providing safety instructions and sharing fascinating facts about the lake’s ecology and geology. This tour is perfect for active individuals, couples, and small groups seeking a peaceful yet adventurous way to experience Yellowstone’s natural beauty away from the crowds. No prior kayaking experience is usually required, making it accessible to most fitness levels. It’s a refreshing and memorable perspective on the park.

7-day Yellowstone National Park Rocky Mountain Explorer

Embark on the ultimate Yellowstone adventure with a 7-day Yellowstone National Park Rocky Mountain Explorer tour. This comprehensive journey delves deep into the park’s diverse ecosystems and iconic landmarks, providing ample time to truly absorb its grandeur. Beyond Yellowstone, some versions of this tour may extend to other Rocky Mountain highlights, offering a broader experience of the region’s natural wonders.

You’ll visit all the major geothermal basins, witness countless wildlife encounters in Lamar and Hayden Valleys, explore the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and potentially enjoy activities like hiking, scenic floats, or stargazing. This extended tour allows for a relaxed pace, in-depth exploration, and the flexibility to adapt to wildlife sightings or weather conditions. It’s ideal for avid travelers, nature photographers, and anyone who wants to fully immerse themselves in the Yellowstone experience without feeling rushed. This is typically a small-group, fully guided experience with accommodation and many meals included.

Yellowstone Guided Day Tour From Jackson Hole

For those staying in Jackson Hole, a Yellowstone Guided Day Tour offers a convenient and insightful way to explore the park’s southern highlights. This tour typically focuses on the Lower Loop, ensuring you experience the majestic Old Faithful, the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring, and the scenic beauty of the Midway Geyser Basin. Your professional guide will handle all the driving and logistics, allowing you to relax and fully appreciate the breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife.

They’ll share fascinating facts about Yellowstone’s unique geology, its diverse ecosystems, and the history of its formation. This tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors, families, or anyone based in Jackson Hole who wants a structured, educational, and hassle-free day trip into the heart of Yellowstone. It provides a perfect balance of iconic sights and expert commentary, making your visit truly memorable.

Plan Your Visit

Yellowstone National Park is more than just a destination; it’s an immersive journey into the raw, untamed heart of nature. From the thunderous eruptions of Old Faithful to the serene beauty of its vast wilderness, every corner of this park promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you choose a thrilling snowmobile adventure, a tranquil kayaking paddle, or a comprehensive multi-day guided tour, the variety of experiences available ensures there’s a perfect Yellowstone adventure waiting for you.

By leveraging these detailed tour options and comprehensive cost breakdowns, you can plan your visit with confidence, ensuring every dollar is well spent on creating lifelong memories. Don’t just dream of Yellowstone; make it a reality. Start planning your epic journey today and prepare to be captivated by the unparalleled majesty of America’s first national park. Your adventure into the wild awaits!