day tours of yellowstone national park

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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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Available May-Oct

Summer safari tours.

Available Nov-Apr

Winter safari tours.

Available Jan-Dec

Bear and wolf safaris.

Family Safaris

Guided Yellowstone National Park Safaris & Tours

We are a local, family-owned and operated safari company, offering premier, once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experiences in Yellowstone National Park .  Our passion for conservation and wildlife is at the core of all we do.

Best of the Best

Our most popular safari tours.

Yellowstone Wildlife Safari

Best of Yellowstone

3 Day Bear and Wolf Safari

See the highlights of Yellowstone National Park , like Old Faithful and other geological wonders on a full day guided tour, or search for bears, bison, wolves, and more with a professional naturalist guide on a full day wildlife safari in the Lamar Valley in the northern range.  Slow the pace and take a more relaxed approach to enjoying nature on a full day Yellowstone Walking Safari , or opt for a more immersive experience on a 2-Day Bear and Wolf Safari or a 3-Day Bear and Wolf Safari .  Extend your tour and explore all the region has to offer on a 3-Day Yellowstone and Grand Teton Tour or a 4-Day Yellowstone and Grand Teton Tour .

Guides and Staff

Local, experienced naturalist guides.

Ash Tallmadge

Lead guide and general manager.

Grant Johnson

Naturalist guide.

Gary Vodehnal

Garry Edson

Rae Rediske

What is the best time to visit yellowstone national park.

Because each month has something different to offer, the best time to visit Yellowstone is often a matter of opinion! Typically, spring and fall are a wildlife enthusiasts’ favorite seasons. May is a wonderful time to view bears as they are busy foraging in lower elevations after emerging from hibernation, and elk herds are easy to find as they make their way north on their spring migration preparing to have their calves. September is another active wildlife month as animals like elk, deer, and moose have fully grown out their impressive antlers and are entering their rut (breeding season), making them very active and more common to see. Hearing an elk bugle through the changing colors of the aspen leaves is truly magical. The bears are also very active at this time as they have entered ‘hyperphagia’. This means they are trying to gain as much weight as possible before returning to hibernation, making your chances of seeing a bear at this time far greater than mid-summer.

Both of these months have unpredictable weather. You could have warm sunny days or you could be seeing snow, so plan for both. Mid-summer offers other bonuses that these months do not, like spectacular wildflowers in June and July, and the exciting bison rut in August. No matter what month you visit you won’t be disappointed, but each month brings something special!

Are guided tours of Yellowstone worth it?

Vacations to new places already take a lot of planning, but booking a guided tour makes the process so much easier. Having a knowledgeable local to take you into unfamiliar territory gives you a lay of the land as well as a wealth of knowledge and context that you wouldn’t get by yourself. Guides know the wildlife habits and have the info on the latest movements and sightings, so your chances of finding wildlife greatly increase on a tour. We commonly hear that people wish they had taken their tour at the beginning of their trip so that they could have been equipped with everything they learned for their remaining time in the park. Even if it isn’t your first time visiting, there is probably a lot you didn’t know about the park that you can learn from your guide!

How many days do you need for Yellowstone Tours?

If your time in Yellowstone is limited, we offer day tours that last between 10-12 hours. Think of this as a tour of the greatest hits. You will be amazed at how much you can see and learn in a single day! If you have more time and want a more in-depth experience with more opportunities for wildlife watching, a 2-3 day tour is a great choice. This allows you to slow down and take in more of the park at your own pace. Yellowstone is 2.2 million acres and is home to over half of the world’s geothermal features, so it is easy to spend several days in the park and still wish you had more time. We offer tours up to 5 days long for this reason!

What is the best way to visit Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone National Park is very accessible with 5 entrances and a variety of lodging options. Flying into Jackson Hole gives you access to the south entrance, while flying into Bozeman is most convenient for the north entrance. Plenty of campgrounds and RV parks make road tripping an ideal way to visit, but as popularity continues to rise be sure to book ahead! Many towns surrounding the park are desirable locations to base out of. Jackson, West Yellowstone, Gardiner, Bozeman, Cody and Cooke City are very popular choices.

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A Perfect Vacation with Yellowstone Day Tours

See yellowstone and grand teton national parks with yellowstone day tours for a stress-free tour..

Sure, you could explore Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks in your own car, but why spend your vacation reading a map, debating which pull offs to stop at and fighting for a parking space when you could let the experts show you around?

Yellowstone Day Tours is a family-operated tour company based out of Jackson, Wyo. With more than 25 years of experience, Yellowstone Day Tours has hired staff who know the best spots to see wildlife, the most breathtaking views and all the interesting information about the park you’d never get just driving through on your own.

All-inclusive, full-day tours mean you get to experience the best of either Yellowstone or Grand Teton without having to do any work. Yellowstone Day Tours will pick you up from your hotel, pay entrance fees, provide meals and have binoculars at hand when wildlife is spotted. All you’ll have to do is relax in your individual, reclining captain chair and watch the beauty of the park through the tour vehicle’s large windows.

Join a shared tour or book a private tour to customize to your group’s needs for 2-14 passengers. For large groups, board a mini-bus that seats up to 20 where you’ll have a dedicated driver and a tour guide who will walk up and down the aisle sharing facts, answering questions and making sure you experience all the park has to offer.

“We have a fabulous crew of friendly and witty guides, comfortable vehicles and great tour itineraries that will deliver an experience of a lifetime,” says Brian McCooey, CEO and Yellowstone Day Tours guide.

For the ultimate Yellowstone experience, book the Yellowstone National Park Scenic & Wildlife 2-Day Tour. This tour includes two days seeing the best the park has to offer, including lodging at Yellowstone’s West Entrance in West Yellowstone, Mont. On the first day, you’ll see the Lower Loop highlights from Old Faithful to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to Hayden Valley. On the second day, you’ll see Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Falls and the famed Lamar Valley, your best chance at seeing Yellowstone’s elusive wolves.

For more information: Yellowstone Day Tours 307-201-1499 970 W. Broadway, Jackson, WY 83001 www.yellowstonedaytours.com

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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

WE'RE TAKING BOOKINGS FOR SUMMER 2025

Yellowstone Wild

Yellowstone tours year-round, yellowstone summer tours, yellowstone winter tours, winter packages, bear & wolf watching wildlife tour, winter wolves & wildlife watching, blog & trip reports, custom wildlife, natural history, geology, & educational tours.

Our highly-experienced naturalist guides and top-of-the-line equipment produce the highest quality wildlife sightings and natural & cultural history excursions in Yellowstone for our guests

Ultimate Yellowstone – Geysers and Wildlife

Experience Yellowstone’s iconic wildlife and the world-famous hot springs, geysers and waterfalls that inspired the creation of the world’s first National Park.

• May - October
• Hour Glass Multi-Day

Our Featured Summer Tours

• Hour Glass Full Day

Bear and Wolf Watching Tour

Yellowstone wolves, grizzly bears, bison and moose await you on an unforgettable adventure with your own passionate and knowledgeable local naturalist guide.

Summer Family Adventure Tour

Yellowstone is for family trips. Children have a natural fascination with Nature, and we playfully explore the wonders of Yellowstone with them to create memories and learning experiences to last a lifetime.

Summer Wildlife Photography Tour

Have you ever wanted to spend a day in Yellowstone with a local professional wildlife photographer? Our private photo tours are the best way to capture powerful images of Yellowstone’s iconic wildlife.

Wildlife Watching and Day Hiking Combo

Get the best wildlife watching activity in the early morning hours, then hit the trail for a hike through Yellowstone’s stunning mountains and valleys.

Yellowstone Hiking Tour

Step off the roads and crowded boardwalks with an experienced naturalist guide who will lead you safely into the wild beauty of Yellowstone to our favorite mountain meadows and inspiring vistas.

Geysers, Hot Springs, and Bubbling Mud Pots, Oh My!

Explore the best of the Yellowstone Volcano, one of the largest active volcanoes in the world, with a local expert guide. Yellowstone has more than 10,000 thermal features; there is so much to explore!

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Waterfalls and Geysers

Discover evidence of massive forces of nature, visiting some popular attractions, as well as hidden gems not often seen by the masses.

• Fully Customizable

Yellowstone Backpacking Trip

There is no better way to experience the wild spirit of Yellowstone than to shoulder a pack and hit the trail for a few days with a local naturalist guide. 

• public tour
• June - September

Old Faithful Excursion

Meet your guide at the Gardiner, MT Chamber of Commerce for an exciting day visiting  Old Faithful and surrounding geyser basins including the rainbow-hued Grand Prismatic Spring and the mud pots, hot springs, and geysers of Fountain Paint Pots.

Canyon Waterfalls & Wildlife Excursion

Meet your guide at the Gardiner, MT Chamber of Commerce for an exciting day exploring wildlife-rich northern Yellowstone in search of elk, bison, and other wildlife on the way to Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon and the Lower Falls of the Yellowstone River, Norris Geyser Basin, and the Mammoth Hot Spring Terraces.

Spring into Summer: Animal Babies

This late-spring multi-day wildlife package is the ultimate way to experience Yellowstone’s season of babies and birth as winter’s icy grip melts away and is replaced by new growth, new life, and new adventures!

2025 Package Dates:

May 25, 2025 – May 30th, 2025   – SOLD OUT

June 1, 2025 – June 6, 2025

Welcome to Yellowstone Wild

Discover Yellowstone’s iconic wolves, bears, bison, moose, and vast wilderness with your own friendly and knowledgeable naturalist guide. Yellowstone Wild specializes in custom wildlife tours and hiking adventures in Yellowstone National Park. Our highly experienced local guides know exactly where to take you for mesmerizing views of our wildlife, sharing meaningful and memorable insights and stories along the way, and are passionate about the protection of our animals and our environment. It doesn’t matter what season you visit us — we’re sure to find your favorite wildlife and scenery! Discover the magic and beauty of Yellowstone on our personalized guided adventures!

Our trips are often focused on viewing and learning about Yellowstone’s dynamic wildlife, most notably Yellowstone wolves. Wolves are our passion, and they are what draw many of our guests to Yellowstone, the best place in the world to see wild wolves. On our tours, it is common to witness wolves galloping across Yellowstone’s vast landscapes, hunting their wild prey, or traveling to and from their dens to feed their playful puppies. During the unforgettably beautiful Yellowstone dawn, we often hear wolves howling across the breathtaking expanses of Yellowstone’s famed Northern Range. Come explore America’s greatest park with us!

Browse by Season

Summer tours.

Learn More »

Winter Tours

Check out photos of our adventures.

See What Other Adventurers Are Saying!

We took the Wildlife Watching and Day Hiking combo with Matt. We had an excellent tour and a wonderful day. Matt was an awesome guide who made sure we had the best time possible. He was extremely knowledgeable of the park and wildlife. He tailored a hike to fit just what we wanted. I could not recommended this highly enough.

We spent 2 days in Yellowstone National Park with this guide company and I can't say enough good things about how it enhanced our experience of the park. Laura was our guide and if you use Yellowstone Wild, ask for her! Laura's knowledge of the park, the history, wildlife, geologic and everything else was incredible. One of the advantages of YWT is that they have guides out all over the park looking for wildlife and the team radios each other with any sightings. We saw bison, elk, bear, mule dear and stopped at some of the most beautiful places I had ever seen in my life. You are standing there, part of the iconic scene of the mist coming off the river. Pro tip - you will never see all there is to see without a guide. Laura drove all those steep and winding roads like a champ and took us to everything that was on our list to see. We thought this was just going to be a wildlife excursion but we ended up seeing so many dramatic elements of the park that it was mind blowing! Book with Yellowstone Wild Tours and ask for Laura. She has good snacks too!!

We had an outstanding morning with Rob. My brother said, in his 53 years, this experience was #1 and we've been to Churchill to see polar bears!! A great company with great guides that provide an excellent tour experience!! Thank you!! Susan and David

Our family booked the Wolf and Bear watching tour with Leysa yesterday. We were a bit nervous when our 17 year old, Kaylie, BROKE HER LEG the day before at the grand prismatic but still pushed through because we wanted to do this so badly! Leysa over delivered and made the tour special for all three of us!!! Kaylie had to stay in the car the entire time and Leysa made the tour so special for her. :-) We saw Grizzly, Black Bear, Grouse haha, wolves, an extremely special experience with wolves, deer, a close encounter with a fox while we were looking at mountain goats. Leysa was on point keeping an eye out for us while we were looking at the goats to make sure the fox didn’t get us. Of course, alllll the bison! She was extremely knowledgeable, professional, and an excellent guide! We would love to go again when we are back. We saved and saved for this vacation and feel this was money well spent as we shopped many tours and selected this one. Thank you for a WONDERFUL and memorable experience. :-)

Our first tour was with Aleksa to the canyons and waterfalls. Despite the animal life being quiet in Summer, she managed to find two wolfs, moose, and a grizzly. We had ample time to observe them with her scopes, and she even sent us footage she recorded. She is so knowledgeable not just about the park but shared so much detail about the wildlife and her honest take on how the park is taken care of. Her passion and knowledge were our highlights of this first 7 hour trip - and the hot beverages and lunch were great too.

We had a simply amazing and wonderful day with our guide Laura on our trip to Yellowstone to view nature and wildlife in January. Laura was incredible, with a wonderful, outgoing personality and a deep knowledge of the park, its geology and the wildlife. She continuously amazed us throughout the day with facts and discussions that connected all aspects of what we were seeing. The provisions (coffee, tea, snacks, and lunch) were all top-notch. We saw a multitude of animals including bison, elk, eagles, dippers, pronghorns, (and many others) as well as a lone wolf. The spotting equipment was excellent as well. Cannot recommend this tour highly enough! If you are thinking about booking, you absolutely should!

Absolutely amazing experience. We got a last minute tour with Emil after our other tour got canceled. We saw wolves, moose, bison, elk, fox and many others. We saw a black bear hibernating in her den. Emil is very knowledgeable having studied and worked with wildlife for many years, especially wolves and mountain lions. We learned about wolf packs and their hunting behavior. On one day of the tour we came across a fresh wolf kill. There was an elk carcass with a radio collar attached. Emil retrieved the collar and returned to the research scientists. There were plenty of bathroom, coffee and hot chocolate breaks and breakfast and lunch provided. We would highly recommend this tour for anyone that would like a wildlife tour of Yellowstone Park. Also, we stayed at the Wonderland Lodge and Cafe. The rooms and food were excellent and staff were very helpful and friendly.

A tour with Yellowstone Wild is the perfect way to spend a day in Yellowstone. My wife and I have been on three separate tours with Yellowstone Wild, and each has been more spectacular than the last. The guides are friendly, professional and extremely knowledgeable, and they will greatly enhance your experience in the park by sharing their expertise. These tours can also be tailored to your interests and your desired level of activity, so you can be sure that you will be completely satisfied by your time in the park. I give Yellowstone Wild my highest recommendation and strongly encourage anyone interested in exploring Yellowstone to book a tour with them. You will not be disappointed!

307-201-1499

Private 2-Day Guided Tour

Of grand teton & yellowstone, national parks, available may 10 through october 20.

Enjoy 2 Amazing Days in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. This is a  PRIVATE Tour for just you!

Day 1 - We will Tour & Explore the prime wildlife habitat of Grand Teton Park and visit amazing sights such as:

- Mormon Row for the classic barn view of the Tetons

- Elk Ranch

- Oxbow Bend

- Jackson, Signal & Jenny Lakes

- Jackson Lake Lodge 

- Signal Mountain

- Boat Ride on Jenny Lake  ( May 15 to Sept 30)

- Short hike to Hidden Falls  ( May 15 to Sept 30)

- Pacific &/or Pilgrim Creeks

- Moose-Wilson Rd

AND, we'll stop often to photograph Wildlife! 

After checking into our lodging in Grand Teton Park and dinner, we will venture back out to search for bears at dusk!

Day 2 - After an early breakfast, we will once again search for bears at first light in Grand Teton Park!   Then we will venture north to Yellowstone to Tour the "Lower Loop" and see:

- the iconic Old Faithful

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

- Grand Prismatic Spring

- Yellowstone Lake , vast & pristine

- Hayden Valley , untamed & spectacular

- Artist Point , breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon

- Upper & Lower Falls of Yellowstone

Your guide will educate you on the Park's history, geology, wildlife, geothermals & more.

Departures from Your Lodging

    in Teton Village:  6:30am

    in Jackson: 6:30am

PRIVATE Tour Costs            

   1-2 People                $3950

   each add'l person  + $750

Group Size     up to 11 people

- Pick Up from Your Hotel

- Experienced Local Guide

- Roomy AC Van with big windows

- Breakfasts, Lunches & 1 Dinner

- Park Entry Fees

- Endless photo opportunities

- Ample restroom breaks

- 1 Night Lodging

- Use of Binoculars

Guide gratuity not included

of Yellowstone National Park

Lower & upper loops.

See ALL the highlights of Yellowstone National Park in 2 Amazing Days.  This is a  PRIVATE Tour for just you!

Day 1 - We will Tour sections of both "Loops" of Yellowstone and visit amazing sights such as: 

- West Thumb Geyser Basin 

- Yellowstone Lake , vast & pristine  

- Hayden Valley , untamed & spectacular 

- the thunderous Upper & Lower Falls of Yellowstone

- Lamar Valley , the wild kingdom

After checking into our lodging in Cooke City or Gardiner, MT and dinner, we will venture back out into Lamar Valley to search for wolves and bears at dusk!

Day 2 - Ideally, we will set out Early to search for wolves at first light in Lamar Valley!   Then we will move on to see:

- Mammoth Hot Springs , travertine terraces

Tours FROM JACKSON HOLE will also see parts of Grand Teton National Park

    in W. Yellowstone: 7:30am

Yellowstone National Park Multi-Day Tours

With over 3400 square miles of territory, Yellowstone simply offers too much for someone to explore in one day. While we offer exceptional single day tours, those who are very fascinated with the wildlife, geology, and history of Yellowstone National Park will absolutely appreciate spending additional days on our private guided tours. Each trip is tailored to the participants of the trip, as well as the current ongoings of Yellowstone National Park. During the height of the Steamboat Geyser eruptions, for example, we had frequent requests to try to catch a glimpse of this rare geyser going wild. When you schedule your trip we can help you choose the ideal experience for what you want to see and experience.

Yellowstone Multi-Day Guided Tour Options:

To explore Yellowstone to the fullest we offer several different tour options. The most popular tour that we offer is the wildlife tour. The focus of this trip is to see as many of the animals of Yellowstone, and more specifically the Lamar Valley. For those who want to explore further, we also offer hiking , backpacking , snowshoeing , and cross country skiing tours .  

Multi-Day Wildlife Tours

Yellowstone is full of life almost all year long. The winter may lean out the number of species that are easily visible, but any time of year can offer a great wildlife tour. During the warmer months, our Yellowstone wildlife tours will focus around the Lamar Valley in Northern Yellowstone. This part of the park is one of the densest with animals, and the best place to observe the wolves of Yellowstone. With the multi-day tour we are able to explore further and deeper for the animals of Yellowstone, and bring you to spots with easy walks to more remote areas.

Geyser and Waterfall Tours -

Yellowstone offers some stunning geysers and waterfalls throughout the park. The most popular geyser is, of course, Old Faithful. However, there are dozens of other geysers that you can explore throughout the park. As you would expect with all of the other water features, Yellowstone also has some beautiful waterfalls. Exploring the waterfalls will require hiking through some semi-rough terrain, but the effort is well worth it. Book A Tour of Yellowstone!  

Multi-Day Hiking Tours

Multi-Day Backpacking Tours

Yellowstone, with its massive size, has areas that are not commonly explored by humans. For those who want to see Yellowstone as less than 1% do, we are here to offer you with multi-day backpacking tours. Backpacking through Yellowstone allows you to reach areas not commonly seen, as well as experience some of the best features of the park. See waterfalls, geysers, and animals in areas that are avoided by all but the most adventurous.

Multi-Day Winter Tours

Yellowstone Multi-Day Yellowstone Tour Pricing:

All tours include naturalist guide, transportation from your hotel or place of lodging, spotting scopes, binoculars, and a hearty lunch. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free lunch options are available. Tour does not include Yellowstone entrance fee or guide gratuity. Please note that we do not pick up from Jackson, WY. We would be happy to meet at a mutual location in the park.

• Party of 1 to 2 people - $750 per day
• Party of 3 to 4 people - $800 per day
• $75 per additional person
• All rates are daily, not per person

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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THE 10 BEST Yellowstone National Park Multi-Day Tours

Multi-day tours in yellowstone national park.

• Sightseeing Tours
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• Cultural Tours
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 2-Day Yellowstone National Park Upper and Lower Loop Exploration

2. Yellowstone and Grand Teton 4 Day 3 Night Wildlife Adventure

3. 25+ National Parks Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle

4. 2-Day Private Yellowstone Tour(Lower and Upper Loops w Iconic Sites) w Lunch

5. 5-day In-Depth Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park Tour

6. Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks Wildlife Adventure (2 Day/1 Night)

7. Yellowstone, Glacier and Grand Teton Self Guided Audio Tour

8. 2-Day Private Tour in Yellowstone(Lower and Upper Loops w Iconic Sites) w Lunch

9. Private 2-Day Yellowstone Tour - Upper and Lower Loop

10. Yellowstone and Grand Teton Audio Tour Bundle

11. Yellowstone Volcano and Wildlife 4 day/3 nights W/5 Entrance Tour

12. 2 Day 1 Night Yellowstone Adventure with Stay in the Park

13. 3 Day Wildlife Photography Tour in Yellowstone National Park

14. Private Tour in Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone Lower Loop

15. 6-Day Guided Motorcycle Tour - Yellowstone & Teton National Parks

16. 6 Day Winter Wonderland Tour in Yellowstone National Park

17. Private Upper Loop Grand Teton, Lower Loop Scenic & Wildlife 3 Day Tours

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Casual Meals or Elevated Picnics With a Grand Teton backdrop.

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Snowshoe to our private Igloo with delicious snacks and hot chocolate by the fire pit.

Wildlife & Wild West Expeditions

Explore Wyoming’s Cowboy towns steeped in history and rich in landscapes.

Yellowstone | Grand Teton | Jackson Hole | Guided | Wildlife Tours

Two national parks, historic western towns, a handful of hot springs and a dinosaur dig. our private group experiences are like no other..

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Custom designed experiences, whether it’s a day or a week, we’ll create the perfect experience for your family, group or special occasion..

If it’s your first visit to Jackson Hole, we’ll take you to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Ready to explore further? Wyoming offers small western towns rich in history and lore. Step back in time in Cody, WY, explore Devil’s Tower, or participate in a real dinosaur dig. Whether you’re on a family adventure , a corporate retreat , or celebrating a special occasion , our perfectly curated tours provide unforgettable experiences.

Welcome to Great Western Expeditions

Sharing the beauty of our state is what inspires us..

Our love for Wyoming is the inspiration behind our nearly 30 years of sharing it with people like you. From the spectacular Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks to the nearby cowboy towns, hot pots, deserts and sand dunes, our experiences are custom-crafted and allow you to immerse yourself in the landscape while your professional guide shares our history and wildlife. Welcome to the cowboy way. ~ Rob & Stacey Caesar

Had a tremendous experience on this 4 day tour. David B. was very knowledgeable of both parks and had a great personality to make the entire experience very fun and ... read more informative. Trying to think of any minor complaints or suggestions but cannot think of any. We saw all the major attractions and he took us to some good offline spots too. Food, logistics, vehicle, equipment and facilities were all great! Thanks to David for making this trip one to always remember!!

We had a wonderful experience with this organization! From planning through execution of our 4 day, 12 passenger trip, Laurie and her team were excellent. We were very ... read more lucky to have both a guide and driver who were each experts in all things Yellowstone and Grand Tetons. Not to mention just great guys who love what they do. True professionals all the way around. If we could give 10 🌟 we would!

Our private tour of Yellowstone with GWE far exceeded our expectations (which were already high)! Thanks to our knowledgeable and passionate guide our experience was exceptional -and one that we ... read more will remember for many years to come. The level of service and attention to detail provide by GWE was above and beyond; we can't recommend them enough.

We had a magical day seeing wild life, private sleigh ride through the elk refuge , and snow shoe igloo dinner ! Everything was perfectly detailed down to the amazing ... read more homemade marshmallows ! David was a wealth of knowledge and a great guide 10/10 would recommend !

My family booked a 3 day tour in Yellowstone. Laurie helped me plan the perfect itinerary for 4 teenage boys who are very hard to impress! It was a complicated ... read more task because we were flying into one airport and flying out of another in the busiest month of the year- August. She knew exactly what we needed and the best guide for our group. David was a wealth of knowledge. There is no way we would have seen the park or wildlife he showed us if we tried to do it on own own. I was hesitant to hire a guide due to the cost but honestly David made out trip! Yellowstone is a lot of driving. We were all able to sit back, enjoy the scenery, eat snacks and quickly hop on and off to get a quick picture of bison, wolf, elk or a waterfall. Being from LA, we loved not having to worry about driving, parking or traffic. David took care of it all! We left Yellowstone wanting to come back for more ! I can't say enough about Laurie and David. They were very accomodating, service oriented and professional. Thank You!

The sundowner dinner experience was spectacular. The dinner site was secluded and had a great view of the mountains. Laurie, Rob and Stacey were very knowledgeable about the area and ... read more were a delight to talk to. Highly recommend.

Our tour guide was very informative and super friendly. She made extra stops for us to capture the beauty of the tetons and wildlife. Highly recommend!

We had an absolutely fantastic time on our tour with Great Western Expeditions! We were a group of 11 people ranging in age from 10 to 78 and they ... read more did a fantastic job balancing all of our needs. Both Laurie, our guide, and Larry, our driver were so knowledgeable, kind and accommodating. We saw so much in just one day and never had to worry about a thing! They also provided an elevated picnic lunch which was delicious-- we had to eat it on the bus because of rain but they were somehow able to make even that feel special. Thanks so much to Great Western Expeditions for a perfect bucket-list worthy day!

We had such a great experience! Planned a surprise proposal with a nature tour and dinner in Grand Teton National Park. Our tour guide Laurie was amazing and Rob ... read more and Stacey did a phenomenal job with the dinner and staging. Everyone played along to keep the surprises coming throughout the evening until I popped the question!

Laurie was our organizer for our Yellowstone/Teton expedition. She was prompt at replying and answering questions and made everything go smoothly. She also listened to our hopes and expectations of ... read more the trip and really helped get it organized. Having her set up the lodging, the itineraries, and just her overall knowledge of where to go and what time to be there was exceptional. I cannot recommend our guide, David Buth, enough! What a terrific person to have led our trip. He was professional, kind, practically a “professor”, and very knowledgeable about everything and everywhere we went. It’s obvious that he enjoys his work and does it very well. He is a true educator, and we were so pleased with his expertise and fun personality. The only thing I didn’t like, was that the first couple days we were in a mini bus that was very uncomfortable to sit in, hard to see out of, and generally not great. Luckily, we were then transferred to an Escalade, which we had been promised and was much more appropriate and so much more comfortable. Thanks again, Theresa and Vince Trujillo

Husband and I had a wonderful tour with the most knowledgeable and accommodating tour guide, David. We saw many wildlife and plenty of breathtaking sites. If you are looking to ... read more book a tour in the area, pick Great Western Expeditions! 10/10!

Had a wonderful tour with Dave! Everything went smoothly and we saw plenty of wildlife.

Amazing service, knowledgeable and friendly guides, and utmost comfort. Great Western Expeditions should be your first call to see Jackson Hole.

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Yellowstone National Park Tours: Self-Guided Drive

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Welcome to the yellowstone national park tours.

Experience the raw power and beauty of nature on the Yellowstone self-guided tour. This enormous volcanic caldera has captured the American imagination for decades thanks to its explosive geysers, prismatic hot springs, and astonishing waterfalls. Home to some of the only wild bison and wolves on the continent, this park can’t be missed.

About the Tour

Your adventure through Yellowstone begins at one of the five entrances and follows the Grand Loop around the entire park. Here are some significant points of interest, along with that massive figure eight.

Journey through the West Thumb, one of the largest geyser basins in the park. Marvel at the jets of boiling water bursting from the Earth and hear the geological science behind this phenomenon. Peer deep into the Abyss Pool–if you dare–and listen to accounts of how fishermen used to cook their catch in the Fisherman’s Cone! Then, we’ll turn your eyes to the sky and tell you everything you need to know about birdwatching in Yellowstone.

As you drive past Shoshone Lake, one of the park’s best-kept secrets, we’ll fill you in on Sacagawea’s connection to the park and give you the real story you probably haven’t heard. Then it’s on to the world-famous Old Faithful, where you’re guaranteed to see a spectacular show. We’ll also take you to all the other geysers in the area, which are every bit as impressive as their famous cousin.

After that, try not to let your jaw drop too low when you see Grand Prismatic, the largest hot spring in the United States and the most colorful. We’ll give you a glimpse into the microscopic life which thrives in the extreme heat and explain how they brew beer and help solve crimes. No, really!

Next, we’ll stop by the Fountain Paint Pot, the most colorful mud field you’ll ever see, and reveal the secrets of Yellowstone’s “Zone of Death.” Then it’s on to the tremendous Gibbon Falls and the Norris Geyser Basin, Yellowstone’s hottest basin. At this point on the Yellowstone self-guided tour, we’ll hear about how this place offers a window into the earliest life on Earth and the men who first charted this fascinating land.

Gaze up at Electric Peak next as we recount the harrowing tale of how it got its name. Cross Yellowstone’s very own Golden Gate Bridge to reach the Mammoth Hot Springs, the most accessible place to spot a herd of elk. As you continue toward a pair of staggering waterfalls, we’ll put your mind at ease about the still-active super-volcano directly beneath you and let you enjoy the views.

Check out a tree so old it’s turned entirely to stone, then hear about President Theodore Roosevelt’s eventful trip to Yellowstone. If you’ve come to see wildlife, Lamar Valley is one of your best bets. We’ll point you to a place where you can spot elk, bison, and maybe even grizzlies or wolves!

Further, on the Yellowstone National Park self-guided tour, crest the summit of Dunraven Pass 9,000 feet above sea level, and you’ll be rewarded with staggering views of the park. Then, visit Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon–as long as you don’t have a fear of heights, that is! Finally, relax by the shores of the enormous Yellowstone Lake and watch for moose who come to drink from its waters.

Yellowstone has all this and more within a single park, but you have to see it to understand how awe-inspiring this landscape can be. A Yellowstone self-guided tour is the best way to experience the national park!

Make Your Yellowstone Experience Grand

Additionally, the tour also includes three additional in-depth experiences – Old Faithful, West Thumb Geyser Basin, and Grand Prismatic.

About the   Grand Prismatic Spring Tour

Make your Yellowstone visit a trip to remember with this self-guided walking tour to the Grand Prismatic hot spring, one of the park’s absolute must-see attractions. As you walk this trail to the best overlook of the stunning spring, you’ll dive deep into the mysteries behind this geothermal wonder, from how it formed to why it looks as colorful as it does. Plus, uncover the fascinating history of Yellowstone’s biggest eruption and hear the words of the first European to ever set eyes on Grand Prismatic. If you want, you can even keep the adventure going with a hike to Fairy Falls!

About the Yellowstone Old Faithful Tour

Witness the power of Old Faithful and explore the surrounding geyser basin with this self-guided walking tour! As one of the most densely-packed geyser regions in the park, there’s no shortage of explosive wonders on display here. Watch huge geysers like Old Faithful, Castle Geyser, and Grand Geyser erupt. Stroll past smaller, bubbling pools. Find out how geysers form, how they work, and uncover the hidden systems underlying the whole basin. This walking tour makes for the perfect addition to any Yellowstone visit!

About the   West Thumb Geyser Basin Tour

Enhance your visit to Yellowstone with this self-guided walking tour through the geothermal wonders of the West Thumb Geyser Basin. This journey along a boardwalk surrounded by steaming hot springs and burbling geysers is sure to make an impression. Stare into the mysteries of the deep at the Abyss Pool and the Black Pool. Stroll along the tranquil shores of Yellowstone Lake. Hear the strange history of the Fishing Cone. And much more! This walking tour of West Thumb gets you up close and personal with some of Yellowstone’s coolest (and hottest) attractions.

NOTE: Learn more about the road conditions, admission fees, and other pertinent information here .

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Where To Start?

Yellowstone National Park Tour:

South Entrance (Clockwise & Anti Clockwise): S Entrance Rd, Moran, WY 83013

West Entrance (Clockwise & Anti Clockwise): 30 Yellowstone Ave, West Yellowstone, MT 59758

North Entrance (Clockwise & Anti Clockwise): N Entrance Rd, Gardiner, MT 59030

East Entrance (Clockwise & Anti Clockwise): E Entrance Rd, Wyoming

Northeast Entrance (Clockwise & Anti Clockwise): Cooke City

Old Faithful Tour:

Start your Old Faithful tour from the Old Faithful Visitor and Education Center:  View Avenue, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

Grand Prismatic Spring Tour:

Start From:  Fairy Falls Parking Lot

West Thumb Geyser Basin Tour:

Start from:  West Thumb Information Station,  Grand Loop Rd, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Welcome: south entrance (jackson).

This tour of Yellowstone features multiple entrances to accommodate travelers entering from any direction. Get ready to experience one of the most incredible landscapes in North America, featuring stunning volcanic features like geysers and hot springs, majestic wildlife from bison to gray wolves, and more natural beauty than you can capture with any camera.

Lewis Falls

The first thing you'll see if entering from the south is Lewis Falls, a humble but energetic 30-foot waterfall that's sure to whet your appetite for the sights to come.

Grant Village & Visitor Center

If entering via the South Entrance, you'll pass Grant Village, a great place to make a pit stop before continuing onto the Grand Loop which circles the whole park.

First in this section of the park is the West Thumb Geyser Basin, one of Yellowstone's largest geyser basins which features some truly remarkable geothermal features.

While exploring West Thumb, you'll spot the Abyss Pool, an impressively deep, shockingly blue pool which has actually been known to erupt, although very rarely.

Fisherman’s Cone: William Trumbull

Next is the Fisherman's Cone, a small, extremely hot spring where fishermen used to boil their fish immediately after catching them!

Shoshone Lake & DeLacy Creek Trail

Your route takes you next past Shoshone Lake, a lovely secluded little patch of wilderness with a great hiking trail to boot.

Shoshone Lake Overlook

Be sure to stop by the Shoshone Lake Overlook, up next, for some spectacular views of the lake.

Trail to Shoshone Lake

You'll pass the trail to Shoshone Lake next, for those who want to visit the lakeshore itself.

Isa Lake & Continental Divide

Up next is Isa Lake, which sits directly on the Continental Divide. In a way, this lake marks the backbone of the country!

Kepler Cascade

Continuing on, you'll pass the Kepler Cascade, a 150-foot waterfall that's definitely worth a stop.

Old Faithful

Old Faithful, up next, is one of Yellowstone's most famous attractions for a reason. This huge geyser is so reliable it was once referred to as "eternity's timepiece"!

After that you can choose to visit the Beehive, a much humbler geyser which gets its name from the curious honeycomb-like formation surrounding it.

Castle Geyser

Then there's Castle Geyser, imposing and shielded by an enormous cone of calcified residue.

Grand Geyser

If you explore the geyser basin beyond Old Faithful, you'll find Grand Geyser, the most powerful predictable geyser in the world. These eruptions can reach up to 200 feet in height!

Morning Glory

Up next is Morning Glory, a deep hot spring pool which has, unfortunately, been severely damaged by tourists over the years. That said, it's still a sight to behold.

Fairy Falls & Grand Prismatic

After that you'll have the chance to visit Fairy Falls, a spectacular waterfall, and get a great view of the must-see Grand Prismatic hot spring in the process.

Firehole River

You've heard of hot tubs, but how about a hot river? That's exactly what you'll find at Firehole River, your next stop. It's a river naturally heated by a nearby hot spring!

Grand Prismatic Parking Lot

Then you'll be able to park and see Grand Prismatic up close. It's a staggeringly huge hot spring with rings of shocking color encircling it. This is one of Yellowstone's can't-miss attractions!

Firehole Lake Drive and the Great Fountain

Beyond that is Firehole Lake Drive, offering up-close views of the water, and the Great Fountain geyser. It isn't as predictable as Old Faithful, but you might get lucky and catch a seriously impressive eruption.

Fountain Paint Pot

Next up is the Fountain Paint Pot, a wonderfully colorful mud pot which is constantly burbling and rearranging itself thanks to the volcanic power underneath it.

Fountain Flat Drive

After that, you'll have a chance to take Fountain Flat Drive, which leads to a meadow where bison love to graze!

Welcome: West Entrance Visitor Information Center

You'll see the West Entrance Visitor Information Center if entering the park via the town of West Yellowstone.

If entering through the West Entrance, you'll pass through the Madison Junction, which is supposedly where explorer Ferdinand Hayden first had the idea to make this a national park.

Gibbon River

As you drive past the picturesque Gibbon River, you'll hear about its importance to the Shoshone tribe, as well as how they used the park's natural obsidian deposits in the past.

Gibbon Falls

After that you'll find Gibbon Falls, one of the park's most easily accessible waterfalls. Unlike many falls, which require long hikes down rocky trails, this one can be seen from the road!

Artist’s Paint Pots

Your route takes you next to the Artist's Paint Pots, another set of colorful mud pots featuring a boardwalk which takes you past not only the paint pots, but also a bunch of small geysers as well. This is a must-see spot.

Boardwalk Artist's Paintpots

As you explore the paint pots, you'll also get a great look at how the geothermal features have affected the surrounding trees.

Gibbon Meadows

You'll pass Gibbon Meadows next. If you're looking for a picnic spot to take a scenic break from driving and walking, this is a great one to choose.

Norris Geyser Basin

The next geyser basin you'll reach is the Norris Geyser Basin, the oldest, hottest geyser basin in Yellowstone, with temperatures measured up to 459 degrees below the surface!

Shortcut to Canyon Village

If you want to head straight to Canyon Village, you'll have an opportunity to do so next by taking this route straight across the Grand Loop rather than all the way around.

Semi-Centennial Geyser

Next, you'll pass a strange and remarkable geyser: the Semi-Centennial Geyser. It hasn't erupted since 1922, but who knows? You might get lucky!

Electric Peak

As you continue, you'll see Electric Peak, an 11,000-foot summit which earned its name thanks to a daring, storm-harrowed climbing experience back in the park's early days.

Sheepeater Cliffs

Past that are the Sheepeater Cliffs, a landmark with a strange story behind its equally strange name.

Swan Lake Flats

Up next are the Swan Lake Flats. These aren't just a great place to spot wildlife, they're also the birthplace of one of Yellowstone's eight wolf packs!

Bunsen Peak and Sheepeater Cliffs

Then there's Bunsen Peak, named after the inventor of the Bunsen Burner. Why? You'll have to visit to find out!

Golden Gate Bridge

Continuing on, you'll cross Yellowstone's very own Golden Gate Bridge, a staggering canyon bridged by an incredibly intricate viaduct. The views on this section of your drive simply can't be beat!

As you drive, you'll pass through a collection of huge boulders resulting from an ancient landslide.

Mammoth Hot Springs

After that, you'll see Mammoth Hot Springs, one of Yellowstone's most picturesque features. But these terraced hot springs aren't just perfect for photos--they're also a huge draw for the local elk population!

The Town of Mammoth

If you're yearning for civilization, you'll find it at the next stop: the town of Mammoth. Dating back to the 1800s, this is the perfect place to take a quick break, grab a bite, and spot some elk!

Welcome: North Entrance (Roosevelt Arch)

Visitors entering from the north will pass through the Roosevelt Arch at the North Entrance.

Boiling River

If entering from the north entrance, you'll pass another heated river called the Boiling River. Don't worry about the name, though--it's actually quite a pleasant temperature!

Albright Visitor Center

The Albright Visitor Center is up next for those entering from the north, and it's a great place for anyone to stop for snacks or a restroom break.

Undine Falls

Up next are the Undine Falls, a 60-foot waterfall named after fairies from German folklore.

Wraith Falls

Just across from Undine Falls is a trailhead leading to the 80-foot Wraith Falls, another of Yellowstone's nearly 350 waterfalls!

Petrified Tree

The route takes you next to the Petrified Tree, one of Yellowstone's strangest attractions. While it may not look it, this tree is actually millions of years old!

The Petrified Tree also marks the trailhead to the Lost Lake, a mysterious lake which, depending on who you ask, may not even exist!

Roosevelt Lodge at Tower Junction

Next, you'll pass through Tower Junction, home to the Roosevelt Lodge where, despite the name, no Roosevelt ever camped. But that doesn't make it any less of a fantastic camping spot!

Tower Junction

When you arrive at Tower Junction, you'll be able to choose whether to continue following the Grand Loop toward Yellowstone's Grand Canyon or take a detour to Lamar Valley, a favorite hangout of the local wildlife.

Slough Creek

Your route takes you next past the popular Slough Creek trail, which leads into the secluded Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness just beyond Yellowstone's borders

Lamar Valley

As you drive, you'll pass Lamar Valley next. This valley is the best place in Yellowstone to spot the park's iconic wildlife. You'll almost definitely see bison here, and might even get lucky and catch sight of some elusive wolves!

While passing through the valley, you'll have the chance to hike the Lamar Valley Trail. It's a picturesque hike for sure, but be sure to keep your distance from the wildlife!

Welcome: Northeast Entrance (Cooke City)

Visitors entering from the northeast will enter through the Northeast Entrance near Cooke City.

"Devil’s Den"

Those entering from the northeast will encounter Devil's Den, the iconic landscape captured by famed painter Thomas Moran, whose work helped to put Yellowstone on the map.

Dunraven Pass and Mt Washburn

Continuing along the Grand Loop, you'll arrive at Dunraven Pass, one of the highest points in the entire park. This 9,000-foot pass also features the trailhead to a hiking trail leading up an additional 1,000 feet for a truly commanding view of the park below.

Yellowstone River

As you drive, you'll pass the powerful Yellowstone River, another great place to spot animals like bison or grizzlies stopping for a drink at the riverbank.

Canyon Village

Next, you'll pass through Canyon Village, the strange, semi-town where many of Yellowstone's workers live during their time at the park. It offers a fun glimpse into what life is like for the park employees!

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

After that you'll come to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, a canyon impressive enough to rival even Arizona's Grand Canyon!

North Rim of Grand Canyon

On the north rim of the canyon, you'll find plenty of phenomenal lookout points, so don't forget to snap plenty of photos!

Inspiration Point

Continuing on, you'll arrive at Inspiration Point, the most popular of the overlooks along Yellowstone's Grand Canyon. The vista here is simply unmatched anywhere else in the park.

South Rim of Grand Canyon

You'll come to the canyon's south rim next, which offers just as many viewpoints and hiking trails as the north rim, including the beautiful Artists Point.

Hayden Valley

Up next is Hayden Valley, which offers a glimpse into the past. Though it's a lush green valley today, it was once at the bottom of a lake!

Welcome: East Entrance (Cody)

Those entering from the east will enter through the park's East Entrance near Cody.

Fishing Bridge Visitor Center

If you're coming in through the east entrance, you'll pass the Fishing Bridge Visitor Center, where you can stop for snacks, maps, and restrooms.

Fishing Bridge

Next, you'll cross Fishing Bridge and hear about the park service's early, misguided attempts to boost park visitation by introducing invasive trout to the rivers.

Yellowstone Lake

Finally, you'll arrive at Yellowstone Lake, the largest high elevation lake in North America. This pristine lake is too cold to swim in, but it makes the perfect place for a picnic or even a boat ride!

This last stretch of the Grand Loop will take you to West Thumb for a second time, concluding the circle--or, if you've entered the park from an entrance besides the South Entrance, it will bring you there for the first time so you can see the rest of the park!

Preview The Tour

  are pets allowed in yellowstone  .

You can bring your pet on a   Yellowstone National Park tour… but with plenty of restrictions. You need to ensure your pet is inside a vehicle, tent, or on a leash no shorter than 6 feet. And pets are not allowed on boardwalks or hiking trails, even with a leash.

If you don’t want to leave your pet in the car while you’re on your trip, a few pet boarding facilities are available outside the park boundary.

  How many entrances are there into Yellowstone?  

Yellowstone’s driving route  is arranged like a big circle, with five different entrances to the loop. 

West Entrance: You’ll arrive at the  West Entrance  if you’re driving in from Yellowstone Airport .

South Entrance: The   South Entrance  comes from Jackson, Wyoming. 

North Entrance: B egins at Roosevelt Arch in Montana.

East Entrance: Begins  from Cody, Wyoming

Northeast Entrance: S tarts in the heart of Wyoming’s mountains. The tour begins at Trout Lake Trailhead. Note: This entrance is currently shut. 

  What is Yellowstone famous for?  

From geysers to bison, Yellowstone National Park boasts numerous claims to fame. We have over a 100+ audio stories on the top sights along your driving route. 

  Are there any waterfalls in Yellowstone?  

Funny you should ask. Yellowstone is well-known for its water features, from geysers to hot springs to rivers to falls and there are over 300 of them. 

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Discover the origins and traditions of Juneteenth, one of the oldest known commemorations related to the abolition of slavery in the US.

Navigate waters safely with tips to be prepared, stay vigilant,and know how to react to keep your boating adventures fun.

There are endless ways to enjoy national parks all summer! Find ways to play and stay safe while out and about.

Learn how to model best practices to protect America's treasures while looking out for each other's health and safety.

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Last updated: June 3, 2024

More From Forbes

8 luxurious hotels for the ultimate national park trip this summer.

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The Horse Shoe Farm is just one of many luxury retreats that you can stay at while visiting US ... [+] National Parks this summer

With summer heating up, American travelers are on the hunt for the perfect adventure. Whether you’re a dedicated hiker or are just looking to reconnect with nature, American’s national parks offer the perfect escape. But camping in the great outdoors isn't for everyone. Luckily, there are many luxury hotels near some of America’s most beloved parks that give you the best of both worlds: stunning landscapes and fun activities with the chance to relax in a warm bath and plush suite every night. Here are 8 luxury hotels located near some of the most picturesque national parks in the U.S.

The Ritz-Carlton Tysons Presidential Suite Bed

Great Falls National Park: The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner

Near downtown Washington D.C., The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner epitomizes the “capital-to-countryside” experience thanks to its proximity to Great Falls National Park, which features beautiful views of the Potomac River and 15 miles of incredible hiking trails. Check out the River Trail to see the park’s iconic waterfall. Go on a boat tour to enjoy the water and learn more about the area’s ecosystem and wildlife. Back at the Ritz-Carlton, head to ENTYSE for fine dining and then treat yourself to an indulgent spa treatment.

The Horse Shoe Farm

Blue Ridge Mountains: The Horse Shoe Farm

Hidden in 85 acres of verdant mountain farmland sits The Horse Shoe Farm, a boutique resort that offers a welcoming stay close to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Guests can take advantage of unique accommodations, farm-to-table fare in The Silo Cookhouse and a relaxing spa experience in a renovated equestrian stable. You might also just discover inner peace at the property’s on-site wellness experiences, like its “Grains of Truth” Silo Meditation Tower.

Blackberry Mountain is a Relais & Chateaux destination resort that delivers world-renowned ... [+] hospitality

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Blackberry Mountain

Spanning 5,200 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Mountain is a Relais & Chateaux destination resort that delivers world-renowned hospitality in a luxurious, private national park setting. From renowned culinary and spa offerings to expert led adventure, wellness, and art offerings, there’s a path for every guest on the Mountain. Flavorful, regional meals and inspired beverage options made from ingredients foraged from the Mountain provide energy for adventures and nourishment for relaxation in your own modern treehouse, stone cottage, or cabin accommodation.

The Cloudveil

Grand Teton National Park: The Cloudveil

Perfectly nestled in the mountain near Grand Teton National Park, The Cloudveil boasts luxurious guest rooms, outdoor activities, a bistro-style restaurant, and an expansive rooftop terrace overlooking Jackson’s Town Square. The hotel’s talented concierges, known as Pathfinders, showcase their local knowledge to customize unique guest experiences, including eco-friendly wildlife tours.

Reid Creek Lodge

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, rocky mountain national park: reid creek lodge.

Take a road trip through your very own national park at Reid Creek Lodge, a seasonal guest lodge offering 300,000 acres of unparalleled access in the heart of the Laramie Range of the Rocky Mountains. The lodge’s guides are more than happy to create a customized itinerary for your group, including things like hiking, horseback riding, fishing, stargazing and more.

The Ranch at Rock Creek, Bear House Exterior

Yellowstone National Park: The Ranch at Rock Creek, Relais & Châteaux

Following a day exploring the Park's pristine natural beauty, visitors of all ages can indulge in a stay at this lovely ranch. Set within 6,600 acres of Montana's wild terrain, The Ranch at Rock Creek offers a range of accommodations, from luxury suites in The Granite Lodge to genuine log cabins and historic barn lodgings. Guests can participate in many outdoor activities, including fishing, horseback riding, clay shooting, sapphire mining, archery and more.

Old Edwards Inn & Spa

Nantahala National Forest: Old Edwards Inn & Spa, Relais & Châteaux And Half-Mile Farm

Old Edwards Inn & Spa is a charming European-style resort on Main Street that boasts spectacular dining venues, luxurious amenities, and individually appointed guest rooms, suites, and cottages. Its exclusive, adults-only sister property located just up the road, Half-Mile Farm, offers luxurious amenities in a serene country inn atmosphere, hugged by 14 acres of meadows, woodlands and streams.

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“I’m Going To Be A First Responder” – Nurse Provides Hilarious Commentary As Man Tries To Pet A Bison In Yellowstone National Park

Folks, believe it or not, summer is wrapping up, which means that we unfortunately (but also hopefully ) won’t have as many “can you believe how dumb this Yellowstone National Park tourist is being” videos brought to our attention.

I think that’s a good thing though, because it seems like we got through this year without any major stories coming out of the famous national park. It wasn’t for a lack of effort though from the “tourons,” who spent most of the summer running right towards bears and trying to square up with bison wandering in the park.

So before we officially welcome in Fall, I do want to go back to a video that was released towards the earlier part of this year. If you had to summarize this clip into one phrase, you could very easily just say: Natural Selection.

A nurse was visiting Yellowstone National Park and noticed some guys near her revving up to do something incredibly idiotic. And what do you do when you can tell something is about to go down? You get your phone out and record it, of course.

Two men start walking in the direction of a couple of bison that are grazing near a walking path, and right from the jump, the woman can’t believe they are testing these large wild animals. She reacts in realtime to the situation unfolding right in front of her, and either accidentally or intentionally provides a comedic reaction:

“They’re not serious. Are they serious? Oh my God. I’m going to be a first responder.”

I’m assuming the woman was off duty when she was visiting the park, but these two guys were about to force her into a improvised nursing shift with what they were doing.

As the two men continued to inch closer to the bison, one man started to reach his hand out towards it, and those in the area, including the nurse, could barely believe it:

“I’m recording this. Oh my God. Are they serious? Is he serious? Don’t…f**k, dude that thing will kill you! 

Are you kidding me? He’s trying to f**king pet it.”

He was, in fact, trying to pet a fully grown, 2,000 pound bison…

Somehow, the guy that tried to pet the bison must have known that the woman that was filming him was a nurse, because as he posed for a picture right by the bison (there must have been a 2-for-1 deal on stupid decisions at the park that day), he asks the woman:

“You ain’t doing triage, I take it?”

The nurse, still astounded by what she was seeing, and the man’s arrogance, responded:

“No I ain’t doing triage, you’re right.”

Triage, for those that don’t know, is a process where first responders assess injuries and determine the best course of action for treatment. If you’ve ever been to the hospital, it’s the first room you go into. In other words, it was a pretty bold joke to make for someone that had their back turned to a bison…

The video was posted to YouTube with the caption:

“An emergency nurse visiting Yellowstone National Park watched two men trying to touch bison. Park rangers warn tourists of approaching the animals.”

People that watched the video on YouTube were dumbfounded by how overtly dumb these two Yellowstone tourists were being, and did not hold back in the comments section:

“These two are the reason they have to make labels telling you not to drink the paint.”

“Some times in life you’ve just gotta sit back and let people find out for themselves how dumb they really are.”

“They’re applying for a Darwin Award.”

“Never stop people who had been warned twice. It’s time they learn the hard way.”

“Stupid is as stupid does.”

Don’t be that guy, folks…

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Travel | what you need to know before you go to a national park this summer.

The National Park Service has tightened access at the most popular of the 63 national parks to reduce crowding and traffic jams, which have become worse as visitor counts have soared.

A timed-entry reservation system has been put into effect, with the goal of spreading out visitation throughout the day, to avoid nightmare traffic jams and gruesomely long waits, officials said.

Typically, reservations are required during peak visitor hours, such as 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. (If you arrive before or after those hours, you won’t need one.) Check the National Park Service website for each park for details.  And if you already have camping or other permits or activity reservations, entrance reservations aren’t required.

Sometimes timed entry tickets are required to get into historic homes, to board ferries or to drive specific roads, such as the Going-To-The-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. Each park has its own rules.

Here are the national parks and monuments requiring reservations at this writing, though you should really check the website to make sure there haven’t been any changes. (And note that some state parks and recreation areas have also jumped on the bandwagon. See details below.)

• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Adams National Historical Park, Massachusetts
• Arches National Park, Utah
• Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico
• Ellis Island Part of Statue of Liberty National Monument, New York
• Ford’s Theatre, Washington, DC
• Fort Matanzas National Monument, Florida (Ferry ticket)
• Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, Washington, DC
• Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
• Glacier National Park, Montana (Going-to-the-Sun Road eastbound, the North Fork, and Many Glacier areas)
• Haleakalā National Park, Maui, Hawaii (for sunrise viewing only)
• Independence National Historical Park, Pennsylvania
• Mount Rainier, Washington
• Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, Ohio (Memorial Deck only)
• Redwood National and State Parks, California (required only for Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon)
• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Sagamore Hill National Historic Site (Theodore Roosevelt House) New York
• Statue Of Liberty National Monument, New York
• Thomas Edison National Historical Park (To visit Edison home) New Jersey
• Timpanogos Cave National Monument, Utah (Cave tour required)
• Washington Monument, Washington, DC (elevator to the top. Some same-day passes available)
• Yosemite National Park, California

Perhaps interestingly, you won’t need a reservation to visit Yellowstone National Park, at least not as of this writing.

And, while we’re on the subject, note that you may need a special advance permit to visit certain overcrowded attractions, such as the popular Angels Landing hike at Zion National Park in Utah. You don’t need a timed ticket to get into Zion (although you do have to ride a shuttle bus), however if you want to make this popular hike, you’ll need a permit in advance.

In addition to your timed entry ticket, you’ll also need to pay the fee is for that particular park on arrival, or have a pass that enables you to enter free, such as a senior, military, disabled or 4th grader pass.

How to reserve a timed-entry National Park ticket

These are available in advance on the Recreation.gov website or mobile app. It’s a good idea to get one as soon as your plans are firm.

There will be a limited number of last minute timed-entry tickets made available at 6 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time on the night before. These will probably go quickly, so be ready.

How to book: Go to the Recreation.gov website or app (you must create an account) or call the reservation line at 877-444-6777. Reservations cannot be booked at park offices.  It costs $2 to make a reservation. This is not refundable.

What about National Forest sites?

Yes, it’s true. We haven’t finished listing all the types of places you might need a reservation. At the most popular National Forest fun spots, expect to find that you’ll also need to book in advance. For example, at the Coconino National Forest in Arizona, the Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River trails and waterfall require advance booking on Recreation.gov .

It’s not a bad idea to double check, so you don’t get shut out.

Reservations for state parks

And even some particularly popular state parks are now requiring advance reservations. You’re not getting in without one, so take heed. The downside is that you have to pay for the reservations. The upside is that you’ll be able to find a place to park.

Here are a few of the most popular:

Reservations cost $5 per person, plus $10 parking. They can be made up to 30 days in advance. (Make a reservation here: gostateparks.hawaii.gov )

•   Waiʻānapanapa State Park and its black sand beach along the Road to Hana in Maui.
• Īao Valley State Monument,  Maui
• Diamond Head State Monument. Oahu
• Hāʻena State Park, Kauai

Advance purchase day passes are not mandatory but parks do fill up, so these “Save The Day” passes are highly recommended. Texas has 84 state parks. Here are some of the most heavily visited. (Reserve here: tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/reservations  or call 1-512-389-8900.)

• Balmorhea State Park
• Brazos Bend State Park
• Cedar Hill State Park
• Dinosaur Valley State Park
• Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
• Garner State Park
• Inks Lake State Park
• McKinney Falls State Park
• Palo Duro Canyon State Park
• Ray Roberts Lake State Park

Nevada requires $5 advance day use reservations only for the Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area . In Tennesee , only the Cummins Falls State Park requires a $6 access permit. So it goes without saying that if you’re planning to see a state park or national forest recreation area that you know is popular, it’s never a bad idea to find out if you need  to book it in advance.

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