Spanning over 2.2 million acres, Yellowstone National Park boasts an array of natural wonders, including countless geysers, cascading waterfalls, and Yellowstone Lake – the largest high-altitude lake in North America. This iconic park is a dream destination for many, and a guided tour can help make your visit truly unforgettable. Many tours even include convenient transportation from nearby hubs like Jackson Hole, Wyoming, making it easier to explore the park’s vast landscapes.
Based on traveler reviews and expert recommendations, NationalPark Shop’s team will highlight the top Yellowstone National Park tours that showcase the park’s remarkable beauty. Let’s explore!
Contents
- 1 BrushBuck Wildlife Tours
- 2 Teton Floats Lower Loop Tour – Yellowstone National Park Tours
- 3 Scenic Safaris – Snowmobile Tour (Old Faithful)
- 4 Flying Pig Adventures Rafting Trip
- 5 Geyser Kayak Tours
- 6 Yellowstone Hiking Guides
- 7 Snowcoach Tour Old Faithful
- 8 Detail: Summer Bus Tours through Yellowstone National Park
- 9 Luxury Tours Yellowstone National Park: Lasts for Many Days
- 10 FAQs
BrushBuck Wildlife Tours
- Price: From $329
- Duration: 12 hours
Embark on a full-day adventure to experience Yellowstone’s breathtaking scenery and diverse animals on a bus tour departing from Jackson Hole. After a scenic drive through Grand Teton National Park, the Yellowstone National Park tour takes you to Yellowstone’s most iconic attractions, including Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake, the Upper and Lower Falls, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and several geyser basins.
Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary on the park’s history, wildlife, and unique landscapes, which travelers often describe as highly informative. The small group size, capped at 11 participants, is another highlight frequently praised by reviewers.
The tour operates daily from April to November, with departures starting at 6 a.m. Participants must be at least 6 years old. The package includes access to binoculars and spotting scopes for wildlife viewing, as well as a picnic lunch. For those seeking a more personalized experience, private tours and multiday excursions are also available.
Teton Floats Lower Loop Tour – Yellowstone National Park Tours
- Price: From $299
- Duration: 11 hours
Discover Yellowstone’s most remarkable thermal features on this intimate small-group Yellowstone National Park tour, which begins with a journey through the scenic landscapes of Grand Teton National Park. Highlights include the iconic Old Faithful, known for its consistent eruptions every 90 minutes, and other stunning geysers such as Beehive, Castle, Daisy, Grand, and Sawmill. Additional stops include the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring. Tour participants frequently commend the breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife sightings, and the guides’ engaging narratives and in-depth knowledge.
The tour departs daily from May through mid-October, with pickups at Jackson and Teton Village accommodations starting at 7:30 a.m. and returns scheduled between 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Included in the price are transportation, binoculars for wildlife viewing, snacks, and a picnic lunch. The group size is capped at eight participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
>> Things To Do In Yellowstone National Park: 11 Attractions Must Try
Scenic Safaris – Snowmobile Tour (Old Faithful)
- Price: From $525 (single) or $855 (tandem)
- Duration: 12 hours
During winter, while certain areas of the park remain off-limits to standard four-wheeled vehicles, thrilling Yellowstone National Park tours still await. A 45-mile snowmobile journey along the Yellowstone River treats participants to scenic stops at landmarks such as Moose Falls, Lewis Canyon, and West Thumb Geyser Basin, culminating at the iconic Old Faithful.
These excursions, running daily from mid-December to mid-March, coincide with the migration of some of the park’s larger wildlife to the lower valleys, adding to the adventure. Visitors often describe snowmobiling through the park as an unforgettable experience, made even better by the insightful commentary provided by knowledgeable guides.
Scenic Safaris, based in Jackson Hole, picks up participants between 6 and 7:30 a.m. and drops them off at their accommodations between 6 and 7 p.m. Prices fluctuate throughout the season but always include essentials like a snowmobile, helmet, snowsuit, morning snacks, and lunch. Drivers must be at least 16 years old, while riders need to be at least 8 years old.
Flying Pig Adventures Rafting Trip
- Price: Adults from $74 – kids from $64
- Duration: 2 hours
Explore Yellowstone by embarking on a rafting adventure down its namesake river. This excursion takes you through Class II and III rapids, perfect for beginner and intermediate paddlers, with thrilling names like Queen of the Waters, Rock Garden, and Sleeping Giant. Along the way, you’ll marvel at natural landmarks such as Devil’s Slide and the towering 11,000-foot Electric Peak. Participants frequently describe this tour as exciting and family-friendly, praising the engaging and cheerful guides for making the experience even more enjoyable.
Trips are available daily from May to August, starting at 9:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 1:15 p.m., 3:15 p.m., and 5:15 p.m. The Yellowstone National Park tours depart from Gardiner, Montana, near the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. To join, rafters must weigh a minimum of 45 pounds. For those seeking more adventure, Flying Pig also offers an 18-mile rafting experience and an overnight trip option.
>> Facts About Yellowstone National Park
Geyser Kayak Tours
- Price: From $200 (single) or $175 (tandem)
- Duration: 5 hours
Kayaking in the West Thumb Geyser Basin, Yellowstone Lake’s largest geyser basin, offers a rare opportunity to view geothermal features, including those hidden beneath the water’s surface, that are otherwise unreachable. The Yellowstone National Park tours to Potts Basin, a secluded area without boardwalks or crowds, provide a unique and peaceful experience. Travelers consistently praise the breathtaking scenery and the knowledgeable guides, often describing this tour as the highlight of their Yellowstone visit.
Tours start and finish at the Grant Village marina on Yellowstone Lake’s western shore. They run daily from late May to late September, beginning at 9 a.m., with a later start time of 10 a.m. toward the season’s end, and typically wrap up around 2 or 3 p.m. The price includes a picnic lunch and all essential kayaking equipment. No prior kayaking experience is required, and children aged 5 to 12 must share a tandem kayak with an adult. From a different perspective, the company also offers sunset paddling trips.
>> Yellowstone National Park Hot Springs
Yellowstone Hiking Guides
- Price: From $182
- Duration: 6 hours
Embark on a 5- to 7-mile hike along the rim of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, where you’ll take in iconic sights such as the river’s impressive Upper and Lower Falls, along with scenic forests and meadows. Participants frequently rave about the stunning views and commend the guides for their expertise and engaging commentary.
Yellowstone National Park tours are offered daily except Sundays from June through September, with groups gathering at 8 a.m. at the Upper Falls View parking area off South Rim Drive. The cost covers lunch, snacks, and trekking pole rentals. For those eager to explore more, the company also organizes hikes in other parts of Yellowstone, including the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley.
>> Yellowstone National Park Hiking
Snowcoach Tour Old Faithful
- Price: Adults from $230 – kids from $210
- Duration: 9 hours
Snowcoaches, specially designed buses with large, low-pressure tires, offer a unique way to explore Yellowstone during the winter months when other vehicles can’t access the park. These Yellowstone National Park tours take visitors to notable destinations like Biscuit Basin, Black Sand Basin, Fountain Paint Pot, Madison Junction, and, of course, Old Faithful. Passengers often praise the warmth and comfort of the snow coaches, while the drivers, who also serve as guides, are appreciated for their in-depth knowledge and enthusiasm about the park.
Tours are available daily from mid-December to mid-March, running from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition to snow coach tours, Yellowstone Vacations offers snowmobile excursions and bus tours during the summer season.
Detail: Summer Bus Tours through Yellowstone National Park
Summer bus tours offer another fantastic way for visitors unfamiliar with navigating large parks like Yellowstone! These Yellowstone National Park tours allow guests ample opportunities for sightseeing while learning about key attractions from experienced drivers/guides who know their stuff!
Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour
Yellowstone Lower Loop Bus Tours are available daily from April 19 to October 31, 2024, with modified loop tours running from the park’s opening until Memorial Day weekend. During this full-day tour, you’ll have the chance to explore some of Yellowstone’s most famous landmarks, including:
- Old Faithful Geyser
- Craig Pass
- Fountain Paint Pot
- Yellowstone Lake
- Mud Volcano
- Hayden Valley
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Yellowstone Upper Loop Tour
Yellowstone Upper Loop Bus Tours are available from May 3 to October 30, with modified loop tours running from the park’s opening until Memorial Day weekend. These Yellowstone National Park tours operate daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and are available on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday before and after that period.
On this full-day tour, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of Yellowstone’s most renowned attractions, including:
- Norris Geyser Basin
- Lamar Valley
- Dunraven Pass
- Roaring Mountain
- Undine Falls
- Mammoth Hot Springs
- Gibbon Falls
- Tower Fall
Private & Custom Tours – Up To 13 People
Private and Custom Tours are available daily. For pricing details and to explore your options, please contact Yellowstone Vacation Tours at 800-426-7669 or use the booking button below.
Luxury Tours Yellowstone National Park: Lasts for Many Days
If you’re looking for an extended getaway filled with luxury accommodations while exploring all that this magnificent national park has to offer – consider multi-day luxury Yellowstone National Park tours!
Yellowstone Wildlife Tour (12 days)
Embark on an unforgettable private tour of three of America’s most stunning National Parks: Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier. In Grand Teton National Park, you’ll have the chance to hike or take a ferry across Jenny Lake to reach Inspiration Point, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. In Yellowstone, a variety of expert guides, including a Wolf tracking specialist, will accompany you as you search for some of the park’s incredible wildlife, with a chance to spot majestic Grizzly Bears.
Discover the beauty of Yellowstone’s waterfalls, dramatic canyon views, and serene shores of Yellowstone Lake. Step back in time to explore the history of the ‘Old West,’ and witness the park’s volcanic wonders, from steaming vents and bubbling mud pots to the iconic Old Faithful geyser. In Glacier National Park, you’ll drive the scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road, which climbs to 6,646 feet, before hiking the picturesque lake trails in Coeur D’Alene, offering serene forest paths and the opportunity for a refreshing swim. This will be the perfect long-term Yellowstone National Park Tours for visitors.
National Parks Explorer (15 days)
Another remarkable choice – the fifteen-day National Parks Explorer takes travelers beyond just two parks visiting several other nearby destinations including Glacier National Park & Mount Rainier!
This extensive itinerary provides ample opportunity to discover diverse ecosystems ranging from alpine meadows forests wetlands ensuring every moment spent exploring feels worthwhile!
FAQs
What’s the weather like at Yellowstone National Park?
During the summer months of July and August, Yellowstone typically sees midday temperatures around 25°C, with nighttime temperatures dropping below freezing. Due to the significant temperature fluctuations, it’s essential to bring multiple layers of protective clothing, including gloves, hats, and scarves, as temperatures can vary greatly depending on your altitude. From November through April, temperatures rarely rise above 6°C, so be prepared for cooler conditions during the off-season.
>> Yellowstone National Park Weather
When is the best time to visit Yellowstone National Park?
The best times to visit Yellowstone for mild weather and fewer crowds are between April and May, and September to November. During these months, the park is quieter, offering a more peaceful experience. In contrast, July and August see the highest number of visitors, as warmer temperatures make outdoor camping more enjoyable, and schools are on summer break, leading to a surge in family vacations.
Are private tours of Yellowstone worth it?
A private guided tour in Yellowstone is the ideal way to fully immerse yourself in the park’s natural beauty. Yellowstone National Park is a fascinating destination, rich in wildlife, geological wonders, and historical significance, offering unique adventures tailored to every traveler’s interests.
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