Best of Yellowstone Full-Day Tour from Gardiner: Geysers, Falls & Wildlife Safari
Spend a full day chasing geysers, waterfalls and wildlife on a guided sweep through Yellowstone from Gardiner. This customizable safari mixes iconic stops—Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone—with targeted wildlife viewing in Hayden and Lamar valleys.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for rapid weather swings
Temperatures can drop quickly at higher elevations—bring a warm, packable jacket and a wind shell even on sunny days.
Carry a refillable water bottle
Stay hydrated at altitude; water is available at some stops but having your own saves time and plastic.
Keep a safe distance from wildlife
Follow NPS guidelines: stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from bison and elk to avoid dangerous encounters.
Bring sun protection and binoculars
High-elevation sun is strong and wildlife is often at a distance—hat, sunscreen and binoculars improve comfort and viewing.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning viewpoints along the Madison River just inside the park for quiet wildlife watching
- •Small pullouts near Fountain Paint Pot where steam vents create eerie low-lying fog at dawn
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
The park emphasizes leave-no-trace practices; staying on boardwalks protects fragile thermal features, and respecting wildlife distances reduces dangerous habituation.
Yellowstone was established as the world’s first national park in 1872 after geological surveys, including the Hayden Expedition of 1871, highlighted its unique features.
Photographer's Notes
- • Artist Point for classic Lower Falls vistas
- • Midway Geyser Basin boardwalk for an overhead view of Grand Prismatic Spring
- • Hayden Valley pullouts for wide wildlife panoramas
What to Bring
Packable insulated jacketEssential
Warm layer for chilly mornings and windy overlooks at higher elevations.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Support and traction for boardwalks and uneven viewpoints.
Sunscreen and wide-brim hatEssential
Protects skin and eyes from strong high-altitude sun.
Binoculars (personal)
Helpful for wildlife viewing even though the tour provides UHD optics.
Common Questions
Is park entrance fee included?
No; park fees are not included in the tour price and should be paid separately at the park entrance or with a National Park annual pass.
Where do we meet and is pickup available?
Meet at the Gardiner Chamber, 216 W Park St, Gardiner, MT; this tour meets everyone at the start point and does not offer custom pickup.
Are restroom stops and lunch provided?
Yes—restroom breaks are scheduled at stops with facilities and a picnic lunch made with local ingredients is included.
How likely are wildlife sightings?
Guides maximize chances by visiting Hayden and Lamar valleys at optimal times, but wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed since animals move freely.
Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Children 8 and older may participate; the tour is suitable for most fitness levels but some walking on boardwalks and uneven terrain is required—bring a car seat if needed.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available for cancellations at least 24 hours before departure; tours may be canceled for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
Gardiner, Montana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—short boardwalk walks and viewpoints; moderate stamina helps due to high elevation.
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