Best of Yellowstone Full-Day Tour from Paradise Valley — Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic & Wildlife
Spend a full day exploring Yellowstone’s headline sights — Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and Hayden Valley wildlife — with a naturalist guide who tailors the route to weather and sightings. Bring layers and binoculars for an efficient, wildlife-focused safari from Paradise Valley.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures can swing dramatically between parking lots and viewpoints at 6,000–8,000 ft; pack a windproof layer.
Bring your own park pass or be prepared to pay
Park entrance fees are not included; have payment ready to avoid delays at gates.
Keep distance from wildlife
Bison and bears can be unpredictable — stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from other large animals.
Hydrate and snack between stops
High elevation and a long day of observation can be tiring; carry a refillable water bottle and use provided snacks.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Mammoth Hot Springs terraces near the north entrance — quieter early morning
- •Scenic pullouts along the Grand Loop between Hayden Valley and Yellowstone Lake for unexpected wildlife views
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk (and seasonal chance of wolves)
Conservation Note
Visitors are urged to stay on boardwalks and obey wildlife distance rules to protect fragile thermal features and minimize animal disturbance.
Yellowstone became the world’s first national park in 1872; earlier, Indigenous peoples used the thermal areas for travel and seasonal resource gathering.
Photographer's Notes
- • Artist Point on the South Rim for classic Lower Falls shots
- • Midway Geyser Basin overlook for Grand Prismatic colors
- • Hayden Valley pullouts for wide wildlife frames
What to Bring
Layered outerwearEssential
Windproof shell and mid-layer for variable mountain weather.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Comfortable shoes with good traction for boardwalks and uneven viewpoints.
Water bottle (refillable)Essential
Stay hydrated at elevation throughout the day.
Binoculars and camera
Binoculars improve wildlife viewing; a telephoto lens helps capture distant animals and thermal features.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what does it cover?
Expect an 8–9 hour day covering major highlights like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Hayden Valley, and Yellowstone Lake; exact stops depend on conditions and sightings.
Are park fees included?
No — park entrance fees are not included and should be paid separately at the park gateway or prior via pass systems.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes — children 8 and older may participate; if a child needs a car seat, you must bring it along.
What should I wear?
Layered clothing, a windproof shell, sun protection, and sturdy shoes are recommended due to elevation and variable weather.
Will we see wildlife?
Guides seek wildlife actively, especially in Hayden Valley, but sightings cannot be guaranteed; animals set the schedule.
Are lunch and refreshments provided?
Yes — a locally sourced picnic lunch, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages are provided; remember any dietary needs when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–9 hours
Location
Livingston, Montana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; expect short, flat boardwalk walks and several brief viewpoint strolls
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