Full-Day Private Yellowstone Tour: Old Faithful, Grand Canyon & Hayden Valley Wildlife
Spend an 11-hour private day in Yellowstone chasing Old Faithful’s plume, peering into the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and scanning Hayden Valley for bison and wolves. This customizable tour balances time on boardwalks, scenic pulls and wildlife watches with expert guiding and luxury transport.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for high elevation swings
Temperatures can vary 30°F between morning and afternoon at 7,000–8,000 ft—bring a fleece and wind shell.
Bring binoculars and a long lens
Wildlife often stays at a distance; a 300mm lens or binoculars make the difference between a dot and a portrait.
Follow guide wildlife protocol
Stay in the vehicle during close wildlife encounters and give animals at least 100 yards; guides prioritize safety and legal distance.
Hydrate and pack snacks
You’ll be in the field for ~11 hours with limited services—carry water and snacks even though bottled water and lunch are provided.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Firehole Falls viewpoint—less crowded and dramatic within narrow lava-walled canyon
- •Fountain Paint Pot boardwalk—shows all four thermal feature types in a short loop
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Grizzly bear
Conservation Note
Stay on boardwalks and marked trails to protect thin thermal crust and microbial mats; wildlife-viewing rules reduce stress on animals and help maintain park health.
Yellowstone was designated the world’s first national park in 1872; its preservation helped launch the modern conservation movement in the United States.
Photographer's Notes
- • Old Faithful viewing area for eruption sequences
- • Artist Point/Lookout for dramatic canyon and Lower Falls shots
- • Hayden Valley pullouts for wide wildlife panoramas
What to Bring
Layered jacket (fleece + wind shell)Essential
Keeps you warm during cool mornings and blocks wind on exposed overlooks.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Support and traction for boardwalks and short uneven trails at viewpoints.
Binoculars or telephoto lens (200–400mm)
Essential for safe, distant wildlife viewing and better wildlife photos.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+)Essential
High-elevation sun is intense—protect skin and eyes during midday stops.
Common Questions
Are park entrance fees included?
No—Yellowstone entrance fees are separate from the tour price; you can pay at the gate or show an annual pass if you have one.
Where does pickup happen?
Pickups cover Jackson, Wilson and Teton Village areas; guests staying over Teton Pass or outlying towns should meet at a specified lot—confirm your pickup point when booking.
What wildlife can we expect to see?
Common sightings include bison, elk and coyotes; guides target Hayden and Lamar Valleys for bison herds and potential wolf or bear sightings, but wildlife is never guaranteed.
Is this activity suitable for children or seniors?
Yes—the tour is rated as accessible to a wide range of ages, but expect an 11-hour day and some standing during stops; notify the operator of special needs when booking.
Are restrooms and food provided?
Restrooms are available at major stops and visitor centers; the tour includes bottled water, snacks and a boxed lunch.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure; check your booking confirmation for details.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–11 hours
Location
Jackson, Wyoming
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—long periods of sitting with short, easy walks on boardwalks and overlooks; be comfortable standing and walking briefly at altitude.
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