Full-Day Snowmobile Tour to Yellowstone's Grand Canyon & Lower Falls
Ride 65 miles into Yellowstone’s snowbound heart on an 8-hour guided snowmobile tour that reaches the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Lower Falls. Expect high-elevation vistas, wildlife sightings, and practical winter riding in a day that departs Jackson before dawn.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive hydrated and fed
Cold weather increases calorie burn — eat a solid breakfast and drink fluids before pickup to maintain energy on an 8-hour outing.
Layer for wind and sun
Bring a windproof shell, insulating mid-layer, and UV-rated goggles — sun on snow is intense even when temperatures are low.
Know your limits
This tour is recommended for riders with some snowmobile experience; tell guides about your comfort level so they can pair you appropriately.
Charge devices and protect camera gear
Cold drains batteries quickly — keep cameras and phones inside an insulated pocket and bring spare batteries if you plan to shoot.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sunrise light on the frozen shelves near the lake offers low-angle color on ice formations
- •Smaller pullouts upstream from the Lower Falls provide unobstructed views of thermal steam mixing with cold air
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
Winter access concentrates traffic on designated routes to protect fragile thermal features and wildlife; follow guides’ instructions to minimize disturbance and pack out any waste.
The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone formed through volcanic activity followed by river erosion; the Lower Falls became an iconic early attraction during the park’s late-19th-century exploration era.
Photographer's Notes
- • Artist Point overlook above the Lower Falls
- • Rim drives looking into the canyon flanks
- • Open stretches near Yellowstone Lake for wide-angle shots
What to Bring
Insulated, waterproof bootsEssential
Keeps feet warm and dry during long stops and while mounting/dismounting the sled.
Goggles with interchangeable lensesEssential
Protects eyes from wind and glare; a low-light lens is useful for cloudy conditions.
Windproof outer shell and insulated mid-layerEssential
Blocks harsh winds and traps warmth during long exposure on the trail.
Spare batteries and insulated phone pouch
Cold reduces battery life; keep electronics warm and protected for photos or emergency contact.
Common Questions
Do I need prior snowmobile experience?
Prior experience is recommended; guides give basic instruction, but riders should be comfortable operating a snowmobile for long periods.
How early is pickup in Jackson?
Pickup times usually begin around 6:00 AM; exact time is confirmed the day before and can vary between 6:00–7:30 AM.
What is included in the tour?
Hotel pickup and dropoff from Jackson, helmets, a morning snack, a packed lunch, and a professional guide are included.
Are children allowed?
Policies vary by operator; typically passengers must meet minimum age and size requirements — check with the operator when booking.
What wildlife might I see?
Common winter sightings include bison and elk; occasionally you may spot wolves or coyotes from a distance.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours operate in winter conditions but severe weather can change plans; the operator may alter routes for safety but cancellations are subject to the operator's policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Canyon Village, Wyoming
Difficulty
challenging
Fitness Level
Moderate to fit — you should be comfortable standing on snowmobile pegs and riding for multi-hour stretches at high elevation.
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