Full-Day Yellowstone Safari from West Yellowstone: Old Faithful, Grand Canyon & Hayden Valley
See Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Hayden Valley wildlife and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone in a single, expertly guided day trip from West Yellowstone. This safari blends short boardwalk walks, scenic drives and concentrated wildlife viewing with geology-rich viewpoints.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for altitude and microclimates
Temperatures can swing quickly on the Yellowstone Plateau—bring a windproof layer and warm mid layer even in summer.
Hydrate and carry snacks
Tour includes a picnic lunch and beverages, but carry a refillable water bottle and extra snacks to manage altitude fatigue.
Respect wildlife distances
Always follow your guide’s instructions and keep at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from other animals for safety.
Stick to boardwalks near thermal features
The ground around geysers and hot springs can be thin and dangerously hot—do not venture off marked paths.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Biscuit Basin for colorful hot springs and quieter crowds
- •Black Sand Basin for compact, vivid thermal features often missed on larger itineraries
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
Visitors must stay on boardwalks and obey wildlife distances; the park emphasizes minimizing disturbance to wildlife and protecting fragile thermal ground.
Yellowstone was established as the world’s first national park in 1872; the park has long been a cultural landscape for Indigenous peoples and later 19th-century scientific exploration.
Photographer's Notes
- • Artist Point at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- • The Grand Prismatic overlook on the Fairy Falls trail
- • Old Faithful boardwalks and viewing area
What to Bring
Layered jacket (fleece + wind shell)Essential
Keeps you comfortable through rapid temperature changes on the plateau.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Closed-toe shoes with good traction for boardwalks and short trails.
Refillable water bottle (1L+)Essential
Hydration is important at altitude; water stations may be limited between stops.
Personal binoculars or camera with zoom
Guides supply optics, but personal gear speeds up wildlife and landscape photography.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what is the itinerary?
The tour lasts about 6–7 hours and typically includes stops at Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic viewpoints, Fountain Paint Pot or Biscuit Basin, Hayden Valley wildlife viewing, Yellowstone Lake, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone—route varies by conditions and sightings.
Are park entrance fees included?
Park entrance fees are not included; participants should expect to pay the current National Park Service fee at the gate or have it covered by the tour—confirm with the operator before departure.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear layers, sturdy shoes, sun protection and bring a refillable water bottle; a small daypack and a light rain layer are also recommended.
Is this tour kid-friendly?
Children 8 and older may participate; parents should plan for long periods in the van and follow all safety rules around wildlife and thermal areas.
Can I see wildlife like bears and wolves?
Guides aim to find wildlife in Hayden Valley and other areas, but sightings are not guaranteed—bison and elk are the most commonly observed species.
What accessibility options exist?
The tour involves minimal walking and mostly wheelchair-accessible vehicle stops, but boardwalks and viewpoints may have uneven surfaces; contact the operator to discuss specific accessibility needs.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6–7 hours
Location
West Yellowstone, Montana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short, flat boardwalk walks and standing at overlooks—be comfortable walking up to a mile total at high elevation.
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