Private Family Yellowstone Tour from Gardiner: Geysers, Wildlife & Picnic Lunch
Spend a full day exploring Yellowstone with a private guide from Gardiner—geysers, terraces, wildlife viewing, and a made-to-order picnic lunch. Perfect for families, this customizable tour balances short walks and scenic stops with hands-on learning for kids.
The Experience
Before You Go
Boardwalk Safety
Always stay on designated boardwalks and keep children close—thermal features are fragile and dangerously hot.
Dress in Layers
Mountain weather changes quickly; bring a warm layer and a waterproof shell even on sunny days.
Wildlife Distance
Use binoculars and the guide’s spotting scope; remain at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from other large animals like bison.
Hydration & Snacks
Carry a refillable water bottle and light snacks—guides provide bottled water and a picnic lunch but active families need quick energy between stops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning stakeouts in Lamar Valley for quieter wildlife viewing
- •Less-crowded boardwalks at Biscuit Basin for vivid thermal pools without the Old Faithful crowds
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
Stay on trails and boardwalks to protect fragile thermal features; maintain required distances from wildlife and follow Leave No Trace practices to reduce human impact.
The Roosevelt Arch at the North Entrance was dedicated in 1903 and marks one of the earliest federal efforts to protect this landscape; Mammoth served as Fort Yellowstone when the Army managed the park.
Photographer's Notes
- • Grand Prismatic Overlook
- • Old Faithful Boardwalk
- • Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Comfortable soles and ankle support for boardwalks and short uneven walks.
Layered clothingEssential
Insulating mid-layer and waterproof shell to handle morning chill and afternoon sun.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)Essential
High-elevation sun is intense; protect skin and eyes during open-plain stops.
Small daypack
Holds snacks, extra layer, and personal items for quick access between stops.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
This private tour runs approximately eight hours (full-day) from the Gardiner/ North Entrance meeting point.
Are park entrance fees included?
Yes—Yellowstone National Park entry fees are included in the tour price.
Is the tour suitable for young children?
Yes—the tour is family-friendly with short walks and guide-led learning; note that children must remain supervised on boardwalks and near thermal features.
Will we see wildlife?
Guides focus on the best windows for wildlife viewing—sightings are common (bison, elk, occasional bears) but not guaranteed; wildlife moves on its own schedule.
Can we be picked up in Bozeman or West Yellowstone?
Pickup from Bozeman or West Yellowstone can be arranged for an additional cost—contact the operator to confirm availability and pickup point.
What happens in bad weather?
Tours operate in most weather; guides can modify stops for safety. All sales are final per the operator’s cancellation policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Gardiner, Montana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires short walks on boardwalks and low-impact standing periods for viewing
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