Private Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour — Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic & Yellowstone Falls
Spend a private day on Yellowstone’s Lower Loop—Old Faithful eruptions, Grand Prismatic’s impossible colors, and the thunder of Yellowstone Falls—guided and paced to your interests. This six-hour tour packs the park’s highlights into an intimate, flexible experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures can swing 20°F between pullouts and shaded boardwalks—bring a windproof outer layer.
Carry binoculars
Guides will stop for wildlife; binoculars and a zoom lens increase your chance of close sightings without disturbing animals.
Respect thermal areas
Stay on boardwalks and posted paths—thermal crust is thin and water is near-boiling beneath the surface.
Bring water and snacks
The tour lasts about six hours with limited facilities inside the park; hydrate at every stop to offset altitude.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Firehole Canyon pullout for quieter riverside views
- •West Thumb Geyser Basin—smaller crowds and Blue Lakes views
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk (and occasionally grizzly)
Conservation Note
Stay on designated paths and follow your guide’s directions; vehicle congestion and thermal area damage are ongoing management concerns.
Yellowstone was designated the world’s first national park in 1872 and sits over a volcanic hotspot that shapes its hydrothermal features.
Photographer's Notes
- • Old Faithful boardwalk
- • Grand Prismatic overlook (Midway Geyser Basin viewpoint)
- • Artist Point at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
What to Bring
Layered clothing (base, insulating, windproof)Essential
Rapid temperature changes and wind on canyon rims make layers essential.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Boardwalks and short trail sections can be slippery; supportive shoes improve comfort.
Binoculars or spotting scope
Improves wildlife viewing and lets you observe distant geothermal features safely.
Camera with telephoto lens
Capture eruptions, wildlife, and wide canyon vistas from safe distances.
Common Questions
Where does the tour start and finish?
The operator confirms an exact meeting point the day before; pickup from Jackson hotels is often available, with flexible meeting options.
Is this tour suitable for children and seniors?
Yes—this private tour accommodates all ages with minimal walking; notify the operator of mobility needs when booking.
Will we see Old Faithful erupt?
Guides schedule time at Old Faithful to match predicted eruption windows but exact timing is natural and can vary.
Are park entrance fees included?
Park entrance fees are not always included—confirm on booking; the operator provides private transportation and lunch.
What wildlife might we see?
Common sightings include bison, elk, coyotes, and occasionally bears or wolves; sightings can’t be guaranteed.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; see the booking terms for specifics.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
West Yellowstone, Montana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light walking ability; short boardwalk strolls and viewpoint steps; suitable for most fitness levels
Ready to Explore West Yellowstone?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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