Sunset Kayaking on Yellowstone Lake: West Thumb & Potts Geyser Basin Guide
Paddle past steaming shorelines and Absaroka peaks on a small-group sunset tour of Yellowstone Lake. This guide explains what to expect—terrain, thermal features, logistics and how to prepare for a cold-water evening paddle.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures drop quickly after sunset and the lake can feel several degrees colder than the air; wear non-cotton base layers and a waterproof shell.
Bring a dry bag for electronics
Guides provide dry boxes, but keep phones and cameras in a sealed dry bag to protect from spray and accidental immersion.
Choose tandem if unsure of distance
Paddling 5–6 miles at sunset can be taxing for infrequent paddlers—tandems make the route more accessible and conserve energy.
Park and change nearby
Cell service is unreliable—leave a change of clothes and towel in your vehicle at the Grant Village lot in case you get wet.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Paddling close to Potts Geyser Basin offers intimate thermal views few see from land
- •Small coves west of West Thumb hold reflective water and quieter wildlife sightings late in the day
Wildlife
- •Bald eagle
- •River otter
Conservation Note
Stay on water-designated routes and follow guides to protect fragile thermal features; practice Leave No Trace and avoid disturbing wildlife or shoreline vegetation.
Yellowstone Lake sits on the rim of the Yellowstone Caldera; thermal activity along its shores reflects the park’s volcanic past and long human history of Indigenous use and later exploration.
Photographer's Notes
- • Near Potts Geyser Basin for steam and shoreline texture
- • Open water facing the Absaroka Range for mountain silhouettes
What to Bring
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)Essential
Required for safety and provided by the outfitter, but bring a comfortable one if you prefer your own.
Waterproof/dry bagEssential
Protects phone, camera, and extra layers from spray and potential capsizes.
Waterproof shell / splash jacketEssential
Wind and spray increase at sunset; a lightweight waterproof layer keeps you warm without overheating.
Insulating mid-layer (fleece or synthetic)
Holds heat when the sun drops—avoid cotton which retains moisture and chills quickly.
Common Questions
How cold is the water and is hypothermia a risk?
Yellowstone Lake is cold year-round; guides use PFDs, dry bags, and rescue protocols to reduce risk—dress warmly, avoid cotton, and follow your guide's instructions.
What happens if weather cancels the trip?
This sunset tour is weather-dependent; the operator cancels in unsafe conditions and offers refunds if you cancel at least 24 hours prior or the operator cancels due to weather.
Can beginners join or do I need kayaking experience?
Beginners are welcome but should have basic fitness; tandems are recommended for less experienced paddlers to conserve energy.
Are single kayaks available?
Yes—both single and double kayaks are available. Request changes in advance if you prefer a tandem instead of a single.
Will we see wildlife from the water?
Yes; common sightings include waterbirds (bald eagles, ospreys), trout near the shore, and sometimes river otters—maintain distance and follow guide directions.
Where do we meet and how do we find the launch?
Meet at the Grant Village launch; GPS coordinates are provided (approx. 44.392 N, -110.548 W). Cell service is spotty—use offline maps or the provided coordinates.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Grant Village, Wyoming
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular base and moderate upper-body endurance; beginners can join but should favor tandems
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