Yellowstone Old Faithful & Wildlife Day Tour from Jackson Hole — Geysers, Falls & Bison
A full-day small-group journey from Jackson Hole that packs Old Faithful, the Lower Falls, geothermal basins and prime wildlife viewing into a single, interpretive loop through Yellowstone. Expect long drives, short walks, expert narration and close-up encounters with bison and geysers.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Mornings at elevation can be chilly and afternoons warm—bring a windproof shell and insulating mid-layer.
Bring your camera and a telephoto
Scenic overlooks and wildlife are best captured with a 200mm+ lens or a quality zoom; guides provide scopes but personal optics help.
Respect wildlife distance
Bison and bears are unpredictable—stay on the vehicle or boardwalk and follow guide instructions to avoid dangerous encounters.
Pack snacks and water
A picnic lunch is provided but extra water and high-energy snacks are useful during long drives between stops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Oxbow Bend at first light for mirror reflections of Mount Moran
- •West Thumb Geyser Basin’s shoreline pools where steam meets Yellowstone Lake
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Grizzly bear
Conservation Note
Stay on boardwalks and marked trails to protect fragile thermal features; avoid any interaction with wildlife—helping preserve natural behavior and safety.
Yellowstone was designated the world’s first national park in 1872; the Old Faithful Inn (1903–04) is a historic example of early park architecture using local timber and stone.
Photographer's Notes
- • Oxbow Bend (mirror shots of Mount Moran)
- • Old Faithful boardwalk (for eruption sequences)
- • Artist Point/Lookout over Lower Falls
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Keeps you warm during cold mornings at high elevation.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Closed-toe shoes with grip are necessary for boardwalks and short hikes.
Binoculars or telephoto lensEssential
Helps spot and photograph distant wildlife in valleys like Hayden.
Daypack with waterEssential
Carries layers, water, sunscreen and snacks for a long day on the road.
Common Questions
Is park admission included?
Park entrance fees are not included; you’ll need valid park entry, though some tours may advise on purchasing passes in advance.
Where does pickup occur?
Pickup is offered at most Jackson Hole hotels—confirm your exact pickup point with the operator when you call to finalize your booking.
Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No—guides maximize sighting opportunities using experience and scope, but wildlife is wild and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Can children join this tour?
Children under 6 are not allowed on this tour; older children are welcome but must be supervised at boardwalks and viewpoints.
Are bathrooms available on the tour?
Restrooms are available at major stops like Old Faithful and visitor centers but not between all pullouts; plan accordingly.
What should I wear for geothermal areas?
Close-toed shoes, layers and a light rain or wind layer—boardwalks can be wet and steam can make temperatures fluctuate quickly.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
13 hours
Location
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short walks on uneven boardwalks and occasional stairs at viewpoints
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