Yellowstone Private Full-Day Guided Hike — Grand Prismatic, Fairy Falls & Old Faithful
Spend a private full day hiking from the Tetons into Yellowstone to see Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic overlook, Fairy Falls and Hayden Valley wildlife with expert naturalist guides. This eight-hour route blends geothermal spectacle with up-close wildlife viewing and guided safety.
The Experience
Before You Go
Prepare for altitude shifts
Jackson sits at ~6,200 ft and some trailheads are higher — drink water before and during the hike and move at a steady pace to avoid fatigue.
Bear safety first
Guides carry bear spray and will brief you — keep noise minimal, stay close to the group, and never approach wildlife; follow the guide’s spacing rules.
Wear sturdy footwear
Expect uneven boardwalks, muddy sections, and short scrubby climbs — ankle-supportive hiking shoes or light boots are best.
Start early to beat crowds
Aim for the earliest pickup available to catch wildlife in Hayden Valley and enjoy the Grand Prismatic overlook before mid-day tour buses arrive.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Imperial Geyser backcountry spot beyond the main boardwalks
- •Hayden Valley pullouts for early-morning bison and raptor watching
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
Stay on boardwalks and maintain distance from wildlife to protect fragile thermal ground and reduce human-wildlife conflicts; bring refillable bottles to reduce waste.
Yellowstone was designated the world’s first national park in 1872; its volcanic caldera underpins the park’s geothermal features.
Photographer's Notes
- • Grand Prismatic Spring overlook
- • Fairy Falls trail near the 200-ft drop
- • Hayden Valley roadside pullouts
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Support and traction for boardwalks, muddy trail sections, and short climbs.
Insulated water bottle (1.5–2 L)Essential
Hydration is critical at altitude; refillable bottles reduce waste and the operator provides aluminum bottles.
Layered clothing (base, insulating, wind/rain shell)Essential
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Handheld optics improve distant wildlife viewing and keep animals undisturbed.
Common Questions
Is park entry included in the tour price?
No — park entry is not included; most visitors buy the America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) for access to Grand Teton and Yellowstone.
Where does the tour start and end?
Meet at the Home Ranch Parking Lot near Jackson Town Square; private pickup can be arranged with 72 hours notice.
Can children join this hike?
Children must be at least 8 years old and able to handle moderate walking; discuss ages with the operator when booking.
Are bears a real risk on the trail?
Yes — both black and grizzly bears live in the park; guides carry bear spray, are trained in wildlife protocol, and will brief guests on precautions.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The operator may cancel in severe weather; for a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before departure per the standard cancellation policy.
Is this hike private and customizable?
Yes — it’s a private tour and the guide will tailor the route and pace to your group’s abilities and interests, choosing options like Grand Prismatic/Imperial or waterfall-focused routes.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Jackson, Wyoming
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Comfortable with 6–7 miles of hiking on mostly flat but uneven terrain; moderate cardiovascular fitness recommended
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