Yellowstone Private Tour: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic & Grand Canyon in a Day
Move through Yellowstone on your schedule: this private tour stitches Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Yellowstone Lake and the park’s dramatic canyon into one tailored day. With a knowledgeable guide, expect flexible stops, wildlife windows and geology explained in plain terms.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate and acclimate
Drink water before the tour and sip throughout—Yellowstone’s elevations (around 7,000–8,000 ft) make dehydration and lightheadedness common.
Layer for rapid change
Morning can be near-freezing and afternoons warm; pack a lightweight insulating layer and a windproof shell.
Respect wildlife distances
Do not approach or feed animals; stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from bison and elk.
Bring small bills and ID
Entrance fees may be covered by the tour but carry ID and small bills for incidental purchases at lodges.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •West Thumb boardwalk pools—closer, quieter views of hydrothermal pools on Yellowstone Lake’s edge
- •Gibbon River pullouts—less crowded views of cascading water and short interpretive stops
Wildlife
- •American bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
Park staff manage geothermal and wildlife zones to minimize human impact—stick to boardwalks and report unusual thermal activity to protect fragile microbial mats.
Yellowstone became the world’s first national park in 1872; Indigenous peoples, including the Shoshone, used and traveled through the region long before federal protection.
Photographer's Notes
- • Old Faithful viewing platform
- • Artist Point overlooking the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- • West Thumb Geyser Basin boardwalk
What to Bring
Layered clothing (base, mid, shell)Essential
Rapidly changing temperatures and wind demand versatile clothing.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Boardwalks, short trails and uneven roadside terrain make supportive shoes necessary.
Binoculars
Increases your chances of spotting distant wildlife like elk, bison, and eagles.
Camera with extra battery
Geysers and canyon viewpoints are prime photo opportunities—batteries drain faster in cold.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The standard private tour runs about 10 hours (600 minutes) and covers multiple sights; exact timing can be adjusted with your guide.
Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, entrance fees are listed among inclusions; confirm during booking if you need a park annual pass instead.
Will we see wildlife?
Guides target high-probability areas and times, but wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed—bison and elk are common; bears and wolves are possible but less likely.
Is lunch provided?
Yes—lunch (sandwiches) plus breakfast items, snacks, bottled water and some beverages are included.
Can the tour pick us up from nearby towns?
Pickup from hotels and Jackson-area locations is available and customizable; specify your pickup point when booking.
Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant travelers?
The tour is family-friendly, but it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious spinal or cardiovascular conditions—check booking restrictions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10 hours
Location
West Yellowstone, Montana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers who can tolerate several short walks and a full day in a vehicle; minimal hiking required.
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