Yellowstone Private Upper Loop Tour with Lunch — Mammoth, Canyon & Dunraven Pass
A private full-day circuit of Yellowstone’s Upper Loop that pairs Mammoth Hot Springs, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Dunraven Pass and focused wildlife viewing with a gourmet boxed lunch and high-powered optics.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress in layers
Temperatures change from Gardiner to Dunraven Pass—bring a warm outer layer even on warm mornings.
Carry motion-sickness remedies
The tour covers significant road miles and switchbacks; anti-nausea meds help if you’re prone to car sickness.
Bring a telephoto lens
Wildlife sightings are best captured with a 200–400mm lens or the provided spotting scopes—don’t rely on phone zoom alone.
Respect thermal boardwalks
Stay on marked paths at Mammoth and other thermal areas—the ground is unstable and scalding below the surface.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Terrace overlooks north of Mammoth—less crowded than main terraces at mid-afternoon
- •Pullouts on Dunraven Pass for unobstructed views of the Gardner River canyon
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Grizzly bear (and elk commonly)
Conservation Note
Stay on trails and follow guide instructions—thermal features and fragile alpine plants suffer from off-trail traffic; wildlife-viewing etiquette keeps animals wild and people safe.
The Roosevelt Arch in Gardiner marks one of the park’s earliest symbolic gestures of federal protection, dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903.
Photographer's Notes
- • Artist Point and Lookout Point at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- • Mammoth Hot Springs terraces boardwalks
- • Dunraven Pass overlooks and Tower Falls pullouts
What to Bring
Layered clothingEssential
Quick-change layers handle rapid temperature swings from valley to pass.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Support and traction for short hikes, boardwalks, and uneven viewpoints.
Telephoto lens or binocularsEssential
Bring optics for wildlife; the tour also supplies high-powered binoculars and spotting scopes.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)Essential
High-elevation sun can be intense even on cool days; protect exposed skin and eyes.
Common Questions
Are park entrance fees included?
Yes—NPS entry fees are included in the tour price.
Do you pick up from hotels?
Pickup is available within about 15 miles of Gardiner—confirm your location when booking.
What if the group sees a bear or wolf?
Guides prioritize safety and will stop at a safe distance for observation using spotting scopes; do not approach wildlife.
Is lunch provided for dietary restrictions?
Gourmet box lunches come with choices (Turkey, Roast Beef, Ham, BLA, Veggie)—note restrictions when booking to accommodate allergies.
Is the tour suitable for children and strollers?
Yes—infants and small children can use strollers; the itinerary includes easy, short walks rather than strenuous hikes.
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final; there are no refunds for cancellations, so purchase travel insurance if needed.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7–8 hours
Location
Gardiner, Montana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short, easy walks and standing at overlooks
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