Yellowstone Upper Loop Wildlife Safari: Full-Day Guided Tour with Lunch
Scan Lamar Valley at dawn, watch bison and wolves cross vast meadows, and learn Yellowstone’s geology and ecology on a private full-day Upper Loop wildlife tour with lunch and professional guides.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring layers for rapid weather shifts
Mornings in Yellowstone can be below freezing while afternoons warm quickly—dress in base layers and a windproof outer shell.
Use optics, not distance-lessons
Guides supply spotting scopes and binoculars—observe at range to protect animals and comply with park rules.
Keep quiet and patient
Wildlife viewing rewards silence; leave the engine idling only when necessary and avoid loud conversations at pullouts.
Carry water and snacks
Even with lunch provided, bring a refillable water bottle and small snacks to stay energized during long observation periods.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Mammoth Hot Springs terraces early morning when steam softens the colors
- •Small turnouts along the Lamar Valley for uninterrupted scopes and fewer crowds
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Gray wolf (and sometimes packs)
Conservation Note
Wildlife viewing is managed with distance rules and seasonal closures; sticking to vehicle viewing and marked trails reduces human impact on sensitive habitats.
Yellowstone was designated the world’s first national park in 1872; the Upper Loop passes areas long used and traveled by Indigenous peoples such as the Crow and Shoshone.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lamar Valley pullouts for wide wildlife scenes
- • Mammoth Hot Springs boardwalks for thermal features
- • River bend turnouts for reflections and moose
What to Bring
BinocularsEssential
Useful for close-up wildlife viewing even though guides provide optics.
Windproof jacketEssential
Blocks cold morning winds common on the Upper Loop in spring.
Telephoto lens or long zoom camera
Helps capture distant wildlife without disturbing animals.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Required for short walks on uneven pullouts and riverbanks.
Common Questions
What time does the tour start?
Start time varies seasonally but tours generally depart at or shortly before dawn to maximize wildlife viewing; confirm pickup time when you book.
Are park entry fees included?
Park entrance fees are not always included—confirm with the operator, though some private tours absorb the fee; be prepared to show proof of payment if required.
Can single travelers join a group?
Yes—single travelers may join groups as noted; the tour is private but operators often accommodate solo bookings into shared departures.
Is the tour suitable for kids or infants?
Yes—infants and small children can ride in strollers or car seats, but check with the operator about car seat availability and any age-specific policies.
What wildlife am I likely to see?
Expect bison, elk, and a wide variety of birds; guides target areas for grizzly and black bears, wolves, coyotes, and moose, though sightings cannot be guaranteed.
What’s the cancellation policy?
For a full refund cancel at least 24 hours before departure; tours may cancel for bad weather or low participation with applicable refunds.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Gardiner, Montana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels since most time is spent in a vehicle; comfortable mobility for short walks helps.
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