Yellowstone Lower Loop Wildlife Watching and Scenic Tours

Yellowstone National Park - Tour Highlights

• Old Faithful
• Hayden Valley
• Mud Volcano
• Yellowstone Lake
• Grand Prismatic Spring
• Grand Canyon of Yellowstone & Waterfalls

Tour Experience

The adventure kicks off in Jackson or Teton Village, offering early chances to observe wildlife and gain geological insights into the Tetons and Blacktail Butte. Restroom breaks and numerous photo opportunities are provided throughout the day.

The first stop in Yellowstone is at Yellowstone Lake, where visitors will discover its connection to the vast magma system beneath the park. Traveling along the Lower Loop, participants will explore the park’s renowned hydrothermal and geothermal features, including the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring and the world-famous Old Faithful geyser.

The journey continues with a stunning visit to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone at Artist Point, followed by a scenic drive through Hayden Valley, home to bison, elk, and possibly bears. The tour wraps up with an intriguing stop at the bubbling Mud Volcano area.

Upper Loop of Yellowstone Tours including Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley

Yellowstone National Park - Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs is created from calcium carbonate, which alters and reshapes the landscape approximately every hundred years. These changes form striking travertine terraces, best viewed from boardwalks. Elk often roam near the historic buildings, but visitors should always maintain a safe distance.

Lamar Valley

In the Upper Loop, Lamar Valley is a vast, picturesque expanse sculpted by glaciers that left behind massive boulders. Today, it’s renowned for lush meadows and abundant wildlife. Herds of bison, elk, and pronghorn graze across the open landscape, attracting predators like grizzly bears and wolves, which are occasionally spotted by visitors.

Other Upper Loop Highlights

This loop also features Tower Fall, plunging 132 feet into a rocky canyon, and the Calcite Springs Overlook, where geothermal vents release sulfur-rich waters into the Yellowstone River. The Petrified Tree offers a rare glimpse into Yellowstone’s volcanic past.

Scenic and Wildlife Guided Tours of Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park - Tour Highlights

Wildlife Viewing

Just minutes after departing from your hotel in Teton Village or Jackson, WY, the adventure begins. Look out for moose, elk, foxes, coyotes, pronghorn, and bison. With some luck, grizzly or black bears may also be seen.

Scenic Stop – Jackson Hole Airport to Moose Junction

Along this route, the guide shares the story of the Tetons’ tectonic activity and glacial history, providing insight into how this dramatic landscape was formed.

Mormon Row

Visit the historic Mormon Row settlement, one of the most photographed locations in the Tetons. Its iconic barns against the mountains make it a perfect stop for pictures.

Oxbow Bend Turnout

Capture phenomenal views of the Snake River and Teton Range. This spot is a photographer’s dream, with reflections of the peaks often mirrored in the calm water.

Signal Mountain

Drive to nearly 8,000 feet above sea level for panoramic views of the Jackson Hole Valley and surrounding mountains—a breathtaking highlight of the tour.

• Lunch included

• Gratuities are appreciated.

Mammoth Hot Springs and Lamar Valley stand out as two of the Upper Loop’s most memorable attractions. At Mammoth, the travertine terraces sparkle like frozen cascades, formed over thousands of years by the ever-changing hot springs—a living symbol of Yellowstone’s volcanic core. Elk frequently roam near the village, illustrating the harmony between wild and human environments.

Lamar Valley, sculpted by ancient glaciers, is a sanctuary for wildlife. Bison and pronghorn herds graze the fields, while wolves and bears wander, creating a truly wild landscape.

The Upper Loop also includes Tower Fall, the steaming Calcite Springs, and the ancient Petrified Tree, each showcasing Yellowstone’s dramatic history. Combine this with the Lower Loop’s geothermal marvels, such as Old Faithful and Yellowstone Lake, or the alpine splendor of Grand Teton National Park, with its rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and rich wildlife, for an unforgettable Rocky Mountain adventure.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.