Yellowstone National Park Lower Loop

Fountain Paint Pot - Shortly after departing Madison Junction, visitors are welcomed by a steaming geothermal area. The first feature encountered is a landscape dominated by mud pots, named for the red, yellow, and brown hues of the mud, resulting from varying oxidation states of iron. A highlight of the mud pots’ geothermal activity is the bubbling, caused by gases emitted by the Yellowstone volcano. These bubbling phenomena vary with the seasons.

Grand Prismatic Spring - Leaving the Fountain Paint Pot area, a brief 10-minute drive leads to the renowned Grand Prismatic Spring, also known as the Grand Rainbow Hot Spring. It is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. Spanning approximately 75 to 91 meters in width and plunging to depths of 49 meters, it releases an impressive 2,000 liters of water per minute, maintaining a temperature of around 71°C. The Grand Prismatic Spring serves as an iconic symbol of Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, boasting a diameter surpassing 100 meters and presenting a stunning array of colors, ranging from vivid blues and greens to striking yellows, oranges, and reds. Undoubtedly, it stands as the park’s largest and most visually captivating thermal feature.

Old Faithful - After a 15-minute drive, visitors arrive at Yellowstone’s largest visitor center and iconic attraction: Old Faithful. It is an intermittent geyser located in Yellowstone National Park, named for its regular eruptions. It was named during the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition in 1870 and was the first named geyser in Yellowstone National Park. Its current eruption interval is around 90 minutes, and each eruption lasts 4-5 minutes, with water columns reaching over 40 meters high, making it a spectacular sight. The geyser and the adjacent Old Faithful Inn are listed as part of the Old Faithful Historic District.

Yellowstone Lake - After a 30-minute drive, a stretch of mirror-smooth lake water comes into view. This is the West Thumb Geyser Basin on the shores of Yellowstone Lake. Formed some 150,000 years ago due to the subsidence of the Earth’s crust, this basin presents a fascinating spectacle where hot springs combine with the lake waters, creating a misty ambiance. Steam rises from the hot springs, mingling with the serene waters of Yellowstone Lake, set against a backdrop of blue skies and white clouds, forming a unique landscape distinct from other thermal areas in Yellowstone. This area serves as a bay of Yellowstone Lake, where numerous geysers congregate, each with its own array of colors at their vents—some transparent green, others dark hues resembling cement. Together, these myriad geysers present a beautiful, fantasy-like scene.

Artist Point - The Yellowstone Grand Canyon, formed over millions of years by the Yellowstone River, spans about 20 miles and plunges 1,000 feet deep. Artist Point, located on the south rim, offers a prime view of Yellowstone Falls and the canyon. The canyon is famous for its depth, the rush of the green river, and its vibrant, multicolored volcanic rocks. These rocks shimmer with hues of white, yellow, green, blue, and vermilion, making the canyon appear as if painted with oil colors. This stunning site, immortalized by painter Thomas Moran in 1872, features brilliantly colored rock walls that remain untouched by erosion.

Grand Tetons National Park & Yellowstone National Park Hiking Trail

Midway Geyser Basin - After about a 40-minute drive into the park, the initial destination is the Grand Prismatic Trail. Spanning approximately 3 kilometers, the trail starts with gently sloping sandy terrain before gradually transitioning to slightly steeper inclines. Accessible to the public only from May to August due to weather conditions, visitors should exercise extra caution for safety if exploring during other months.

Morning Glory Pool - Following lunch, the trail area behind Old Faithful is explored. The Upper Geyser Basin boasts Yellowstone’s highest concentration of geysers, with about 200-250 out of the park’s total 180 geysers nestled in this region. Along the trail, iconic landmarks like Castle Geyser, Grand Geyser, Daisy Geyser, Riverside Geyser, and Morning Glory Pool are encountered. Here, a diverse array of geothermal features, including fumaroles, hot springs, geysers, and mud pots, can be witnessed. After arriving at the Morning Glory Pool, if time and energy permit, the hike can continue along the trail to reach the Sapphire Pool in the Biscuit Basin. These two, the Sapphire Pool and the Morning Glory Pool, stand out as the most distinctive hot springs along this trail.

Jackson Lake - Jackson Lake, a natural lake formed during the Ice Age, lies in Grand Teton National Park, northwest Wyoming. It spans 24 km in length, 11 km in width, and reaches a depth of 134 meters, maintaining an average temperature of 16°C year-round. The Jackson Lake Dam increased its capacity, making it a key water source for Idaho irrigation. Fed by the Snake River from the north, water exits through the dam on the east side.

Known for diverse aquatic life, the lake is home to various trout species, including Snake River cutthroat trout and mountain whitefish. It features over 15 islands, including Elk Island, and scenic spots like Donoho Point. The John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway runs along its eastern shore, connecting Yellowstone to Jackson Lake. The area offers boat tours, lodges, hiking, camping, and serene views, with Jackson Lake Lodge providing accommodations but no boat tours.

Oxbow Bend - The Snake River flows from Jackson Lake Dam and curves gracefully near Highway 89, forming the iconic Oxbow Bend on its way to Moran. A pullout along the highway offers stunning westward views of Mount Moran, its towering granite peak reflected in the river’s calm waters. On clear days, the mirror-like surface captures the perfect blend of sky, mountains, and river, making it a favorite spot for photographers.

Surrounded by tall trees and shimmering currents, the area exudes a serene, picturesque charm. Renowned for wildlife viewing and breathtaking autumn landscapes, Oxbow Bend is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Teton Point Turnout - Not far south from the Snake River Overlook along Highway 191, a sign on the roadside indicates “Teton Point Turnout.” Upon entering, a spacious parking area offers expansive views. From here, the majestic panorama of the Teton Range can be taken in, with its peaks stretching endlessly in a formidable line. Marvel at the enduring glaciers atop the peaks, providing a truly breathtaking spectacle.

Antler Arches of Jackson - From its outward decorations to its interior design, the town embodies the essence of the Wild West cowboy culture. Within the town lies the famous Elk Antler Park, home to America’s largest and most breathtaking elk antler arches. Adorning each corner of the park, these arches, crafted from naturally shed antlers collected after the elk herd winters in the “National Elk Refuge,” are a must-see attraction for every visitor!

West Thumb Geyser Basin - As evening falls, the journey returns to the Yellowstone Lake area. Known as the largest volcanic lake in the United States, Yellowstone Lake offers a captivating blend of geysers and pristine waters, along with unparalleled sunset vistas. Among the array of trails around the lake, the West Thumb Trail stands out for its unique charm. Here, the ethereal steam rising from hot springs, the crystalline depths of Yellowstone Lake, all framed against the backdrop of the azure sky and billowing clouds, can be marveled at.

Yellowstone National Park Upper Loop

West Yellowstone - Horseback Riding / Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (Optional)

In West Yellowstone, a flexible activity period is offered for guests to choose their preferred experience.

The recommended highlight is Yellowstone Creekside Trail Rides, where professional wranglers guide guests through scenic meadows and mountain trails — an authentic and relaxed way to experience the American West.

Guests may also visit the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center for close-range wildlife viewing, or enjoy free time exploring the town of West Yellowstone at their own pace.

Norris Geyser Basin - The Norris Geyser Basin, named after Philetus Norris, the second superintendent of Yellowstone, is the hottest and most unstable geothermal area in the park. It features the world’s largest geyser, Steamboat Geyser, which can erupt up to 380 feet. Notable hot springs in the area include the acidic Sea Urchin Geyser (pH 3) and Pearl Geyser. The basin is highly active, with new geysers emerging regularly, making it one of Yellowstone’s most dynamic geothermal areas.

Lamar Valley - Lamar Valley, located in the northeastern part of Yellowstone, is a lush, wildlife-rich area home to bison, grizzly bears, pronghorn antelope, and elk. Once a farm in the early 20th century, it’s now a prime spot for gray wolf sightings in spring, early summer, and winter mornings. Visitors often describe the view where Roosevelt Tower meets the valley as “alluring upfront, majestic in the background,” offering a unique experience for each observer.

Mammoth Hot Springs - Located in the northwest of Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs is known for its unique limestone terraces, formed as hot springs dissolve calcium carbonate from the rock. The terraces display vibrant colors due to algae and microorganisms, with hues of yellow, white, and brown. As the world’s largest known carbonate deposit hot spring, it originates from the Norris Geyser Basin, with temperatures reaching 77°C. However, a 2002 seismic event halted most spring activity, leading to the loss of vibrant colors and leaving the terraces coated in gray-white powder, a quiet reminder of their former beauty.

Yellowstone Hot Springs - Relax and unwind at Yellowstone Hot Springs, Montana’s newest hot springs, located just eight miles north of Yellowstone’s North Entrance, at the southern end of Paradise Valley. Nestled between two mountain ranges along the Yellowstone River, this serene location offers a unique soaking experience in mineral-rich waters with continuous flow. Let the peaceful surroundings, stunning mountain views, and soaring eagles melt away the stresses of the day. It’s an experience best enjoyed in person at Yellowstone Hot Springs.

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport - The tour concludes with drop-offs at airport hotels. Please book flights after 8:00 PM on day three or the next morning.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in West Yellowstone
• Hotels: 1 complimentary 2-bed room for 2 nights per order. Additional rooms are $250/night—call us.
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Professional audio guide and local driver
• Soak Hot Spring tickets

• Admission fees
• Gratuities
• Yellowstone Creekside Trail Rides: $100
• Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center: $20
• Extra Hotel Rooms：Additional rooms are $250/night—place another order or call us.
• Meals
• Towels/Swimsuits

Travel directly from Bozeman and save almost 10 hours of driving compared to Salt Lake City. Embark on a 3-day journey to explore Yellowstone and Teton National Parks. Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at renowned locations. Discover numerous historical and cultural heritage sites.

Seasonal Notice:
The ideal time to visit Yellowstone is from June to September. In May and after October, certain areas might be inaccessible due to snow, weather conditions, wildlife activity, or park regulations (including but not limited to Yellowstone Lake, Artist Point, Midway Geyser Basin, Lamar Valley, Mammoth Hot Springs, Jackson Lake, and Oxbow Bend).
Unforeseen closures, park capacity limits, or road restrictions may necessitate changes to the itinerary. Alternative stops will be provided when feasible; however, seasonal or regulatory changes do not warrant refunds. Please choose travel dates with care.

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.