Explore the Yellowstone Caldera

Yellowstone National Park, US
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Bottled water
    Bottled water
  • inclusion
    Lunch
    Lunch
  • inclusion
    In-vehicle air conditioning
    Air-conditioned vehicle

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Entrance fees
    Yellowstone entrance fees required. $20 for US residents, $120 for international visitors. You may use an America the Beautiful pass instead of paying this fee.
  • exclusion
    Gratuities
    Gratuities are optional but appreciated

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
1872 Inn
Al's Westward Ho Motel
Alpine Motel
Arrowhead Lodge
Best Western Desert Inn
Best Western Weston Inn
Big Sky Resort Village Center
Big Western Pines Motel
Bluegreen Lake Condominiums at Big Sky
Brandin' Iron Inn
Buck's T-4 Lodge
City Center Motel
ClubHouse Inn West Yellowstone
Corral Motel
Corral Motel
Crosswinds Inn
Days Inn by Wyndham West Yellowstone
Dude/Round Up Motel
Elkhorn Cabins and Inn
Evergreen Motel
Explorer Cabins At Yellowstone
Golden West Motel
Gray Wolf Inn and Suites
Holiday Inn West Yellowstone, An Ihg Hotel
Huntley Lodge
Kelly Inn-west Yellowstone
Lazy Duck Inn
Lone Mountain Ranch
Marina View Condos
Montage Big Sky
Moose Creek Inn
One Horse Motel
Pine Shadows Motel
Pioneer Motel
Pony Express Motel
Residence Inn Big Sky/the Wilson Hotel
Sleepy Hollow Lodge
Stage Coach Inn
The Historic Madison Hotel, Motel and Hostel
The Lodge at Big Sky
The Summit At Big Sky
Three Bear Lodge
Traveler's Lodge
Under Canvas West Yellowstone
Westwood Motel
White Buffalo Hotel
Whitewater Inn Big Sky
Yellowstone Inn
Yellowstone Lodge
Yellowstone Park Hotel
Yellowstone Townhouses
Yellowstone West Gate Hotel
We pick up from the area around Big Sky, or from West Yellowstone, or anywhere in between. We do not pick up from Bozeman, Gardiner, or most places inside the park.

What to expect

1

Fountain Paint Pot

See a sampling of all the thermal features found in Yellowstone, including the best mud pot in the park

Duration 30 minutes
2
Grand Prismatic Spring

See Grand Prismatic one of two ways. Either stroll along the boardwalk, or hike up to the overlook (about 1 mile with a hill to climb at the end), depending on your group's interests and ability.

Duration 30 minutes
3
Old Faithful

We will stop at the Old Faithful geyser basin and see Old Faithful erupt (about every 60-90 minutes). While waiting, or afterwards, we can explore the geyser basin or the visitor center.

Duration 90 minutes
4
Kepler Cascades

Short stop to see Kepler Cascades, a series of waterfalls in a narrow canyon.

Duration 5 minutes
5

West Thumb Geyser Basin

Stroll along the boardwalk at West Thumb for views of beautiful thermal pools and Yellowstone lake.

Duration 30 minutes
6

Fishing Bridge

Cross Fishing Bridge and optionally head out towards the east gate to try to see bears (if time and interest allows).

7

Lake Butte Overlook

Stop at the overlook for a spectacular view of the lake, then turn around and head back to Fishing Bridge, where we will turn north again.

Duration 5 minutes
8
Lehardy's Rapids

Stop to see rapids on the Yellowstone river. Seasonally, we may be able to see Harlequin ducks.

Duration 10 minutes
9
Dragon's Mouth Springs

Stop at Mud Volcano to see - and hear! - Dragon's Mouth, one of the most unique springs in the park.

Duration 10 minutes
10

Hayden Valley

Drive through the Hayden Valley, where we have a chance to see wildlife such as bears or wolves. We will stop anywhere you like to see views or animals.

11
Upper Falls

Stop at the Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River, viewable from an easily accessible overlook.

Duration 10 minutes
12
Lower Yellowstone River Falls

Stop to see the most spectacular waterfall in the park, a short walk from the parking lot, where the yellow stone of the canyon is on display.

Duration 20 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Backroads Bear Adventures

What our experts say

  • icon
    Opt for the overlook hike for views
  • icon
    Bring a camera for stunning photos
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    Pack layers; weather can change quickly
  • icon
    Consider visiting nearby Mammoth Hot Springs
  • icon
    Enjoy lunch at a scenic spot!

More About this Experience

Introduction

Explore the Yellowstone Caldera is not just a tour; it’s a chance to dive deep into one of nature's most mesmerizing masterpieces. Spanning an exhilarating 10 hours, this private adventure is tailored exclusively for your group, ensuring personalized attention and a journey that resonates with your interests. Led by a professional guide who is not only a master photographer but also boasts Wilderness First Aid and Master Naturalist certifications, you’ll have the unique opportunity to capture breathtaking moments while also learning about the rich tapestry of history, geology, and ecology that makes Yellowstone so special. Whether you're an avid photographer or simply a nature lover, this immersive experience is designed to awaken your sense of wonder and adventure. Each aspect, from transportation to meals and even the use of high-quality optical equipment, is thoughtfully included, allowing you to focus entirely on the stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife around you.

What to expect?

Expect a day filled with awe-inspiring sights and rich narratives as you explore the Yellowstone Caldera. Your guide will take you through iconic locations such as the bubbling mud pots of Fountain Paint Pot, the vibrant hues of Grand Prismatic Spring, and the majestic eruptions of Old Faithful. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to customize the experience based on your interests or energy levels, whether that means opting for a leisurely stroll along the boardwalks or a more challenging hike to scenic overlooks. With bottled water and lunch provided, you can recharge and savor the experience without any worries. And for those looking to catch glimpses of wildlife, the Hayden Valley offers potential encounters with bears, wolves, and more, ensuring that every moment is packed with excitement and discovery.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for everyone—families with young children, photography enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and even those simply seeking a unique nature experience. The tour accommodates all fitness levels, making it an inclusive adventure for everyone from seasoned hikers to those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Infants and small children can easily join the journey in a pram or stroller, ensuring that no one misses out on the stunning landscapes and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a larger group, Explore the Yellowstone Caldera offers an enriching experience that caters to diverse interests and abilities. Everyone who has a thirst for adventure and a love for nature will find something magical in this journey through one of America’s most cherished national parks.

Why book this?

Booking the Explore the Yellowstone Caldera tour is your gateway to experiencing one of the most stunning natural wonders on the planet in a way that is both personal and unforgettable. The unique blend of expert guidance, photographic opportunities, and customizable itineraries sets this tour apart from typical sightseeing trips. With a focus on your interests and a commitment to quality, this adventure ensures that every moment is tailored to create lasting memories. You’ll not only see the beauty of Yellowstone but also gain insights and knowledge that deepen your appreciation for this incredible ecosystem. The chance to learn from a qualified professional while surrounded by breathtaking scenery is an experience you won’t want to miss. This is more than a tour; it’s a celebration of nature, making it an investment in cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Good to know

Before embarking on your Yellowstone adventure, it's important to note that tours operate seasonally, from April 17 through October 31, ensuring you experience the park during its most vibrant months. All necessary inclusions such as transportation, lunch, and even refreshing bottled water are thoughtfully provided, allowing you to focus on enjoying the breathtaking sights. While gratuities and entrance fees are not included, the value of the experience far outweighs these considerations. Each tour is designed to be as flexible as possible, accommodating your desires for hiking and exploration, making it easy for everyone to enjoy at their own pace. So whether you are stopping for a quick photo op or taking a leisurely stroll, the Explore the Yellowstone Caldera tour promises a day filled with discovery and delight.

Reviews

Reviews from past adventurers reveal an overwhelming sense of satisfaction and joy. Many have praised the knowledgeable guides, noting how their passion for the park and its ecology transforms a simple tour into an enlightening experience. Travelers have loved the flexibility of customizing their itinerary, allowing everyone in the group to engage with the park in a way that suits them. The breathtaking photography opportunities have also been highlighted as a top feature, with guests leaving with stunning images that capture the park's beauty. Overall, travelers have expressed that this adventure not only met but exceeded their expectations, leaving them with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for Yellowstone's wonders.

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