6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch

Yellowstone National Park , United States

6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch

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About this experience

See Old Faithful unlike the average tourist. This tour uses the Daisy Trailhead to start the six-mile loop hike through the Upper Geyser Basin. This is the only hiking tour of its kind offered regularly in Yellowstone. We encounter the very busy Old Faithful area as the mid-point of our hike. Sections of this hike are on boardwalk. There are also sections on dirt trail where there are few other hikers.

Hike among half the world's geysers. Also see numerous colorful hot springs and vibrant pools. We encounter wildlife from time to time including bison and bear. Take a pit stop at the Historic Old Faithful Inn to visit the facilities.

Available options

6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch

What's included

A light breakfast snack

Bear Spray, Binoculars, Trekking Pole, Backpack (if necessary)

Hot coffee/tea/cocoa before the trip departs

Sandwich, apple, nuts, snacks (Turkey/Veggie/Vegan/Gluten Free Options) *Please notify YHG with any food allergies or dietary restrictions*

Detailed itinerary

Yellowstone’s famous Old Faithful is a must-see on everyone’s trip to Yellowstone National Park. This is a nice way to tour the Old Faithful area. Don’t get stuck in the busy traffic at Old Faithful! Meet us at the Biscuit Basin Trailhead to see Yellowstone’s most famous geyser, avoiding parking problems. Explore geysers, hot springs, steam vents and mud pots along the Firehole River. The hike is a six hour, six-mile loop. There are some ups and downs along the hike as we follow boardwalks and dirt trails, totaling 500 feet of elevation gain. We learn about the supervolcano we sit in as we enjoy a hearty picnic lunch next to exploding waters. Yellowstone Hiking Guides provides a morning snack, hearty picnic lunch, bear spray, backpacks, optical gear, trekking poles, and a professional guide.

We pass by Grotto Geyser. It is a unique thermal feature with smoke billowing out of its many crevasses.

This is a rugged little trail that we follow up above the boardwalks of the Upper Geyser Basin for great views. There is a great views of Old Faithful and other geysers from up there is you are able to time it right. The vista also offers stunning observations of the Yellowstone Caldera, the super-volcano crater that has been sculpted by various eruptions.

Stop 4

The geyser erupts every 90 minutes. We usually see it from a couple of different locations throughout the Upper Geyser Basin and up close.

We stop by the Old Faithful Inn briefly. A restroom is available here. The Inn is a National Historic Landmark. The architecture of this early 1900s log building is unique. It hosts a massive fireplace and knobby pine accents.

One of Yellowstone's lesser known geysers, this is a gem. Eruptions times can vary on this one.

What's not included

Entrance Fee to Yellowstone National Park: $35 per vehicle, good for one week

Please bring 2 liters of water per person

Rain jacket and fleece layer

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

41 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.9

41 reviews

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Your guide will be waiting for you next to a marked vehicle at the Daisy Geyser Trailhead. NOTE: The trailhead is 1/2 mile away from Biscuit Basin Trailhead.

About Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a vast wilderness area spanning three states, known for its dramatic landscapes, geothermal features, and abundant wildlife. It's home to the world's first national park and offers unparalleled opportunities for outdoor adventure and natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Old Faithful

Old Faithful is the most famous geyser in the world, known for its regular eruptions every 90 minutes. It's a must-see attraction in Yellowstone.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (park entrance fee applies)

Grand Prismatic Spring

The Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the United States and one of the most photographed attractions in Yellowstone. Its vibrant colors are stunning.

Nature 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (park entrance fee applies)

Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America and offers stunning views, fishing, and boating opportunities.

Nature Half day to full day Free (park entrance fee applies); boat rentals and fishing permits cost extra

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a stunning canyon carved by the Yellowstone River, featuring waterfalls, colorful rock formations, and breathtaking views.

Nature Half day to full day Free (park entrance fee applies)

Lamar Valley

Lamar Valley is one of the best places in the park for wildlife viewing, particularly for wolves, bison, and elk.

Nature Half day to full day Free (park entrance fee applies)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison Burger

A delicious and sustainable alternative to beef, made from locally sourced bison. Served with various toppings and sides.

Lunch/Dinner Gluten-free and low-fat options available

Huckleberry Pie

A classic Yellowstone dessert made with locally harvested huckleberries, a sweet and tangy treat.

Dessert Vegetarian and gluten-free options available

Elk Stew

A hearty and flavorful stew made with locally sourced elk, vegetables, and spices. A must-try for meat lovers.

Dinner Gluten-free options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Whitewater rafting Mountain biking Horseback riding Rock climbing Wildlife viewing Scenic drives Picnicking

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the most popular time to visit, with warm weather and full access to all park facilities and attractions. Expect large crowds and book accommodations well in advance.

15-30°C (59-86°F) 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Other European languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but be aware of wildlife and natural hazards

Yellowstone is generally safe, but visitors should be aware of wildlife, geothermal hazards, and changing weather conditions. Always follow park regulations and guidelines for a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Carry bear spray and know how to use it
• Stay on designated paths and roads
• Be aware of wildlife and maintain a safe distance

Getting there

By air

West Yellowstone Airport • 2 miles (3.2 km) from park entrance
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport • 90 miles (145 km) from park entrance

By bus

West Yellowstone, Gardiner, MT, Cody, WY

Getting around

Public transport

Shuttles operate on a limited schedule and cover specific routes within the park. They are a convenient option for those without a car.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Old Faithful Area Canyon Village Lake Village Mammoth Hot Springs

Day trips

Grand Teton National Park

50 miles (80 km) from Yellowstone • Half day to full day

Grand Teton National Park offers stunning mountain landscapes, scenic drives, and excellent hiking opportunities. It's a great complement to a Yellowstone visit.

West Yellowstone, MT

2 miles (3.2 km) from Yellowstone • Half day

West Yellowstone is a charming town with a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. It's a great place to stock up on supplies or enjoy a meal before or after visiting the park.

Gardiner, MT

50 miles (80 km) from Yellowstone • Half day

Gardiner is a historic town at the north entrance of Yellowstone, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities. It's a great place to explore before or after visiting the park.

Festivals

Yellowstone Winter Festival • February Yellowstone Summer Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Carry bear spray and know how to use it, as wildlife encounters are common
Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day and year
Book accommodations and popular activities well in advance, especially during peak season
Follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the park's natural beauty