4-Hour Kayak on Yellowstone Lake with Lunch
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A kayak paddle on Yellowstone Lake is a great way to start the day before moving on to afternoon activities.
We begin the tour at 10AM to beat the wind and waves that can form later in the day. Launching in the evening can be quite dangerous. Safety is our priority.
Your kayak instructor will provide a safety briefing and introduce you to the kayaks and paddle strokes. The tours have a ratio of 6-guests-to-1-guide. The minimum age to join is 14.
Once underway, we journey from the Grant Village Marina to the West Thumb Geyser Basin. The sight of the steaming geyser basin forms a lifelong memory. Enjoy the big mountain views of the Absaroka Range across the lake. Getting out on the water is a unique way to experience the Park.
Our tours are fun! But, we also have a passion for the Park and enjoy sharing information about the flora, fauna, and history of the region.
Tours include morning hot drinks and light snacks, as well as lunch on an off the beaten path beach.
Available options
4-Hour Kayak on Yellowstone Lake with Lunch
What's included
Dry Bag for Personal Items
Personal Floatation Device
Bottled water
Light breakfast snack
Paddle Jacket
Single or Tandem Kayak and Paddle
Hot coffee/tea/cocoa
Sandwich (Turkey/Veggie/Vegan/Gluten Free Options), Brown Bag with apple, chips, nuts, snacks. *Please notify YHG with any food allergies or dietary restrictions*
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The paddle takes place in the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake. We kayak near the lake shore and sometimes encounter wildlife like bear or elk as we paddle the six miles toward the West Thumb Geyser Basin. We turn around at Potts Geyser Basin, which cannot be seen from the road. See geysers, hot springs, waterfowl, fish and more on our morning kayak tour.
2
See West Thumb Geyser Basin from the water. Avoiding the crowded boardwalks, we see thermal features bubbling up from the lake bottom and water falling from the Abyss and Black Pools. We often see shorebirds nesting in the unique thermal features and floating around the hot waters.
3
Stop 3
Eat lunch on the shores of Yellowstone Lake on a secluded obsidian beach. A Sandwich and brown bag are provided.
What's not included
Yellowstone Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle, good for one week. Annual America the Beautiful Pass accepted also.
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
58 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.9
102 reviews
5★
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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
Traveler weight limit 275lbs.
Traveler age minimum: 14-years-old
Meeting point
We have our kayaks lined out on the lakefront at the gravel beach near the boat dock at Grant Marina, next to the parking lot at the end of Grant Marina Road.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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