Yellowstone Lower (Southern) Loop Tour
Active
8h - 9h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Yellowstone's lower (or southern) loop is one of the most amazing places on earth, with more geysers, hot springs and other thermal features than literally anywhere else on earth! Old Faithful, the world's most famous geyser, is there, as is another iconic sight, Grand Prismatic Spring! Talking of iconic, Yellowstone is known for its bison, and we'll do our best to get you stuck in one of our unforgettable bison jams!
Available options
Yellowstone Lower (Southern) Loop Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Services of a skilled guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The world's most famous geyser! Old Faithful can be found at the Upper Geyser Basin, and we'll look at other thermal features, as well as Old Faithful Inn, while we're here.
2
Stop 2
A magnificent canyon carved by the Yellowstone River, as it flows through the canyon walls. We'll visit Artist Point, Inspiration Point and Grandview Point, amongst others.
3
Stop 3
Weather permitting, we'll take a stroll to the brink of the Yellowstone River Upper Falls, to watch the water plummeting down to the canyon below.
4
Stop 4
One of the two main areas in Yellowstone National Park, where a lot of wildlife can generally be found.
5
Home to Fountain Paint Pot, and a trail which meanders through many hot springs, geysers, mud pots and steam vents.
6
Stop 6
Grand Prismatic Spring is located in the Midway Geyser Basin, as is Excelsior Geyser Crater, and we'll walk the boardwalk system there.
7
This beautiful geyser basin is located right on the shores of Yellowstone Lake, and we'll stroll the boardwalks here as well.
8
Stop 8
Time permitting we'll try and pop in here to check out the thermal features.
9
Not as well known as the three main geyser basins in this part of the park, Biscuit Basin is a smaller geyser basin which we may visit, time permitting.
10
Stop 10
Mud Volcano is a smaller thermal area on the east side of Yellowstone.
11
Gibbon Falls is right next to the Grand Loop Road, and we'll stop to take a look.
12
Stop 12
The rest of our time is spent driving around the Grand Loop Road, which follows Yellowstone's lower loop. We'll stop anytime something interesting crops up, and we may be forced to stop if we're lucky enough to come across one of Yellowstone's famous buffalo jams! Other sights we may pause at or view include:
Firehole Canyon Drive
Firehole Lake Drive, and Great Fountain and White Dome geysers
Firehole River
Gibbon River
Madison Valley
Madison River
What's not included
Gratuities
Park Entry - $20 (exempt if you have NPS/Senior/Military/Veteran/Yellowstone Car Pass)
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Pets are not permitted in most of Yellowstone.
Yellowstone is located at altitude. Check with your medical professional that you'll be OK.
Meeting point
In front of Yellowstone Motel, which is on the southeast corner and US Highway 20 and Hayden Street. The office is in a two floor brown log cabin, facing north.
Important notes
Please ensure you have with you a government issued photo ID.
About West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone, Montana, is a charming town that serves as the western gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Known for its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities, it's a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The town offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring one of America's most famous national parks.
Top Attractions
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park is the world's first national park, renowned for its geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, and mud pots. The park is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including bison, elk, bears, and wolves.
Nature
Multiple days recommended
Entry fee required (valid for 7 days): $35 per private vehicle, $30 per motorcycle, $20 per person on foot or bicycle
Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center
This educational facility provides a unique opportunity to observe and learn about grizzly bears and gray wolves in a naturalistic setting. The center focuses on conservation and research.
Nature
1-2 hours
Adults: $18, Seniors (65+): $16, Children (5-12): $10, Children under 5: Free
Yellowstone Giant Screen Theater
This theater offers immersive giant screen films about Yellowstone National Park and other nature-related topics. It's a great way to learn about the park's history and wildlife.
Entertainment
1-1.5 hours
Adults: $12, Seniors (65+): $10, Children (6-12): $8, Children under 6: Free
Ranger Station Museum
This museum showcases the history of Yellowstone National Park and the surrounding area. Exhibits include artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays.
Historical
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bison Burger
A burger made from lean, flavorful bison meat, often served with local toppings and sides
Main Course
Gluten-free options available
Huckleberry Pie
A sweet pie made with wild huckleberries, a local favorite
Dessert
Vegetarian
Trout Almondine
Fresh trout cooked with butter, lemon, and almonds, a classic dish in the region
Main Course
Gluten-free options available
Popular Activities
Hiking
Wildlife viewing
Camping
Whitewater rafting
Mountain biking
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Photography
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The summer months offer the best weather for exploring Yellowstone National Park, with warm days and cool nights. This is the peak tourist season, with all park facilities and attractions fully operational.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (GMT-7)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
West Yellowstone is a generally safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should be aware of wildlife, including bears, bison, and elk, and take precautions to avoid encounters. The town is small and walkable, but petty crime can occur, so always be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- • Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife
- • Be cautious when driving; watch for wildlife on the roads
Getting there
By air
- Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport • 90 miles (145 km)
- Idaho Falls Regional Airport • 160 miles (257 km)
By bus
Bozeman, MT, Idaho Falls, ID
Getting around
Taxis
Available • Apps: Local taxi companies do not typically use apps; bookings are usually made by phone.
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Downtown West Yellowstone
Madison Junction Area
Day trips
Big Sky, Montana
50 miles (80 km) • Full day recommended
Big Sky is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The area is known for its stunning mountain scenery and luxury resorts.
Ennis, Montana
70 miles (113 km) • Full day recommended
Ennis is a charming town known for its fly fishing, historic buildings, and scenic beauty. The town is located near the Madison River, a popular fly fishing destination.
Grand Teton National Park
90 miles (145 km) • Full day or overnight recommended
Grand Teton National Park is known for its stunning mountain scenery, including the iconic Grand Teton peaks. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Festivals
Yellowstone Winter Festival • February
Yellowstone Summer Festival • July
Pro tips
- Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds at popular attractions
- Dress in layers, as weather can change rapidly and temperatures can vary significantly
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it when exploring the park
- Download offline maps and use a reliable GPS or navigation app, as cell service can be spotty in the park
- Book accommodations, guided tours, and popular restaurants well in advance, especially during peak season
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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