Yellowstone Upper Loop Wildlife Safari | Lamar Valley | PRIVATE
Active
8h
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
Join Sky’s the Limit Tours for an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes and wildlife-rich terrain of Yellowstone’s Upper Loop. This fully private, customizable safari is ideal for nature enthusiasts & photographers, guided by expert storytellers who bring the park’s wonders to life.
From your hotel pickup in West Yellowstone, our passionate guides lead you through Yellowstone’s most iconic areas—including the renowned Lamar Valley, a hotspot for wolves, bears, bison, and more. With high-end Vortex optics, you’ll enjoy close-up views of wildlife, and may even cross paths with renowned researchers like Rick McIntyre for unique, real-time insights.
Throughout the day, we provide catered lunches with options for every diet, plus healthy snacks and bottled water to keep you energized.
Experience Yellowstone’s remarkable ecosystems while learning about our commitment to conservation, ecology, and responsible ecotourism in a comfortable tour vehicle, Toyota Sienna mini-van.
Available options
Yellowstone Upper Loop Wildlife Safari | Lamar Valley | PRIVATE
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Lunch
Snacks
Air-conditioned vehicle
Spotting Scope & Binoculars
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Lamar Valley "the Serengeti of North America" is located in the northeastern region of Yellowstone National Park and is well known for its incredible landscape, flora, fauna, and abundance of wildlife. Our safari makes several stops here in search of wildlife. Your guide will educate you on its historical or geological significance.
2
Stop 2
The canyon is 800 to 1,200 feet deep and 1,500 to 4,000 feet wide. Enjoy the awe-inspiring view of Yellowstone River raging through the canyon and dropping as a 308-foot waterfall.
3
Slough Creek is a tributary of the Lamar River and originates in the Absaroka Range. The watershed supports a variety of flora and fauna. Our wildlife safari makes multiple stops in the Slough Creek area to track and spot wildlife. Your guide will educate you on its historical or geological significance.
4
Located in the northeastern part of the Upper Loop near Tower Junction, this fall features a 132 foot drop. The unusual rock columns north of the fall (columnar basalt) were created by lava cracking as it cooled.
5
Stop 5
Mammoth Hot Springs is a collection of thermal features at the north entrance of Yellowstone National Park near Gardiner, MT. It is known for the travertine terraces that form from mineral deposits. The algae living in the pools creates the distinct brownish and reddish colors.
6
Gibbon Falls is a 84 foot high drop of the Gibbon River along the rim of the Yellowstone caldera.
7
Stop 7
Here, you can take an amazing walk through the most geothermically active area in Yellowstone. You will have the opportunity to see the famous Steamboat Geyser and the Porcelain Basin Hot Springs. There are a variety of trails here ranging from 0.2 miles to 3 miles.
8
We have several favorite pull offs around Mount Washburn that are wildlife viewing hotspots! Enjoy having your professional guide help you spot animals with binoculars and spotting scopes.
9
This easy to view waterfall is a must see three step fall! Once called the "Cascade Falls of the East Gardiner," it was renamed to Undine by geologist Arnold Hague. He named it Undine after the wise, female water goddess from German mythology who was said to live around waterfalls and who could gain souls by marrying mortal men. Sound familiar? Think Little Mermaid.
What's not included
Gratuities
Park Entrance Fees
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
25 reviews
5★
23
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
53 reviews
5★
51
4★
1
3★
0
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Total duration of the tour includes the travel time
Please call with any clarifying questions if you are staying outside of our pickup zone
Meeting point
The West Yellowstone Visitor Information Center is next to the IMAX theatre. Your guide will be in touch with you a couple of days before the tour to make a clear plan. If you haven't heard from your guide the night before your tour, please give us a call at +1(406)640-3039.
Important notes
Park entry is not included in the price of the ticket.
Standard Entrance Pass: $20 per person
Annual National Parks Pass: $70
Lifetime pass ages 62-64: $80
Free lifetime pass for Veterans and people over 65
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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