Yellowstone National Park Tour Packages

Yellowstone National Park is a natural wonderland that is home to the world's largest concentration of geysers, including the iconic Old Faithful. Spanning over 3,472 square miles, it's a haven for diverse wildlife and stunning geothermal features. If you are mulling over getting a Yellowstone National Park tour package, you’re on the right page. 

Yellowstone National Park Overview

Yellowstone National Park is located primarily in Wyoming, while some of its parts also lie in Idaho and Montana. This breathtaking destination is known for its extraordinary geographical diversity that includes vibrant geysers, hot springs, vast forests, and serene lakes. 

Established in 1872 as the world’s first national park, it holds immense historical significance and is a living museum of natural wonders. Yellowstone is also rich in cultural heritage, offering a deep connection to the Native American tribes who have called this land home for several millennia.

Yellowstone National Park Visitor Insights

Country: United States of America

Location: Majorly located in Wyoming (96%); parts also extend to Idaho (1%) and Montana (3%)

Size: 3,472 square miles

Yellowstone National Park Major Attractions

Grand Prismatic Spring

Measuring 370 feet (113 mt) in diameter and over 121 feet (40 mt) in depth, this spring is America’s largest. It gets its name from its vibrant colors caused by the several species of heat-loving bacteria that thrive in water around the spring. Vibrant hues of red, orange, yellow, green, and blue make it one of most loved attractions in Yellowstone National Park. 

Mammoth Hot Springs

Famous for its intricate terraces formed by the slow deposition of calcium carbonate, these constantly changing, steplike formations create an otherworldly landscape, with colors ranging from stark white to rusty orange. 

As one of Yellowstone’s most accessible geothermal features, Mammoth Hot Springs offers visitors a stunning display of nature’s artistry.

Old Faithful Geyser

An iconic active geyser and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the park, the Old Faithful Geyser is known for its predictable eruptions. It erupts about 175 times a year, shooting steam and water up to 183 feet (56 m) in the air. 

Hayden Valley

A premier wildlife viewing destination within the park, Hayden Valley  lies between Yellowstone Falls and Yellowstone Lake. It offers vast, open landscapes, home to herds of bison and elk along with grizzly bears and wolves. 

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

A 20-mile (32 km) long canyon within the park, Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is known for its vibrant hues, lofty cliffs, gushing waterfalls, and thrilling hiking trails. Its highlights include the majestic Lower and Upper Falls, which cascade into the canyon. 

Yellowstone Lake

The largest high-altitude lake in North America at 7,000 feet (2,134 mt), Yellowstone Lake is surrounded by high mountains and lush forests. It’s a prime spot for fishing, kayaking, boating, canoeing, and wildlife watching.

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park

The park is open for visitors all year and with a guided tour to Yellowstone National Park, you can choose the  season according to your interests.  

• Spring (March/April to May): Cold, snowy, and muddy but great for seeing baby animals and blooming wildflowers. Some roads and facilities are closed due to snow. Not a tourist-heavy season. 

• Summer (June to September): Warm weather, fully accessible roads, and a full range of activities but it’s the busiest time. If you plan for early June or early September, you may be able to beat large crowds. 

• Fall (September to October): Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, vibrant fall colors, and active wildlife sightings. 

• Winter (December to March): Thick snow during this season offers ample opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and guided snowmobile tours. Most areas are only accessible by snow vehicles.

Adventure Activities to do in Yellowstone National Park

Hiking

The park’s diverse landscapes are ideal for hiking. Popular regions for hiking in Yellowstone National Park include Lamar Valley, known for its wildlife-rich trails and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, which offers stunning views of the canyon and its waterfalls. 

Mount Washburn provides panoramic summit views and wildflower-filled meadows while Mammoth Hot Springs features trails through unique geothermal features and varied terrain. 

Boating

Yellowstone Lake is the most popular spot for motorized boats, kayaks, and canoes. The Lewis Lake area also offers boating opportunities, providing access to the scenic Lewis River Channel. 

Shoshone Lake is another popular destination for boating. Accessible only by non-motorized boats, it offers a more secluded experience.

Camping

The park has 12 campgrounds and over 2,000 camping sites. There are several options ranging from developed campgrounds with amenities to backcountry sites for a more rugged adventure. Popular regions for camping include Madison Campground, Canyon Campground, and Slough Creek Campground in Lamar Valley. 

Climbing

The park's diverse terrain makes it a perfect destination for climbers. Climbing activities here can range from challenging mountain climbs to technical rock faces. 

Some of the best climbs can be done in the Gallatin Mountain Range and the Absaroka Range. Mount Washburn is also a popular climb with panoramic views. The Sheepeater Cliffs offer basalt columns ideal for bouldering. 

Wildlife Viewing

At Yellowstone National Park, you can see North America's most iconic animals in their natural habitats including bison, elk, bears, wolves, and more.  

Prime viewing areas include Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley where large herds of bison and elk are commonly seen. Mammoth Hot Springs and Tower-Roosevelt are also excellent regions for encountering diverse wildlife. 

Essential Tips to Know Before Going on an Yellowstone National Park Tour

1. Plan Ahead: Yellowstone is a vast park so plan your itinerary in advance. Decide which regions and attractions you want to visit to make the most of your time. 

2. Book Early: Book your accommodations as early as possible because lodging and campgrounds within the park fill up quickly, especially during the summer.

3. Shoulder Seasons: Consider visiting in early fall (September) to avoid peak summer crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather and accessible roads.

4. Road Conditions: Yellowstone’s roads are sometimes closed due to weather or maintenance. Check the park’s website or app for current road conditions and closures before setting out each day.

5. Start Early: Beat the crowds by starting your day early. Popular attractions like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring are less crowded in the morning.

6. Designated Trails: Sticking to designated trails and boardwalks is important for protecting the park's fragile ecosystem. Also, the ground can be unstable and dangerous in geothermal areas, so keep guard. 

7. Phone Service: Cellular service is limited in Yellowstone so download maps, apps, and any other necessary information before you arrive. The park's official app is a great resource for navigating and finding real-time updates.

8. Respect Wildlife: Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife—at least 100 yards 992 m) from bears and wolves and 25 yards (23 m) from all other animals. Use zoom lenses or binoculars for closer views rather than approaching animals. At no time should you attempt to touch or feed the animals at Yellowstone National Park.

How much does it cost for a Yellowstone National Park Tour?

The cost of a Yellowstone National Park tour package depends on the duration, accommodation, and other services that you choose. On an average a 3-5 day trip can cost between $200 and $500. 

At AdventureTripr, we offer affordable Yellowstone National Park tours to fit your preferences and budget.

Yellowstone National Park Accommodation

• Developed Campgrounds: Equipped with amenities like restrooms, picnic tables, and fire rings, the more popular campgrounds include Madison, Canyon, and Mammoth. Reservations are recommended.

• Backcountry Campsites: Ideal for a more rugged and primitive experience, you’ll require a permit for these campsites that are accessible only by hiking or boating.

• Historic Lodges: Yellowstone has several historic lodges with varying levels of comfort and pricing. Notable ones include Old Faithful Inn and Lake Hotel known for their charm and elegance.

• Cabins: Ranging from basic to more modern, cabins are available at locations like Roosevelt Lodge and the Mammoth Hot Springs area. They offer a mix of amenities, including kitchens and private bathrooms.

• In-Park Hotels: Modern hotel-style accommodations within the park include Canyon Lodge and the Lake Lodge Cabins that are rather popular. 

• Nearby Towns: If in-park accommodations are full or you prefer more amenities, nearby towns like West Yellowstone, Gardiner, and Cody have various hotel and motel options.

• Remote Lodges: There are a few backcountry lodges accessible by hiking or horseback riding such as the Yellowstone Club. These provide a unique, isolated experience with basic facilities.

• Vacation Rentals: Outside the park, you can find vacation rentals such as cabins and vacation homes in nearby communities, offering additional flexibility and space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: How do I obtain a backcountry permit?

Answer: Backcountry permits required for camping in the park’s remote areas can be obtained at park ranger stations or through the park’s website. It’s best to apply well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Question: How much does it cost to enter Yellowstone National Park?

Answer: The entrance fee for Yellowstone National Park is $20 to $35 per vehicle, which is valid for 7 days. The America The Beautiful - The National Parks and Federal Lands Pass  is available for $80, covering all national parks for a year. 

Question: What are the park’s rules for pet owners?

Answer: Pets are allowed in Yellowstone but must be leashed at all times and kept on established roads and developed areas only. Pets are not permitted on trails, in backcountry areas, or in most park buildings.