Journeys: Iconic Wildlife of Yellowstone and Grand Teton
Journeys: Iconic Wildlife of Yellowstone and Grand Teton
7 Days Starting and ending in Jackson, USA
Visiting: Jackson, Yellowstone National Park
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25933
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 13
Age range:
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with "Journeys: Iconic Wildlife of Yellowstone and Grand Teton." This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of two of America's most iconic national parks. Float along the Snake River, keeping an eye out for mule deer, pronghorns, elk, and moose. Venture into the Lamar Valley for a private naturalist-led tour, and hike through the majestic Tetons, taking in breathtaking views of jagged mountains and glistening lakes. Discover the region's raptors at the Teton Raptor Center and witness the awe-inspiring geysers of Yellowstone, including the famous Old Faithful. With guided tours, scenic floats, and immersive wildlife safaris, this tour promises an enriching and exhilarating experience. Enjoy comfortable accommodations in hotels for six nights and savor included meals as you journey through these natural wonders.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Jackson
Location: Jackson
Accommodation: Elk Country Inn
Accommodation Name: Elk Country Inn
Arrive at any time.
ACTIVITY: The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
Day 2: Jackson
Location: Jackson
Accommodation: Elk Country Inn
Accommodation Name: Elk Country Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, travel to Grand Teton National Park, where you’ll board a boat and cruise across the tranquil waters of Jenny Lake, which carved out Cascade Canyon approximately 12,000 years ago. Enjoy a self-guided walk to Hidden Falls along a trail that slopes up 200 ft (60 m) in elevation and ends at a magnificent waterfall that cascades 100 ft (30 m) below. Continue along the trail to Inspiration Point, where you’ll find spectacular views of Jenny Lake and Jackson Hole beyond. You can choose to return by either hiking along the lake or taking the ferry across. From there, you’ll drive to the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, where you’ll examine the exhibits that tell the story of the region’s cultural and geological histories, as well as current preservation efforts. Next, set off on a half-mile stroll to the Murie Ranch homestead, where you will learn about the Murie family’s contribution to the 1964 Wilderness Act. Return to Jackson Hole in the evening for dinner in town with your fellow travelers.
ACTIVITY: Take a shuttle boat across Jenny Lake; then set out on a self-guided hike through the stunning Cascade Canyon carved out by retreating glaciers some 15,000 years ago. Choose to sontinue on to Hidden Falls - plummeting almost a hundred feet into the gorge - and perhaps make a final ascent up to Inspiration Point for views of the lake below. Total Elevation Gain: 450 ft (138m).
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: The Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center orients, educates, and inspires visitors to make their own discoveries within the park. Spend time enjoying the various exhibits at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center. Afterwards, walk the 1/2 mile to the Murie Ranch homestead. The Murie Ranch was a base camp for conservation leaders who advocated for the protection of American wilderness.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 3: Jackson
Location: Jackson
Accommodation: Elk Country Inn
Accommodation Name: Elk Country Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin the day with a guided wildlife float along the Snake River and bask in the morning sun as it casts a glow on the Tetons. This is the perfect time to spot wildlife, so be on the lookout for mule deer, pronghorns, elk and moose in the surrounding woodlands and meadows. In the afternoon, travel to the Teton Raptor Center for an exclusive 1-hour private raptor experience. Led by a naturalist and staff member of the center, your tour includes a visit to the newly restored historic barn, where you will learn all about the region’s raptors (birds of prey) and their role in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem. Discover more about the center’s field work and clinic, where injured, ill or orphaned raptors are cared for. Later, return to the hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner on your own.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a 16km (10 mile) guided scenic raft trip on the Snake River in Grand Teton National Park. Learn from local guides about the history of the region, as well as the plant and wildlife against a backdrop of majestic peaks. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, bald eagles, osprey, bears, beavers, and more.
ACTIVITY: The Teton Raptor Center was established in 1991 when Roger Smith and Margaret Creel began caring for injured raptors—better known as birds of prey—in their home. As field biologists working in Grand Teton National Park, the couple was very interested in the environmental importance of raptors. Over the course of several years they saved dozens of birds and provided hundreds of educational programs to reach students of all ages. In 2017, Teton Raptor Center purchased the Hardeman Barns as a permanent home for raptor conservation. Visit the center for your exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour, learn about caring for these magnificent birds, and gain a sense of their invaluable place in the area’s ecosystem.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 4: Jackson/Yellowstone National Park
Location: Yellowstone National Park
Accommodation: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning, your journey takes you along Yellowstone’s Mormon Row, where you’ll make a stop at West Thumb Geyser Basin. Wander along the 1-mile loop, search for birds and get to know the environment of Yellowstone. The next stop is at Old Faithful, where you’ll watch the famed geyser erupt. Enjoy a picnic lunch, then visit the Tribal Heritage Center, which opened in 2022 as a way to recognize the many Tribal Nations that called Yellowstone their home before it was named a national park in 1872. You’ll engage with indigenous artists, scholars and presenters from the 27 associated Tribes of Yellowstone through the center’s educational programs, which include photography, beadwork, moccasin making, quilt work and more. After your visit, stroll along the boardwalks that wind between the gurgling hot springs and geysers of the Upper Geyser Basin. Peer into the rainbow-hued Grand Prismatic Spring to admire where the thermophilic bacteria generate vivid shades of yellow, blue and red.
ACTIVITY: Make several stops throughout the day. Today the journey is the destination. Cross the Continental Divide and get a taste of just some of the 10,000+ hydrothermal features, 500+ active geysers (more than half the world's geysers), and almost 300 waterfalls. Stay on the lookout for the 67 species of mammals and 285 species of birds that call this place home.
ACTIVITY: Travel through the Southern Loop of Yellowstone National Park, which features some of the most breathtaking and diverse natural scenery. Watch Old Faithful erupt, check out the colours of the Grand Prismatic Spring, and take in the geysers in West Thumb with Yellowstone Lake as the backdrop.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. The drive time listed includes all stops within Yellowstone National Park.
Day 5: Yellowstone National Park
Location: Yellowstone National Park
Accommodation: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Get an early start to your day as you travel to the Lamar Valley with a Yellowstone National Park specialist for a private wildlife-spotting tour. Known as the “Serengeti of North America,” the Lamar Valley has a high concentration of wildlife, including bison, elk, and elusive wolves and grizzly bears. You will be equipped with binoculars to keep an eye out for fauna and flora as you learn about the region’s fascinating history. In the afternoon, enjoy some leisure time at the hotel, where you can take advantage of its many amenities or stroll through its serene surroundings. This evening, dinner will be on your own.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a private, guided wildlife viewing tour in the Lamar Valley with a Yellowstone Park specialist as your guide. Listen to educational content about the Valley’s wildlife, flora, fauna, and history as you search for animals on this six hour viewing opportunity. Equipped with binoculars and a telescope, you will discover the natural wonders around you while your guide explains in depth the wildlife found within this small piece of Yellowstone. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. Search for wolves, herds of bison, pronghorn, badgers, grizzly bears, bald eagles, osprey, deer, and coyotes as you bump along in this mesmerizing landscape.
ACTIVITY: Today the journey is the destination. Cross the Continental Divide and get a taste of just some of the 10,000+ hydrothermal features, 500+ active geysers (more than half the world's geysers), and almost 300 waterfalls. Stay on the lookout for the 67 species of mammals and 285 species of birds that call this place home.
Day 6: Yellowstone National Park
Location: Yellowstone National Park
Accommodation: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you’ll continue to explore the many wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Stand in awe while overlooking the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, formed as a result of a volcanic eruption about 630,000 years ago. Set out on a Chief Experience Officer-led trail walk along the southern rim—from Artist Point Overlook to the Point Sublime Overlook—high above the Yellowstone River. In the afternoon, visit the Mud Pots, then continue to Yellowstone Lake for a Chief Experience Officer-guided hike up the Storm Point Trail. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a final dinner together and share stories from your unforgettable adventure.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: FULL DAY Visit other magnificent sites of Yellowstone during your final day in the national park. Stand overlooking the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, walk along the southern rim to Artist Point Overlook and Point Sublime Overlook with your CEO. See the Mud Pots and enjoy one final CEO-led hike along the Storm Point Trail.
ACTIVITY: Visit the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Take a there-and-back CEO-led trail walk from the majestic Artist Point overlook to the Point Sublime Overlook along the southern rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River.
ACTIVITY: Visit the Yellowstone Mud Pots with your CEO. See where hot water is limited, where hydrogen sulfide gas is present, and where sulfuric acid is generated leaving the rotten egg smell so familiar to geothermal areas.
ACTIVITY: Set off on a CEO-guided hike up the Storm Point Trail. Begin in open meadows overlooking Indian Pond and Yellowstone Lake. Then pass further alongside the pond before turning west into the forest.
Day 7: Yellowstone National Park/Jackson
Location: Jackson
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, depart for the Jackson Visitor Center in Jackson, where your tour comes to end. From there, you must make your own way to the airport as only permitted airport vehicles can access the drop off area.
Additional Information: When arranging your flights, please take into consideration the below time restrictions for departing from your group. With these times, we have taken into account travel time to/from the airport in the given destination and required time for check-in or baggage collection/immigration.
Please note that your outgoing flight from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) must depart no earlier than 14:00 (2pm) on Day 7. The group will be brought to the Jackson Visitor Center in Jackson. You must make your own way to the airport from there as only permitted airport vehicles can do airport drop offs.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
What's Included
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Journeys Highlight Moment: Teton Raptor Center
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Teton Raptor Center, Grand Teton National Park
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Journeys Highlight Moment: Wildlife Spotting in Lamar Valley
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Wildlife Spotting in Lamar Valley, Yellowstone National Park
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Family Journeys Moment: Grand Teton Scenic River Float
Your Family Journeys Moment: Grand Teton Scenic River Float, Grand Teton National Park
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Guided Snake River float
Enjoy a guided float along the Snake River.
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Grand Teton National Park entrance
Entrance to Grand Teton National Park is included.
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Jenny Lake boat ride
A boat ride across Jenny Lake is included.
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Yellowstone National Park entrance
Entrance to Yellowstone National Park is included.
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Three full days touring Yellowstone National Park
Three full days touring through Yellowstone National Park's highlights.
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Lamar Valley wildlife safari
A wildlife safari in Lamar Valley is included.
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All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is provided.
What's Not Included
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Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are not included.
You must make your own way to the airport from the Jackson Visitor Center. -
Non-included meals
Meals not listed in the inclusions are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional snacks, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
Accommodation
Hotels (6 nts).
Transport
Private vehicle, boat, walking.
Meals Included
6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
Group Size
Max 13.
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling and we encourage you to experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Its important to remember, that food may be different from what you are used to at home and that some things may not be available in other countries.
Some meals are included in the trip price, while others are not, to allow flexibility and choice to you and your family. For non-included meals our CEOs will still make arrangements for the group to eat together, which allows you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and approximate budget (per person) for meals not included.
Throughout this trip, breakfast is included daily (ranging from continental to buffet depending on the trip), as are healthy, local snacks. Tap water is safe and drinkable everywhere. Please remember to bring your own refillable bottle and refill at the start of each day.
Note that any special meal requirements or dietary restrictions need to be specified at time of booking.
Mode of Transport
Private vehicle, boat, walking.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Important Notes
1. TRAVEL DAYS
In order to cover the vast distance in North America to be able to visit several different parks and cities along our trip, we will have a couple of long driving days.
2. WALKS AND HIKES - OPTIONAL
All walks and hikes proposed by our CEO will be easy to moderate level. You may choose to participate or not, but exploring our national parks on foot is part of our way of travelling. It’s a healthy way to discover North America’s beauty and landscape.
3. LEGAL DRINKING AGE
Please note that the legal drinking age in the United States is 21. Many bars and clubs will ask for ID at the door, therefore listening to live music in certain bars or spending a night out is not possible when you are under the legal age, even if you don't plan on consuming alcohol. Drinking laws are strictly enforced and our CEOs are unable to help those under age obtain alcohol of any kind.
While this should not stop those under legal drinking age from booking a tour, it is important to note that if a traveller is under-age there are certain optional nighttime activities that they may not legally be able to participate in. When trying to book the right trip, we recommend that travellers under legal drinking age take this into consideration when booking a tour that visits several big cities.
4. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
Group Leader
This National Geographic group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and driver - this person is experienced in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.
As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.
We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
About Accommodation
Rooming is based on double occupancy (2 passengers / 2 beds per room); all other room configurations are on request and cannot be guaranteed. We will try to accommodate triples/quad requests whenever possible and it's important to note that rooming configuration can change from city to city and 2 single beds are the standard configuration in a room.
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags.
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Snake River float?
During the guided wildlife float along the Snake River, you can expect to see mule deer, pronghorns, elk, and moose in the surrounding woodlands and meadows. Additionally, you might spot bald eagles, osprey, bears, and beavers.
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What activities are included in the visit to the Teton Raptor Center?
The visit to the Teton Raptor Center includes an exclusive 1-hour private raptor experience led by a naturalist and staff member. You will tour the newly restored historic barn, learn about the region's raptors and their role in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, and discover more about the center's fieldwork and clinic where injured, ill, or orphaned raptors are cared for.
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What can I expect during the hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point?
The hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point starts with a boat ride across Jenny Lake. The self-guided walk to Hidden Falls involves a trail that slopes up 200 ft (60 m) in elevation and ends at a magnificent waterfall. You can continue along the trail to Inspiration Point for spectacular views of Jenny Lake and Jackson Hole. You can choose to return by either hiking along the lake or taking the ferry across.
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What is the focus of the private wildlife-spotting tour in the Lamar Valley?
The private wildlife-spotting tour in the Lamar Valley, led by a Yellowstone National Park specialist, focuses on spotting a high concentration of wildlife, including bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears. You will be equipped with binoculars to observe the fauna and flora while learning about the region's fascinating history.
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What are some of the key stops during the tour of Yellowstone National Park?
Key stops during the tour of Yellowstone National Park include the West Thumb Geyser Basin, Old Faithful, the Tribal Heritage Center, the Upper Geyser Basin, and the Grand Prismatic Spring. You will also visit the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, the Mud Pots, and hike the Storm Point Trail.
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What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner. Breakfasts range from continental to buffet, and healthy, local snacks are also provided. Tap water is safe and drinkable everywhere, so it's recommended to bring a refillable bottle.
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What should solo travelers expect in terms of accommodation?
Solo travelers on this tour will be paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. There is no single supplement required for solo travelers joining group trips.
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What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 13 people.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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