Yellowstone Day Trips from Jackson Hole: Explore Geysers & Wildlife
Discover Yellowstone's wonders on expertly guided day trips departing from Jackson Hole, showcasing iconic geysers, thermal features, and abundant wildlife.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming, serves as a magnificent gateway to Yellowstone National Park, offering an unparalleled starting point for unforgettable day trips. The scenic drive alone, traversing the dramatic Teton Range and entering the park via the South Entrance, is an experience in itself. These excursions are designed to maximize your time within Yellowstone's vast expanse, allowing you to witness its most iconic attractions without the need for overnight stays. From the explosive power of Old Faithful to the vibrant, otherworldly hues of Grand Prismatic Spring, a day trip from Jackson Hole provides a concentrated dose of the park's unparalleled natural beauty and geological marvels. These expertly guided day trips are more than just a scenic drive; they are curated explorations led by knowledgeable guides who bring Yellowstone to life. They navigate the park's famous loop roads, identifying wildlife hotspots where bison, elk, bears, and wolves are frequently spotted. Guides share insights into the park's complex ecosystem, its geothermal activity, and its rich history, enriching your understanding and appreciation of this unique landscape. Whether you're a first-time visitor eager to see the 'greatest hits' or a returning guest seeking a deeper dive into specific areas, these day trips offer a convenient and insightful way to experience Yellowstone's magic. They take the stress out of planning, navigation, and parking, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the grandeur of America's first national park.
Featured Yellowstone National Park Day Trips Tours
Discover our top picks for yellowstone national park day trips in Jackson Hole
Experience the magic of Yellowstone in winter like never before. This once-in-a-lifetime adventure takes you through a snowy wonderland to witness Old Faithful erupt against a stunning winter backdrop. Travel by snowcoach as you explore geothermal wonders, spot wildlife in their natural habitat, and take in the beauty of snow-covered forests. Highlights may include Moose Falls, West Thumb Geyser Basin, and the colorful Fountain Paint Pots.
Relax on a tranquil rafting trip along Wyoming's Snake River on this tour from Jackson Hole. Drift past bald eagle and osprey nesting areas, and admire a variety of other wildlife, including moose, deer, river otters. Have your camera ready to capture photos of the wildlife and the Grand Teton. This tour is an ideal way to marvel at the rugged beauty of Wyoming's Snake River without getting wet and at river speed.
This small-group tour is a fantastic way to observe wildlife as well as take in Grand Teton's beauty and Yellowstone’s numerous geyser basins. We will be making stops at Oxbow Bend, Old Faithful geyser, Yellowstone Lake, Hayden Valley, Fountain Paint Pots and Mud Pots, West Thumb Geyser Basin, the Lower Falls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, as well as several other geyser basins. Yellowstone National Park’s rich history, geology, wildfires and wildlife will be discussed in detail throughout the tour. Wildlife that is often observed on this tour are bison, grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, moose, elk, eagles, mule deer, pronghorn, and coyotes. We will offer many stops throughout the tour for guests to get out of the vehicle and observe the different wildlife viewing opportunities with the binoculars and scope that we provide, and to walk the various boardwalks we stop at. This tour will include a picnic style lunch that will be served by your guide.
Enjoy endless views of mountains, geysers, canyons, lakes, rivers and more on this coach tour of Yellowstone National Park from Jackson. Travel through Grand Teton National Park and then enter Yellowstone for a tour of the Lower Loop’s main attractions including Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, the historic Lake Hotel and the colorful Fountain Paint Pot. Learn about the area’s history, geology and ecology from your guide, and keep your eye out for wildlife including bison and wolves!
Enjoy 8-9 hours exploring Grand Teton National Park visiting some of its top attractions: see Jackson and Jenny lakes, have your camera ready to capture the stunning Oxbow Bend, and view the historic barns of Mormon Row. Throughout your journey, keep an eye out for the park’s resident wildlife including grizzlies, bison, and pronghorn antelope. Your tour includes breakfast, lunch, round-trip transport from Jackson hotels, a boat ride on Jenny Lake with a 1-mile non-guided hike to Hidden Falls (available May 15-Sept 21 & Sept 26 - 28. Jenny Lake Boating closed for construction Sept 22-25, 2025) and the use of binoculars.
Explore Yellowstone on a 12-13 hour tour with a local guide. Set out FROM JACKSON HOLE, WY area to experience America's first national park. See its iconic Old Faithful, marvel at the Grand Canyon Waterfalls, and search for wildlife including grizzlies, bison, grey wolves, and more. This tour includes both a light breakfast, lunch and park entrance fees, as well as the use of binoculars. For Tour Dates BEFORE the 2nd Friday in May, since the South Entrance is closed, Tours will drive from Jackson to West Yellowstone to enter through the West Gate. Thus, we will not tour through Grand Teton Park before the 2nd Friday in May.
Experience the best fly fishing trips in Jackson Hole. Our full day trips are totally private trips, just you and your guide. The fishing trip includes guide, gear, boat, instruction, lunch, drinks, etc.
Wildlife sightings are common in Grand Teton National Park, but you have to know where to look. This 5-hour guided tour covers plenty of ground including Antelope Flats, Jackson Lake, Jenny Lake and the viewpoint of Oxbow Bend. Depart in the early morning from your Jackson or Teton Village accommodation; light breakfast and entrance fee included.
Jackson Hole float trips in Grand Teton National Park from Pacific Creek to Dead Man's Bar on the Snake River is a more relaxing less traveled section of the river away from the downtown crowds of Jackson and in the upper area of the Snake River within Grand Teton National Park..
Our mission is to create lifelong memories of our national parks for every guest. We specialize in going the extra mile to customize and personalize each tour to your unique needs. We offer hotel and airport pick-ups in Bozeman, Big Sky, West Yellowstone, and Gardiner, MT, and can accommodate multi-generational families. We provide child seats for infants and address mobility concerns for grandparents. Special dietary requirements can also be catered to with advance notice. For more active guests, we’re happy to discuss hiking options in Yellowstone or how to incorporate additional adventures like whitewater rafting, horseback riding, fishing, or even a fine dining experience into your trip. Call us today to explore how we can make your Yellowstone adventure truly unforgettable!
Discover the natural beauty of America's best National Parks, the Yellowstone and Grand Teton! On this fully guided in-depth tour, we visit the most popular landmarks of both Yellowstone and Grand Teton, including the Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Artist Point, West Thumb Geyser Basin, Fountain Paint Pot, Jackson Lake and Teton Range, wildlife... and much more! 2 Consecutive Nights (2nd and 3rd) Stay in West Yellowstone Montana 2 Nights (1st and 4th) Stay near SLC Airport Airport Shuttle, Transit, Park entry fees, and Bear World Ticket Leave the planning of a Yellowstone adventure up to us and enjoy the Fully Guided Tour
Experience the tranquil landscapes of Grand Teton National Park on this easy day trip from Jackson. A must-see Wyoming treasure, this park offers one jaw-dropping vista after another, as you’ll see on your comfortable coach tour to crystal-clear Jenny Lake, Jackson Lake and the Snake River, as well as the Chapel of the Transfiguration and Menor's Ferry, both listed on the US National Register of Historic Places. Learn about the area’s history, geology and ecology from your guide; spot wildlife such as moose, eagles and beavers; and enjoy several guided walks for a more intimate experience of this amazingly scenic area. As a public tour, we reserve the right to cancel this tour with 48 hour notice if there are not at least 4 travelers.
Join us for an Amazing afternoon/evening in Grand Teton National Park as we search for bears, elk, bison, moose, eagles, foxes, beaver & enjoy the beautiful views of the lakes, rivers and the Tetons! Sights incl: Oxbow Bend, Jenny Lake, Pilgrim Creek area, Elk Ranch, Mormon Row and more. Entrance fee and picnic dinner are included in the 5-hour itinerary.
Teton tour Guides is a professional guide service specializing in interpretive and scenic tours in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National parks. With over 30 years of experience guiding people into the backcountry of the Rocky Mountains TTG makes it easy to experience the wonders of Yellowstone and the surrounding areas. We use comfortable high end high roof Ford Transit Explorer vans outfitted with big comfortable leather seats and cup holders. Every seat in the van has a window so no one will miss out on the incredible views of Yellowstone. The full day Yellowstone tours are a long day (10-12 hours) and being comfortable is important. There is no more comfortable vehicle on the road than the Ford Transit Explorer vans. These custom vans are were smart engineering meets with thoughtful design. It is luxurious style and comfort, like soft leather reclining seats, power lumbar support system and elegant trim. These vans allow us to accommodate large families and groups in comfort.
Discover the natural beauty of America's best National Parks, the Yellowstone and Grand Teton! On this fully guided in-depth tour, we visit the most popular landmarks of both Yellowstone and Grand Teton, including the Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Artist Point, West Thumb Geyser Basin, Fountain Paint Pot, Jackson Lake and Teton Range, wildlife... and much more! 2 Consecutive Nights (2nd and 3rd) Stay in West Yellowstone Montana Leave the planning of a Yellowstone adventure up to us and enjoy the Fully Guided Tour
Why Choose Yellowstone National Park Day Trips in Jackson Hole?
Convenient Access
Jackson Hole offers the shortest and most scenic drive to Yellowstone's southern wonders, maximizing your park time.
Expert Local Guides
Benefit from guides deeply familiar with Yellowstone's wildlife patterns, geothermal features, and best viewing spots.
Wildlife Opportunities
Increase your chances of spotting iconic Yellowstone animals like bison, elk, and bears with guides who know where to look.
Iconic Geothermal Features
Witness the awe-inspiring power of Old Faithful, the vibrant colors of Grand Prismatic Spring, and numerous other thermal wonders.
Stress-Free Planning
Tours handle transportation, navigation, and often park entrance fees, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Educational Insights
Gain a deeper understanding of Yellowstone's geology, ecology, and history through engaging commentary from your guide.
Types of Yellowstone National Park Day Trips in Jackson Hole
Full-Day Yellowstone Exploration
These comprehensive tours cover the major highlights of Yellowstone, often focusing on the Upper and Lower Loop roads. Expect to visit iconic sites like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, the Midway and Lower Geyser Basins, and potentially the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Wildlife Focused Tours
Tailored for animal enthusiasts, these tours prioritize areas known for wildlife sightings, such as Hayden Valley and Lamar Valley (though Lamar is less common for a day trip from Jackson). Guides are skilled at spotting and identifying animals, often with spotting scopes.
Photography Day Trips
Designed for amateur and professional photographers, these tours focus on optimal lighting and composition for iconic Yellowstone landscapes and wildlife. They may visit viewpoints at specific times to capture the best light.
What to Expect on Yellowstone National Park Day Trips Tours
Duration
Day trips to Yellowstone from Jackson Hole are typically full-day experiences, lasting between 10 to 12 hours to allow for travel time and in-park exploration.
Weather
Yellowstone weather is notoriously unpredictable. Expect a wide range of temperatures, even in summer, with possibilities of sun, rain, wind, and even snow at higher elevations. Layering is crucial.
Group Size
Group sizes vary from intimate private tours with just your party to small group tours typically ranging from 6-15 people, to larger van tours that may accommodate up to 20-25 travelers.
What's Included
Most tours include transportation from a central Jackson Hole meeting point, the services of a knowledgeable guide, and often park entrance fees. Some may offer snacks or lunch, while others will have stops for purchasing food.
Meeting Point
Tours typically depart from designated meeting points within Jackson Hole, often hotels or a central visitor center. Pickup locations and times will be clearly communicated upon booking.
Costs
Prices vary significantly based on group size, tour duration, and inclusions. Expect to pay anywhere from $199 for a shared group tour to upwards of $800-$1500+ for a private tour. Park entrance fees are usually included but check your tour details.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book your Yellowstone day trip well in advance, especially during peak season (June-August), as tours fill up quickly.
Pack layers of clothing. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, even in summer, while midday can be warm.
Bring a reusable water bottle. Staying hydrated is important, and many tours will have water available or stops where you can refill.
Don't forget binoculars! They are invaluable for spotting wildlife from a distance and appreciating the vast landscapes.
Wear comfortable walking shoes. You'll likely do some short walks to viewpoints and geyser basins.
Be prepared for limited cell service within Yellowstone. Download any necessary information or maps beforehand.
Bring snacks, even if lunch is included. Some days in the park can be long, and having a little extra food can be helpful.
Wildlife safety is paramount. Always maintain a safe distance from animals and never feed them. Listen to your guide's instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:How long does it take to get to Yellowstone from Jackson Hole?
A: The drive from Jackson Hole to the South Entrance of Yellowstone National Park takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. The actual time spent within the park on a day trip will depend on the itinerary and how many stops are made.
Q:What are the must-see sights on a Yellowstone day trip from Jackson Hole?
A: Key attractions often included are Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Midway Geyser Basin, Lower Geyser Basin, and the West Thumb Geyser Basin. Depending on the tour, you might also see sights around Yellowstone Lake or the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Q:Will I see wildlife on a Yellowstone day trip?
A: While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, Yellowstone is renowned for its abundant animal life. Bison and elk are commonly seen. Bears, wolves, pronghorn, and other animals are also possible, especially in areas like Hayden Valley, which is often on day trip routes.
Q:Can I book a private Yellowstone day trip from Jackson Hole?
A: Yes, private tours are available and offer a more personalized experience. These tours allow you to customize the itinerary based on your interests and travel at your own pace, though they will be more expensive than group tours.
Q:What should I pack for a Yellowstone day trip?
A: Key items to pack include layers of clothing (including a rain jacket and warm hat), comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a reusable water bottle, snacks, and a camera. Binoculars are also highly recommended.
Q:Are Yellowstone National Park entrance fees included in the tour price?
A: This varies by tour operator. Many full-day tours include the park entrance fee, which is a significant cost. Always check the tour inclusions carefully when booking to understand what is covered.
Q:What is the best time of year for Yellowstone day trips from Jackson Hole?
A: Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer fewer crowds and beautiful scenery. Summer (July-August) has the warmest weather but is the busiest. Winter offers a completely different, snowy experience, usually via snowcoach or snowmobile tours which are distinct from typical day trips.
Why Visit Jackson Hole?
Experience the grandeur of the Tetons, offering unparalleled mountain adventures and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Discover Jackson Hole's charming Western town square, a gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding in winter, with Jackson Hole Mountain Resort's legendary challenging terrain.
Immerse yourself in the rich cowboy heritage and vibrant arts scene found throughout Jackson Hole's historic downtown.
Savor incredible farm-to-table dining and enjoy authentic Western hospitality at local ranches and restaurants.
Connect with the wild spirit of the American West in a breathtakingly beautiful and rugged landscape.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Jackson Hole experiences dramatic seasonal shifts. Summers are warm and sunny with cool nights, ideal for outdoor activities. Winters are cold and snowy, perfect for skiing, with temperatures often dropping well below freezing. Spring and fall offer transitional weather, with potential for snow in early spring and late fall, and vibrant foliage in autumn.
Best Months
Consider June through September for warm weather and access to all park activities, or December through March for prime skiing conditions at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. September offers beautiful fall colors and fewer crowds.
Peak Season
Summer (June-August) and winter ski season (December-March) are peak times in Jackson Hole, bringing the best weather for their respective activities but also higher crowds and prices. Expect vibrant energy and full amenities during these months.
Off Season
Spring (April-May) and fall (October-November) are Jackson Hole's off-seasons. You'll find fewer crowds and potentially lower prices, though some services may be limited, and weather can be unpredictable, with lingering snow in spring and early snow possible in fall.
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Plan Your Jackson Hole Trip
Transportation Tips
Navigating Jackson Hole is easiest with a car, especially for exploring the national parks. Rental agencies are at the airport. Within the town of Jackson, walking is pleasant, and the free START Bus system connects town to Teton Village and surrounding areas, making getting around Jackson Hole convenient for many. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available but can be limited. Consider the local bus for budget-conscious travel between key points.
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Where to Stay
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