7 Best Yellowstone Tours from Jackson Hole That Bring the Wild to Life
Searching for the best Yellowstone Tours from Jackson Hole, Wyoming?
I’ve spent years traveling up and down the West Coast in my van, and Yellowstone is easily one of my all-time favorite places.
After five days exploring the park, I completely get why it’s such an iconic destination. If you haven’t seen Old Faithful erupt or had your jaw drop staring into the colors of Grand Prismatic Spring, you’re missing out on a quintessential American experience. Out of the 28 national parks I’ve visited so far, Yellowstone is definitely among the top of my list!
Looking for the absolute best? Here’s my top pick. This Yellowstone Old Faithful, Waterfalls, and Wildlife Day Tour is the best all-around day trip, with a perfect ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating!
We all know America is not the smallest country, but the Yellowstone area takes the cake when it comes to size and what to see if you’re short on time. Here’s a list of 7 amazing trips to Yellowstone from Jackson Hole, ranked and highlighted to help you find the perfect guided adventure for your trip.
My Top 3 Picks: Best Yellowstone Tours from Jackson Hole, WY
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Yellowstone Old Faithful, Waterfalls and Wildlife Day Tour
Best Overall Day Trip
- Most affordable way to see the whole Lower Loop
- Small group tour for up to 11 people
Best of Yellowstone Private Safari Tour
Best Private Day Tour
- Perfect for Groups of 2- 6
- Customizable Lower Loop Itinerary
Yellowstone and Grand Teton 4 Day 3 Night Wildlife Adventure
Best Multi-Day Trip to Both National Parks
- Explore the Best of Grand Teton and Yellowstone in 4 Days
- All-Inclusive Adventure
Top 7 Tours from Jackson Hole
If you’re short on time, don’t want to wear down your own vehicle, or just want to avoid driving for hours on end, here are some of the best tours from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone. Since Yellowstone is massive and so close to Grand Teton, I’d definitely recommend spending more than one day to see both parks if you can swing it.
Here’s how I’ve broken this list down:
- Best Day Trips: These tours cover the main highlights of Yellowstone’s lower loop
- Best Multi-Day Trips: These go beyond the big attractions and add in Grand Teton, too.
Many day trips have similar itineraries. I’ll explain what makes each one unique and why it might be a good fit for you.
Note: Many roads (outside the north entrance) are closed to regular vehicles from early November through late April. View the road closure schedules here.
Best Yellowstone Day Tours From Jackson Hole
1.Yellowstone Old Faithful, Waterfalls and Wildlife Day Tour
Best Overall Yellowstone Day Trip
⌛ Tour Length: 12 Hours | ⭐ Ratings: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🦬 Book now
Why You Should Join This Tour:
- Super affordable, especially if you’ve got a National Park Pass
- Small groups (max 11 people)
- Hits all the must-see spots in the Lower Loop
Book this small-group tour from Jackson to experience the park’s most well-loved postcard spots and a few quieter areas in the Lower Loop—all in one busy, long, exciting day.
Ride in a comfy, air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable guide and stop for easy walks to highlights like Old Faithful, the Lower Falls in Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon, and some colorful geothermal sites. Wildlife will roam by casually on the side of the road, and you’ll even stop for some stunning backdrops at nearby Grand Teton National Park.
With a group limited to just 11 people, you’ll finally understand why the park’s fascinating ecosystems and geysers were designated as the world’s oldest national park. The trip includes lunch, hotel pick-up, and binoculars to borrow.
Just note: Park entrance fees aren’t covered, but you can grab those when you arrive.
Wonderful full day tour in Yellowstone with guide, Kyle! We started before dawn from Jackson, picking us up at hotel and drove to West Entrance through Idaho, as it was opening day for that gate. We enjoyed all the highlights of West Yellowstone’s sites while Kyle shared history and stories along the way.
– christine (Read more reviews)
2. Best of Yellowstone Private National Park Safari Tour
Best Private Yellowstone Tour For 2-6 People
⌛ Tour Length: 12 Hours | ⭐ Ratings: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🦬 Book now
Why You Should Join This Tour:
- Plan your own Lower Loop itinerary
- Caters to a group of 2-6 people
Join this private Best of Yellowstone Safari Tour for you and up to 5 of your friends or family. Spend a full day exploring the park with a guide who knows all the cool spots and the sharpest eyes to spot wildlife like buffalo roaming in the distance.
The best part? You get to set the schedule! Customize your adventure along the scenic Lower Loop Road, hitting the landmarks you’re most excited to check out. Your naturalist guide will share insights and help spot rare animals along the way.
The tour also keeps things super convenient with included breakfast, lunch, private transport, and easy pick-up and drop-off from anywhere in Jackson Hole or Teton Village.
We had a great time! It was so nice having someone that knew the area take us to so many cool spots! Our guide was knowledgeable, and fun! And even better that we just got to sit back and enjoy the veiw without the stress of driving! We would definitely recommend!
– KORINNE (Read more reviews)
3. Private Full-Day Yellowstone National Park Tour
Best Private Tour For 5-11 People
⌛ Tour Length: 11 Hours | ⭐ Ratings: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🦬 Book now
Why You Should Join This Tour:
- Customize your own Lower Loop itinerary
- Perfect for big groups of 5-11 people
This private full-day Yellowstone National Park tour is a great choice if you’re traveling with a group. It’s flexible for different party sizes. If you’ve got a smaller crew of up to 5 people, you’ll ride in a luxury SUV. Bigger groups, up to 11, can stretch out in roomy Sprinter vans.
Hit all the must-see Yellowstone spots in just one day without the stress of planning or navigating. Stand at the edge of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, watch Old Faithful do its thing, and cruise by spots like Firehole River and Hayden Valley.
The tour includes private transportation in a luxury vehicle and binoculars. Along the way, you’ll also catch views of the rugged peaks of the Grand Tetons.
Greatest day! We all learned so much and enjoyed every minute of the tour! Mike, our guide, was incredible! He was filled with knowledge, fun facts, and took the most incredible photographs! His passion for nature, wildlife, and for what he does was truly beyond! We can not wait to book him again for another area to see & tour!
STANTON (Read more reviews)
4. Half-Day Group Sunset Wildlife Safari
Best Tour for Those with Very Little Time
⌛ Tour Length: 4 – 5 Hours | ⭐ Ratings: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🦬 Book now
Why Join This Tour?
- Short on time? No problem.
- Interested in wildlife
If you’ve only got half a day, getting all the way from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone National Park just isn’t doable. That said, if you’re hoping to glimpse the area’s incredible wildlife without stepping into the park itself, this half-day wildlife tour through the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem could be just what you’re looking for.
Led by an experienced guide, you’ll visit some prime spots to see animals like bison, elk, grizzly bears, bald eagles, and maybe even wolves if the timing’s right. Instead of spotting them from a car window, you’ll see these animals in their own habitats.
The route changes daily, too, depending on what your group is into and where the wildlife is active.
Excellent tour! Between the gorgeous views, all the animal sightings, and Michelle as our knowledgeable and entertaining guide, we are so glad we chose this tour.
ASHLEY (Read more reviews)
Best Multi-Day Yellowstone Tours from Jackson Hole
I personally recommend multi-day trips. If you don’t stay overnight, the park is just too big if you have major FOMO.
Pro tip: If you’re planning to stay in a National Park, make sure to book your hotel early—rooms inside the park fill up fast! Most tours can only guarantee accommodation if you book at least 30 days in advance. Otherwise, you’ll need to look for options outside the park.
5. Yellowstone and Grand Teton 4 Day 3 Night Wildlife Adventure
Best Multi-Day Trip to See Everything in Yellowstone & Grand Teton
⌛ Tour Length: 4 Days | ⭐ Ratings: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🦬 Book now
Why You Should Join This Tour:
- See all the highlights in Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Park
- Enjoy an all-inclusive trip with food, lodging, and transportation taken care of
- Explore with up to 9 new friends
Take the stress out of planning and check out this 4-day tour of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. You’ll be joining a small group of up to 10 people snapping photos and wandering Yellowstone’s famous trails with absolutely no rush. Everything’s taken care of—from the itinerary to accommodations and even snacks!
Trip Itinerary:
- Day 1: Best of Grand Teton highlights and wildlife spotting.
- Day 2: The first half of Yellowstone’s Lower Loop, including spots like West Thumb Geyser Basin and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
- Day 3: The Upper Loop’s must-sees.
- Day 4: Finish the Lower Loop with Lamar Valley, Old Faithful, and Mammoth Springs.
The tour package includes your park entrance fees, breakfasts, snacks, transfers, and lodging.
Spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife viewing & interesting facts presented by knowledgable guides. Cade & Rachel made this a trip to remember – keen spotting skills, unique insights & easy going style. Thank you for the fun & friendships made.
SHARI (Read more reviews)
6. Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks Wildlife Adventure (2 Day/1 Night)
Best Multi-Day Trip to See the Highlights of Grand Teton & Yellowstone
⌛ Tour Length: 2 Days | ⭐ Ratings: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🦬 Book now
Why You Should Join This Tour:
- See the best of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park
- Enjoy an all-inclusive experience with food, lodging, and transportation taken care of
This two-day expedition to Grand Teton and Yellowstone hits all the right spots, with a particular focus on the park’s wildlife. You’ll have a guide to help you spot incredible animals like wolves, bison, moose, and bears along the way.
Day one kicks off in the Grand Teton Valley, where you’ll check out classic spots like Oxbow Bend, Snake River Overlook, and the Mormon Row Historic District. Pro tip: keep those binoculars handy because there are often buffalo hanging out by the road near the Lower Loop. That evening, you’ll crash at a comfy hotel in either West Yellowstone or Cooke City.
Day two starts bright and early, searching for wolves and grizzly bears. Afterward, there’s time for short, easy hikes through Yellowstone’s fascinating geothermal spots and geysers.
With only 10 people max, park fees, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and your overnight stay are all included.
Experienced and generous guides who were keen to help us discover the region and the animals. It’s an unforgettable stay. In 2 days you get to see a lot.
MARIE (Read more reviews)
7. 2-Day Yellowstone National Park Upper and Lower Loop Exploration
Best Multi-Day Trip to Explore Yellowstone National Park In-depth
⌛ Tour Length: 2 Days | ⭐ Ratings: 5 out of 5 Stars | 🦬 Book now
Why You Should Join This Tour:
- Explore more of Yellowstone beyond just the highlights on both the Upper & Lower Loop
- Hassle-free experience with food and transportation included
- Budget-friendly tour, but accommodation isn’t covered
This two-day Yellowstone tour lets you take your time and really see the sights of both the Upper and Lower Loop without feeling rushed, something you just can’t do with a one-day trip.
Day one kicks off in Jackson, Wyoming, where you’ll head north with a few stops to snap photos of the Grand Tetons. Once inside the park’s South Entrance, you’ll cruise through the Lower Loop. Highlights include the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, plus quieter spots like Firehole Canyon Drive and Golden Gate Canyon. You’ll wrap up the day at Mammoth Hot Springs before settling in for a relaxing night at the historic Chico Hot Springs Resort.
On day two, you’ll move on to the Upper Loop. Drive through Paradise Valley on your way to spots like Undine Falls, Lamar Valley, Petrified Tree, and Blacktail Plateau Drive. Don’t miss Tower Fall, the Canyon Village Area, Lower and Upper Falls, and even Mud Volcano.
The tour includes a guide, lunch, transportation, and hotel pick-up/drop-off from Jackson, WY.
We had the most incredible 2 day trip to Yellowstone!!! Our guide John was amazing! He was professional, knowledgeable and very energetic! John anticipated our every need and was very prepared. His knowledge of Yellowstone and all the wildlife and geo thermal features was amazing! Best tour ever!
DIANNE (Read more reviews)
Tips to Prepare for Your Tour
- What to pack: Dress for the weather! Pack layers, comfy walking shoes, and rain gear. FYI, it’s chilly most of the year unless it’s summer.
- Best time to visit: May to September is the best with mild weather and the park’s fully open.
- Wildlife safety: Don’t try to pet the animals. Seriously. Every year, people get hurt (or worse) by buffalo. They’re not cuddly. If one’s in your way, just go around it.
- Geothermal safety: Don’t step on or poke the geothermal areas—no exceptions. Hats, phones, whatever… if they blow off the boardwalk, let them go. You could destroy the area or, worse, get seriously burned.
A Bit About Yellowstone National Park
Did you know Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the U.S.? It was established way back in 1872 and covers a whopping 3,472 square miles of Wyoming wilderness, making it one of the largest parks in the country.
From its own Grand Canyon to geysers and hot springs, Yellowstone has some of the best scenery in America. You’ll spot wildlife everywhere, from bison roaming the prairies to elk hanging out near bubbling thermal pools.
How far is Yellowstone from Jackson Hole?
Yellowstone is huge! It has five entrances and takes hours to drive across. If you’re starting in Jackson Hole, it’s just about a 1.5- to 2-hour drive to the park’s south entrance. Along the way, you’ll pass Grand Teton National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Yellowstone loop is best?
The Grand Loop (Lower Loop) is the most popular drive in Yellowstone. It’s about 142 miles long and takes around 8 hours to complete. Along the way, you’ll hit all the big attractions like Old Faithful, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
Can you do a day trip to Yellowstone from Jackson Hole?
Yep, you can totally do a day trip from Jackson Hole to Yellowstone. That said, the park is huge, so you probably won’t be able to see everything in one day. If you have the time, 2-3 days is ideal to really take it all in.
Is Jackson Hole a good place to stay when visiting Yellowstone?
Absolutely! Jackson Hole is only about 1.5 to 2 hours from Yellowstone’s southern entrance. It has lots of great places to stay, eat, and play. If you’re visiting during ski season, Jackson Hole has one of the best ski resorts in the country. However, much of the park is closed in the wintertime.
Is Grand Teton better than Yellowstone?
It’s hard to choose, but I’d go with Yellowstone. Grand Teton has gorgeous mountains and alpine lakes, but Yellowstone’s geothermal features and canyons are just so unique.
What’s the best time of year to visit Yellowstone?
Summer (June–August) is the most popular time to go, with warm weather and tons to do. Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are less crowded, cooler, and great for spotting wildlife or enjoying the fall colors. In winter, most roads are closed, but you can still explore on a winter tour like cross-country skiing or snowmobiling.
Final Thoughts: Best Yellowstone Tours from Jackson Hole
Yellowstone is such an awesome place, and I can’t wait to go back! Between the geothermal spots and all the wildlife, there’s so much to see. Jackson Hole is the perfect spot to start if you’re planning a day trip or a longer adventure. Plus, it’s super close to Grand Teton National Park, which makes it even better!
If you just skipped to the end:
- For the best overall Yellowstone day trip, check out this tour from Jackson.
- Want a private experience? This lower loop tour is perfect.
- For an ultimate adventure, go for this 4-day, all-inclusive trip to see it all.
Whichever option you pick, Yellowstone is absolutely stunning. Trust me, you’re going to love it!
Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.
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