10 Best Yellowstone Tours From West Yellowstone in 2024
LOOKING FOR THE BEST YELLOWSTONE TOURS FROM WEST YELLOWSTONE, MONTANA?
This article features the best Yellowstone Tours from West Yellowstone, covering both upper and lower loops, with options for private or small-group tours, unique activities, and wildlife safaris. After spending 5 days here, Yellowstone is one of my favorite national parks, having been to 28 of them across the US.
In a rush? Reserve this Yellowstone Day Tour from West Yellowstone for a 5 Star private experience to all the most famous Lower Loop attractions.
And if you want to see everything over two days, book this 2 Day Private Lower & Upper Loop Yellowstone Tour. Yellowstone really should be seen for more than a day.
To investigate all your choices, we have compiled a list of 10 highly-rated tours. They have been categorized as upper loop focused, lower loop focused, or based on a unique activity.
My Top 3 Picks: Best Yellowstone Tours From West Yellowstone
Note: Round-trip transportation from West Yellowstone is included on all tours
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
VIP Private Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour
✅ Best Grand Loop Attractions
✅ Flexible Schedule
Upper Loop Tour & Lamar Valley Tour
✅ Spot for Wildlife
✅ Upper Loop Attractions
2 Day Private Yellowstone Tour
✅ All Iconic Park Attractions & Safari
✅ All Breakfasts & Lunches
A Bit About Yellowstone National Park
Did you know that Yellowstone National Park, established in 1872, is the first national park in the United States? It covers 3,472 square miles of Wyoming wilderness, making it one of the largest parks in the federal system.
The amazing Yellowstone National Park has insane landscapes, such as their own Grand Canyon, geysers, and hot springs. Plus, one of the densest and move diverse collections of wildlife in the Lower 48. It’s normal to see herds of bison, elk, and grizzly bears just off the side of the road (or on them).
How far away is West Yellowstone from Yellowstone?
Yellowstone has five entrance stations located several hours apart by car. The town of West Yellowstone is 9 miles from the west entrance, a popular starting point to both view wildlife in the upper loop or see the cool attractions in the lower loop.
The west entrance station is typically open most of the year except during deep winter.
Tip! The north gate from Bozeman is the only one open all year. So if you’re coming in winter, check out these tours from Bozeman.
Top 10 Yellowstone Tours From West Yellowstone
Check out these top West Yellowstone tours, separated into the following categories.
- Best Lower Loop Yellowstone Tours – focuses on the iconic landmarks
- Best Upper Yellowstone Tours – focuses more on wildlife
- Best Activity Yellowstone Day Trips – pick an activity like guided hiking, fishing, neighboring sights
- Best Multi-Day Yellowstone Tour – combines the best of upper and lower loops
Note! Since the west entrance is not open year-round, most tours listed are only summer tours.
Best Lower Loop Yellowstone Tours from West Yellowstone, MT
1. VIP Private Boutique Tour of Yellowstone’s Lower Loop
Best Lower Loop Private Tour (up to 4)
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 – 9 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Get lost in the beauty of Yellowstone’s Lower Loop on this VIP private tour from West Yellowstone with an experienced guide who knows the park inside out. Travel in style in a Jeep as your personal guide crafts a custom-made itinerary to the park’s hidden secrets.
From bubbling hot springs to powerful geysers, witness grand vistas from Hayden Valley to the tumbling Falls of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone to the Grand Prismatic Hot Spring. Get up close and personal with wildlife as you enjoy complimentary binoculars and a spotting scope.
We definitely had a VIP experience! We had a catered breakfast and lunch, plus many extras such as phone chargers, heated seats and binoculars. Excellent day!
– Cindy (Read more reviews)
What’s more, the package deal includes a swanky air-conditioned vehicle for up to 4, snacks, bottled water, binoculars, private transportation, and hotel drop off and pick up.
2. Private Yellowstone Tour: Iconic Sites, Wildlife & Hikes
Best Lower Loop Private Tour for Large Groups up to 7
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 – 9 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Don’t get herded around like cattle on a crowded tour bus struggling for a glimpse of the incredible wildlife when you can join this top-notch private Yellowstone Service from West Yellowstone.
Led by a naturalist guide, you’ll have expert guidance on your journey through the park, frequently stopping for wildlife encounters and secluded hikes to Yellowstone’s lesser-known – but equally mesmerizing – geysers and hot springs that lie off the beaten path.
Only way to tour Yellowstone! We had the most wonderful experience with our private tour! Our tour guide, Kevin, was very knowledgeable and made our Yellowstone experience one that we will always remember! So worth the price!!
– Deb (Read more reviews)
The itinerary is similar to the tour described above, but it offers a flat group rate and can accommodate up to 7 individuals instead of 4. This results in better value for larger groups.
To top it all off, feast on a gourmet picnic lunch along the banks of Yellowstone Lake.
3. Full-Day Lower Loop Tour
Best Lower Loop Small-Group Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 – 9 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
The magical Yellowstone National Park serves up a perfect cocktail of nature’s beauty and wild animals. This small-group Lower Loop Tour of max 18 travelers will take you to all the best attractions of the Grand Loop.
Led by a local guide, see the powerful eruptions of the iconic Old Faithful geyser and the volcanic landscapes of Fountain Paint Pot, where hot springs, mud pots, and geysers come to life in a symphony.
Hear the thunderous Upper & Lower Falls from Artist Point, then connect with your wild side in Hayden Valley, known for its bison herds, grizzly bears, and wolves.
John was an excellent guide. His enthusiasm was contagious and he was loaded with information regarding the park and history and animals and geology…I can’t recommend this tour enough.
– Laura (Read more reviews)
When hunger strikes, indulge in a delicious breakfast and lunch, which are all part of the tour package. Leave the logistics to your tour service, which includes a hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off at selected West Yellowstone area lodgings.
Best Upper Yellowstone Tours from West Yellowstone, MT
4. Upper Loop Tour and Lamar Valley
Best Small-Group Safari Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Embrace the wild on this small-group tour of Yellowstone’s Upper Loop. You’ll be chauffeured around, getting premium access to Yellowstone’s most prized wildlife viewing locations.
Your professional guide will take you on an incredible journey past Madison River, Mount Washburn, Lamar Valley, Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces, and more.
We were picked up on time by Joel. He did a fine job of describing the sights & animals….his prior ranger experience was obvious as he was very knowledgeable. Provided lots of park history and plant knowledge.
– Ron (Read more reviews)
On board, you’ll have drinks, lunch, and snacks – all included in the package. They’ll also provide premium spotting scopes and binoculars, so you won’t miss out on spotting any elusive land creatures.
5. Private Yellowstone Wildlife Sightseeing Tour
Best Private Wildlife Safari Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 – 9 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Ready to embark on a journey into the wilderness? Join this Private Yellowstone Wildlife Sightseeing Tour for a chance to spot some of the park’s most exotic creatures.
Your experienced driver and guide will take you on a journey through the northern loop of the park, where you’ll witness firsthand the magic of the American Serengeti – also known as the Lamar Valley.
Hold your breath in awe at the sight of bison, elk, pronghorn, wolves, and even bears as they roam and graze in their natural habitats. With spotting scopes and binoculars provided, you’ll get an up-close and personal view of all the wildlife action.
Well worth the cost! Spent a memorable day in the park with Brian. He shared his knowledge and experience and hidden viewing spots to ensure we saw all our bucket list items! We couldn’t recommend them more!
– Lydia (Read more reviews)
Although this tour primarily focuses on wildlife, it also includes a short hike to Tower Falls along the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
A delicious lunch and snacks are included to keep you fuelled throughout the day.
6. Full-Day Yellowstone Upper Loop Tour
Best Small Group Upper Loop Tour
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Immerse yourself in Yellowstone’s enchanting beauty on this Small Group Northern Loop Tour with a group size limited to 14 travelers.
From the Norris Geyser Basin, with its unstable series of geysers to the Sheepeater Cliffs, formed by lava flows, prepare for a multi-sensory experience. Check out the Roosevelt Arch and the travertine terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs. Your heart will also race with the thrill of spotting rare wildlife from afar in Lamar Valley.
To top it all off, we’ll end our day by visiting the waterfall area at sunset, followed by a hike leading to the edge of the magnificent Yellowstone Grand Falls.
The tour includes lunch, admission fees, and bilingual tour guides who speak Chinese and English to help overcome language barriers. The trip comes with comfortable bus transportation and other necessary amenities.
Best Day Trips from West Yellowstone, MT
7. Full-Day Private Hike in Yellowstone National Park
Best Guided Hiking Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Take the guesswork out of selecting the best hikes in Yellowstone on this full-day Private Guided Hike. Your passionate guide, certified with advanced outdoor and sustainability education degrees, will create a customized itinerary tailored to your group’s interests and abilities.
During your hike, you may step through mountain peaks, high meadows, hot springs, canyons, geyser basins, waterfalls, and more. Regardless of where you go, expect to see spectacular views and discover both famous landmarks and hidden gems. As a bonus, a tasty picnic lunch will be provided to gobble while on the trail.
All the while, your guide will enhance your knowledge with fascinating stories of Yellowstone’s geological past and its plant and animal life.
This hike couldn’t have been better! Beautiful views, wildlife spottings, a great picnic lunch, and two guides who went out of their way to make sure we were happy and safe…They curtailed our hike to our specific needs and capabilities.
(Read more reviews)
This private tour will pick you up from your hotel in West Yellowstone on a 15-passenger van or luxury SUV.
8. Montana Old West Ghost Towns Private VIP Tour
Best Outside Yellowstone Day Trip Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 – 9 Hours | 🦬 Book it!
Go back in time to Montana’s wild west history. On this Montana Old West Private Tour, discover one of the best-preserved ghost towns in the area, with remnants of saloons, cabins, and mining stores dating back to the gold rush of the 1800s.
While this tour doesn’t go into the official national park, this trip is great for those with an extra day to see more of Montana’s surroundings.
Enjoy the mountain scenery en route to historic Nevada City and Virginia City to listen to tales of Montana’s gold rush history at two open-air museums.
Stroll among the original log buildings and the outstanding collection of old-time music boxes, player pianos, and calliopes at Nevada City. Learn of the once largest town east of the Mississippi at Virginia City.
Stop at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center to see wolves and grizzly bears in their natural habitat. Spring and summer also include trips to the Museum of the Yellowstone and the Visitor Center of Earthquake Lake.
This was our favorite experience during our Yellowstone trip. Chantel is very passionate about Yellowstone and the surrounding area, and it shows….I think my favorite part was the panning for gold.
– Elyse (Read more reviews)
The tour includes air-conditioned transport, snacks, bottled water, and hotel or Airbnb pickups and drop-offs.
Welcome to a world of unparalleled fly-fishing adventure where an unbeatable guiding team is eager to take you through the labyrinthine river systems of Yellowstone National Park.
During this full-day Private Fly Fishing trip, you will receive top-of-the-line equipment and permits and expert guidance to advance your fly-fishing skills while exploring the sparkling waterways.
All necessary equipment will be provided, including flies, leaders, Sage rods, reels, and Simms waders. Additionally, a streamside lunch and refreshments are included.
Best Multi-Day Yellowstone Tour from West Yellowstone, MT
10. 2 Day Private Yellowstone Tour (Lower and Upper Loops)
Best Outside Yellowstone Day Trip Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 Days | 🦬 Book it!
This 2 day Private Yellowstone Tour will take you through all the iconic sites of Yellowstone National Park’s Lower and Upper Loops.
Day 1 focuses on the wildlife in the park. Find the best views with the highest probability to see why Hayden Valley is named “the Serengeti of Yellowstone.” Your team of experts will provide the equipment necessary for spotting the flora and fauna.
Note: The accommodation is not included, but you will receive breakfast and lunch.
On day 2, the tour takes you through the park’s thermal features, including the fiery pits of Yellowstone’s Mud Volcano area and Firehole Canyon Drive. Marvel at the array of vivid colors at Grand Prismatic Spring, the spouting of Old Faithful, and the glorious Upper and Lower Falls.
Great guided 2 day tour of Yellowstone National Park!…We were able to see what we really wanted and enjoyed the comfort of our own van since we were a private party tour.
(Read more reviews)
This tour includes private, top-of-the-line transportation with complimentary breakfasts, lunches, and refreshments.
Where to Stay in West Yellowstone, Montana
West Yellowstone is a picturesque destination that attracts visitors from all over the world. While it is a sought-after location, it’s worth noting that staying within a stone’s throw of the park is not cheap. With the limited availability of lodgings, finding a place to stay in West Yellowstone that doesn’t break the bank can be challenging.
Unfortunately, options are scarce, and accommodation here comes at a premium. Even the budget lodgings in the area start at nearly $200 per night, particularly during peak summer periods.
1872 Inn
⭐ RATING: 9.3 out of 10 Stars | $$$
Enjoy a luxury experience at the 1872 Inn! This adults-only boutique hotel boasts upscale accommodations with cozy gas fireplaces. You’ll also be treated to free snacks and water at check-in, a daily continental breakfast, and access to a sauna & fitness center. With excellent guest ratings, it’s also in a convenient location near activities like horseback riding and canoeing.
Elkhorn Cabins and Inn
⭐ RATING: 8.9 out of 10 Stars | $$
Stay close to the action by booking Elkhorn Cabins and Inn, just minutes from the West Entrance! With cozy rooms featuring flat-screen TVs and fridges, you’ll enjoy relatively budget-friendly accommodations without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Plus, you’ll be within walking distance of top attractions like the Yellowstone Historic Center Museum and Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center.
Tips To Prepare For Your Yellowstone National Park Tour
Before embarking on a Yellowstone tour, it’s essential to prepare accordingly. Here are some tips:
- What to pack: Be sure to pack for the weather, including layers, comfortable walking shoes, and rain gear. Outside of summer, it is pretty cold for most of the year.
- Best time to visit: The best time to visit is May through September when the weather is mild and the park is fully open. But winter provides some super unique snowy sceneries, with very few crowds.
- Wildlife safety: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO PET THE ANIMALS! I’m not kidding; people every year get killed by buffalo. They are not pets. If they are in your way, go around.
- Geothermal Safety: DON’T POKE OR STEP ON THE GEOTHERMAL FEATURES! Yes, even if the wind blows your hat off the boardwalk. Aside from destroying the formation, you might literally fall in and get burned.
FAQs about Yellowstone
Yes, you can enter Yellowstone National Park from West Yellowstone. The West Entrance is one of the five main entrances to the park and is open for vehicles during the summer and fall months. It’s usually one of the last entrances to close.
Staying inside Yellowstone allows you to be closer to the park’s attractions and spend more time exploring the park. However, lodging inside the park fills up fast and can be more expensive than staying outside the park.
West Yellowstone is an excellent choice since it is situated just a few miles from the park’s west entrance. Starting in the middle of the National Park, it gives you easy access to both the Upper and Lower Loop roads.
Although both are great options for overnights, West Yellowstone is a larger and more developed town, while Gardiner offers a quieter, more remote atmosphere.
West Yellowstone, Bozeman, and Jackson Hole are the most popular base cities for visiting Yellowstone National Park. Each provides easy access to a different park entrance. Starting a tour from Jackson Hole is the most common base, but many people also fly into Bozeman. Yellowstone is more commonly an overnight stop between the north and south entrances.
West Yellowstone is the closest town to the West Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Other nearby towns include Gardiner and Cooke City. Most other starting point towns require a 1.5 hour drive before arriving at the gate.
The best entrance to Yellowstone National Park depends on where you are coming from. The West and South Entrance is the closest entrance to many favored destinations within the park, while the North Entrance is the only entrance open year-round.
Yes, you can tour Yellowstone National Park without a guide. However, a guided tour can enhance your experience with insight into the park’s history and ecology.
For day use, you do not need a reservation to visit Yellowstone National Park. However, for overnight stays, you will need to make a reservation for camping or lodging inside the park. Spots fill up quickly for overnight stays in the peak months.
Yellowstone is massive, and one could easily spend a week there if you want to do many hikes and other outdoor activities. To see all the major attractions and leave time for wildlife viewing, plan to spend 3-5 days.
The best time of year to visit is the summer months (June-August), with the warmest weather and the most things to do. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) have cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and a chance to see wildlife and changing foliage. Most roads are closed in winter unless you sign up for activities like snowshoeing or snowmobiling tours.
The entire Yellowstone loop takes approximately 5- 8 hours to drive without stops. But so much more time is needed for stops and sightseeing. Herds of bison may also completely block traffic, potentially adding hours to your drive.
Many visitors are often torn between which park to spend more time at, but, in my opinion, Yellowstone is way better. Grand Teton has an impressive mountain range and alpine lakes to kayak on. Still, Yellowstone’s geothermal and canyon sceneries are just so unique, every traveler to America should visit this park.
🤩 I never leave home without my Sony Mirrorless Camera A6400, an amazing travel camera. For wildlife, a smartphone just isn’t going to cut it. You need some zoom on that thing – I recommend this Tamrom 70-300mm budget-friendly option.
Final Thoughts: Best West Yellowstone Tours
Exploring Yellowstone National Park is sensational, no matter which area you choose. With options ranging from exclusive full-day safari tours to lower loop attractions amidst magnificent scenery, it’s a place that will have you wanting more.
All the tours listed come with round-trip transportation from West Yellowstone and are guided by experienced naturalists.
In case you’re still not sure which to pick:
- See the best attractions on the Grand Loop; join this Private Day Adventure.
- Focus on spotting wildlife on the Upper Loop; sign up for this small-group Wildlife & Upper Loop Safari.
- Go on a multi-day trip to see both loops; book this 2D/1N Private Yellowstone Tour.
- For a unique experience, go check out Montana’s Old West by joining this tour.
No matter which tour or package you choose, you are guaranteed to experience the best of Yellowstone National Park and gain a deep appreciation for nature and history.
Where To Next?
Where to Next?
Interested in other tours and activities in the area? Check out these other Yellowstone or Grand Teton National Park posts.
- 7 Best Yellowstone Tours From Jackson Hole, Wyoming
- How To Kayak Jenny Lake To Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point In The Grand Tetons
- 6 Best Yellowstone Tours From Bozeman (Summer & Winter Tours)
- 10 Best Yellowstone Tours From West Yellowstone
- 9 Best Grand Teton Summer Tours
- 8 Best Grand Teton Winter Tours For Adventure Seekers
| TRAVEL RESOURCES |
| ✈️ Find the best tours and activities with Viator to cross off your bucket list and create unforgettable memories 🏘️ Book your accommodation with Booking.com in advance and check availability on the days of your travels. 🧾 Rent a car in advance with Discovercars for those epic road trips at the best price. |
Catherine Xu is the founder and author of Nomadicated, an adventure travel blog that helps travelers cross off their bucket list. Since discovering traveling in 2015, she has lived and journeyed to 65 countries across 5 continents and vanlifed the west coast USA for 2+ years. These days, she splits her time in Southeast Asia and California while sharing her travel stories and resources based on first-hand experiences. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.