Private Yellowstone National Park Tour (Upper Loop)
4.8 / 5 · 102 traveler reviews
At Obsidian Expeditions, our mission is to create lifelong memories in our national parks. Your private tour includes an exclusive guide and vehicle reserved just for your group, allowing us to customize every experience to your interests, pace, and travel style. This tour explores Yellowstone's Upper Loop. To experience the park's iconic geyser basins, Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, we recommend booking our Lower Loop Tour on a second day. We offer hotel and airport pickup in Bozeman, Big Sky, West Yellowstone, and Gardiner, MT. Multi-generational families are welcome, with child safety seats, mobility accommodations whenever possible, and special dietary options available with advance notice. Traveling with more than 14 guests? We can accommodate larger groups with additional guides and vehicles. Contact us to customize your Yellowstone adventure.
Your experience
Stop 1
Discover Yellowstone’s beauty on an all-day private tour, with options for the Lower Loop, Upper Loop, or a complete Grand Loop Tour. Call to customize your adventure and arrange the best meeting location. The Lower Loop includes iconic sights like Old Faithful, the vibrant Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, Lake Yellowstone, and the stunning Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The Upper Loop takes you to Lamar Valley, a prime spot for viewing bison, wolves, and other wildlife, as well as the fascinating Mammoth Hot Springs. Book a multi-day tour to fully explore both loops and enjoy more time to relax, absorb the sights, and appreciate the park’s wonders. Call us today to explore how we can make your Yellowstone adventure truly unforgettable!
Stop 2
Guests touring Lamar Valley with Obsidian Experience can expect breathtaking scenic vistas and unparalleled wildlife viewing. Known as the "Serengeti of North America," this area is famous for its diverse animal population, including bison, elk, and the elusive wolves. The stunning landscapes, framed by rugged mountains and rolling hills, provide a perfect backdrop for photography and nature appreciation, making it a highlight of any Yellowstone adventure.
Stop 3
In Cooke City, visitors will experience a charming mountain town steeped in history, once a bustling mining hub. Surrounded by stunning winter landscapes, guests can enjoy cozy local cafes and shops while soaking in the picturesque views. The area serves as a gateway to Yellowstone, offering opportunities for wildlife sightings, including moose and deer, against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, enhancing the overall experience of this unique destination.
Stop 4
Calcite Springs offers guests a stunning overlook of the Yellowstone River and the surrounding canyon, showcasing the park's dramatic geological features. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Bleached Cliffs and the river's swift currents, making it a perfect spot for photography and appreciating the natural beauty of the area. The overlook is also rich in historical significance, as it provides insight into the geological processes that shaped Yellowstone. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot various species, including bighorn sheep and eagles, adding to the allure of this breathtaking location. The combination of scenic vistas and wildlife makes Calcite Springs a memorable stop on any tour.
Stop 5
The Mount Washburn/Dunraven Pass area offers guests a scenic drive through some of Yellowstone's most breathtaking landscapes. As one of the highest points in the park, it provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This area is rich in history, having been a vital route for early explorers and settlers. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot bighorn sheep and eagles soaring overhead, making it a perfect stop for those looking to connect with nature and learn about the park's fascinating past.
Stop 6
At the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, guests will be captivated by the dramatic landscapes and vibrant colors of the canyon walls, carved by the Yellowstone River. This iconic site features stunning viewpoints, such as Artist Point, where visitors can witness breathtaking waterfalls and the interplay of light on the canyon's rock formations. The area is also rich in wildlife, with opportunities to spot bald eagles and deer, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and wildlife observation.
Stop 7
Norris Geyser Basin is a geothermal wonderland that showcases the park's dynamic geothermal activity. Guests can explore a network of trails that lead to impressive geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles, including the famous Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world. The unique landscape, with its colorful mineral deposits and steam vents, provides a fascinating glimpse into the Earth's geothermal processes, while the surrounding area is home to diverse wildlife, including bison and coyotes.
Stop 8
Roaring Mountain is known for its unique geothermal features, including fumaroles that emit steam and create a roaring sound, hence its name. Guests can enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape while learning about the geothermal processes that shape the park. The area is also a great spot for wildlife viewing, with chances to see elk and grizzly bears in their natural habitat, making it a memorable stop on any tour.
Stop 9
Obsidian Cliffs offers a glimpse into Yellowstone's volcanic past, showcasing stunning black obsidian rock formations that are both beautiful and historically significant. Guests can learn about the Native American use of obsidian for tools and the geological processes that created these striking cliffs. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, providing opportunities to spot animals like foxes and deer, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking mountain scenery.
Stop 10
Mammoth Hot Springs is a must-visit destination, featuring stunning terraced formations created by mineral-rich hot springs. Guests can stroll along boardwalks that wind through the vibrant travertine terraces, witnessing the unique colors and shapes formed by geothermal activity. The area is also home to a historic district with buildings dating back to the early 20th century, adding a layer of historical relevance. Wildlife is abundant here, with frequent sightings of elk grazing in the area.
Stop 11
The Roosevelt Arch serves as the iconic entrance to Yellowstone National Park, symbolizing the park's historical significance as the first national park in the world. Guests can admire the impressive stone structure, which was dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903. The arch offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to reflect on the park's rich history and commitment to conservation. The surrounding area is also a great spot for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see bison and antelope.
What’s included
- Bottled water
- Professional tour guide with current avalanche safety, CPR, & Wilderness First Aid certifications
- Snacks
- Transportation in a spacious 4WD Chevy Suburban or Ford Transit Van
- Breakfast
- Use our professional-grade Vortex™ spotting scopes and binoculars
- Lunch
Not included
- National Park entry fees (Buy before your visit or upon entry. $20/per or $80 for up to 4 ppl)
- Optional guide gratuity (15% recommended)
Before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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