Upper Loop Wildlife Van Tour: Lamar Valley, Mount Washburn & Mammoth Hot Springs
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short, easy walks and periods of standing while observing wildlife.
Overview
Watch wolves and bison through spotting scopes, sip hot coffee as the valley brightens, and walk the steaming terraces of Mammoth—this full-day van tour from West Yellowstone strings together Yellowstone’s most storied wildlife habitats with expert guiding and included lunch.
Upper Loop Wildlife Van Tour: Lamar Valley, Mount Washburn & Mammoth Hot Springs
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You climb into a windowed van while the town of West Yellowstone is still half-asleep, steam curling from paper cups as headlights carve into the predawn. The road out of town unfurls into the dark: the Madison River murmurs to the left, and a guide’s headlamp illuminates a distant silhouette—a bull elk frozen at the river’s edge. That moment—coffee warming, scope focused, the valley turning from ink to bronze—frames the day ahead on the Upper Loop Tour.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early and dress in layers
Morning temps can be freezing even in summer; wear a base layer, insulated mid-layer, and windproof shell to adapt as the day warms.
Bring your own optics if you have them
Guides provide a spotting scope, but a personal pair of binoculars speeds up sightings and keeps the scope free for the group.
Follow wildlife etiquette and guide directions
Stay in the van or at designated pullouts, maintain distance from animals, and never attempt to feed or approach wildlife—safety for you and the animals is the top priority.
Pack a small daypack with water and snacks
Lunch is included, but extra water, electrolyte drinks, and a compact snack help during long periods of observation and driving between sites.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Gray wolf
- American bison
History
Yellowstone was designated the first national park in 1872; Lamar Valley later became renowned after wolf reintroduction in 1995 reshaped the ecosystem.
Conservation
Visitors are asked to maintain safe distances, pack out trash, and follow park rules; the tour uses scopes to minimize disturbance and supports responsible viewing practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in West Yellowstone
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Insulated, layered clothing
Keeps you comfortable through cold mornings and windy midday nights on Mount Washburn.
Binoculars (8–12x)
Speeds up initial animal spotting and complements the guide’s spotting scope.
Camera with telephoto lens (200mm+)
Captures distant wildlife in Lamar Valley without disrupting natural behavior.
Sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Useful for short boardwalk walks at Mammoth and uneven pullout terrain.