Yellowstone & Grand Teton 4-Day Wildlife Adventure: Lamar Valley to Old Faithful
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average physical condition; involves mostly vehicle-based travel with short, easy walks and some standing for photos.
Overview
A four-day, small-group loop from Jackson through Grand Teton and Yellowstone that focuses on wildlife viewing and iconic geothermal features. Expect dawn and dusk safaris in Lamar and Hayden Valleys, boardwalk walks at Old Faithful and Mammoth Hot Springs, and plenty of photographic opportunities.
Yellowstone & Grand Teton 4-Day Wildlife Adventure: Lamar Valley to Old Faithful
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Daybreak in the Tetons is a slow exhale: steam lifts off marshes, bison silhouettes dot a pale plain, and the first light pins the jagged peaks like a photograph coming into focus.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive a day early
Flights and mountain roads can be delayed; arriving in Jackson the day before gives you buffer and better sleep before early starts.
Use the provided optics
The tour supplies binoculars and a group spotting scope — use them before hiking to avoid startling wildlife up close.
Respect wildlife distances
Keep at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from other large animals; follow the guide's instructions for safe viewing.
Prepare for temperature swings
Layered clothing and a windproof shell will make morning safaris and cooler canyon overlooks comfortable.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bison
- Grizzly bear
History
Yellowstone was established as the world’s first national park in 1872; the Mormon Row barns in Grand Teton echo 19th-century homesteading on land long inhabited by the Shoshone people.
Conservation
Stay on boardwalks and trails, pack out trash, and avoid feeding or approaching wildlife; these practices reduce human-wildlife conflict and protect fragile thermal features.
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Adventure Hotspots in Jackson, WY
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
A compact pair helps spot animals at distance and is invaluable during valley safaris.
Layered clothing and windproof shell
Temperatures swing from sub-freezing mornings to mild afternoons; layers allow quick adjustment.
Sturdy walking shoes
Boardwalks and short dirt paths require good traction and comfort for repeated short walks.
Telephoto lens or zoom camera
A 200–400mm equivalent helps capture wildlife without needing to close distance.