Yellowstone Lower (Southern) Loop Tour

The Yellowstone Lower (Southern) Loop Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the park’s stunning southern region. This guided tour departs from West Yellowstone early in the morning, providing an opportunity to witness Yellowstone’s natural wonders and diverse wildlife up close. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and inclusion of park fees, the tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to delve deeper into the heart of this remarkable national treasure.

Key Points

• Guided tour of the southern part of Yellowstone National Park, departing from West Yellowstone, Montana at 6:00 am.
• Priced at $185 per person, accommodating up to 14 travelers and includes a skilled guide, bottled water, and park entry fees.
• Highlights include visiting the Grand Prismatic Spring, Fountain Paint Pots, and Hayden Valley for wildlife viewing.
• Possibility of spotting grizzly and black bears, herds of bison, elk, osprey, and packs of wolves.
• Mixed customer reviews, with some disappointment about the Grand Prismatic overlook experience.

Tour Overview

The Yellowstone Lower (Southern) Loop Tour is a guided exploration of the southern part of Yellowstone National Park, departing from West Yellowstone, Montana.

Priced from $185 per person, the tour accommodates up to 14 travelers and includes a skilled guide, bottled water, and park entry fees.

The tour starts at 6:00 am and returns to the meeting point in West Yellowstone. Confirmation is provided at booking, but the tour is non-refundable.

Customers have provided mixed reviews, with some disappointment about the Grand Prismatic overlook, but overall positive experiences with wildlife sightings and the knowledgeable guide.

Inclusions

The Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour includes several key amenities to enhance the experience. Travelers will benefit from the services of a skilled guide, complimentary bottled water, and gratuities included in the tour price. Plus, the $20 park entry fee is covered, except for those with NPS/Senior/Military/Veteran or Yellowstone Car Passes.

Inclusions	Description
Guide	Skilled and knowledgeable
Water	Bottled water provided
Gratuities	Included in tour price
Park Entry	$20 fee covered (exemptions apply)

These inclusions ensure a seamless and enjoyable tour for all participants.

Meeting and Pickup Information

All lodging properties in West Yellowstone provide pickup for the Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour.

The meeting point is at 534 Highway Ave, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, in front of Yellowstone Motel.

The tour starts at 6:00 am and ends back at the same location.

• Pickup available at all lodging properties in West Yellowstone
• Meeting point: 534 Highway Ave, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, in front of Yellowstone Motel
• Start time: 6:00 am
• Tour ends back at the meeting point
• Confirmation received at booking

Sights on the Tour

On the Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour, travelers have the opportunity to witness several of the park’s renowned natural wonders.

The tour takes visitors to the iconic Grand Prismatic Spring, one of the largest hot springs in the United States, known for its striking rainbow-colored hues. Guests also explore the Fountain Paint Pots, a fascinating thermal area featuring bubbling mud pots and colorful mineral deposits.

Plus, the tour includes stops at the Hayden Valley, a prime location for wildlife viewing, where bison, elk, and bears can often be spotted.

Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guide provides insights into the park’s unique geology and ecology.

Wildlife Encounters

Along With the park’s geological wonders, the Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour offers ample opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Guests may spot:

• Grizzly and black bears foraging for berries and hunting for prey
• Herds of bison grazing on the open grasslands
• Majestic elk with impressive antlers
• Osprey soaring above the rivers and lakes, hunting for fish
• Packs of wolves prowling the backcountry, their howls echoing through the valleys

With an experienced guide leading the way, travelers can safely observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories of their Yellowstone adventure.

Considerations for the Tour

When booking the Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour, travelers should consider several key factors.

The tour departs early at 6:00 am from West Yellowstone, so an early start is required. Participants should dress warmly and in layers, as the tour operates at high altitudes where temperatures can fluctuate.

Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility concerns should inquire about accessibility. Since the tour is non-refundable, it’s essential to review the cancellation policy before booking.

Customer Feedback

The customer feedback for the Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour was mixed, with some disappointment regarding the Grand Prismatic overlook and a miscommunication about tour details.

However, the tour also received positive reviews:

• Highlighted the knowledgeable guide
• Mentioned exciting wildlife sightings, including bears, bison, elk, and osprey
• Praised the overall experience

While some customers were let down by the Grand Prismatic overlook, others enjoyed the tour and the chance to see Yellowstone’s diverse wildlife and natural wonders.

The mixed feedback suggests room for improvement in tour details and communication.

Booking and Availability

Booking for the Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour can be done conveniently online or by phone. The tour is priced from $185 per person, with the final cost varying based on group size. The tour has a maximum capacity of 14 travelers.

Park entry fees of $20 per person are required, though visitors with certain passes like the National Park Service, Senior, Military, or Yellowstone Car Pass are exempt.

The tour departs at 6:00 am from the meeting point in West Yellowstone, Montana, and ends back at the same location.

Reservations are non-refundable, so it’s important to plan accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. However, it’s important to note that the tour operates at high altitude, so participants should consult a medical professional if they have any health concerns.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Lunch?

No, you don’t need to bring your own snacks and lunch. The tour includes bottled water, and the price covers gratuities. Travelers can focus on enjoying the sights without worrying about packing a meal.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?

It’s possible to extend the tour duration, but this may incur additional costs. Travelers should check with the tour operator about options and pricing for extending the tour beyond the standard itinerary.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate. Guests with disabilities should consult a medical professional before booking, as the tour operates at high altitude.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific restrictions on photography. However, visitors should be cautious not to disturb wildlife or get too close to thermal features for safety reasons. Photography is generally allowed, but participants should use discretion and follow park rules.

Sum Up

The Yellowstone Lower (Southern) Loop Tour offers an immersive exploration of the park’s southern region, showcasing its natural wonders and diverse wildlife. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and all necessary fees included, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking to discover the best of Yellowstone’s southern attractions. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to fully experience the beauty and magic of Yellowstone National Park.