Family Yellowstone Adventure (7 Days) 

     Jackson, Wyoming, situated on the edge of Grand Teton National Park, is world-famous for its scenic beauty and old Western charm. Tonight, we’ll meet for an informal welcome dinner and orientation. (D)

     Elk, pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and bison grace the plains and bald and golden eagles soar overhead as we explore this national treasure. We may also visit the Murie Museum, which boasts a fine teaching collection of skins, scat, and tracks. In the evening, we’ll float the scenic waters of the Snake River in the shadows of the splendid Tetons. We may see moose, beavers, osprey, pelicans, and the occasional black bear near the river’s edge. (B,L,D)

     This morning, we’ll assist in catching and banding songbirds, a wonderful and close-up encounter with nature for all ages that combines research and education. Later, we’ll travel the inner loop road of Grand Teton National Park and enjoy spectacular views of the majestic Teton Mountain Range. We may also visit the renowned Colter Bay Indian Arts Museum or take a short walk to Swan Lake in hopes of spying trumpeter swans and sandhill cranes. Upon arrival at Old Faithful, we’ll have ample time to explore among the fumaroles, hot springs, and geysers before dinner. (B,L,D)

     We’ll spend the day exploring the wildlife, scenery, and history of the Old Faithful area and the world’s first national park. We’ll visit a number of local geyser basins and discuss the impact geology has on the surrounding landscape. A hike to Fairy Falls or Lone Star Geyser will focus on the impact of the famous fires of 1988. Keep an eye out for bison and elk, which are often seen wandering among the hot pools, steam vents, and geysers. (B, L, D)

     From Old Faithful, we’ll head to Canyon Village and explore the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the Upper and Lower Falls. Then we’ll travel through Yellowstone’s Hayden Valley, which is a favorite grazing area for large herds of bison and elk. We may also see coyotes and bald eagles, which often soar overhead. After checking in to our accommodations at Lake Village, we may take a short hike along the shores of Yellowstone Lake to skip stones and watch the sunset. (B, L, D)

     After a hearty breakfast, we’ll travel along the shores of Yellowstone Lake en route back to Jackson. As we soak in the gorgeous scenery, we’ll stop and walk the boardwalks of West Thumb Geyser Basin before departing Yellowstone National Park. Back in Grand Teton National Park, we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner while canoeing on String Lake, an incredible glacial lake at the base of the Teton Mountain Range. After one last glorious sunset among the Tetons, we’ll return to Jackson where we overnight once again. (B, L, D)

     Prior to your departure, you’ll have today to enjoy the town of Jackson and the variety of activities it offers. Complimentary hotel shuttle service is available. (B)