Fountain Paint Pot

Shortly after leaving Madison Junction, we are greeted by the steaming geothermal area. The first feature we encounter is a predominantly mud pot landscape, named for the red, yellow, and brown hues of the mud here, caused by varying oxidation states of iron in the mud. A highlight of the mud pots' geothermal activity is the bubbling, caused by gases emitted by the Yellowstone volcano. These bubbling phenomena vary with the seasons.

Grand Prismatic Spring

Leaving the Fountain Paint Pot area, a short 10-minute drive brings us to the renowned Grand Prismatic Spring, also known as the Grand Rainbow Hot Spring. It holds the distinction of being the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. Spanning approximately 75 to 91 meters in width and plunging to depths of 49 meters, it releases a staggering 2,000 liters of water per minute, maintaining a temperature of around 71°C. The Grand Prismatic Spring serves as an iconic symbol of Yellowstone's geothermal wonders, boasting a diameter surpassing 100 meters and presenting a stunning array of colors, ranging from vivid blues and greens to striking yellows, oranges, and reds. Undoubtedly, it stands as the park's largest and most visually captivating thermal feature.

Old Faithful

After a 15-minute drive, we will arrive at Yellowstone's largest visitor center and iconic attraction: Old Faithful. It is an intermittent geyser located in Yellowstone National Park, named for its regular eruptions. It was named during the Washburn-Langford-Doane Expedition in 1870 and was the first named geyser in Yellowstone National Park. Its current eruption interval is around 90 minutes, and each eruption lasts 4-5 minutes, with water columns reaching over 40 meters high, making it a spectacular sight. The geyser and the adjacent Old Faithful Inn are listed as part of the Old Faithful Historic District.

Yellowstone Lake

After a 30-minute drive, a stretch of mirror-smooth lake water will come into view. This is the West Thumb Geyser Basin on the shores of Yellowstone Lake. Formed some 150,000 years ago due to the subsidence of the Earth's crust, this basin presents a fascinating spectacle where hot springs combine with the lake waters, creating a misty ambiance. Steam rises from the hot springs, mingling with the serene waters of Yellowstone Lake, set against a backdrop of blue skies and white clouds, forming a unique landscape distinct from other thermal areas in Yellowstone. This area serves as a bay of Yellowstone Lake, where numerous geysers congregate, each with its own array of colors at their vents—some transparent green, others dark hues resembling cement. Together, these myriad geysers present a beautiful, fantasy-like scene.

Bridge Bay Marina

Yellowstone Lake Scenic Cruise Come aboard the Lake Queen II for a one-hour guided tour of the largest freshwater lake above 7,000 feet in the United States. The boat departs the Bridge Bay Marina to cruise on Yellowstone Lake with up to seven different times to choose from. Along the way you will learn about the Lake Area Historical District, the remains of the SS E.C. Waters which you will view, and other amazing information that this area holds. You will be watching for eagles, shorebirds, and occasional elk and bison sightings on the shoreline.

Antler Arches of Jackson

From its outward decorations to its interior design, the town embodies the essence of the Wild West cowboy culture. Within the town lies the famous Elk Antler Park, home to America's largest and most breathtaking elk antler arches. Adorning each corner of the park, these arches, crafted from naturally shed antlers collected after the elk herd winters in the "National Elk Refuge," are a must-see attraction for every visitor!

Teton Point Turnout

Not far south from the Snake River Overlook along Highway 191, you'll spot a sign on the roadside indicating "Teton Point Turnout." Upon entering, you'll find a spacious parking area offering expansive views. From here, you can take in the majestic panorama of the Teton Range, with its peaks stretching endlessly in a formidable line. Marvel at the enduring glaciers atop the peaks, providing a truly breathtaking spectacle.

Oxbow Bend

The Snake River flows from Jackson Lake Dam and curves gracefully near Highway 89, forming the iconic Oxbow Bend on its way to Moran. A pullout along the highway offers stunning westward views of Mount Moran, its towering granite peak reflected in the river's calm waters. On clear days, the mirror-like surface captures the perfect blend of sky, mountains, and river, making it a favorite spot for photographers. Surrounded by tall trees and shimmering currents, the area exudes a serene, picturesque charm. Renowned for wildlife viewing and breathtaking autumn landscapes, Oxbow Bend is a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Jackson Lake

Jackson Lake, a natural lake formed during the Ice Age, lies in Grand Teton National Park, northwest Wyoming. It spans 24 km in length, 11 km in width, and reaches a depth of 134 meters, maintaining an average temperature of 16°C year-round. The Jackson Lake Dam increased its capacity, making it a key water source for Idaho irrigation. Fed by the Snake River from the north, water exits through the dam on the east side. Known for diverse aquatic life, the lake is home to various trout species, including Snake River cutthroat trout and mountain whitefish. It features over 15 islands, including Elk Island, and scenic spots like Donoho Point. The John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway runs along its eastern shore, connecting Yellowstone to Jackson Lake. The area offers boat tours, lodges, hiking, camping, and serene views, with Jackson Lake Lodge providing accommodations but no boat tours.

West Thumb Geyser Basin

As evening falls, we make our way back to the Yellowstone Lake area. Known as the largest volcanic lake in the United States, Yellowstone Lake offers a captivating blend of geysers and pristine waters, along with unparalleled sunset vistas. Among the array of trails around the lake, the West Thumb Trail stands out for its unique charm. Here, you'll marvel at the ethereal steam rising from hot springs, the crystalline depths of Yellowstone Lake, all framed against the backdrop of the azure sky and billowing clouds.

Morning Glory Pool

Following lunch, we'll guide you through the trail area behind Old Faithful. The Upper Geyser Basin boasts Yellowstone's highest concentration of geysers, with about 200-250 out of the park's total 180 geysers nestled in this region. Along the trail, you'll encounter iconic landmarks like Castle Geyser, Grand Geyser, Daisy Geyser, Riverside Geyser, and Morning Glory Pool. Here, you'll witness a diverse array of geothermal features, including fumaroles, hot springs, geysers, and mud pots. After arriving at the Morning Glory Pool, if we have the time and energy, we can continue hiking along the trail to reach the Sapphire Pool in the Biscuit Basin. These two, the Sapphire Pool and the Morning Glory Pool, stand out as the most distinctive hot springs along this trail.

Midway Geyser Basin

After about a 40-minute drive into the park, our initial destination is the Grand Prismatic Trail. Spanning approximately 3 kilometers, the trail starts with gently sloping sandy terrain before gradually transitioning to slightly steeper inclines. Accessible to the public only from May to August due to weather conditions, visitors should exercise extra caution for safety if exploring during other months.

The tour ends with drop-offs at airport hotels. Please book flights after 8:00 PM on day three or the next morning.