Lower Loop Van Tour from West Yellowstone: Grand Prismatic and Old Faithful
Overview
Available languages
8 hours
Mobile ticket
This Active Van Tour is a great way to see Yellowstone National Park beginning in the fun gateway town of West Yellowstone. The early morning part of the tour explores wildlife haunts in the famous Shadow Canyon of the Madison River. This area is home to bear and elk.
Later we hike to an overlook of the famous Grand Prismatic Hot Springs. If you don't feel like walking we find a safe, scenic spot for you to wait for the group.
Next we explore the Old Faithful area, including some time at the famous Old Faithful Inn.
We continue over the continental divide and down to the West Thumb Geyser Basin on Yellowstone Lake for a view of some spectacular lakeside thermal pools.
Continuing our drive along Yellowstone Lake we arrive at the Mud Volcano near the Hayden Valley. See bison roam along the Yellowstone River.
Finally, we arrive at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to view the canyon and the amazing Lower Falls at Artist Point. The day concludes back at West Yellowstone.
Additional Info
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Binoculars for viewing wildlife at a safe distance
Van with large windows for wildlife sightings
Brown Bag with snacks
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
Sandwich, apple, nuts, snacks (Turkey/Veggie/Vegan/Gluten Free Options) Please notify YHG with any food allergies or dietary restrictions
Hot coffee/tea/cocoa
Spotting scope for viewing wildlife at a safe distance
Yellowstone Entrance Fee -- Unless You Have an Annual Pass, which is good for 4 people in your party --
Gratuities
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
What To Expect
Madison River
Drive along the Madison River and watch wildlife in the early morning light.
Grand Prismatic Spring
Hike to a viewpoint of the Grand Prismatic Hot Springs. This hike is along an old stagecoach road before climbing 200 feet to see one of the largest hot springs on earth. We arrive early to beat the heat and crowds. This is a must see while visiting Yellowstone!
Options
Lower Loop Van Tour from West Yellowstone: Grand Prismatic and Old Faithful
Pickup included
Reviews
340 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Incredible experience at the park!
Christine S,
Aug 10, 2025
- Viator
5.00Michelle was an awesome guide! Very knowledgeable about the park. We saw a lot of wildlife, bison, elk, and wolves. Windows on van were very clean which was great for viewing and taking pictures along the way. Would highly recommend this guide!
A Memorable Start to Solo Traveling
Cecilia Z,
Aug 9, 2025
- Viator
5.00This is my first solo trip, and it’s been wonderful. Our tour guide, Oliver, was so considerate, professional, and energetic, he took great care of everyone in the group. The group members were also lovely, always willing to lend a hand.
Great high level tour of the South Loup of Yellowstone
Timothy C,
Aug 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a nice tour for our family of five. It was great to have someone else do the driving for a day and give the parents a chance to enjoy the sights. This tour hits the big stuff in the Lower Geyser Basin. Handy to have curbside service for the popular spots...Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Artist's Point at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Having snacks, drinks and lunch provided was super. Tour guide was knowledgeable and good at interacting with the whole group. Van was roomy. Access to binoculars was a perk we really appreciated, too.
Great day in Yellowstone!
Jacqueline S,
Jul 30, 2025
- Viator
5.00Excellent trip! Emily was able to offer insights on what we were seeing as well as history. Beautiful access, good driving, and delightful company. Went out of her way to help when I got i needed earlier exit. Rest of family continued with fabulous experience. Thank you!
Awesome tour!!
Diane W,
Jul 25, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a great trip. Dallas showed us everything that was promised and more!!! He was entertaining and very knowledgeable!!
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Operated by Yellowstone Hiking Guides