Available languages
8 hours
Mobile ticket
This Wildlife Viewing Van Tour is a great way to see the unique animals of Yellowstone National Park. We begin 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 scope for wildlife on the shoulders of one of Yellowstone's tallest peaks, Mount Washburn.
Next we explore the Lamar Valley, known as the Serengeti of North America. We will use spotting scopes to look for wolves, bears and other wildlife. Enjoy a hot drink and morning snack while watching wolves.
Next we visit the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces for a short walk. If you don't feel like walking we find a safe, scenic spot for you to wait for the group near the van.
Finally, we head back toward West Yellowstone stopping for additional wildlife sightings along the way.
The day concludes back at West Yellowstone.
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Van with large windows for wildlife sightings
Brown Bag with snacks
Soda/Pop
Bottled water
Hot coffee/tea/cocoa while watching wildlife
Spotting Scope for viewing wildlife at a safe distance
Sandwich, apple, nuts, snacks (Turkey/Veggie/Vegan/Gluten Free Options) Please notify YHG with any food allergies or dietary restrictions
Binoculars for personal use to view wildlife
Yellowstone Entrance Fee: Unless You Have an Annual Pass, which is good for 4 people in your party
Gratuities
Select a pickup point
Madison River
Scope for wildlife along the Madison River in the early morning light. Bears and elk frequent this valley.
Mount Washburn
Scope for wildlife on driving up Mount Washburn. This area is home to grizzly bears and elk herds.
Pickup included
150 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
SHAWN L,
Oct 4, 2025
- Viator
We had a magical day and saw numerous wildlife which included deer, herds of elk, pronghorn, bison, a wolf, coyote, black bear with cubs - but seeing a huge bull moose was the highlight! We had 6 in our group plus our driver/tour guide Ron who was very knowledgeable & courteous. Van was air conditioned & comfy & individual binoculars provided for everyone!
Pat R,
Sep 30, 2025
- Viator
Our guide, Spencer, was terrific. Knowledgable, informative, funny. He helped us to see things we would have never seen. We learned a lot. Our advice though, do not be the last ones to be picked up. We were in the back row. Tiny seats, smallest window in the van. Very tight.
Linda F,
Sep 28, 2025
- Viator
It was amazing. We saw bison, bears, antelope and an eagle. Ron was great! He was very knowledgeable and informative. We could not have asked for anything better.
Louise S,
Sep 17, 2025
- Viator
Long Day, amazing tour, loved it, would do it again, tour guide was very knowledgeable and personable, answered all our questions
Chuwey T,
Sep 14, 2025
- Viator
The time that the guide shows up may be later than the time they tell you to show up at a pick up site. Other than that the tour was fabulous. Our guide Spencer was very knowledgeable.
Operated by Yellowstone Hiking Guides