Itinerary

Day 1 (Bozeman to Yellowstone National Park) Follow in the return-journey footsteps of Lewis and Clark over Bozeman Pass to the Yellowstone River, then head straight for Yellowstone National Park to hike a favorite trail near Mammoth Hot Springs. After lunch we stroll the fascinating limestone terraces that have been formed by years of mineral hot water deposits. We'll also check out the Albright Visitor Center.

Day 2 (Yellowstone National Park) Yellowstone provides a nearly unparalleled opportunity to see a full complement of native wildlife in their natural habitats. Watch for herds of bison and elk, packs of wolves and coyotes, grizzly and black bears, pronghorn, and more. Early this morning we’ll head to the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley to spot wildlife and identify tracks. This afternoon we return to Gardiner for some exciting Class II-III whitewater rafting down the Yellowstone River. Watch for osprey nests and bald eagles fishing along the banks of the mighty Yellowstone. Brave rafters can jump in the water and feel the current through "Swimmers Rapid."

Day 3 (Yellowstone National Park) We make our way toward Old Faithful via Dunraven Pass to see the breathtaking Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where two staggered falls spill water twice the height of Niagara. Late in the day we check into our rooms at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge, and after dinner we catch an eruption of Old Faithful in the soft evening light. Old Faithful can seem like a tourist cliché—until you experience an eruption in person and hear the deep rumble and hiss as it explodes from the ground.

Day 4 (Yellowstone National Park) Yellowstone’s famous Upper Geyser Basin holds more active geysers than the rest of the world put together. This whole day is ours to discover, explore, and learn about the bizarre and fascinating world of geysers, hot pools, and mud pots. We'll walk to off-the-beaten-path features like Lone Star geyser as well as other amazing thermal features.

Day 5 (Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks) Today we meander south through Yellowstone and into Grand Teton National Park, enjoying scenic views of Jackson Lake before sitting down for lunch in view of the iconic peaks of the Teton Mountain Range. After lunch we take the Jenny Lake Ferry across the lake, where you can hike out to Hidden Falls or Inspiration Point if you’d like. There is also a shorter hike around the lake, or you can ride the ferry back. Late in the afternoon we'll settle into our comfortable accommodations in Jackson Hole, walking distance from the shops, galleries, and restaurants of Jackson's town square. Enjoy this wonderful western tinsel town, and explore area restaurants tonight for dinner on your own.

Day 6 (Grand Teton National Park ) This morning we float the scenic Snake River through the heart of Grand Teton National Park. The calm-water float offers majestic views and great wildlife-watching opportunities. Our river guides have a wealth of natural history knowledge and local stories. In the afternoon we ride the famed Aerial Tram—12 minutes and 4,139 vertical feet—for awe-inspiring views. If you’re feeling energetic, you can hike back down.

Day 7 (Jackson and flights home) Flights home are out of Jackson any time this morning, unless you're extending your stay to further explore this pretty part of the world! For more flight options, you can shuttle over the dramatic Teton Pass to the airport at Idaho Falls.

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