Overview
Experience the Rocky Mountain splendor and phenomenal wildlife of Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons! We’ll track the iconic wolf packs of Yellowstone’s amazing Lamar Valley, often called America’s Serengeti, hike in the majestic landscapes of the Grand Tetons, drift down the Snake River by private dory, and witness the geological wonder of Yellowstone, including the spectacular Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. Each day brings us something different, whether we’re hiking the inspiring trails, discovering fumaroles and mud pots, or spotting an amazing variety of wildlife—from herds of bison to elusive wolf packs on the prowl (our Trip Leader is involved with the local wolf-monitoring community). We’ve set the trip for September, when Yellowstone edges into its autumn glory and the bugling call of the bull elk echoes across the valleys. Traveling with a highly knowledgeable biologist Trip Leader maximizes our chances of spotting wildlife and we’ll get an “insider” opportunity to learn about Yellowstone's ecology, scientific studies, and conservation efforts. Begin your journey with an extension to hidden Flat Creek Ranch for three idyllic days of hiking, horseback riding, and fly fishing.
Itinerary at a Glance
Days 1-4, Sep 27-30, 2021
Jackson Hole, Wyoming / Snake River / Yellowstone / Sunrise Wolf Viewing / Pre-Trip Extension to Flat Creek Ranch
Arrive in Jackson Hole and head out on a float trip down the Snake River aboard a private wooden dory, keeping an eye out for bald eagles en route to our festive Welcome Dinner in a pristine riverside setting. The next day, a wildlife viewing drive brings us through Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone—our Trip Leader knows all the best spots along the way to look for wildlife. In Yellowstone, we get an early morning start for a day of exploring the renowned Lamar Valley, with its iconic packs of grey wolf. This famous valley also teems with other wildlife, from buffalo to elk, grizzly bear, black bear, pronghorn, otters, osprey, bald eagles, and coyotes, and the birdlife is phenomenal. Wildlife excursions and moderate hikes fill our days, with gourmet picnic lunches in the field. Overnights in the “Old West” town of Gardiner, Montana, just outside the North Entrance to Yellowstone. Pre-Trip Extension: Begin your adventure at hidden Flat Creek Ranch with three days of hiking, horseback riding, and fly fishing (3 nights/4 days).
Days 5-7, Oct 1- 3, 2021
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone / Grand Tetons
Heading south to the Tetons, we have wonderful wildlife viewing as well as a visit to the spectacular Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River, a thousand feet deep with multi-colored walls and thundering waterfalls. Our walk to the waterfall overlook reveals Yellowstone’s complex geologic history in dramatic shapes and colors. For our grand finale, we hike in the wilds of Bridger Teton National Forest, with its breathtaking views of the jagged Teton peaks. Depart from Jackson on Day 7.
Highlights
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