Yellowstone and Grand Teton Wildlife Private Journey

Trip Level

The trip is Level 2, Easy to Moderate, according to our trip grading system. Wildlife viewing takes place during drives and nature walks on mountain roads. There is the option for hikes of your choice, covering a variety of terrain and usually on well-marked trails. There is no extensive hiking on the trip, but you should be in good physical shape to enjoy it to the fullest. Accommodations are in comfortable hotels and lodges ideally located to avoid crowds and get you as close as possible to the best wildlife viewing. Jackson, Wyoming, is at an altitude of 6,200 feet and Gardiner, Montana, is at 5,200 feet. The hikes and drives within the national park are at altitudes upwards of 8,800 feet, and can be higher on some hikes. If we drive on the Beartooth Highway, the altitude reaches 11,000 feet.

Weather

The months between Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend are exceptionally beautiful in Yellowstone, although they draw the highest volumes of visitors. From June through August, average temperatures are in the 60s and 70s, making for great hiking conditions. Excellent months to visit are from mid-May through early June and between September and October, with fewer crowds. Spring in Yellowstone can be unpredictable, with the park emerging from winter hibernation. It can be quite cold (around 20F to 50F) so be sure to pack warm layers. Visiting Yellowstone in September and early October can be especially exciting because the elk are in rut. The weather is cooler, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 35F to low 60F. Park facilities such as visitors’ centers can close as early as mid-October.