Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Loop Hike With Lunch

Enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park on this guided loop hike through the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. With experienced guides leading the way, you’ll traverse scenic trails, taking in stunning views of the iconic Upper and Lower Falls. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore unique thermal features and keep an eye out for Yellowstone’s diverse wildlife. And what better way to refuel than with a delicious picnic lunch amid the park’s stunning landscape? This six-hour adventure promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

This experience made our list of the 4 Best Lunch Experiences In Gardiner Montana.

Key Points

• 6-hour guided tour exploring the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River, including views of the Upper and Lower Falls and thermal features.
• Hiking along the rim with an experienced guide, covering around 6 miles with an elevation of 8,000 feet and a mix of uphill and downhill sections.
• Morning snack and hot drink provided, with essential gear such as backpacks, trekking poles, binoculars, and bear spray included in the tour.
• Guided tour departs from the Upper Falls Viewpoint Parking Area, with a meeting point located 3.4 miles south of Canyon Village on the Grand Loop Road.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, and overall 5-star rating from 10 reviews highlighting the diverse scenery and exceptional hiking experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

This Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Loop Hike with Lunch activity is a 6-hour guided tour that allows visitors to explore the iconic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River.

Priced from €172.78 per person, the tour is conducted in English with a live guide. Guests can expect to hike along the rim, take in views of the Upper and Lower Falls, and discover thermal features, lakes, and valleys.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, those with mobility issues, heart problems, or individuals over 80.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Hiking Experience

The guided hike along the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River offers a captivating glimpse into Yellowstone’s iconic natural wonder.

Travelers will be treated to unparalleled views of the Upper and Lower Falls, two of the park’s most famous waterfalls. The journey also includes exploring thermal areas with mudpots and steam vents, as well as spotting wildlife in the serene Hayden Valley.

Experienced guides lead guests along off-the-beaten-path trails, providing a truly immersive experience.

The 6-mile hike, with an elevation around 8,000 feet, includes both uphill and downhill sections, offering a rewarding challenge for adventurous travelers.

Itinerary and Equipment

The initial setup for the hike includes a morning snack and hot drink to help fuel adventurers. Hikers are provided with essential gear like backpacks, trekking poles, binoculars, and bear spray.

The trail details an exciting journey:

1. Hiking to Artist Point offers breathtaking views of the iconic Lower Falls, which plummets over 300 feet.
2. Traversing Native trails, explorers will encounter thermal areas with mudpots and steam vents.
3. The route through Hayden Valley provides opportunities to spot wildlife in the stunning natural landscape.

The hike covers approximately 6 miles with an elevation around 8,000 feet, featuring both uphill and downhill sections.

Meeting and Directions

The guided hike departs from the Upper Falls Viewpoint Parking Area off South Rim Drive.

This meeting point is located 3.4 miles (8 minutes) south of Canyon Village on the Grand Loop Road.

Alternatively, the starting location is 34 miles (1 hour and 5 minutes) north of West Thumb Junction on the Grand Loop Road.

Visitors coming from West Yellowstone, Montana, or Gardiner, Montana should plan for an approximately 1.5-hour drive to reach the meeting point.

The guided tour explores the incredible scenery of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, offering stunning views of the iconic waterfalls and thermal features along the trail.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

What to Bring

To make the most of the guided hike, visitors should bring comfortable shoes that provide good traction on uneven terrain.

Plus, participants should pack the following essentials:

1. Water – Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during the summer months when temperatures can soar.
2. Rain gear – The weather in Yellowstone can be unpredictable, so having a lightweight, waterproof layer is recommended.
3. Binoculars – These will allow hikers to get a closer look at the diverse wildlife and geological features along the trail.

Visitors should also note that pets, drones, and feeding or touching animals are strictly prohibited on this tour.

Important Information

Participants should note that this activity takes place rain or shine, so it’s essential to come prepared for the weather conditions.

Hikers are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring rain gear to stay dry.

The tour operator doesn’t allow pets or drones on the hike, as they can disturb the natural environment and wildlife.

Feeding or touching the animals is also strictly prohibited for the safety of both the participants and the animals.

Cancellation Policy

For this tour, a free cancellation policy of up to 24 hours in advance is offered, allowing for a full refund.

This flexible cancellation policy ensures that customers can plan their trip with confidence, knowing they can receive a full refund if their plans change.

The key benefits of this policy include:

1. Peace of mind in case of unexpected schedule conflicts or changes.
2. The ability to cancel without penalty, making it easier to book the tour.
3. A hassle-free refund process, should customers need to cancel their reservation.

This cancellation policy demonstrates the tour provider’s commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility.

Customer Reviews

Based on the 10 reviews received, the overall rating for this tour is an impressive 5 out of 5 stars.

Hikers rave about the diverse scenery and exceptional hiking experience. They highlight the guide’s expertise in navigating the off-the-beaten-path trails and sharing fascinating insights about the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

Reviewers also praise the well-paced itinerary, allowing them to fully enjoy the natural wonders. The picnic lunch along the trail is consistently mentioned as a highlight, providing a chance to refuel and appreciate the stunning vistas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Hike Suitable for Beginner Hikers?

The hike may not be suitable for beginner hikers due to its moderate difficulty level, 6-mile length, and 8,000-foot elevation. However, the guided tour and included gear make it more accessible for those with some hiking experience.

Can I Bring a Picnic Lunch Instead of the Provided One?

You can bring your own picnic lunch instead of the one provided, as long as it does not include any food for feeding the wildlife. The tour guide can provide recommendations on where to enjoy your meal along the trail.

Is There an Option to Purchase Additional Snacks and Drinks on the Trail?

Participants can purchase additional snacks and drinks at the starting point before the hike begins. However, there are no opportunities to purchase additional items along the trail during the guided tour.

Are Walking Sticks or Trekking Poles Available for Rent at the Meeting Point?

According to the activity overview, trekking poles are included as part of the gear provided for participants. Hikers do not need to bring their own walking sticks, as they’ll be available at the meeting point.

Does the Guide Provide Any Historical or Geological Information During the Hike?

The knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary throughout the hike, sharing the fascinating history and geology of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River and its unique natural features, such as the iconic waterfalls.

Recap

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone loop hike is a remarkable opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty of Yellowstone National Park. Led by experienced guides, this 6-hour adventure offers breathtaking views of the iconic Upper and Lower Falls, as well as a chance to explore unique thermal features and spot wildlife. With a delicious picnic lunch included, it’s a must-do activity for anyone seeking to enjoy the wonders of this iconic landscape.

You can check if your dates are available here: