Yellowstone Wildlife Trails Tour

Welcome to Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah and the gateway to incredible national parks. Set in a beautiful location at the foot of Utah's Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake is also the home of the worldwide headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the Mormons. A welcome meeting will be conducted at 18:00 hrs in your hotel.

Optional Activities: Mormon History Museum US$free

Leave Salt Lake City behind, cross Idaho and pass through the beautiful Targhee National Forest en route to the valley of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. This mountain resort is popular during the winter months as skiers flock to the area, whilst summer sees walkers and other thrill seekers enjoying the area and its proximity to Grand Teton National Park. Why not take an optional aerial tram ride to the top of Rendezvous Mountain for 360 degree views of the Snake River Valley and Grand Teton National Park, or simply explore the town of Jackson Hole which maintains an authentic 'Wild West' feel. Your overnight stop for the next two nights will be in Grand Teton National Park.

Optional Activities: Western saloons US$varies Chuck wagon dinner US$25-$35 White water rafting on the Snake River US$77-$124 Mountain biking US$30-$70 Aerial tram US$42

Famed for its iconic soaring peaks, the 64 km Grand Teton Range explodes out of the ground with its jagged fang-like mountains. Rocky spires, lakes and forests fill the park, with more than 10 pinnacles reaching over 12,000 ft. Rich in fauna, inhabitants of the area include Bison, Elk, Black and Grizzly Bear, Bighorn Sheep, Moose and Mule Deer, all of which have been seen on our trips. There are many self-guided hikes to choose from today, walking amidst dramatic scenery and appreciating the geology and nature of the area. Perhaps choose to take the ferry across Jenny Lake and hike up to Inspiration Point and beyond, following the stream. It is commonplace to see Moose and Bear whilst hiking this trail.

NOTE: The National Park Service regulates guided hikes in Grand Teton National Park so it is not possible for your leaders to accompany you today.

Optional excursion: Ferry across Jenny Lake US$15

Enjoy the incredible Yellowstone National Park and its beautiful surroundings during your four nights here. See geothermal activity of bubbling mud pools, multi-coloured hot springs and bursting geysers. You will also have a full day with a specialist wolf and wildlife tracking guide, exploring the parks wilderness by foot as well as by vehicle to learn all about the animals that can be found within the park. You may not always be lucky enough to see wolves as these elusive creatures can sometimes be hiding, but your guide will do their best, however you will get to see a variety of other wildlife species as you explore the park along the way.

You will also enjoy a walk to view the Upper and Lower Yellowstone Falls, leaving the crowds behind you as you explore the wilderness by foot as well as a visit to Mammoth Hot Springs. The intensity of the hikes will depend on the overall groups ability and fitness. Breakfast is included on three of the four nights here.

Continue through the mountains of Montana where you will witness the famous 'Big Sky' scenery this area is known for. View forest and mountain backdrops as you arrive into Glacier National Park where you'll spend the next two nights, giving you time to explore this immense expanse. Keep your eyes peeled for Deer and Bear which frequent this area, as well as taking in the stunning scenery and glacial lakes. You'll have time on arrival for a short walk to stretch your legs and to admire some of the scenery and prepare for some big days of hiking. Journey along the Going-to-the-Sun road, stopping off along the way for walks and photo opportunities. Your guide will also help you spot bear, wolverines and lynx if you are lucky. If conditions are right, you will also get to go out on the Iceberg Lake for more striking mountain scenery and beautiful wildflowers. 

NOTE: The National Park Service regulates guided hikes within Glacier. You will be led by a National Park guide, however your tour leader is not permitted to walk with you on trails but will provide detailed briefings, directions, maps and transportation.

Crossing into the state of Idaho, you will pass through small historic towns in the 'Silver Valley', once known as the 'silver capital of the world'. If it's a hot day, you might get the chance to swim in the lake in Coeur d'Alene or enjoy a drink down by the marina with sunset views over the shimmering water.

Leaving Coeur d'Alene behind you, cross over the border into Washington State as you make your way towards Seattle, your final destination. Today's journey takes you past the border of Mount Rainier National Park where the imposing Mount Rainier stands at 14,000ft. This is Washington's highest volcano and on a clear day you can see it from Seattle.

Upon arrival to Seattle your tour ends back at the hotel. This tour ends at approximately 17:00 hrs.

Why not consider extending your time in Seattle allowing you time to explore more of the Pacific Northwest and this fantastic city? Speak with our destination specialists to find out what options are available to you. If you are planning to fly tonight, please do not book a flight that departs before 21:00 hrs.