National Parks Family Journey: Yellowstone and Grand Teton
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable family adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. This National Geographic Family Journey offers a unique blend of wildlife safaris, scenic river floats, and educational experiences. Explore the wonders of Yellowstone's geothermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful and the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring. In Grand Teton, enjoy a guided raft trip down the Snake River, surrounded by majestic peaks and diverse wildlife. Young explorers can earn junior ranger badges while discovering the rich history and natural beauty of these iconic parks. With comfortable hotel accommodations and private transport, this small group tour ensures a seamless and enriching experience for families seeking adventure and discovery in the great outdoors. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Jackson
Location: Jackson
Accommodation: Mountain Modern Motel
Accommodation Name: Mountain Modern Motel
Arrive in time to meet your fellow travelers for a welcome gathering this evening. Your arrival transfer is included.
ACTIVITY: The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
TRANSPORT: You will be transferred from the airport to your start hotel.
Day 2: Jackson/Grand Teton National Park
Location: Grand Teton National Park
Accommodation: Mountain Modern Motel
Accommodation Name: Mountain Modern Motel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Spend the day exploring the spectacular peaks and valleys of Grand Teton National Park, beginning in the Moose historic district, where early log-cabin homesteads help tell the stories of the bold fur trappers, mountain men, and female entrepreneurs who settled the region. At the park's Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center, young travelers begin their junior ranger journey. Later, grab an oar for a rafting expedition down the Snake River. As you gently float along, spot mule deer, pronghorn, elk, and moose in the surrounding woodlands and meadows. Enjoy a delicious lunch after your river adventure.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a 16km (10 mile) guided scenic raft trip on the Snake River in Grand Teton National Park. Learn from local guides about the history of the region, as well as the plant and wildlife against a backdrop of majestic peaks. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, bald eagles, osprey, bears, beavers, and more.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 3: Grand Teton National Park
Location: Grand Teton National Park
Accommodation: Mountain Modern Motel
Accommodation Name: Mountain Modern Motel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Board a boat for the ride across Jenny Lake; then set out on a hike in Cascade Canyon—carved by retreating glaciers some 15,000 years ago—and continue to Hidden Falls, plummeting almost a hundred feet into the gorge. This afternoon, opt for a hike around Jackson Lake. Young explorers will also have the opportunity to complete their junior ranger activities and claim their Grand Teton badge!
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Choose to take the shuttle boat across Jenny Lake to begin the hike towards Cascade Canyon to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. (Round trip Length: 2.2 Miles, Total Elevation Gain: 450 Feet)
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON Enjoy free time to explore Grand Teton National Park. Stick to Jackson Lake to canoe, kayak, or swim. Opt to hit another trail on a hike or horseback ride.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 4: Grand Teton National Park/Yellowstone National Park
Location: Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park
Accommodation: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
On a morning drive, we’ll cross the Continental Divide and travel into the vast caldera of the Yellowstone supervolcano—a volcano capable of a massive eruptions, which Yellowstone has experienced three times in just over two million years. View wisps of steam rising from geothermal hotspots throughout the park—home to about half of the world’s geysers. Visit the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center to begin a new junior ranger journey, and gather to watch the famed geyser erupt on the clock. Stroll boardwalks winding between the bubbling and gurgling hot springs and geysers of the Upper Geyser Basin, and peer into the spectacular rainbow-hued Grand Prismatic Spring, where thermophilic bacteria generate incredible shades of yellow, blue, and red.
Additional Information: Please note, the long drive days listed on days 4-7 include multiple stops and are inclusive of all activities described in the day itinerary.
ACTIVITY: Make several stops throughout the day. Today the journey is the destination. Cross the Continental Divide and get a taste of just some of the 10,000+ hydrothermal features, 500+ active geysers (more than half the world's geysers), and almost 300 waterfalls. Stay on the lookout for the 67 species of mammals and 285 species of birds that call this place home.
TRANSPORT: Settle in, scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle and enjoy the wonders of Yellowstone.
Day 5: Yellowstone National Park
Location: Yellowstone National Park
Accommodation: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Venture out in search of astonishing geological activity and amazing creatures in the Yellowstone wilderness—established as the world’s first national park in 1872. Hike in the spectacular Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and see the rushing river and falls; then in the lush Hayden Valley, marvel at the bubbling Mud Volcano and the turbulent waters of the acidic Sulphur Caldron. Further your discoveries at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center where you will encounter bear habitats, gray wolves, river otters, and have the opportunity to observe, understand and ultimately appreciate these magnificent animals.You’ll also have the chance to explore the historic town of Mammoth Hot Springs, home to Yellowstone National Park headquarters; and stop at Roosevelt Lodge, once a tent camp for trappers and explorers. Set out on safari through the sweeping Lamar Valley—known as the “Serengeti of North America” for its high concentration of wildlife, including bison, elk, and elusive wolves and grizzly bears.
Additional Information: There is so much to see and do in Yellowstone National Park and the wildlife is a big part. Based on animal sightings and park ranger feedback, we give our CEOs the opportunity to adjust the order of highlights explored in the park. The activities above will be delivered across day 5 and 6 of this tour.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a visit to the Wolf and Grizzly Center and have an opportunity to observe, understand and ultimately appreciate grizzly bears and gray wolves serving as ambassadors for their wild counterparts. All the animals seen at the Center are unable to survive in the wild. See exhibits like, the Banks of the Yellowstone River Otter, The Raptors, and The Naturalist Cabin with exceptional views of wolves and Bears. Naturalists will be available throughout the facility to answer any questions you might have during our 1.5 hour visit.
ACTIVITY: Make several stops throughout the day. Today the journey is the destination. Geysers, waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic beauty are around every corner just waiting to be explored. In fact, Yellowstone National Park is a super volcano with the world’s largest active geyser field, boasting more than 10,000 geysers. The Park is also home to more wild animals than almost anywhere else in the U.S., including roaming bison, gray wolves, elk, black bears, and, of course, the famous grizzly bear. Spend the day discovering the impressive natural phenomenons within the park.
Day 6: Yellowstone National Park
Location: Yellowstone National Park
Accommodation: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Venture out in search of astonishing geological activity and amazing creatures in the Yellowstone wilderness—established as the world’s first national park in 1872. Hike in the spectacular Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and see the rushing river and falls; then in the lush Hayden Valley, marvel at the bubbling Mud Volcano and the turbulent waters of the acidic Sulphur Caldron. Further your discoveries at the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center where you will encounter bear habitats, gray wolves, river otters, and have the opportunity to observe, understand and ultimately appreciate these magnificent animals.You’ll also have the chance to explore the historic town of Mammoth Hot Springs, home to Yellowstone National Park headquarters; and stop at Roosevelt Lodge, once a tent camp for trappers and explorers. Set out on safari through the sweeping Lamar Valley—known as the “Serengeti of North America” for its high concentration of wildlife, including bison, elk, and elusive wolves and grizzly bears.
Additional Information: There is so much to see and do in Yellowstone National Park and the wildlife is a big part. Based on animal sightings and park ranger feedback, we give our CEOs the opportunity to adjust the order of highlights explored in the park. The activities above will be delivered across day 5 and 6 of this tour.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a visit to the Wolf and Grizzly Center and have an opportunity to observe, understand and ultimately appreciate grizzly bears and gray wolves serving as ambassadors for their wild counterparts. All the animals seen at the Center are unable to survive in the wild. See exhibits like, the Banks of the Yellowstone River Otter, The Raptors, and The Naturalist Cabin with exceptional views of wolves and Bears. Naturalists will be available throughout the facility to answer any questions you might have during our 1.5 hour visit.
ACTIVITY: Make several stops throughout the day. Today the journey is the destination. Geysers, waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic beauty are around every corner just waiting to be explored. In fact, Yellowstone National Park is a super volcano with the world’s largest active geyser field, boasting more than 10,000 geysers. The Park is also home to more wild animals than almost anywhere else in the U.S., including roaming bison, gray wolves, elk, black bears, and, of course, the famous grizzly bear. Spend the day discovering the impressive natural phenomenons within the park.
Day 7: Yellowstone National Park
Location: Yellowstone National Park
Accommodation: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Accommodation Name: Yellowstone Park Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a final day exploring one of America’s most beloved national parks. Descend a wooden boardwalk into the vast Norris Geyser Basin, dotted with colorful pools and steaming fumaroles; then stop by the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center for lunch, where young travelers can claim a Yellowstone junior ranger badge.
ACTIVITY: Take in any remaining highlights of Yellowstone National Park. Continue to stay on the lookout for the wildlife that calls this place home.
Day 8: Yellowstone National Park/Jackson
Location: Yellowstone National Park, Jackson
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head back to Jackson early this morning where tour ends in downtown Jackson.
Additional Information: When arranging your flights, please take into consideration the below time restrictions for departing from your group. With these times, we have taken into account travel time to/from the airport in the given destination and required time for check-in or baggage collection/immigration.
Please note that your outgoing flight from Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) must depart no earlier than 14:00 (2pm) on Day 8. The group will be brought to downtown Jackson. You must make your own way to the airport from there as only permitted airport vehicles can do airport drop offs.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (7 nts) -
Meals
7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner -
Family Journeys Moment
Experience the Grand Teton Scenic River Float and visit the Wolf and Grizzly Center in Yellowstone National Park.
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Arrival Transfer
Enjoy a convenient arrival transfer to your starting location.
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Guided Snake River Float
Participate in a guided float down the Snake River.
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Grand Teton National Park Entrance
Gain entrance to Grand Teton National Park.
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Jenny Lake Boat Ride
Take a boat ride across Jenny Lake.
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Yellowstone National Park Entrance
Gain entrance to Yellowstone National Park.
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Yellowstone National Park Tour
Enjoy two full days touring through Yellowstone National Park's highlights.
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Lamar Valley Wildlife Safari
Set out on a wildlife safari through Lamar Valley.
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Wolf and Grizzly Center Visit
Visit the Wolf and Grizzly Center to learn about these magnificent animals.
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Transport
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is provided.
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included.
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International Travel
International travel to and from the tour location is not included.
Transport
Private vehicle, boat, walking
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays at the Mountain Modern Motel and Yellowstone Park Hotel, with a total of 7 nights in hotels during your journey through the stunning landscapes of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
Meals Included
7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner
Group Size
Max 20
Solo Travellers
We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Odd number adult travellers in your family will be paired in twin accommodation with another adult traveller of the same sex for the duration of the trip. ...more ...less
Meals
Eating is a big part of traveling and we encourage you to experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Its important to remember, that food may be different from what you are used to at home and that some things may not be available in other countries.
Some meals are included in the trip price, while others are not, to allow flexibility and choice to you and your family. For non-included meals our CEOs will still make arrangements for the group to eat together, which allows you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and approximate budget (per person) for meals not included.
Throughout this trip, breakfast is included daily (ranging from continental to buffet depending on the trip), as are healthy, local snacks. Tap water is safe and drinkable everywhere. Please remember to bring your own refillable bottle and refill at the start of each day.
Note that any special meal requirements or dietary restrictions need to be specified at time of booking.
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Mode of Transport
Travel conveniently with private vehicles, boats, and walking tours, ensuring a seamless and immersive experience as you explore the breathtaking scenery and wildlife of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
Minimum Age
Minimum age of 7 years for this trip.
Important Notes
1. All parents/guardians are required to supervise their children at all times throughout the tour and may not leave their child under the supervision of the CEO, local guides, drivers, etc. Children are not to be left unattended.
2. Please note that on all Family Adventures one adult can only accompany up to two minors. If you have over two minors planning on travelling then a second adult will be required to attend.
3. TRAVEL DAYS
In order to cover the vast distance in North America to be able to visit several different parks and cities along our trip, we will have a couple of long driving days.
4. WALKS AND HIKES - OPTIONAL
All walks and hikes proposed by our CEO will be easy to moderate level. You may choose to participate or not, but exploring our national parks on foot is part of our way of travelling. It’s a healthy way to discover North America’s beauty and landscape.
5. LEGAL DRINKING AGE
Please note that the legal drinking age in the United States is 21. Many bars and clubs will ask for ID at the door, therefore listening to live music in certain bars or spending a night out is not possible when you are under the legal age, even if you don't plan on consuming alcohol. Drinking laws are strictly enforced and our CEOs are unable to help those under age obtain alcohol of any kind.
While this should not stop those under legal drinking age from booking a tour, it is important to note that if a traveller is under-age there are certain optional nighttime activities that they may not legally be able to participate in. When trying to book the right trip, we recommend that travellers under legal drinking age take this into consideration when booking a tour that visits several big cities.
6. Family Insurance
Options for family travel insurance are available. Please enquire with your Family Trip Specialist for more information.
7. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
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Group Leader
All National Geographic Family Journeys with G Adventures group trips are accompanied by two of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense; you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds. ...more ...less
About Accommodation
Rooming is based on double occupancy (2 passengers / 2 beds per room); all other room configurations are on request and cannot be guaranteed. We will try to accommodate triples/quad requests whenever possible and it's important to note that rooming configuration can change from city to city and 2 single beds are the standard configuration in a room.
Please remember that hotel/lodge standards can be different from what you are used to in your home country, which is part of the appeal of adventure travel.
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What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. Your baggage should be clearly labelled and restricted to one soft compact suitcase, sports bag, or backpack. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. Porters are not often available, so be prepared to carry your own bags. ...more ...less
Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can we expect to see during the tour?
During the tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including wolves, buffalo, grizzly bears, mule deer, pronghorn, elk, moose, bald eagles, osprey, beavers, bison, gray wolves, black bears, and more.
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What activities are included for children on this tour?
Children on this tour can participate in the junior ranger programs at both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. They will have the opportunity to complete activities to earn their junior ranger badges.
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What is the main mode of transportation during the tour?
The main modes of transportation during the tour include a private vehicle, boat, and walking.
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Are there any specific activities planned in Yellowstone National Park?
Yes, in Yellowstone National Park, activities include visiting the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center, watching the Old Faithful geyser erupt, exploring the Upper Geyser Basin, viewing the Grand Prismatic Spring, hiking in the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and visiting the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center. ...more ...less
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation during the tour includes stays at hotels for 7 nights, specifically at the Mountain Modern Motel and Yellowstone Park Hotel.
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Is there a specific age requirement for this tour?
Yes, the minimum age requirement for this tour is 7 years.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 1 dinner.
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What is the group size for this tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is 20 people.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
National Parks Family Journey: Yellowstone and Grand Teton
8 Days Starting and ending in Jackson, USA
Visiting: Jackson, Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park
Tour operator:
Tour code:
25171
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 20
Age range:
7-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
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