Jackson: Yellowstone Snowmobile Tour to Old Faithful

Traveling to Yellowstone in winter is a different experience from the busy summer months. The snow-covered landscapes transform the park into a quiet, pristine wonderland. One of the most exciting ways to see this winter beauty is on a guided snowmobile tour from Jackson, heading straight into the heart of Yellowstone to visit iconic sights like Old Faithful and the geyser basin. This specific tour, rated a strong 4.8 out of 5 based on 80 reviews, promises a full 12-hour day packed with adventure, awe-inspiring views, and plenty of wildlife sightings.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of groomed snowmobile trails, which make the ride smooth and manageable, with the chance to learn about Yellowstone’s geology and wildlife from knowledgeable guides. We especially love the inclusion of breakfast and lunch, making it a good value considering the distance and the experience provided. However, keep in mind that the tour requires participants to be comfortable with snowmobiling and to dress warmly, as weather can be quite cold and unpredictable.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are eager for a full-day adventure, enjoy outdoor activities, and want a mix of scenery, wildlife, and geothermal wonders. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, given the nature of snowmobiling and the outdoor environment. If you’re looking for an authentic, thrilling Yellowstone experience with guided insights and photo stops along the way, this trip might be just what you’re after.

Key Points

• Full-day adventure lasting around 12 hours, including pickup and drop-off.
• Includes transportation through Grand Teton and Yellowstone, with scenic stops.
• Guided experience with knowledgeable guides sharing insights about geology and wildlife.
• All necessary gear provided — suits, helmets, and boots — to keep you warm.
• Food included — grab-and-go breakfast and a hearty lunch.
• Wildlife sightings and geothermal wonders make the journey memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Yellowstone by Snowmobile

The idea of snowmobiling through Yellowstone in winter is pretty much the definition of a bucket-list activity. The landscape becomes dramatically different—snow blankets the trees, wildlife tracks crisscross the snow, and geothermal features release steam into the crisp air. This tour takes you along 45 miles of groomed trail, providing a safe, scenic route that showcases the park’s winter charm.

The itinerary starts early with a pickup from Jackson Hole or Teton Village, where you’re greeted by your guides and outfitted with top-quality gear. The drive to Yellowstone passes through Grand Teton National Park, giving you a sneak peek of the towering Teton Range, a highlight even for seasoned travelers. This is a chance to appreciate the dramatic alpine scenery before diving into Yellowstone’s geothermal wonderland.

Once inside Yellowstone, the route includes several picturesque stops—Moose Falls, Lewis Canyon, Lewis Falls, and West Thumb Geyser Basin—each offering unique views and photo opportunities. Multiple scenic stops are built into the day not only for photos but also to stretch, warm up, and learn from guides about the geological features you’re witnessing. Many reviews highlight how guides are eager to share their knowledge, making the experience both fun and educational.

The Old Faithful Experience

No Yellowstone visit is complete without witnessing Old Faithful’s eruptions. On this tour, you’ll visit the geyser basin, which is the largest concentration of geysers and geothermal features in the park. You’ll get to see Old Faithful erupt, which is always a highlight—an eruption that can reach heights of 100-180 feet, shooting superheated water skyward.

You’ll also have the chance to explore the surrounding geyser basin and geothermal hotspots, soaking in the surreal landscape of steaming vents and mineral deposits. The included lunch at Old Faithful is well received, offering a hearty meal amid the geothermal spectacle. Several reviews mention how the guides manage to balance the sightseeing with safety instructions and engaging stories, making the experience both fun and informative.

The Wildlife Viewing Component

While Yellowstone is renowned for its geothermal features, in winter, the wildlife is equally captivating. The snow-covered landscape provides a dramatic backdrop for observing bison, elk, and even wolves, as multiple reviews attest. Guides are skilled at spotting animals from a distance and will often stop for quick wildlife sightings, which can be a highlight for nature lovers.

One traveler from the UK remarked, “We saw all the sights including Old Faithful and the geyser basin, and also had the opportunity to see Bison — which was surreal.” These sightings add a layer of authenticity and reason to choose a guided tour, as guides know where to look and how to do so safely.

Practical Details and Value

At $525 per person, this might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider the full-day experience, gear, transportation, meals, and guides, it represents solid value for a comprehensive Yellowstone adventure. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Jackson Hole or Teton Village, saving you the hassle of navigating park entrances in winter.

The gear provided — suits, helmets, and boots — ensures you stay warm and dry. Participants are advised to bring their own gloves and a buff or balaclava, which many reviews echo as essential for comfort. The guides are praised for their professionalism; they prioritize safety, especially given the unpredictability of winter weather.

Most reviewers mention how the knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, sharing stories and facts that make each stop more meaningful. The small group setting also means more personalized attention, as some reviews have noted.

More Great Tours Nearby

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for anyone who:

• Loves outdoor adventures and stunning scenery
• Wants to see Yellowstone in winter while comfortably riding a snowmobile
• Enjoys learning about geology and wildlife from enthusiastic guides
• Is comfortable in cold weather and layered clothing
• Doesn’t mind a long day of activity, with plenty of photo stops

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility challenges or pregnant women, since snowmobiling can be physically demanding and the environment outdoors. Also, drivers must be at least 16 years old with a valid license, and children aged 8 and above can ride as passengers.

The Sum Up

This snowmobile tour to Yellowstone from Jackson offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and scenic beauty. It’s a great way to cover a lot of ground in one day, experiencing the park’s geothermal marvels, wildlife, and winter landscapes firsthand. The guides’ professionalism and knowledge, combined with the included gear and meals, make it a convenient and value-packed option.

If you’re a traveler who craves an active, immersive Yellowstone experience that combines excitement with learning, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially appealing if you want to see Old Faithful erupt up close, spot wildlife in the snow, and enjoy the thrill of snowmobiling through one of America’s most iconic parks.

For those willing to dress warmly and embrace a full day outdoors, this tour offers a memorable winter adventure that will likely be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Jackson Hole and Teton Village.

What’s included in the price? The cost covers a grab-and-go breakfast and lunch, snowmobile gear (suits, boots, helmets), professional guides, and transportation.

Are guides knowledgeable? Reviews consistently praise the guides for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to share interesting facts about Yellowstone’s geology and wildlife.

What should I wear? It’s recommended to wear warm layers, including gloves and a buff or balaclava, since outdoor winter temperatures can be very cold. Snow suits, boots, and helmets are provided.

What are the age and license requirements? Snowmobile drivers must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license. Child passengers need to be at least 8 years old.

Can I see wildlife on this tour? Yes, wildlife sightings are common, including bison, elk, and sometimes wolves. Guides know good spots for wildlife viewing.

What if the weather is unsafe? The tour may be canceled in unsafe weather conditions, with the option to cancel up to 2 days in advance for a full refund.

This Jackson to Yellowstone snowmobile tour offers a fantastic way to experience Yellowstone’s winter magic. It combines adventure, scenery, and storytelling, making it a worthwhile choice for outdoor enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby