6 Day: Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone | Yellowstone National ParkHighlighted Areas of Study:
Wildlife Biology; Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem Conservation and Ecology; Riparian Ecology; Geology – volcanic, fault and glacial mountain building; Thermal Biology and life in extreme environments; Ornithology and general birding; Native American studies – cultural history of the plains Indians; Edible and medicinal plants; Land Stewardship; Impacts of invasive species; Endangered species; Paleontology;

Outdoor Activities: horseback riding; whitewater rafting; hiking; photography;

Day 1 – Arrival

  • Arrive in Salt Lake City, UT or Bozeman, MT.
  • Before departing for West Yellowstone, we will stretch our legs at Antelope Island State Park and experience the vast and stark wonder of the Great Basin. Enjoy a swim in the Great Salt Lake before heading to West Yellowstone.

Day 2 – Yellowstone National Park

  • Early morning departure for the Hayden Valley – an area known for abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. Our naturalist will introduce you to the ecology of the Park as we view Bison, Moose, Elk, Wolves, Bears and much more.
  • Guided hike with activities that will allow students to uncover the biological and geologic mysteries of the area.
  • In the afternoon we will stop at Mammoth Hot Springs and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
  • After dinner we will visit the West Yellowstone Wolf and Discovery Center or explore the shops of West Yellowstone.

Day 3 – Yellowstone to Jackson

  • Before we head south to the Tetons, we will explore in depth the geologic history of the still active volcanic Caldera that is Yellowstone National Park. Stops at Grand Prismatic Spring and Geyser Basin explore the micro-biotic life in these extreme environments.
  • Lunch at Old Faithful and time to shop at the Historic Old Faithful Lodge.
  • If time and weather permits, enjoy a short hike along the continental divide.
  • During our drive to Jackson Hole, we will stop to view wildlife at some particularly interesting wildlife viewing areas.
  • Dinner and hotel in Jackson Hole.

Day 4 – Teton National Park

  • This morning we enjoy a hike under the shadow of the Grand Teton (over 13,000 ft). This hike will provide breathtaking views and opportunities to learn about the Rocky Mountain ecosystem and direct evidence of glacial activity.  Guided and self-guided activities engage students to make observations, reflect on those discoveries and then group discussions.
  • In the afternoon, we will stop at the Murie Center and the new Teton National Park Visitor Center. At the Murie Center we will learn about the scientific and conservation legacy of the Murie family.
  • In the evening, we will enjoy a bit of the old west as we have time to explore the town of Jackson Hole.

Day 5 – Jackson Hole Tram and Snake River Whitewater

  • This morning we travel to the top of the Teton Range via the Jackson Hole Tram. This thrilling ride takes us up to the high alpine ecosystem with great photographic opportunities of the valley floor and surrounding mountains as well as time to explore the alpine ecosystem.
  • Later we launch on the Snake River for a thrilling whitewater adventure.
  • After the river trip, change into dry clothes and depart for Salt Lake City.
  • Overnight in Salt Lake City

Day 6 – Departure

  • After five life-changing days – depart for home

Optional Two Day float on the Snake River

Day 4 – Teton National Park/Snake River

  • This morning we enjoy a hike under the shadow of the Grand Teton (over 13,000 ft). This hike will provide breathtaking views and opportunities to learn about the Rocky Mountain ecosystem and direct evidence of glacial activity.  Guided and self-guided activities engage students to make observations, reflect on those discoveries and then group discussions..
  • After lunch we launch our rafts on the Snake River for our two-day guided river trip.
  • Overnight tent camping with evening star gazing, story telling and of course everyone’s favorite – S’mores.

Day 5 – Snake River

  • This morning we enjoy the Whitewater portion of our trip. A scenic and thrilling adventure in one of North America’s most infamous rivers.
  • After the river trip, change into dry clothes and depart for Salt Lake City.
  • Overnight in Salt lake City.

Day 6 – Departure

  • After five life-changing days – depart for home
Contact a Global Travel Alliance representative to discuss how this itinerary may be modified. Additional days available.