Grand Teton and Yellowstone Multi-Sport
Imagine the thrill of a variety-packed adventure among two of America's treasured natural wonders, the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Park. Experience hiking amid thundering geysers, biking beneath snow-capped peaks, soaring above the crowds on one the most spectacular rock climbs in the Teton Range, and rafting a nearby roaring river ... all in a land where elk, deer, buffalo and antelope play.
Tracing tranquil footpaths, we explore Yellowstone's mighty canyons and waterfalls, rugged peaks, and remarkable thermal features. We discover steaming fumaroles, spewing geysers and bubbling mud pots while experiencing one of the world's premier wildlife sanctuaries. In the neighbouring Teton Mountains, we climb, bike and paddle beneath the shadows of one of the world's most dramatic mountain ranges.
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Itinerary / Highlights
Note: The following describes our inn-based trips. The activities on the inn & camping and camping departures are identical; the only differences are the choice of accommodations and settings for meals.Day 1. Biking Bridger-Teton and Hiking Upper Geyser Basin, Old Faithful Inn
Our guides meet your group in Jackson at 8:00 a.m. After introductions, we're off for a scenic shuttle to the Bridger-Teton National Forest. Our cycling route is through the forest and meadows of the Buffalo Valley with superb views of the Tetons. The ride is downhill for the first few miles and rolling for the last part.
This afternoon we walk through Yellowstone's Upper Geyser Basin that contains the world's largest concentration of active geysers. The names of the natural wonders are as intriguing as they are fascinating to watch erupt--Beehive, Fireside, Sponge, Castle, Daisy and Morning Glory. As we walk, our guides will interpret the history and inner workings of the geyser basin.
Our home for the night is the Old Faithful Inn. Originally built in 1903, the inn is a National Historic Landmark and known as the world's largest log structure. From the inn's porch one can relax and watch the eruptions of Old Faithful.
• Biking Buffalo Valley in Bridger-Teton National Forest [approximately 14 miles with quite a bit of downhill]
• Hiking Upper Geyser Basin in Yellowstone National Park [up to 2 miles, negligible elevation change]
• Option: Observation Point walk [1 mile; 250 feet of elevation gain/loss]
Day 2. Hiking Avalanche Peak / Elephant Back Mountain, Lake Yellowstone Hotel Frontier Cabins
For those looking for a challenging alpine hike, join us for a climb up Avalanche Peak. From the summit, we are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the rugged snow-capped Absaroka peaks and serene waters of Yellowstone Lake. The lake's expansive 135 square mile surface makes it the largest lake for its elevation in North America.
If Avalanche Peak is still snowed in during early summer, we will opt for another guide favourite. Our options include a hike to Elephant Back Mountain for another unique view of Yellowstone Lake; or one through Pelican Valley which provides views of the broad open valley and forest and is some of the best grizzly habitat in the lower 48 states, although we'll be lucky to see one.
Our hotel is set close to the shores of Yellowstone Lake, offering magnificent sweeping views. In the afternoon alpenglow, the views of the Absaroka Mountains across the lake's reflective waters are breathtaking. With time permitting, enjoy a short walk along the lake's sandy shores.
• Avalanche Peak hike [4 miles, 2000' of elevation gain/loss]
• Elephant Back Mt. Hike option [4.5 miles, 800 feet of elevation gain/loss]
• Pelican Valley hike option [6 miles, rolling with minimal elevation change]
Day 3. Hiking Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Lake Yellowstone Hotel Frontier Cabins
Today's exploration of Yellowstone begins in Hayden Valley, one of the park's premier viewing areas for bison, elk, geese, trumpeter swans and pelicans.
From the valley's pastoral setting we head towards the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and lace up the hiking boots, don a daypack, and hit the trails. We walk through meadows and forests of lodgepole pine, past little-known mud pools and steam vents and on to Artist's Point on the brink of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, a stunning colorful chasm of echoing waterfalls. The 20-mile canyon is one of the world's most colorful wonders. With time permitting, we will also hike to another viewpoint of the Lower Falls (twice the height of Niagara) and marvel at the ever-changing perspectives of the golden-hued canyon walls.
• Artist's Point hike [7.5 miles, rolling terrain]
Day 4. Free day in Grand Teton National Park, Rustic Inn
After a hearty breakfast, we shuttle to neighbouring Grand Teton National Park, a paradise of snow-covered sawtooth mountains, peaceful meadows, shimmering lakes and dense forests. The Teton Range comprises 12 mountains over 12,000 feet, and the tallest, the Grand Teton, looms above at 13,770 feet.
The day is yours to spend as you like in these glorious surroundings. Superb self-guided trails await just a short shuttle away at Jenny Lake, nestled at the foot of the Teton's craggy peaks. Take a scenic ferry across the lake and then hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. For the more enthusiastic, continue up Cascade Canyon for a bit of elevation gain and a chance to spot moose and other wildlife. Or, at an easier pace, circumnavigate the lake along the water's edge and enjoy the stunning scenery or rent a canoe (at an additional cost) for a paddle around this beautiful, clear lake.
Day 5. Rock Climbing in Grand Teton National Park, Rustic Inn
Get ready for a fun-filled day of introductory rock climbing. No experience necessary—just come with an adventurous spirit and a brimming smile. We begin again with the motor boat ride across Jenny Lake to access our climbing area near Hidden Falls, a 200-foot roaring, turbulent cascade sandwiched between the walls of a deep canyon. Under the care of our expert guides, begin by learning the basics: an introduction to equipment and terminology, knot tying and belaying. After learning easy maneuvers, we progress to some basic rock climbs and possibly have an opportunity to advance to more challenging climbs. For anyone not wishing to try the climbing, we can arrange for another self-guided hike in the area or for a horseback ride. Advance reservations for horseback riding are strongly recommended so be sure to discuss your decision with your guides early on in the trip.
• Rock Climbing [all day]
• Optional horseback ride [at no additional cost] or self-guided hike
Day 6. Off-road Biking and Whitewater Rafting
Back to peddle and paddle power for our grand finale! We begin with a ride near the eastern slopes of Grand Teton National Park. We head to Antelope Flats, home to one of the grand bison herds that call the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem home. While pedaling at a relaxing pace, we can marvel at the grandeur of the Tetons.
We then board rafts and enjoy a thrilling afternoon of whitewater fun on the Snake River. Grab a paddle and share the exhilaration as you experience a new challenge around every bend. Feel the river's current beneath you as you help steer your raft downstream. Each rapid is different and they change throughout the season depending on water flows. We return to Jackson at approximately 5:30 p.m. for our trip's conclusion.
• Antelope Flats Bike Ride [8-10 miles, flat to rolling terrain]
• Whitewater Rafting [8 miles, Class II-III+]
Optional activities/excursions for Teton-Yellowstone Multi-Sport Trip
In lieu of rock climbing on Day 5, you can consider the following options to complement your vacation. Please discuss options with the office staff when booking your trip or with your guides on the first day of the trip.
• Hiking: The Jenny Lake area offers plenty of spectacular hiking opportunities (at no additional cost!).
• Horseback Rides: For a feel of the real West, we can help you arrange guided horseback rides of varying duration through Grand Teton National Park. (at no additional cost)
• Fly Fishing: Outfitters can take you along the Snake River to catch the big one, but they must be able to meet you in Jackson. (cost: approximately $300-$350 for up to two people)
How difficult is this trip ?
This terrain on this trip is more challenging than our Easy tours. It is intended for the average active adult who feels comfortable being active exercising 4-6 hours a day. The hikes are 4-8 miles, with additional miles optional, and include climbs of up to 1200 feet with options of up to 1500 feet. The bike rides are up to 25 miles/day, and climbs up to 1200 feet where some shuttling may be involved.
How will the change in altitude affect me?
This is a difficult question to answer as altitude physiologically affects different people in different ways. Yellowstone ranges from 6,000 feet to over 12,000 feet of elevation, and has an extremely dry climate. Thus, to prevent altitude sickness we recommend that you always remain well hydrated, gradually expose yourself to higher elevations, exercise moderately until altitude acclimatized, eat a diet consisting of at least 70% carbohydrates beginning 1 to 2 days prior to ascent, and get plenty of rest. Furthermore, we suggest that you arrive at our gateway city at least 1 to 2 days prior to the first day of your trip.
Other Details
Accommodation Details
Inn Departures: Inn Descriptions
• Old Faithful Inn - Originally built in 1903, the inn is a National Historic Landmark and known as the world's largest log structure. Relax on the inn's porch and watch the eruptions of Old Faithful or marvel at the intricate woodwork in the inn´s atrium and stairways. – Day 1.
• Lake Yellowstone Hotel Frontier Cabins - The majestic hotel sits on the shore of Yellowstone Lake and is listed on the Register of Historic Places. The serenity of Yellowstone Lake illuminates through the "Sun Room" windows, as guests daydream to the delicate sounds of a string quartet in the lobby. A casually elegant restaurant features a delightfully extravagant menu. We stay in the nearby frontier cabins. Built in the 1920's and completely remodeled in 2003/04, these simple, comfortable duplex units are clustered near the hotel. -- Days 2 and 3.
• Rustic Inn – The Rustic Inn is situated on seven acres of property and is only three blocks from the Jackson town square. Their luxury log cabins offer tasteful Western décor, private decks, complimentary wireless internet access and LCD flat-screen TVs. You can relax and enjoy the outdoor heated pool, Jacuzzi and sauna, or take a walk along the beautifully landscaped trail along Flat Creek. Visit the lounge for a glass of wine and a slice of gourmet flat bread. – Days 4 and 5.
Inn & Camping Departures: Inn and Campground Descriptions
• Old Faithful Inn - Originally built in 1903, the inn is a National Historic Landmark and known as the world's largest log structure. From the inn's porch one can relax and watch the eruptions of Old Faithful – Day 1.
• Bridge Bay Campground - We camp on Lake Yellowstone´s west shore next to Bridge Bay Marina which offers flush toilets and showers, boat rental and fishing opportunities--Days 2 and 3.
• Gros Ventre Campground – Situated in Grand Teton National Park, the campground lies along the Gros Vente River with a mixture of sites in sagebrush, beneath cottonwoods, and adjacent to the river. The campground has restrooms with flush toilets but no showers (we bring solar showers) - Day 4
• Rustic Inn – The Rustic Inn is situated on seven acres of property and is only three blocks from the Jackson town square. Their luxury log cabins offer tasteful Western décor, private decks, complimentary wireless internet access and LCD flat-screen TVs. You can relax and enjoy the outdoor heated pool, Jacuzzi and sauna, or take a walk along the beautifully landscaped trail along Flat Creek. Visit the lounge for a glass of wine and a slice of gourmet flat bread. – Day 5.
Camping Departures: Campground Descriptions
• Bridge Bay Campground - We camp on Lake Yellowstone´s west shore next to Bridge Bay Marina which offers flush toilets and showers, boat rental and fishing opportunities – Days 1, 2 and 3.
• Gros Ventre Campground – Situated in Grand Teton National Park, the campground lies along the Gros Vente River with a mixture of sites in sagebrush, beneath cottonwoods, and adjacent to the river. The campground has restrooms with flush toilets but no showers (we bring solar showers) - Days 4 and 5
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