Yellowstone is a wonderful place for eco-minded travellers, and this five-day plan leans into that with hiking, wildlife watching, paddling and ranger-led learning. Each day pairs its stops by area so you can move gently through the park and soak up its geothermal wonders, wildlife and conservation stories.
Arrival and geothermal wonders
A first day that settles you into eco-friendly lodging and introduces the park's hot springs, geysers and wildlife.
Morning
Hike to
Begin with a walk to one of the most beautiful hot springs in the world, taking in its vivid colours at a gentle pace.
Afternoon
Watch Old Faithful erupt
After lunch, visit the , which erupts roughly every 90 minutes.
Evening
Wildlife watching tour
In the evening, look out for the park's famous inhabitants such as bison, elk and wolves.
Lamar Valley and geothermal features
A day of wildlife in the followed by the park's geothermal areas and a ranger-led talk on conservation.
Morning
Hike to
Set out for the , known for its abundant wildlife and open landscapes.
Afternoon
Guided geothermal tour
After lunch, join a guided tour of the park's geothermal features, including the Mud Volcano and the .
Evening
Ranger-led ecology program
Attend a ranger-led program to learn about the park's ecology and conservation efforts.
Lake paddling and scenic drive
Time on the water at , then a slow scenic drive along the , ending with a campfire story.
Morning
Kayak or canoe on
Spend the morning paddling on , the largest high-altitude lake in North America.
Afternoon
Scenic drive on the
After lunch, drive the , stopping at viewpoints and hiking trails along the way.
Evening
Campfire program
Gather for a campfire program to learn about the park's history and culture.
Backcountry riding and historic sites
A backcountry horseback ride, then a cultural walk through the park's historic sites and a night under dark skies.
Morning
Guided horseback ride
Start the day on horseback through the park's backcountry, led by a knowledgeable guide.
Afternoon
Cultural tour of historic sites
After lunch, explore the Fort Yellowstone Historic District and the .
Evening
Stargazing program
Marvel at the park's dark skies and learn about astronomy during a stargazing program.
Reflection and departure
A quiet final day to reflect on your trip and learn how to keep supporting the park's ecosystem.
Morning
Reflect on your eco-trip
Take a slow final morning to reflect on your time in Yellowstone.
Afternoon
Visit the visitor center
Before leaving, learn about conservation efforts and ways to support the park's ecosystem at the visitor center.
Evening
Depart inspired
Leave the park feeling inspired to keep travelling in an eco-friendly way and to make a positive difference.