Lamar Valley Wildlife Safari from Gardiner

Nicknamed “America’s Serengeti,” the Lamar Valley is Yellowstone’s premier wildlife viewing destination. This sweeping grassland, carved by ancient glaciers and the meandering Lamar River, provides a vital habitat for the park’s most iconic species. Visitors can observe vast herds of bison, packs of wolves, grizzly bears, elk, pronghorn, and countless birds from the comfort of their vehicle or roadside pullouts. Dawn and dusk offer particularly magical moments when the valley comes alive with animal activity.

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is an often overlooked spot and often ends up being tour highlight. The canyon runs 20+ miles and holds the tallest waterfall in Yellowstone.

Mammoth Hot Springs is a unique cluster of natural attractions situated at the northernmost entrance of Yellowstone National Park, just outside Gardiner, Montana. This remarkable site is celebrated for its striking travertine formations, which arise from the accumulation of mineral deposits over time. The pools within Mammoth Hot Springs are home to various species of thermophilic bacteria that thrive in the warm waters, imparting a distinctive brownish and reddish hue to the surroundings.

Standing proudly at Yellowstone’s original northern entrance, the Roosevelt Arch is a majestic symbol of America’s commitment to public lands. Dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903, this massive stone archway bears the inscription “For the Benefit and Enjoyment of the People.” Built from local columnar basalt, the 50-foot arch welcomes visitors to the world’s first national park through the historic town of Gardiner, Montana, just as it has for over a century.

Plunging 132 feet past dramatic volcanic spires, Tower Fall ranks among Yellowstone’s most picturesque waterfalls. Named for the towering pinnacles of volcanic rock that stand sentinel around its cascade, this elegant waterfall draws visitors to its viewing platform year-round. The surrounding Tower-Roosevelt area, with its rugged basalt columns and pine forests, provides a striking backdrop for this natural wonder and serves as prime habitat for black bears, grizzlies, and agile bighorn sheep. A short paved trail from the parking area leads to the primary overlook.

Tucked along the scenic Mammoth-Tower road, Undine Falls cascades gracefully in three distinct tiers over ancient volcanic cliffs. This 60-foot waterfall, named after mythical water spirits, offers a perfect roadside stop for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The falls’ multiple steps create an enchanting display as Lava Creek tumbles through a rugged basalt canyon, especially dramatic during spring snowmelt. A convenient pullout provides excellent viewing of this hidden gem.

Mating swans have built a nest - a rarity in Yellowstone. See them peacefully swimming in this serene lake.