Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: US Rockies & Plains

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full, or multi-day itineraries.

th its name, and the whole mountain range in fact. It is a translation from that same descriptive name given by the Crow People. Sitting at 11,915 feet we'll enjoy excellent views across to it as we drive between the West Summit Overlook and the top of some pretty impressive switchbacks. There isn't a good sign, so we'll be sure to let you know the best place to see the Bear's Tooth.

The Clay Butte Lookout is home to a now disused fire tower, so you know it is going to have some of the very best expansive views. It requires driving 3 miles on an unpaved, but well-maintained spur road to access and is suitable for most regular passenger vehicles. A small visitor center operated by volunteers is found at the site in July and August.

ctivities including the most sought after campground on the drive. If we only stop for one lake on our drive - this should be the one. Hiking trails at the lake allow you to go as far as you feel energetic for and you'll enjoy pristine views. We recommend the Beartooth High Lakes Trail which follows the western shore of the lake. More committed backcountry folk set out from this location too. Boating and fishing are permitted on the lake and the Top of the World Resort has canoes and other gear available for rent.

On a drive with excellent views around every corner, the Vista Point Observation Site is notable place to stop. A short trail leads to a platform overlooking Rock Creek Valley with its U-shaped canyon carved by ice that was once a half mile thick. This is a stop not to be skipped.

A short, unpaved road takes just that little bit higher to make sure we squeeze out the best view possible. Even in the summer, weather and wind can be pretty fierce - but it can also be lovely and warm and still too. Just be prepared for anything!

This center is a gateway to Yellowstone National Park, providing maps, guides, and information on local wildlife, trails, and park activities. It's an essential stop for visitors looking to explore the park's vast wilderness.

Flowing through Yellowstone and Montana, the Madison River is renowned for its fly fishing, scenic beauty, and diverse wildlife. It’s a popular spot for anglers, floaters, and nature lovers, offering tranquil views and rich fishing opportunities.

It’s known for its rugged peaks, scenic trails, and abundant wildlife, making it a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature photographers.

It’s a paradise for fly fishing, white-water rafting, and kayaking, offering thrilling rapids, serene stretches, and beautiful surroundings.

Covering over 2 million acres, this forest offers diverse ecosystems, including alpine meadows, dense forests, and rushing rivers. It’s a haven for hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and winter sports, with trails leading to remote and stunning wilderness areas.

ewarding panoramic views of the surrounding ranges. The trail to the summit winds through dense forests and alpine meadows, providing a taste of Montana’s rugged beauty.

Chasm View and Painted Wall View are two remarkable overlooks within a national park. Chasm View offers a steep, brief trail leading to stunning views of rock climbers on the north wall of the canyon.

Pulpit Point Overlook at Black Canyon of the Gunnison is aptly named for its distinctive rock formation that extends over the canyon rim, reminiscent of a church pulpit.

making it a favorite spot for photographers.

Gunnison Point is a premier viewpoint, offering one of the closest and most striking views of the deep, narrow canyon. A short walk from the visitor center, this overlook provides a panoramic perspective of the Gunnison River as it carves through ancient rock.

is spot offers a unique historical perspective. The area features a half-mile loop, taking about 15 minutes to complete.

Tomichi Point at Black Canyon of the Gunnison offers the first dramatic glimpse of the canyon's depth and grandeur to visitors entering the park.

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route(s) to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries.

The most famous and recognizable memorial celebrating the nationhood of the USA must be the 4 presidential faces that look out from Mount Rushmore. Though you will have seen it many times depicted on TV, movies and photos, there is no equivalent to seeing it with your own eyes and feeling the scale and depth of the sculpture.

Take a leisurely drive through an enormous area of natural habitat of rolling prairie hills with open grasslands and some pine forest. Though the drive is officially only 18-miles long, expect to spend at least 1 hour, but if you enjoy spotting wildlife, its easy to spend 3 or more hours watching. Also explore some of the side roads that branch off the main route.

Devils Tower was always a place of intrigue and fascination since it became the nation's first National Monument. For a multitude of generations before that, and continuing to this day, Native Americans celebrate the site for its spiritual importance. The Tower was thrust into pop culture in the 1970's sci-fi classic as the geographical star of Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

Western South Dakota delivers a wide variety of spectacular landscapes ranging from the prairies grassland and rock formations of the Badlands National Park, through to the mountains, canyons and forests of the Black Hills for you to explore.

In 1948, Sioux Chief Henry Standing Bear approached a Polish sculptor about creating another larger than life sculpture on Thunderhead Mountain - this time celebrating Sioux and other Northern Plains native groups through a depiction of Crazy Horse.

It is filled with hotels, restaurants, cafes and stores to find your perfect Mount Rushmore souvenir.

The hub of the three best scenic drives in this part of South Dakota is Rapid City and it is the ideal place to base your accommodations, and to do some exploring in this lively town.

Located along route 87, Sylvan Lake is described as the Jewel of Custer State Park. If time allows, it's very worthwhile to allocate 45 minutes or so to enjoy the relatively easy 1.1 mile trail around the lake. The combination of grassy shores, still lake water and granite formations rising from the water are truly scenic. For more dedicated and prepared hikers, this is also the starting point for the Black Elk Peak trail, a 7 mile loop that rises 1100 feet to South Dakota's highest point.

The final 45 minute approach of the recommended direction to Mount Rushmore follows the amazing Iron Mountain Road. We'll encounter tunnels, pigtail bridges, superb lookouts and 314 curves. It is a scenic delight! The most magical moment of the drive is the view through the Scovel Tunnel where 4 presidential faces greet you at the other end, like a postcard.

This 60 foot, narrow, wispy spray of water sits right beside the road in Spearfish Canyon. It's easy to capture that perfect photo right from the viewing platform.

One of the most famous wild-west towns in the entire country - Deadwood became legendary for it's gold rush boom and the multitude of characters who we recognize to this day.

From the tiny ex-sawmill town of Savoy on the Spearfish Canyon Road, Roughlock Falls is an easy and popular spot to visit with an attractive waterfall easily accessed by boardwalk. Extend your visit with a 1 mile stream-side walking trail to the falls from the Spearfish Lodge.

Spearfish Canyon is a superb 19 mile stretch of road with stunning waterfalls and 1000 foot high limestone walls. This scenic drive connects the town of Spearfish with Savoy and Cheyenne Crossing, following the Spearfish Creek all the way.

At different times during the drive through the Badlands, we will pass through the Upper and Lower Prairie. The barrier that separates these 2 levels is known as the Wall.

The 3/4 mile Door Trail is the most popular as you follow a boardwalk until reaching a notch in the rock - the Door. Through the Door, hikers can venture into the amazing rock formations, characteristic of the Badlands. The shorter option is known as the Window Trail, just 1/4 mile long.

During its history, what is now the park has experienced perfect conditions leading to animal, plant and insect life forms to be quickly buried in silt of mud. When these events are timed just right, bones, teeth and shells especially are preserved to provide us a window to past times. Fossil finds are active to this day.

ience an important location from the Cold War arms race era. The Minuteman Missile Visitor Center serves as a museum and an opportunity to visit now decommissioned nuclear missile silos and control centers.

The unique coloring in bands across these mounds, ranges from yellow and beige through to pink. The formation originated as black, ocean mud which has weathered through exposure to air into this highly photographic yellow display.

Both locations require driving on side trips off the Black Hills Loop tour route. If you follow the loop, the commentary will include descriptions of where to turn off for these these places, and details of how to visit. Simply return to the tour route when you are done.

The base is grayish Mancos shale, topped by tan sandstone, creating a natural pattern of shelves formed over millennia by water erosion.

He carved footholds and handholds to climb it and raised the American flag on July 4, 1911 a tradition still honored today.

s, named for 19th-century brick ovens used to heat coal into coke. The softer Wingate and Chinle sandstone beneath harder Kayenta sandstone created the sculpted shapes visible today.

is a historic example of rustic park architecture. It provided early visitors with restrooms and reflects the careful integration of man-made structures into natural landscapes.

The sandstone formation frames scenic views of Wedding Canyon and Monument Canyon.

our own itinerary along the tour route to match your interests and schedule.

ark Service, the historic Lake McDonald Lodge has a European Swiss chalet style, crossed with a rustic hunting lodge - though that seems a contradiction with Park values today. Advanced reservations (through NPS) are highlighly recommended if you want to stay overnight, but day visitors are welcome in the restaurants, gift stores and general store. The lobby houses taxidermy collections of mountain animals on its walls. Activities, horseback rides and lake cruises all depart from the lodge.

Though you won't see it as you drive over, there is a small arch that allows the water to pass directly under the road.

ier Entrance, Apgar offers a visitor center, some gift and camping stores, dining, lodging and boat rentals. The Apgar Campground is the largest campground in Glacier National Park and almost always full.

oss the mountain pass and home to the Logan Pass Visitor Center. There is a selection of short or long hikes from here that will give you that incredible high alpine environment experience. Also a great place for spotting wildlife.

ek has been a favourite rest stop for many Going to the Sun Road visitors. If exploring, please stick to to the paved areas and designated trails to help prevent further erosion to this over-loved area.

ping Wall, as the snow melt showers over the road and your vehicle. By fall, you might be wondering what all the fuss was about.

arved into the mountainside by a constantly fast flowing creek. Siyeh translates to "mad dog" or "crazy wolf" but no need to fear any rabid beasts here. The pullout provides a place to park off the road and enjoy more great views of the surrounding mountains. The trailhead for some serious hikes into the mountains leave from here.

e the water, but seems only to add to the beauty at one of the most photographed locations on the Going to the Sun Road.

Just 12 miles off Highway 89 from the town of Babb, Many offers a suberb and stunning collection of views and activities. Hiking options vary from rewarding uphill efforts to Grinnell Glacier, or gentler loop walks around alpine lakes. Lake cruising has been a tradition for Many for decades. Use the cruisers for the pure sightseeing enjoyment or to shorten some of the longer hikes. It's a great wildlife spotting area too! Food services are available as is lodging - but reserve early. Remember that reservations are required to enter Many in peak season.

our own itinerary along the tour route(s) to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi-day itineraries.

f the cliff house tours as it requires climbing multiple ladders and even squeezing through tight passageways. The best non-tour view of Balcony House is from the Soda Creek Overlook Trail, also located on the Cliff Palace Loop Road. To see inside Balcony House, you must have a ticket for the Ranger-guided tour.

ellent opportunity to experience more of the culture, beyond just seeing the ruins.

as first re-found by rancher Richard Wetherill, though he'd received tips of its existence from a local Ute member. It is the largest cliff dwelling in North America with 151 rooms and 23 kivas. Getting into Cliff Palace requires a pre-purchased ticket and the tour is considered Ranger-assisted. Your timed visit is supervised by a ranger who provides information, but you are somewhat allowed to self-explore.

but its elevated mesa-top setting also means we get to enjoy some fantastic views in every direction. Though its naming is factually incorrect, the Montezuma Valley Overlook reveals a landscape where we can see as far as 100 miles away. This view is also significant because it shares the locations of other significant pueblo sites in the valley below.

A full 360 degrees of viewing can be enjoyed from this highest, easily-accessible point in the park. On a clear day you should be able to see into each of the Four Corners states, as well as numerous mountain ranges and specific geological features such as Shiprock.

Though it is not as large as Cliff Palace, this dwelling is considered the best preserved. It is easily appreciated and photographed from the viewpoint behind the museum. Unfortunately due to some rock falls and destabilization, it is not possible to visit inside the Spruce Tree House for an indefinite time moving forward. There are also 2 popular but somewhat strenuous hiking trails that leave from this location; Petroglyph Point Trail - which as the name suggests, leads to a petroglyph panel, and the Spruce Canyon Trail. Expect each of these hikes to take approx 2 hours.

personal with a cliff dwelling, but does not require a that you join a ranger-led tour, and that you do not need tickets to see. Step House is located at the end point of the excellent drive along Wetherill Mesa Road. The bonus of visiting Step House is the many outstanding views along the 20 minute each way drive.

The distinction is that it is built on the land, and not in a cliff alcove - almost like a regular building!

and is the perfect place to pause, relax, and enjoy the view. Its serene waters attract wildlife, making it a great spot for nature watching.

ay, plunging 200 feet into the canyon below. A small pull-off on the left offers a perfect viewpoint to admire the dramatic cascade.

It’s a favorite spot for birdwatchers, offering sightings of jays, woodpeckers, and waterfowl.

gs is now a historic spot to admire nature’s beauty. Known for its claimed healing properties, the springs were once frequented by those seeking cures for various ailments. Though the resort is no longer standing, the springs remain as a scenic stop along the highway.

history—it’s where Paul Newman and Robert Redford famously leaped in Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

From the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views stretching across Colorado’s plains, peaks, and even into neighboring states on a clear day.

Peak, offering sweeping views and a true test of endurance. Beginning in the town of Manitou Springs, this 13- mile trail climbs over 7,000 feet through changing landscapes fromdense forests to alpine tundra.

hway, offering a peaceful escape with stunning mountain views. Framed by tall pines and the towering presence of Pikes Peak itself, the reservoir is a favorite spot for fishing, picnicking, and photography.

nd distant mountain ranges stretch as far as the eye can see. Named after the nearby town of Cascade, this scenic stop invites travelers to pause and take in the dramatic elevation change as they climb higher into the Rockies. On clear days, the sweeping views highlight Colorado’s rugged terrain and natural beauty.

our own itinerary along the tour route(s) to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries.

scenic drive like no other in the country. Starting from either Estes Park or Grand Lake, the road climbs to heights above the treeline, topping at over 12,000 feet. There are many scenic overlooks along the way and the views to some of Colorado's most spectacular mountains is simply superb from this elevated vantage point. Not to be missed on any visit to Rocky Mountain National Park, driving the Trail Ridge Road is a must-do.

the gateway for the popular Rocky Mountain National Park. You can still rub elbows with famous mountain explorers, or just enjoy the galleries, eating fudge or shopping for fresh fruit and vegetables at the summertime Farmers Market.

It's a leisurely stroll to go around the lake and catch fantastic mountain peaks views in all directions. Keep watch for wildlife as you drive towards Bear Lake, especially elk, who love this area.

From the hairpin turn, pull into the carpark. The curved boardwalk has memorable views to various mountains including Longs Peak, at over 14,000 feet. The terrain we peer into from the view is the result of glaciers bulldozing their way through.

Hike roughly 1 mile from the Tundra Communities Trailhead and you'll reach some really unique rock formations - the Mushroom Rocks. At 12,000+ feet you may feel you need to stop and take short rests to catch your breath. Some wildlife thrive in these conditions and you may see marmots basking on flat rocks and hear pikas squeaking warning calls.

ow visitors to drive into the high alpine was what we know as the Old Fall River Road. The road is unpaved, but very well maintained, and over 11 miles, climbs its way to the Alpine Visitor Centre at over 11,500 feet. It's a slow and memorable drive that is driven as a one-way journey - uphill!

There are some boardwalks and bridges along the way. The setting is idyllic for this lake that was created by a pioneer who thought his guests might like to fish. Fingers crossed, you might see moose in the late afternoons.

Motoring buffs will have other interests to enter the hotel, there is a Stanley Steamer (steam powered car) on display. The hotel was constructed by wealthy industrialist and also conservationist, FO Stanley, who wanted the fledgling town to have a 1st-class hotel, to attract early wealthy travelers.

Imagine leaving home at age 14 for another country. Seeing your chosen profession in a brewery shutdown when prohibition came into law. Moving your wife and 5 young children to start anew in the Kawuneeche Valley, and eventually building and running a dude ranch with fishing, horseback riding and rodeos. The Holzwarth family were immigrants from Germany and hardy pioneers. Find out more at the historic site and from on-site staff.

The mountain top scenery is stunning of course, and the picture windows inside the Alpine Visitor Center provide an amazing oasis if the wind is blowing, or the temperature is dropping. Catch your breath and hike the 0.7 mile Alpine Ridge Trail, also known as Huffers Hill, that rises another 147 feet and provides 360 degree views.

ident of the United States, during his days as a cattle rancher in the 1880s.

c views of the Badlands' rugged terrain, with its rolling hills, deep ravines, and unique rock formations.

Keep an eye out for bison roaming the verdant grazing grounds below, enhancing the spectacle.

This easy half-mile trek can be completed in about 15 to 20 minutes, offering a quick yet rewarding escape into nature.

From a historic stone shelter, masterfully built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, it offers a stunning panoramic vista of the Little Missouri River.

Perched high above a sweeping bend of the Little Missouri River, this viewpoint offers one of the most dramatic panoramas in the park.

h bubbling mud pots, hot springs, and geysers. Explore it via an easy boardwalk trail. Don't miss this short but fascinating stop!

Explore it and nearby geysers like Fountain Geyser (known for frequent eruptions) on a short, easy boardwalk trail. Stay on the boardwalk - the ground is hot!

At 24 miles long and reaching depths of 1,200 feet, it's a must-see. Colorful volcanic rock layers paint the cliffs, contrasting with the cascading river. Hike the rim trails or overlooks for stunning views.

It's famous for its otherworldly-looking terraces, which have been carved by hot springs over thousands of years.

This giant hot spring (bigger than a football field!) is famous for its rainbow rings caused by colorful thermophilic bacteria. Explore it and other geothermal wonders like Excelsior Geyser on a boardwalk. Be sure to arrive early for parking and consider the upper overlook for a breathtaking view.

Forget lava flows - here, churning mud, boiling water, and steam paint a bizarre landscape. Bubbling mud pots, colorful springs, and fumaroles venting gas make it otherworldly. Explore it easily via a 0.6-mile boardwalk loop. Just remember, stay on the trail - it's hot!

Explore its wonders on various boardwalks.

This iconic geyser in Yellowstone's Upper Geyser Basin is famous for its reliable eruptions, every 65-95 minutes.

This mountainside is covered in fumaroles (steam vents) that once roared for miles. Still active, it's a quick stop with a fascinating past.

Enjoy it from an easily accessible overlook!

Tranquility with colorful springs & mud pots (boardwalk trails). Less crowded than other basins.

Park near Moose, Wyoming, offers stunning Teton views. Built in 1925, it's a popular spot for weddings and summer services (Sundays, May-Sept). Open for self-guided tours when services aren't held.

It offers rooms, cabins, dining, shops, and an outdoor pool. Perfect for a scenic Grand Teton getaway.

Enjoy boating, hiking, fishing, and stunning scenery. Explore the lake or hike for deeper immersion in the park's mountains.

Short walk, panoramic Teton views.

Step back in time and explore a replica of the ferry that William D. Menor used to transport people and goods across the Snake River in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

It's a wildlife hotspot for moose, elk, and deer, with access to hiking trails. Be aware of the narrow road, wildlife, and limited pullouts. Enjoy the views, but drive slow and watch for animals!

Historic barns stand with the Tetons as a backdrop. Free & open year-round (limited access in winter).

Standing at 7,720 feet above sea level, it offers sweeping views of the Teton Range, Jackson Hole, and the Snake River.

iew of the winding Snake River framed by the majestic Tetons. Made famous by Ansel Adams' photograph, it offers stunning year-round scenery (though winter views may be snowy).

From this vantage point, visitors can appreciate the spring's massive size and vivid coloration, which ranges from deep blues to vibrant oranges, created by microbial mats around its edges.

ry Creek, originating in the Firehole River. Discovered during the 1871 Hayden Expedition, it was named by J.W. Barlowe for its graceful descent.

tone National Park, serving as a vital link between several geyser basins.

rler, boasts icy-blue waters averaging 184 degrees Fahrenheit. The vibrant yellow-orange hues surrounding the pool are colonies of microorganisms, not mineral deposits.

ng water, shooting it 100 feet into the air. It erupts for 5 minutes every 10 to 20 hours, often signaled by its companion, the "Beehive’s Indicator," which releases a stream of water shortly before.

ring eruptions reaching up to 200 feet high. Unlike cone geysers, Grand is a fountain-type, characterised by a pool rather than a cone structure.

h temperatures around 133.1 degrees Fahrenheit. The center displays brilliant blue-green hues, indicating the hottest water, while outer regions showcase a spectrum of colours.

crafted from geyserite or sinter, reaching approximately 12 feet in height.

In the late 1800s, it served as a natural "hot pot" where visitors would cook trout directly in its boiling waters—a novel yet perilous method, leading to several fatalities.

ures between 172 and 182 degrees Fahrenheit, has witnessed cooling and depletion in the last thirty years, redirecting its water to the nearby Abyss Pool.

Plummeting 53 feet into the earth, it reigns as one of Yellowstone's deepest hot springs—a title it wears with flair, naturally.

teria flourishing in the warm waters of the West Thumb Geyser Basin. In the mid-1970s, reduced geyser activity puzzled scientists, attributing the decline to various factors like slow underground pool refilling or changes in rock composition.