While the world sleeps, the wildlife of Grand Teton National Park is on the move. This early morning safari takes you to the park's most storied vantage points. We'll scout for massive bull moose, mother bears teaching their cubs to forage in the spring meadows, elk herds and pronghorn racing across the sagebrush flats - ensuring you the best of the valley's spring wildlife before the crowds arrive.

Your morning begins with a scenic drive north, crossing the Continental Divide to reach the shores of Yellowstone Lake. In early spring, the lake is often still locked in ice, a massive, shimmering white expanse against the deep blue sky.

We’ll stop at the West Thumb Geyser Basin, a unique thermal area situated right on the lake’s edge. Here, you’ll walk boardwalks suspended over turquoise pools like the Abyss Pool and see the famous Fishing Cone, a lakeside geyser that vents steam directly into the icy lake water. The contrast of boiling spring water against the frozen lake is a quintessential "Spring Awakening" sight. 

Heading north toward Canyon, we enter Hayden Valley, the wild heart of the park. In spring, this valley is a flurry of activity:  

The "Red Dogs": Look for massive bison herds with their cinnamon-colored calves (born just weeks ago) frolicking in the sagebrush.

The Predators: Grizzly bears are often seen foraging in the valley meadows after emerging from hibernation, and the Hayden wolf pack is frequently spotted traversing the rolling hills.  

Birdlife: Watch for Trumpeter Swans and American White Pelicans returning to the winding Yellowstone River.

We end the day at the park’s most breathtaking geologic wonder. You’ll stand at Artist Point for the iconic view of the Lower Falls, a 308-foot wall of water thundering into a canyon of yellow, pink, and red volcanic rock. In spring, the peak melt makes the falls more powerful than at any other time of year; you can feel the vibration of the water in your chest as it plunges into the depths. We’ll explore both the North and South rims to see the emerald-green water carve its way through the Grand Canyon of the north. 

Wildlife at your Doorstep: Because Gardiner sits at a lower, warmer elevation, it's the first place to turn green. It's not uncommon to find bull elk or mule deer grazing just feet from your door step.

Leaving the stone arch of Gardiner, you’ll climb into Mammoth Hot Springs. In spring, the awakening is visible in the architecture of the springs themselves. The Travertine Terraces, looking like a frozen white waterfall, flow with vibrant, hot water that creates a steamy mist in the cool spring air. Look for the resident elk herd that famously lounges on the green lawns of the historic officer's quarters; in late spring, you might even see newborn fawns hidden in the tall grass near the boardwalks.

As you drive east toward Tower Junction, you enter the hilly, forested terrain known as the Black Bear Capital of Yellowstone.

Tower Fall: A quick stop to witness the 132-foot plunge of Tower Creek. In spring, the volume of water is so high it creates a permanent rainbow in the mist at the base of the volcanic spires.

The Cubs of the Year: This stretch of road is the best place to spot black bears. In May and June, mother bears (sows) are often seen right by the roadside with their tiny, tree-climbing cubs, teaching them how to forage for spring clover.

The afternoon is dedicated to the Lamar Valley, the "American Serengeti." Since you are ending your day in Cooke City, you have the luxury of staying in the valley until the very last light—the "golden hour" when predators are most active.

Wolf Tracking: This is the prime territory for the Junction Butte and Lamar Canyon wolf packs. We will use spotting scopes to scan the ridge lines for movement near the dens.

Bison Nurseries: The valley floor will be a sea of "red dogs" (bison calves). Watching them play-fight and chase each other through the sagebrush is a highlight of any spring trip.

Elkhorn Lodge is ideally situated in Cooke City, providing easy access to outdoor adventures and the stunning landscapes of Yellowstone National Park. Enjoy cozy, log cabin-style accommodations that offer rustic charm and comfort.