Gardiner Departure
· Depart Gardiner by 6:15 AM for sunrise wildlife viewing in Lamar Valley— bison, elk, pronghorn, and possible wolves and bears.
· Stop at Slough Creek and Soda Butte for animal observation and regional history.
· Optional: Walk the Trout Lake Trail (~1.2 miles roundtrip with one moderate uphill climb, followed by a gently graded path and a moderate downhill return).
· Pause along the Lamar River for independent exploration and quiet reflection.
· Enjoy a fresh picnic lunch at a scenic pullout—featuring a selection of sandwiches, fruit, veggies, snacks, and drinks—all prepared and packed for you.
· Scenic overlook visits to Tower Fall and Calcite Springs.
· Optional hike to Lost Lake Falls (~0.8 miles out and back from Roosevelt Lodge).
· Stop at the Petrified Tree pullout for a glimpse of Yellowstone’s ancient forest history.
· Final stop at Undine Falls for a layered cascade nestled into the north rim.
· Return to Gardiner by 6:00 PM with optional Mammoth drive-through (as time allows).
West Yellowstone Departure
· Depart West Yellowstone by 6:15 AM and drive over Dunraven Pass, with photo opportunities and sweeping views.
· Scenic overlook visits to Tower Fall and Calcite Springs.
· Continue to Lamar Valley for morning wildlife viewing—bison, elk, pronghorn, and possible wolves and bears.
· Stop at Slough Creek and Soda Butte for animal observation and storytelling.
· Optional: Walk the Trout Lake Trail (~1.2 miles roundtrip with one moderate uphill climb, followed by a gently graded path and a moderate downhill return).
· Pause along the Lamar River for exploration and photography.
· Enjoy a fresh picnic lunch at a scenic pullout—featuring a selection of sandwiches, fruit, veggies, snacks, and drinks—all prepared and packed for you.
· Optional hike to Lost Lake Falls (~0.8 miles out and back from Roosevelt Lodge).
· Stop at the Petrified Tree pullout for a fascinating look at ancient Yellowstone geology.
· Final stop at Undine Falls for a waterfall framed in forest.
· Return to West Yellowstone by approximately 7:00 PM.