Yellowstone National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour

Overview

Explore Yellowstone National Park with an app-based, self-guided GPS audio driving tour through geyser basins, wildlife-filled valleys, waterfalls, canyons, and mountain scenery. There’s no in-person guide—your phone leads the way with turn-by-turn navigation, stories, wildlife insights, and directions as you explore the park. Follow turn-by-turn directions to iconic sights including Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Lamar Valley. Shaka Guide tours are created by real people who know and experience the destinations they guide, bringing Yellowstone to life through engaging stories, history, wildlife insights, and local knowledge. One purchase covers everyone in your vehicle. Download the Shaka Guide app and tour before you go; once downloaded, the audio and map work offline, and GPS-triggered narration plays automatically as you drive.

Itinerary

1. Madison River

   Start your adventure by driving along the crystal-clear Madison River. As one of the best rivers in the nation for fly fishing, it holds the honorable distinction of being a Blue Ribbon Fishery. Some sights you’ll pass by are Talus Mountain, Mount Haynes, and National Park Mountain. There are lots to see and do nearby, including checking out the Visitor Center, the Tribal Heritage Center, or the surrounding hydrothermal features along the Geyser Loop Trail. If you need a snack, coffee, or restroom break, be sure to stop by the historic Old Faithful Lodge. That’s also where you’ll find the gift shop.

   · 30 min

2. To start your epic day loop, head right at Madison Junction. Don’t forget to stop by the restroom if you need to!

   · Non-stop passage

3. Firehole Canyon Drive

   It’s the moment we’ve been waiting for—Mammoth Hot Springs! Some big highlights on this 1.5-mile drive are the Orange Spring Mound, Angel Terrace, and Aphrodite Terrace. You won’t want to miss this iconic drive around Yellowstone’s white travertine terraces.

   · Non-stop passage

4. Take a quick detour down Fountain Flat Drive, where you’ll find a lively, grassy meadow, two small hot springs, and the legendary Maiden’s Grave. You’ll also get another good look at the Firehole River, jumping and splashing with trout.

   · 15 min

5. Firehole Lake Drive

   A brief loop on the 3-mile Firehole Lake Drive leads to several stunning hydrothermal features, including the White and Pink Dome Geysers and the Great Dome Geyser. They’re all available from roadside lookouts or short boardwalk walks. Temporary access notice: Firehole Lake Drive is currently closed to vehicles. The road remains accessible on foot or by bicycle where permitted, but there is no dedicated parking along the route. Continue along the main tour route and check current National Park Service conditions before your visit.

   · Non-stop passage

6. Midway Geyser Basin

   The Midway Geyser Basin may just end up being your favorite stop in the park. Along the short boardwalk trail that encircles the gigantic, 370' Grand Prismatic Spring, you'll also witness a number of other smaller hot springs. If you have time, be sure to pull into Fairy Falls Trailhead and take the 0.6 mile one-way hike to Grand Prismatic Overlook. If you’re feeling adventurous, this trail continues for another 1 mile (each way) to Fairy Falls, one of the park’s most spectacular waterfalls.

   · 1 h

7. It’s not a trip to Yellowstone without visiting the iconic, reliable Old Faithful. The big geyser itself erupts about every 60-110 minutes, but if you get there early, don’t fret. There’s lots to see and do nearby, including checking out the Visitor Center, Tribal Heritage Center, or visiting one of its many surrounding hydrothermal features along the Geyser Loop Trail. If you need a snack, coffee, or restroom break, be sure to stop by the historic Old Faithful Lodge. That’s also where you’ll find the gift shop.

   · 1 h

8. A short boardwalk allows visitors to see the roaring Kepler Cascades. This multi-tiered fall has drops as long as 50 feet.

   · 30 min

9. Stop at Isa Lake and see the only lake in the world that flows into two different oceans. Not only that, this lake drains backward—the western end flows to the Atlantic, and the eastern end flows to the Pacific. It’s definitely a one-of-a-kind stop.

   · 10 min

10. This may just be one of the best-kept secrets in aYellowstone. Without traveling too far off the beaten path, you’ll be able to enjoy one of Yellowstone’s best geyser basins. Be sure to check out the famous Fishing Cone Geyser while you’re there! The Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail is also worth a walk if you have time. It’s a quick 1.7-mile loop that’s popular with birders.

    · 1 h· Admission not included

11. Take this scenic drive along the lake peninsula and enjoy a picnic stop at Gull Point.

    · 20 min

12. Fishing Bridge has a ranger station, a general store, and, of course, the fishing bridge. Be sure to walk along the bridge to scan for the Cutthroat trout that like to gather below. Then, when you’re done, rejoin the Grand Loop and continue north.

    · 30 min

13. Continue your journey north by driving into the wildlife haven known as Hayden Valley. This marshy landscape attracts grazers from all over, and grazers attract predators. Keep on going until you reach the south rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

    · 25 min

14. Take a short boardwalk down to the Yellowstone River and the roaring LeHardy Rapids. In early spring, these rapids are alive with jumping, spawning cutthroat trout.

    · 30 min

15. This may not be one of the park’s best-known geysers, but it should be! Mud Volcano is one of the most unique and overlooked hydrothermal areas of the park—and one of the most acidic! Be sure to check out Dragon’s Mouth Hot Spring—a roaring, sloshing, bubbling hot spring full of personality!

    · Non-stop passage

16. This drive leads to two more fantastic canyon viewpoints—the Upper Falls View and Artist Point—along with some optional hikes. I recommend Uncle Tom’s Trail. Take time to admire this geological wonder: the eras of rock carved through by the Yellowstone River's awesome power are truly breathtaking.

    · 1 h

17. After you circle around, turn right just past the North Rim Drive to get one final look at the Upper Falls. This viewpoint, right at the brink of the falls, is one of the best in the park. You’ll need to walk just over a quarter mile on an easy trail to enjoy its viewing platform.

    · Non-stop passage

18. Canyon Village has a restaurant, a lodge, several shops, and a visitor center. If you do nothing else, be sure to stop by the visitor center—the displays, including one lit diorama of Yellowstone, are informative. They really help to visualize complex geological processes like the formation of the canyon and caldera.

    · Non-stop passage

19. Stop at the Washburn Hot Springs Overlook for views toward the thermal area and surrounding high-country landscape. This is a scenic overlook; do not attempt to access the hot springs.

    · 10 min· Admission not included

20. The drive up to Mount Washburn is sure to leave you breathless—whether from the heights or the narrow road. The stunning view that awaits you looks over the river, peaks, and valleys off in the distance.

    · Non-stop passage

21. Tower Falls has a general store and, as you may have guessed, a waterfall. A short boardwalk leads to several breathtaking overlooks of the plunging 132-foot falls. There is also a one-mile there-and-back trail that leads to the river and past a few bubbling cauldrons.

    · Non-stop passage

22. Up next is the majestic hot spring cone known as Soda Butte. Even though it's no longer active, it's still worth stopping by. Not to mention, cliff swallows have turned the cone into a kind of bird condominium, so be sure to check it out!

    · Non-stop passage

23. Take a quick restroom break and fill up the tank before continuing your journey along the northern loop. If you’re feeling hungry, step into the historic Roosevelt Lodge to fill up your internal tank.

    · 15 min

24. Take a short detour to see one of Yellowstone’s petrified trees—a fossilized remnant from a time when Yellowstone was covered in redwoods and warm-weather forests.

    · 15 min

25. Blacktail Drive is accessible to all vehicles, but exercise caution after rain. This gravel road is much more scenic and private than the main road, and that means you’ll have a better chance to see wildlife. Be aware that this one-way drive will take you back to Tower Junction, so you will have to turn around if you choose to take this optional side-trip.

    · Non-stop passage

26. Undine Falls is where Lava Creek tumbles over basaltic stones. To reach the overlook, you just go down a few wooden steps. At the next pullover—just seconds ahead—lies the Lava Creek Trail and Picnic Area.

    · 20 min

27. It’s time to check out Mammoth's famous Lower Terrace. Those stunning photos of snow-white terraces you see online? They happen right here.

    · 1 h

28. And now, it’s on to the Upper Terrace! Some major highlights on this 1.5-mile drive are the Orange Spring Mound, Angel Terrace, and Aphrodite Terrace. You won’t want to miss this iconic drive around Yellowstone’s white, otherworldly landscape.

    · 20 min

29. This quick looping drive takes you through Yellowstone’s “hoodoos.” Though we call them "hoodoos," they are actually boulders that rolled down from nearby Terrace Mountain. Real hoodoos are formed by erosion. You should take a few minutes to check out this boulder field and “false hoodoos” for yourself.

    · 10 min

30. These two pullovers let you admire the plummeting rustic falls and the Golden Gate viaduct. Though this new concrete bridge is much more stable than its wooden predecessor, its sheer height is sure to take your breath away.

    · 20 min

31. Pull in to see Sheepeater Cliff, a geometric basaltic wall that was named for the Sheepeater people, one of the few Native American tribes to have lived in Yellowstone year-round. These hexagonal columns formed naturally over 1.3 million years ago and cooled into the unique shape you see today.

    · 30 min

32. Because of some extra-handsy tourists (shame! ), you aren’t allowed to walk directly to the Obsidian Cliff. But we’ll get a great view as you drive past, and then we’ll stop off at the exhibit. Then, take a short 5-minute walk to get another view of the cliff, with black glass shining and shimmering in the sun.

    · 15 min

33. You’ve seen them, and you’ve smelled them. Now, let’s hear them. Roaring Mountain is pocked with fumaroles, super-hot chasms that “roar” and hiss with steam. The ash-gray color of this mountain is caused by sulfur-reducing bacteria that dissolve the lava stone over time.

    · 15 min

34. Drown down this side road to check out a film about the park rangers, browse some historical exhibits, and maybe pick the brain of a current or retired park ranger. After all, without these dedicated employees, none of what you’re experiencing would be possible.

    · 30 min

35. You’re not “geysered out” yet, are you? Because there is one more major basin to see before you head up to Mammoth Hot Springs. The Norris Geyser Basin is Yellowstone’s hottest and oldest geyser basin, featuring the tallest geyser in the world! You won’t want to miss this 2.9-mile looping boardwalk trail.

    · Non-stop passage

36. Artists’ Paintpots 0.6-mile boardwalk begins in pine woods and emerges into a basin full of colorful mud pots. It's one of Shaka's top spots for avoiding the crowds while enjoying the park's unique, bubbly, gurgly hydrothermals.

    · Non-stop passage

37. This is one of the most radiant hot springs in the park, with a striking blue color like that of a beryl stone. It’s just on the side of the road, so it’s more than worth the stop.

    · 10 min

38. Want to enjoy the music of the Gibbon River while having lunch? Swing by the Gibbon Picnic Area! After you’re done, it’s less than a half-mile drive to Gibbon Falls, named for early Yellowstone explorer Colonel Gibbon.

    · 20 min

39. Yellowstone's early volcanic eruptions left behind this mountain of compacted, welded volcanic ash. Be sure to stop by to see it. Additionally, picnic tables and a restroom are available at the pullover.

    · 10 min

40. From here, it’s a scenic drive at dusk through the west exit. Then, you’ll be back in West Yellowstone and ready to rest and recharge for your day in Grand Teton!

    · 25 min

How to use your ticket

Thank you for purchasing the Yellowstone Tour. Before you start your adventure, you'll need to redeem and download the tour in the Shaka Guide app. Follow the instructions below: *Please Note: The redeem code is the 10-digit booking reference number on your ticket (located under the barcode). 1. Download the Shaka Guide App in the App Store or Google Play Store (or use the link at the bottom of this email) 2. Open the app and sign in/create your account 3. Go to Support → Retrieve Purchases 4. Tap on Redeem Purchases 5. Enter your Redeem Code (10-digit booking reference number on your ticket located under the barcode) 6. Tap on Redeem Purchases 7. Download your tour(s) Once you've redeemed your tour, you'll find it under "My Stuff" in the app. For a smooth ride, download the tour with wifi before you go. Should you need further assistance or have other questions, email us at aloha@shakaguide.com or call (808) 201-8138 DOWNLOAD THE APP HERE: www.shakaguide.com/download

Meeting and end point

What to know before you go

• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• This is a self-guided driving tour. Transportation and a driver are not included, so you’ll need your own vehicle or rental car.
• The tour has five designated starting areas at Yellowstone’s West, North, Northeast, East, and South Entrances. Choose the starting point that best fits your trip in the Shaka Guide app.
• Download the Shaka Guide app after booking and use the redemption code provided in your confirmation to access your tour.
• Download the tour over strong Wi-Fi before entering the park. Cell service is unreliable in Yellowstone. Once downloaded, the Shaka Guide audio and map work offline, and GPS-triggered narration plays automatically as you drive.
• The itinerary is flexible. Stops, viewpoints, and hikes are recommendations, not requirements. Skip stops, stay longer at places that interest you, or explore different sections of the park over multiple days.
• Yellowstone National Park requires a separate entrance pass. Park admission is purchased directly from the National Park Service and is not included with the Shaka Guide tour. Entrance requirements and fees may vary by pass type and traveler eligibility.
• Most Yellowstone roads and entrances are seasonal. Road access can also change due to weather, construction, wildlife activity, or other conditions. Check current National Park Service road status before your visit.
• Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Always follow posted park regulations and maintain required distances from wildlife.
• Hiking is optional. Trail length, difficulty, elevation, and conditions vary throughout the park, so choose activities that match your available time and comfort level.
• Accessibility varies by stop. Because this is a self-guided tour using your own vehicle, accessibility depends on your vehicle and the locations you choose to visit. Some boardwalks, trails, viewpoints, and outdoor stops may not be wheelchair or stroller accessible.
• Bring a fully charged phone. A car charger is recommended, especially when exploring the park for a full day or across multiple days.

Travelers

Pricing per group (up to 15 people).

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

Reviews

Product code: 102020P56

Activity offered by Shaka Guide Apps via Viator.