Description
Paddle away from the crowds and experience Yellowstone Lake from an unforgettable water-level perspective on this half-day guided kayak tour in Yellowstone National Park.
Meet your guide at the marina in Grant Village, on the western edge of Yellowstone Lake — the largest lake in the country above 7,000 feet elevation. Paddling away from the crowds in the lake's West Thumb, your guide will teach you how to safely and properly control your kayak so you can relax and take in all the natural beauty of Yellowstone. No prior kayaking experience is required, and we have both single and tandem kayaks available for everyone to enjoy.
Once on the water, your guide will lead you along the shoreline, where numerous geothermal features — both on land and underwater — come into view. Then you'll return the way you came, following the shoreline and watching for wildlife as you casually make your way back to Grant Village.
We always keep groups small to make sure you get the most information and the best access to this incredible area, while ensuring safety throughout the trip. Ages 12 and under are required to paddle in a tandem kayak with an adult, and we regularly welcome kids as young as 5.
Dress for the weather in layers of quick-drying synthetic material — you will get wet, though you won't be submerged — and bring a change of dry clothes, sunscreen, a hat, and your camera. Yellowstone's weather can change quickly and mornings stay cold even on warm days, so we run rain or shine. All necessary kayaking equipment is provided.
What's Included
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need kayaking experience for this Yellowstone Lake kayak tour?
No, you don't need previous experience. This guided half-day Yellowstone kayaking tour is suitable for first-time paddlers and families. Your guide will provide basic paddling instruction, safety guidance, and help you get comfortable controlling your kayak before the group departs.
Is this Yellowstone kayaking tour good for children and families?
Yes. This is a family-friendly Yellowstone activity and no prior kayaking experience is required. Kids as young as 5 regularly join, and children 12 and under must ride in a tandem kayak with an adult.
What should I wear and bring?
Dress in layers made of synthetic, quick-drying material (avoid cotton and jeans), and wear shoes you don't mind getting wet — you will get wet while paddling, though you won't be submerged. Bring a rain or wind jacket, a change of dry clothes for afterward, drinking water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera. Yellowstone mornings and evenings are cold even on warm days, and tours run rain or shine.