The 2 Best Spa & Hot Springs Experiences in Gardiner
Gardiner is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park and a perfect base for discovering some of the most stunning thermal features in the United States. While the town itself doesn’t have natural hot springs, it offers easy access to world-class Yellowstone tours known for combining wildlife, geysers, and hot springs. Whether you’re after an all-day adventure focusing on wildlife and geothermal marvels or a shorter, geyser-centered exploration, Gardiner provides options that suit different interests and schedules.
The best tour options blend spectacular scenery, fascinating thermal areas, and expert guiding — all at a reasonable price considering what’s included. With tours like Yellowstone in a Day – Wildlife, Canyons, & Hot Springs and Guided Yellowstone Hot Spring & Geyser Basin Tour, you’ll find memorable ways to experience Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders and rich wildlife in a single day.
Quick Overview
If you’re after a comprehensive Yellowstone experience, the Yellowstone in a Day – Wildlife, Canyons, & Hot Springs tour offers an 8-10 hour journey through the park’s key sights with a focus on wildlife spotting, hot springs, waterfalls, and canyon views. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a broad tour with a knowledgeable guide.
For those who prefer to focus on the park’s famous thermal features, the Guided Yellowstone Hot Spring & Geyser Basin Tour emphasizes iconic geysers and hot springs, including Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring, all within about 8 hours. Both tours are rated 5.0/5 and priced at $250 per person, making them a solid choice for a full Yellowstone day.
1. Yellowstone in a Day – Wildlife, Canyons, & Hot Springs
At number 1, this Yellowstone in a Day tour offers a comprehensive way to see wildlife, hot springs, waterfalls, and more in one long day. The tour runs about 8 to 10 hours and is guided by someone with deep knowledge of the park, making it ideal for travelers who want to maximize their Yellowstone visit without sacrificing comfort or insight.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on Lamar Valley, the best place in the U.S. to see wildlife like wolves, bears, and bison. The guide’s experience helps you catch wildlife sightings that might otherwise be missed. You’ll also visit the Mammoth Hot Springs, a dazzling display of mineral deposits and steaming water, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, with breathtaking views and chances to see ospreys and bears. The Norris Geyser Basin is another highlight, home to the tallest geyser on Earth, Steamboat Geyser.
Reviews praise Elijah, the guide, for his friendly approach and extensive knowledge, with one reviewer saying, “He even took videos that he shared with us.” The tour costs $250, includes a complimentary lunch, and features access to advanced optics, ensuring you won’t miss the best moments. It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-rounded Yellowstone experience with expert guidance.
Bottom Line: A full-immersion Yellowstone tour offering wildlife, geothermal features, and scenic landscapes in one day, suited for energetic travelers eager to see it all.
2. Guided Yellowstone Hot Spring & Geyser Basin Tour
Coming in second, this Yellowstone Hot Spring & Geyser Basin tour offers a focused exploration of Yellowstone’s most famous thermal features. The tour lasts about 8 hours and is centered on Yellowstone’s geyser and hot spring areas, making it ideal for visitors with a special interest in geothermal activity.
The itinerary includes scenic drives along Firehole Lake Drive to see hot springs and geysers, including a visit to the Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone’s largest hot spring with its striking rainbow colors. You’ll also explore Old Faithful, the park’s most iconic geyser, along with other features in the Upper Geyser Basin. The tour continues on to West Thumb Geyser Basin, on the shore of Yellowstone Lake, and through Hayden Valley, where wildlife sightings are common. The visit to the Mud Volcano area offers the chance to see a geyser that once blew itself up — a memorable sight.
Unlike the first tour, admission fees are not included, which could be a consideration. The reviews highlight the tour’s well-curated stops and the guide’s local expertise. At $250, it’s a good value for those mainly interested in Yellowstone’s geothermal marvels.
Bottom Line: An ideal tour if your main interest is Yellowstone’s geysers and hot springs, with plenty of iconic features in a manageable day.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on what excites you most about Yellowstone. If you want a broad experience covering wildlife, waterfalls, geothermal areas, and scenic vistas, the Yellowstone in a Day tour offers great value. For travelers mainly curious about hot springs and geysers, the Yellowstone Hot Spring & Geyser Basin Tour provides a more focused, geothermal-rich experience.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and specific interests when choosing. If you’re short on time but eager for an immersive Yellowstone experience with wildlife and waterfalls, the first tour is your best bet. If geothermal features are your priority and you want to see Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic, the second is a more targeted choice.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, as these tours are popular and fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Both of these tours showcase Yellowstone’s thermal wonders and natural beauty—just from different angles. The wildlife and canyon-focused trip is perfect for nature lovers wanting a full day of varied scenery, while the geothermal-centric tour suits those eager to see Yellowstone’s famous hot springs and geysers up close.
For travelers who want a quick, comprehensive introduction to Yellowstone’s diverse sights, the first option offers excellent value and insight. If your main interest is geothermal activity, the second provides a thorough look at Yellowstone’s most iconic features. Whatever your choice, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences.