Kayak Yellowstone Lake: West Thumb Geysers from the water

Five hours paddling remote geysers, lunch on an empty beach, no experience needed

This guided kayaking tour on Yellowstone Lake takes you from the shoreline into West Thumb Geyser Basin, where geothermal features both above and below the surface are accessible only by kayak. Your guide provides instruction in paddling technique and covers the lake's geology and history as you explore this primitive basin: no signs, no boardwalks, no other visitors. Lunch is included and provided on a secluded beach. Single and double kayaks are available. No prior kayaking experience is required, and all skill levels are welcome. The trip lasts around five hours and returns by early afternoon.

The experience

You start with instruction in paddling technique and an introduction to Yellowstone's geology and history of the lake. The guides are trained and experienced, and they keep groups small so everyone gets real attention and the best access to the area. Both single and double kayaks are available (children 12 and under paddle in a tandem kayak with an adult), and you'll have all the equipment you need before you push off.

From the water, you paddle the shoreline to West Thumb Geyser Basin and explore geothermal features that have no land access. This is a primitive basin with no boardwalks, no interpretive signs, and no crowds: most of what you see from the kayak is unreachable any other way. Your guide points out what's happening under the surface as well as on land, and the small group size means you're not competing for sightlines or safety attention.

Midway through, you pull onto a secluded beach for a picnic lunch that's provided. After eating, you paddle back the same route, arriving at your vehicles around 2 p.m., though timing depends on the group. Dress in layers and bring clothes you don't mind getting wet. You won't be submerged, but splashing is part of paddling. Yellowstone weather changes fast and can be cold even in summer, so a rain jacket and extra warm layers are smart. Vegetarian and gluten-free lunches are available if you note dietary needs at checkout.

What’s included

• All necessary kayaking equipment and instruction in paddling techniques.
• lunch on a secluded beach.
• professional guide leading the group with information on Yellowstone's history and geology of the lake.

Information

Lasts 5h, from US$ 200 per person, in groups of up to 12 and with free cancellation up to 24 h before.

Days and timesNext departure: 30 May 2027

GroupUp to 12

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (5 and older) · Under 5: can't be booked

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 5 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortWheelchair accessible

Operated by Geyser Kayak Tours

Is this one for you?Book the tandem kayak if you're paddling with children under 13 or prefer sharing a boat. Choose the single kayak if you want your own vessel and have paddling experience or confidence learning quickly. Either way, small groups and a guide who knows the basin mean you'll access geothermal features most Yellowstone visitors never see.

Traveler reviews

4.83★★★★★★★★★★

281 verified traveler reviews

5 ★253

4 ★17

3 ★4

2 ★5

1 ★2

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Do I need kayaking experience to paddle Yellowstone Lake?

No prior kayaking experience is required. All skill levels are welcome, and your guide provides instruction in paddling techniques before you leave the shore.

What geothermal features will I see from the kayak?

West Thumb Geyser Basin has many geothermal features both on land and under the water that are accessible only from a kayak, not from any boardwalk or trail. The basin is primitive (no signs or boardwalks), and most of these features are unreachable by any other means.

Is lunch included in the tour?

Yes, lunch is provided and eaten on a secluded beach during the paddle. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available if you request them at checkout.

Can I book a single kayak or do I have to paddle a tandem?

Both single and double kayaks are available. Children 12 and under must paddle in a tandem kayak with an adult. Single kayaks are available for ages 13 and up. You choose your kayak type when you book.

How long is the paddle, and what time does it end?

The tour lasts around five hours total, including instruction, paddling, and lunch. You return to your vehicles around 2 p.m., depending on the group's pace.

What should I wear and bring?

Dress in layers and bring clothes you don't mind getting wet. You'll get splashed while paddling. Yellowstone weather is unpredictable and often colder than expected, so a rain jacket, wind pants made of quick-drying material, and waterproof shoes are recommended. All kayaking equipment is provided.