EDUCATIONAL TRIP TO YELLOWSTONE

NORTH AMERICAN SAFARI

[TRIP LENGTH: 4 DAYS]

Itinerary can be customized to fit within your time frame or budgetary needs.

Appleseed Expeditions’ educational trip to Yellowstone is designed to teach students about northern Rocky Mountain ecology while inspiring them to help with global conservation programs. This is America’s first National Park, established in 1872, and is the most awe inspiring region in the U.S.  It provides the perfect backdrop  for an educational field trip that focuses on science and conservation.  Among its many treasures are the famous Old Faithful Geyser and the picturesque Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.   On this class trip to Yellowstone students will learn about predator/prey behavior, endemic flora and fauna, geology and forest fires that have shaped this magnificent landscape. (Transportation not included but can be arranged)

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Explore Jackson, WY

Begin your school tour to Yellowstone by starting in Jackson, WY.   Arriving mid ­afternoon in Jackson, you will journey with a wildlife biologist and discover the unique ecosystems of the northern Rockies.  This science journey begins by studying wildlife at the Elk National Preserve.

 Day 2 – Yellowstone Canyon and Waterfall

This morning begins with a guided tour to breath­taking views of Yellowstone’s Canyon, with views of the Upper and Lower Falls.  Next, traverse Hayden Valley with an excellent chance to spot Yellowstone’s Bison herd.  Then later in the afternoon, your guide will take you to the Dragons Breath mud pots and you will learn about thermal activity and volcanoes.

Day 3 – Volunteer at the Wolf and Grizzly Preserve and Old Faithful

The wolf and grizzly preserve is dedicated to preserving for the wolf and  grizzly bear, its historic range, as part of our national heritage. This grassroots effort is supported by ordinary citizens who seek to promote positive attitudes about wolves and grizzly bear and  to support wildlife recovery in all areas of its historic range. Along with biologists, students will actively get involved in projects that help support this conservation organization.  This afternoon begins with a guided hike along the most active thermal area in Yellowstone: Norris Basin.  Here you will see thermal features including geysers, steam vents, mud pots, and mineral pools.

 Day 4 – Tetons and Head Home

After a scenic drive along the Tetons, you will look for moose and other wildlife as you hike at the base of the Tetons.  Your wildlife biologist will be teaching about predator/prey relationships in this region.  Later we head home.

Add a Day – Whitewater Rafting the Snake River

Take an amazing adventure down the Snake River.  This river winds through canyons and amazing mountains and provides world class II-III rapids.  Along the way you may see bald eagles, elk, moose and variety of Rocky Mountain wildlife.   In the afternoon you will explore the base of the Tetons and learn about the natural wildlife found along the foothills of the Rockies.    Here students will learn about uplifts, continental drift, and migration patterns of local wildlife.

Add another day and experience an all day horse back ride at the base of the Tetons or Take the Aerial Tram to the Summit of the Tetons.

Ride your horse through towering pines and mountain meadows filled with wildflowers and spectacular views. Visit mountain lakes and watch for wildlife that frequent the area. Explore the top of the Rockies on an aerial tram.

Itinerary subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control including availability with vendors, weather conditions and flight schedules.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • View Old Faithful
  • Volunteer at the Wolf and Grizzly Center
  • Study geology and learn about fossils, geology and volcanoes
  • Explore the Yellowstone Park with a local naturalist
  • Whitewater raft the Snake River
  • Take a gondola ride to the top of the Tetons
  • Study predator/prey relationships in Yellowstone

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Qualified trip leader – Accompanying each expedition is a diverse team of experts from naturalists to regional specialists who will share their knowledge and insights on the wildlife, landscapes and local culture. Your guide is with the group 24/7 and also staying with you at the same hotel
Daily reflections lead by your tour leader
Overnight stays are in hotels with private bathrooms rated 4 star or more on Trip Advisor
All Meals are included but please note: On arrival day only dinner is provided; on departure day, only breakfast is provided
Tour Journal, T-shirt and Luggage tag
Note: Tour cost does not include airline-imposed baggage fees, or fees for any required passport or visa.