Sunny Days & Starry Nights: Wonders of Yellowstone & Glacier National Parks
Step into Montana's gold rush past in Virginia City and Nevada City and drift along the scenic Flathead River on a gentle float trip. Ride aboard Glacier National Park's iconic Red Jammers and enjoy two nights read more in Yellowstone National Park, giving you more time to experience its remarkable geothermal wonders, wildlife, and landscapes. From rugged peaks and pristine rivers to historic towns and unforgettable national parks, this journey captures the spirit of the Northern Rockies. PLUS, this tour includes your choice of excursions in Big Sky so you can plan your day your way.
Itinerary
Welcome to Billings!
Welcome to Billings, where wide-open Western spirit sets the stage for the adventure ahead. At 6:00 p.m., meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a welcome drink and a toast to the days ahead.
Where the Wild Things Are
Begin with a guided introduction to Billings, then journey west into the awe-inspiring landscapes of Yellowstone National Park. Stroll the steaming limestone terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs before continuing to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where the Lower Falls plunge nearly twice the height of Niagara. Settle in for a two-night stay inside the park, surrounded by the sights, sounds, and wonders of this volcanic wilderness.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Yellowstone's wild heart has captivated travelers for generations. Geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, wildlife, and sweeping mountain vistas come together across millions of protected acres—a living landscape where bison roam, steam rises from the earth, and every viewpoint feels unforgettable.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - Explore more with a free evening in Yellowstone. Stroll the boardwalks, watch the sun set over the mountains, enjoy live music, or gaze at the star-studded night sky.
Geologic Wonders
Spend the day immersed in Yellowstone's extraordinary geologic drama and wild beauty. Watch for wildlife in its natural habitat, marvel at Firehole Lake Drive, Fountain Paint Pot, and discover the Norris Geyser Basin. Stand before world-famous Old Faithful as it sends plumes skyward. Enjoy time to discover more park highlights on your own before dinner at the celebrated Old Faithful Inn Dining Room.
LOCAL FAVORITE - Discover the Old Faithful Inn, which features some of the best National Park Service rustic architecture in the country. The towering timber, crackling stone fireplace, and historic lodge atmosphere create a sense of wonder and nostalgia that perfectly complements a day spent exploring Yellowstone. Old Faithful Inn Dining Room is more than a place for a meal - it blends history with rustic elegance for a warm, grand, and unique experience connected to the spirit of the national park.
Spend Your Day Your Way in Big Sky
Take a scenic drive to West Yellowstone for leisure time to explore on your own. Continue north to Big Sky for vast alpine landscapes with endless views of rugged peaks and open valleys.
Explore more of Big Sky with your choice of included Globus Choice Excursions.
- LITTLE DIPPER OF BIG SKY - Take a leisurely hike to Ousel Falls, which plummets nearly 40 feet before flowing through the heart of Big Sky. Named for the Ousel bird (aka American Dipper), the falls provide the perfect nesting place for this little trilling songbird of Big Sky. (Note: This nearly 2-mile hike follows well-groomed, gentle trails with frequent picnic and shaded rest areas. Be prepared for the effects of high altitude (6,500 feet) by bringing a personal water bottle and snacks).
- EXPERIENCE NEW HEIGHTS - Soar on a ride on Big Sky's scenic chair lift for a bird's -eye view of magnificent mountain views. Beginning at Big Sky Mountain Village 7,500 feet above sea level, the scenic lift rises 1,600 vertical feet to an elevation of 9,000 feet. Enjoy the unobstructed views from open-air multi-passenger chairs en route to the summit to and join your local Naturalist Guide for a guided walk. Hear about this remarkable region's storied history and stunning ecosystem.
Enjoy free time this evening in Big Sky. Enjoy cool mountain air, outdoor concerts, scenic mountain dining, breathtaking sunsets, and some of the best stargazing in the country under Montana's dark skies.
Striking Gold
Set off from Big Sky on a sweeping scenic drive into the Old West, where frontier stories still echo along weathered boardwalks. Explore Nevada City's atmospheric open-air living-history museum, then continue to Virginia City, once a roaring mining boomtown and the capital of Montana Territory. Arrive in vibrant Missoula for a guided city tour before an evening at leisure—perhaps with locally caught trout, craft beer, riverfront walks, or live music.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - Explore more during your evening at leisure. Consider visiting the riverfront walking trails on the shores of the Clark Fork River in Downtown Missoula or enjoy a farm-to-glass drink at Montgomery Distillery, where Old-World spirits are created using local Montana ingredients.
Down the Lazy River
This morning's journey winds through lush forests and along the sparkling shores of Flathead Lake enroute to Kalispell and Whitefish. Enjoy lunch and free time in historic downtown Kalispell, born with the arrival of the Great Northern Railway in the 1890s. Continue to West Glacier for a scenic float trip on the Flathead River, then settle into Whitefish for a two-night stay. Enjoy free time this evening in Whitefish, the perfect place for a sunset stroll along the shores of Whitefish Lake, unwind on a scenic patio in the charming downtown, or take in Montana's brilliant star-filled skies.
LOCAL FAVORITE - Drift along a calm stretch of the Flathead River with your guide, keeping watch for wildlife as Glacier National Park's mountain scenery rises around you. Glide through crystal-clear waters for a perfect way to experience Montana's natural beauty at a leisurely pace.
Rubies of the Rockies
Travel to Lake McDonald Village at Glacier National Park and climb aboard a historic Red Jammer bus for a scenic ride along the legendary Going-to-the-Sun Road. Cross 6,664-foot Logan Pass and enter an alpine world of jagged peaks, emerald forests, pristine lakes, and wildflower meadows. This evening, gather for a special farewell dinner hosted by your Tour Director.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Huckleberries are a beloved symbol of the northern Rockies and a favorite food of local wildlife. Savor a homemade huckleberry dessert at a local restaurant—a delicious finale to a day exploring Glacier National Park.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation concludes after breakfast this morning. Extra nights are available to extend your stay in Whitefish.
Trip Inclusions
- Orientation tour of Billings, Montana's largest city and gateway to the Northern Rockies
- Guided sightseeing in Yellowstone National Park including dinner at the [LF] Old Faithful Inn Dining Room overlooking one of the park's most famous geothermal areas
- Globus Choice Excursion in Big Sky: choose one: either a guided hike at Ousel Falls or ride on Big Sky's scenic chair lift and walk with a naturalist
- Visit the historic mining towns of Virginia City and Nevada City for a glimpse into Montana's Old West heritage and gold rush history
- Orientation tour of Missoula, nestled among the mountains and rivers of western Montana
- Guided sightseeing in Glacier National Park, including a ride aboard the iconic Red Jammers along the spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road
- [LF] Scenic float trip in Glacier National Park, offering a peaceful perspective on the region's mountains, forests, and wildlife
- Two-night stay in Yellowstone National Park for more time to experience the park's remarkable geothermal features, wildlife, and scenery
- 7 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners
- Billings: The DoubleTree Billings (First-Class):
Surrounded by restaurants and breweries in downtown Billings, The DoubleTree Billings is ideally situated. The hotel features spectacular views from the Montana Sky restaurant on the 20th floor, fitness center, convenience store, and complimentary Wi-Fi. - Yellowstone National Park: Yellowstone National Park Lodges (National Park):
Each Yellowstone National Park Lodge has its own unique setting and atmosphere. The specific lodge for your vacation will be confirmed closer to departure. Lodges featured in Yellowstone National Park are the Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, Grant Village, Canyon Lodge, and Old Faithful Snow Lodge. - Yellowstone National Park: Canyon Lodge - Yellowstone National Park (National Park):
Canyon Lodge and Cabins is a sprawling facility, featuring the most accommodations in Yellowstone with more than 500 rooms and cabins. Canyon Lodge is part of a collection of lodges operated by the National Parks; space fills up quickly at these lodges and is therefore based on availability. We will endeavor to secure your lodge of choice, however in the event space is not available an alternate lodge of similar category will be secured. Please note that all park accommodations are non-smoking and reflecting the natural surroundings of the park, rooms are not equipped with televisions, radios, air conditioning or Wi-Fi. - Yellowstone National Park: Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel - Yellowstone National Park (National Park):
On the historic site of Fort Yellowstone, this traditional hotel is nestled in the trees alongside the mountains. The features of this hotel include high ceilings, pine wood accents, and 211 cozy guestrooms. Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel is part of a collection of lodges operated by the National Parks; space fills up quickly at these lodges and is therefore based on availability. In the event that space is not available at this hotel, an alternate lodge of similar category will be secured. - Yellowstone National Park: Old Faithful Inn - Yellowstone National Park (National Park):
The most popular of the lodges, Old Faithful Inn is a national historic landmark. This rustic style lodge, was first built in 1904 and offers rustic charm, complete with a large lobby fireplace and shingled exterior. The lodge offer a full service restaurant, cafeteria, deli, and lounge for dining as well as a gift store and an activities desk. Old Faithful Inn is part of a collection of lodges operated by the National Parks; space fills up quickly at these lodges and is therefore based on availability. In the event that space is not available at this hotel, an alternate lodge of similar category will be secured. - Big Sky: Huntley Lodge at Big Sky Resort (First-Class):
Located in the heart of Mountain Village, Huntley Lodge at Big Sky Resort is a traditional slope-side ski lodge offers spectacular views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains. The hotel features an outdoor pool and hot tub, fitness center, restaurant and bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi. - Missoula: Edgewater Missoula (First-Class):
Enjoy views of Mount Sentinel from our hotel, a 15-minute walk from downtown Missoula. Less than a mile from the University of Montana and the Adams Event Center, and we offer free access to Currents Aquatic Center. - Whitefish: Grouse Mountain Lodge (Superior First-Class):
The Grouse Mountain Lodge located in gorgeous Whitefish Montana is a relaxing getaway with plenty of things to do. The hotel features spa services, 2 spa tubs, tennis courts, sauna, fitness facility, and indoor pool. The guestrooms have all the comforts of home including bathrobes. Guests are also welcome to enjoy libations and snacks in their restaurant or bar.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- The visit to Logan Pass is normally possible from mid-June to mid-September. If unable to travel to Logan Pass, alternative sightseeing on the Red Jammer buses will be done.
- Maximum elevation on tour is 7300 feet (2225 meters).
- Visiting and participating in activities in this region may be subject to favorable weather conditions. Routes and areas visited in Yellowstone and Glacier are subject to weather and/or road conditions. The order of sightseeing is subject to change.
- This vacation visits national parks and other remote locations where some facilities may not meet the first-class standard you expect from Globus. Some lodges within the parks do not feature televisions and other routinely expected amenities.
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Dates & Pricing
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Globus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
