Embark on an unforgettable road trip exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. From geysers and hot springs to majestic mountains and serene lakes, this adventure promises to be a visual feast. Here’s your detailed itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival and Scenic Drive
- Morning:
- Get an early flight to Bozeman. (You can also fly into West Yellowstone Airport if you want to save time driving. Another alternative is Jackson Hole.)
- Afternoon:
- Pick up your rental car and get some groceries and essentials in Bozeman before starting the scenic drive to West Yellowstone. It may take 2 to 3 hours.
- Evening:
- Check-in at your accommodation in West Yellowstone. We stayed at Best Western Weston Inn.
- Explore the charming town, grab dinner, and rest up for your adventure ahead.
Day 2: Yellowstone’s Geysers and Springs
- Morning:
- Visit Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin. Witness the iconic geyser eruption and explore the surrounding geothermal features.
- The Old Faithful erupts every 35 to 120 minutes and the estimated eruption time may be displayed at the Visitor Center.
- Check out the Old Faithful Inn and grab lunch there.
- Afternoon:
- Head to the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest and one of the most vibrant hot springs in the U.S. Recommend to visit at midday for best color.
- For a birds-eye view, park at the Fairy Falls parking lot and take the 1.5 mile round trip trail to the Grand Prismatic overlook.
- Evening:
- Stop by the Fountain Paint Pots to see bubbling mud pots and colorful hot springs.
- Return to West Yellowstone for the night.
Day 3: Journey to Grand Teton
- Morning:
- Depart from West Yellowstone and drive to Grand Teton National Park. The driving time is around 3 hours.
- Stop near Isa Lake. This little lake was frozen when we went at the end of May. It is also the Continental Divide area and the lake empties into two oceans.
- Afternoon:
- Arrive at Colter Bay Village and have lunch.
- Take a stroll along the Lakeshore Trail, offering stunning views of Jackson Lake and the Teton Range.
- Late Afternoon:
- Enjoy a scenic loop drive, stopping at various viewpoints to capture the grandeur of the Tetons. Recommended spots: Lower Willow Flats Overlook, Oxbow Bend, Elk Ranch Flats Turnout, Snake River Overlook, Glacier View Turnout, and Albright View Overlook.
- Alternatively, drive all the way to Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center near Moose and stop at the viewpoints in reverse.
- Evening:
- Stay in Jackson Hole or by the Jackson Lake. We stayed at Jackson Lake Lodge and it offers breathtaking views from the lodge.
Day 4: Exploring Grand Teton
- Morning:
- Head to Jenny Lake. On the drive there, visit Potholes Turnout, Mount Moran Turnout, and Mountain View Turnout for awe-inspiring vistas.
- Take the shuttle boat across the Jenny Lake and hike the trail leading to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. The loop trail is an easy 1.8 mile long. Keep in mind of the time for the last boat ride back. Check the boat schedule here.
- Late Afternoon:
- Drive up to Signal Mountain Summit for panoramic views of the Teton Range and Jackson Hole Valley.
- Evening:
- Enjoy a delicious dinner with a scenic view of Jackson Lake at Trapper Grill. Return to Jackson Lake Lodge for the night.
Day 5: Back to Yellowstone
- Morning:
- Have breakfast and enjoy the morning walk around the Jackson Lake Lodge with the view of the Teton and Jackson Hole Valley.
- Then, say farewell to the majestic Grand Teton and head back to Yellowstone.
- Afternoon:
- Explore the West Thumb Geyser Basin along the shores of Yellowstone Lake.
- Visit the Fishing Bridge. You can grab lunch here and enjoy the views of Yellowstone Lake.
- Late Afternoon:
- Discover the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Stop at the Artist Point for an incredible lookout on the edge of a cliff that showcases the cascading waterfall into the canyon. Next, head to the Brink of Upper Falls View for the close up look and feel of the powerful waterfall.
- Drive to the North Rim to the Lookout Point for a closer view of the Lower Falls.
- Evening:
- Drive through Hayden Valley to spot wildlife.
- Check-in at Canyon Lodge & Cabins inside the park. This is the prime location in the park and you can stay longer if you want to save time driving or find a good deal.
Day 6: Northern Yellowstone
- Morning:
- Visit Tower Fall and Calcite Springs for dramatic waterfall views and geological formations.
- The area around the Tower and Roosevelt is best for spotting black bears. We saw a mother black bear with two cubs playing near the parking lot area by Tower Falls!
- Late Morning:
- Drive to Lamar Valley, known for its abundant wildlife. Spend some time observing bison, elk, and possibly wolves.
- Afternoon:
- Head to Mammoth Hot Springs and explore the unique terraced formations.
- Evening:
- Visit the historic Roosevelt Arch before leaving the park.
- Stay the night in Livingston. It’s much cheaper than Bozeman.
Day 7: Departure
- Morning:
- Drive from Livingston to Bozeman.
- Morning/Afternoon:
- Depending on your flight time, explore Bozeman. Visit the Museum of the Rockies or enjoy a leisurely breakfast in town.
- Departure:
- Return your rental car and head to the airport for your flight back home.
This week-long itinerary is designed to maximize your time in two of America’s most stunning national parks. Be prepared for breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable experiences!
