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Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are two of America’s most iconic and awe-inspiring destinations. Located mainly in the state of Wyoming, these parks offer diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and countless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife viewing, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, these parks provide something for every adventurer. This Yellowstone & Grand Teton itinerary is designed to help you explore two of America’s most iconic national parks.
From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the towering peaks of Grand Teton, this 5-day guide will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or a first-time visitor, you’ll find plenty of outdoor activities and stunning views to enjoy in these incredible parks.
WHEN TO VISIT YELLOWSTONE & GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARKS
The timing of your visit to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks largely depends on your interests. Each season brings its own unique charm, so here is a breakdown of the pros and cons for each. I do want to note that the itinerary listed in this blog can only be executed fully in summer and early fall when all the roads are fully open.
- Winter (December through March): Winter in these parks can be challenging due to road closures from snow. While the parks are peaceful and less crowded, only a small portion of the parks (especially Yellowstone) remain accessible. However, if you’re into winter sports like snowmobiling or cross-country skiing, this could be the perfect time. Only about 3% of Yellowstone’s annual visitors come in the winter.
- Spring (April through May): Spring can be a beautiful time to visit, as the parks slowly awaken from their winter slumber. Fewer crowds and vibrant wildlife make it a great choice, but the weather can be unpredictable, and roads and lodging open gradually depending on conditions. Trails may be muddy due to snowmelt, so come prepared for varying weather.
- Summer (June through August): This is peak season in both parks. Expect warm weather, with high temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s, and full access to all park facilities. While you’ll have access to everything, be prepared for crowds, especially at famous spots like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic. However, with over 2 million acres to explore, there’s still plenty of space for more secluded adventures.
- Fall (September through November): Fall is my personal favorite time to visit. As the crowds thin out, the parks still offer pleasant weather in September, making it a great time to enjoy hiking and wildlife watching. However, as temperatures drop, snow becomes more likely in October and November, and some facilities begin to close for the season. If you want to enjoy all the amenities, September is your best bet.
Check out these pages for estimated park openings/closings by date:
AIRPORTS NEAR YELLOWSTONE & GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARKS
When flying into Yellowstone and Grand Teton, several airports serve as convenient gateways to the parks. Here’s a map of four of the most convenient airports to these parks with descriptions of each below:
- Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport: About 1.5 hours from the northern entrance of Yellowstone, Bozeman is a great option and offers easy access to both parks.
- Jackson Hole Airport: Located just over an hour from Yellowstone’s south entrance and only 10 minutes from Grand Teton, Jackson Hole is perfect for those heading straight into Grand Teton.
- West Yellowstone Airport: This small airport is only 5 minutes from Yellowstone’s west entrance, but offers fewer flight options.
- Idaho Falls Airport: About 2 hours from both the west entrance of Yellowstone and the south entrance of Grand Teton, this airport can also serve as another convenient option for travelers.
For our Yellowstone & Grand Teton itinerary, we flew into Bozeman, Montana, and worked our way south in a loop. Depending on your arrival airport, you can adjust this itinerary to suit your needs.
YELLOWSTONE & GRAND TETON ITINERARY
DAY 1 – TRAVEL DAY
Fly into Bozeman, Montana and pick up your rental car. I recommend booking a rental car here on Discover Cars. They have over 700 trusted suppliers and when searching on their website, you can easily compare pricing amongst a bunch of rental companies.
After picking up your car, it’s also a good idea to pick up bear spray right away. We found that Explore Rentals was a super convenient option for us to get our bear spray as it was just five minutes away from the airport.
With Explore Rentals, you can reserve bear spray ahead of time and they allow after-hours pick up and drop off. We got in pretty late, so it was nice to be able to pick up the bear spray after hours and have it for our first night camping. It was also nice to be able to rent it, knowing that we didn’t have to just throw away and waste an unused can at the end of our trip. Also, TSA does not allow bear spray in carry-on or checked luggage, so you can’t bring it with you or take it home if you are flying.
After securing bear spray, drive south to Gardiner, a charming town located just 1.5 hours from the airport. Gardiner is a great base for exploring Yellowstone, offering a grocery store, campsites, restaurants, and souvenir shops.
We stayed at Eagle Creek Campground, located just a few miles outside of Gardiner. The campsite offered a peaceful setting and a nice setup with a picnic table, fire pit (with a grate), and grassy ground to place our tent. The bathrooms (outhouses) were well-maintained too. I would camp here again.
If you prefer a hotel though, I recommend the boutique style eco-lodge Wonderland Cafe & Lodge for its boutique charm and mountain views. Be sure to book early though because it’s a smaller hotel and rooms fill up fast, especially during peak season. Click here to book the hotel now!
DAY 2 – YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
Today, it’s time to dive into America’s very first national park – Yellowstone! If you’re aiming to visit all these highlights in one day (like we did), be prepared for a busy schedule. To get the most out of your day, start early. If you want to take a slower pace, this day’s activities could easily be split into two days as well.
(1) – Bears Brew
For a caffeine fix to start your day, stop by Bears Brew – a quirky coffee stand offering excellent coffee, matcha lattes, and light bites.
(2) – Enter the park at the North Entrance
Start your day by heading south from Gardiner to the North Entrance, just a short drive from the town. This entrance is iconic, marked by the famous Roosevelt Arch, which was built in 1903 to provide a grand entrance to the park. Take a moment to snap some photos and admire the architecture before you head deeper into the park.
(3) – Mammoth Hot Springs
Your first stop inside the park should be Mammoth Hot Springs, one of Yellowstone’s most striking geothermal features. This area is known for its unique travertine terraces, formed by hot water from the springs. You can walk along the boardwalks that wind around the terraces and get a close-up look at the bubbling hot springs, which vary in color and texture. Take your time here, as you can easily spend 45 minutes to an hour exploring the area. Don’t forget to look for wildlife, as the area is often frequented by elk and bison.
(4) – Calcite Springs
Next, head towards Calcite Springs, a lesser-known gem in the park. This short stop offers a quick but rewarding view of the Yellowstone River as it winds through the canyon. The views from the viewpoint are impressive, and the trail is a short loop less than 1/4 mile long.
(5) – Tower Fall
A must-see stop in Yellowstone is Tower Fall, a 132-foot waterfall located in the Yellowstone River Canyon. A short, 500-foot walk from the parking area will bring you to the overlook, where you can take in the beauty of the waterfall from above.
If you’re up for a longer hike, the Tower Fall Trail takes you on a moderate 0.7-mile out-and-back hike down to the Yellowstone River. While the official trail doesn’t lead all the way to the river, there are some unofficial paths that take you down to the river. We were really glad we did this hike!
Tower Fall is also a great place to stop and each lunch if you didn’t pack anything. They have some stores with a variety of food options like sandwiches, ice cream, etc.
(6) – Mt Washburn
For those seeking panoramic views, Mt Washburn is an excellent option. While we didn’t do the full 5-mile hike to the fire lookout tower due to heightened bear activity during the fall, the views from the parking lot are still spectacular. If you’re visiting in summer, the hike is a great option for those who want a challenge and some of the best views in the park. It’s recommended to take precautions if hiking in bear country, especially during the fall when bear activity is higher.
(7) – Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
Prepare for one of the most iconic sights in the park: the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The canyon’s dramatic cliffs, vibrant colors, and the roar of the Lower Falls will leave you in awe. The best way to explore the canyon is by driving along the North Rim Drive, where you’ll find several viewpoints. Below are a few stops you shouldn’t miss!
Brink of Lower Falls: A steep but short 0.8-mile round-trip hike will take you to the viewpoint for a close-up view of the spectacular Lower Falls. This hike is challenging but absolutely worth the effort, as you’ll get a unique perspective of the falls and canyon.
Lookout Point: Located along the South Rim Drive, this viewpoint offers a stunning aerial view of the Lower Falls and the Yellowstone River as it cuts through the canyon. It’s an easy stop for a photo opportunity.
Inspiration Point: Another excellent viewpoint that provides a breathtaking view of the canyon, and it’s easily accessible from the road.
(8) – Norris Geyser Basin
Next, head toward Norris Geyser Basin, one of Yellowstone’s hottest and most dynamic geothermal areas. Here, you can explore two distinct loops:
- Porcelain Basin Trail: This short 0.6-mile loop is an easy walk on boardwalks around geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles. The otherworldly landscape is an incredible sight, and you’ll see plenty of steam rising from the ground.
- Back Basin Trail: If you’re up for a longer hike, this 1.6-mile trail leads you to Steamboat Geyser, one of the world’s most powerful geysers. However, the geyser historically only erupts a handful of times each year. The trail also leads past Porkchop Geyser (which hasn’t erupted since 1989) and other hydrothermal features too.
If you’re in a time crunch, choose Porcelain Trail over Back Basin Trail.
(9) – Beryl Spring
For another quick geothermal stop, swing by Beryl Spring, located just off Highway 89. It’s one of the hottest springs in the park, with water temperatures ranging from 188 to 192°F. While there’s not much to do here other than take in the view, the vivid colors and steam make it an interesting stop.
(10) – Lower Geyser Basin (Fountain Paint Pot)
Another highlight is the Lower Geyser Basin and Fountain Paint Pot area, where you’ll find a short 0.5-mile loop trail that leads you past hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and geysers. This is an easy, mostly wheelchair-accessible trail, and it’s fascinating to watch the mud pots and hot springs change in shape and color.
(11) – Midway Geyser Basin (Grand Prismatic)
One of the most famous sights in Yellowstone is Grand Prismatic Spring, located in the Midway Geyser Basin. This hot spring is the largest in the park and is known for its vibrant, rainbow-colored waters. The 0.5-mile boardwalk loop will give you a close-up view of the spring and other nearby features like Excelsior Geyser and Opal Pool. The colors here are absolutely stunning, so be sure to bring your camera!
Note: It was foggy when we were here, so my pictures aren’t the best. I definitely recommend this stop though!
(12) – Upper Geyser Basin (Old Faithful)
Conclude your day with a visit to Old Faithful, perhaps the most famous geyser in the world. Known for its predictable eruptions, Old Faithful shoots hot water up to 180 feet into the air every 45 to 90 minutes. After you witness the eruption, you can explore the surrounding area and take a walk on the various trails in the Upper Geyser Basin. You’ll also find other impressive geysers like Grand Geyser, Castle Geyser, and Daisy Geyser.
(13) – Sheffield’s Restaurant
After a busy day of adventure, we went to Sheffield’s Restaurant for dinner. Honestly, this was the only option in the area open because we were eating around 8-9pm. However, we were pretty satisfied with our meal. I ordered buffalo chicken mac n cheese and my husband ordered a burger. Was it the best? No. But it also wasn’t a bad meal by any means. The menu is on the pricier side, but that’s what you pay for convenience of dining in such a remote and convenient location.
(14) – Lake Lewis Campground
We spent the night at Lewis Lake Campground, about 40 minutes south of Old Faithful, which provided a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Our campsite (#3) had a nice spot for our tent, a fireplace with a grate, picnic table, and secure food storage to protect against attracting animals.
If you prefer a hotel, I recommend the Headwaters Lodge & Cabins at Flagg Ranch. While its amenities are pretty basic, it’s located in an extremely convenient spot between Yellowstone & Grant Teton. Click here to check out the hotel.
DAY 3 – GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK
After exploring the wonders of Yellowstone, it’s time to head south to the breathtaking Grand Teton National Park, where the jagged Teton Range rises dramatically above the Jackson Hole Valley. Day 3 is filled with stunning views, beautiful hikes, and a touch of local culture. While not as intense as Day 2 in terms of driving and exploration, you’ll still experience the true beauty of the park’s diverse landscapes. Here’s how to make the most of your day:
(1) – Deadman’s Bar / Trapper Grill
We enjoyed the morning at our campsite and then packed up and headed to Deadman’s Bar for lunch. This bar is connected to Trapper Grill and they share the same menu, offering soups, salads, sandwiches and more for breakfast and lunch. The reason we sat at the bar is because the restaurant had a long wait time. Overall, our experience here was good! I really enjoyed the High Cliff Cider – it wasn’t too sweet like ciders sometimes are.
(2) – Mount Moran Turnout
Don’t forget to stop at the Mount Moran Turnout, one of the best viewpoints in Grand Teton National Park. This area offers a perfect opportunity to snap some photos of Mount Moran, one of the tallest peaks in the Teton Range, which rises over 12,000 feet. The early morning light here can make for some truly magical shots too if you’re into sunrise photography.
(3) – Jenny Lake
From Mount Moran, head south to Jenny Lake, one of the most iconic spots in the park. The lake sits at the base of the Teton Range, surrounded by towering peaks, and offers incredible scenery and outdoor activities. There are a variety of ways to explore the lake:
- Jenny Lake Trail: If you’re in the mood for a scenic walk, the Jenny Lake Loop is a 7.5-mile trail that takes you around the lake. It’s an easy, relatively flat trail that offers beautiful views of the lake and mountains.
- Boat Ride to Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point: One of the highlights of visiting Jenny Lake is taking the boat ride across the lake. The boat ride costs around $20 per adult for a round trip, and it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The ride takes about 10 minutes and drops you off on the west side of the lake, where you can access some amazing hikes.
- Inspiration Point Trail: From the boat landing, you can do the Inspiration Point hike, which is a 1.8-mile hike round trip. The hike leads you past Hidden Falls, a beautiful 100-foot waterfall tucked away in the forest. The falls are stunning, especially during spring when the runoff is at its peak. Continuing past Hidden Falls, you keep hiking until you reach Inspiration Point, which offers one of the best panoramic views of Jenny Lake and the surrounding peaks. The trail is moderate, with a bit of a climb, but the views at the top are absolutely worth the effort.
(4) – Jackson
After your time at Jenny Lake, make your way to the charming town of Jackson, known for its western flair, quaint streets, and lively atmosphere. Spend some time wandering around Jackson’s Town Square, which is surrounded by iconic antler arches made from the shed antlers of elk. If you’re interested in local history, you can visit the Jackson Hole Historical Society or the National Museum of Wildlife Art, located just outside of town.
If you’re a fan of unique local bars, you might want to swing by the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, a classic western watering hole with a unique saddle seating arrangement. We spent a quick hour exploring the square and having a brew at Roadhouse Brewing, a local brewery that offered a perfect outdoor seating area to enjoy the lovely weather.
(5) – Mormon Row Historic District – TA Moulton Barn & John Moulton Barn
Next, head toward the Mormon Row Historic District, one of the most photographed spots in the park. This area features the iconic TA Moulton Barn and John Moulton Barn, both of which are perched in front of the towering Teton Range. These barns date back to the 1890s when early settlers established a community here. The barns are particularly beautiful during sunrise or sunset when the light hits the peaks just right, casting a golden glow across the scene. If you enjoy photography, this is a must-see location for capturing the spirit of the Old West.
(6) – Schwabacher Landing
One of our favorite stops in Grand Teton National Park was Schwabacher Landing. This peaceful spot along the Snake River offers stunning reflections of the Teton peaks on calm mornings. From the parking area, a short walk down a well-maintained trail leads you to the riverbank, where you’ll be treated to one of the best views in the park. The tranquility of this area is unmatched, and it’s a great spot to sit and enjoy nature or take photos. If you’re up for it, there’s a 4-mile trail along the river that you can explore further. We chose to do a short portion of the trail, but even the first mile was incredibly rewarding.
(7) – Oxbow Bend
As your day continues, head towards Oxbow Bend, another popular viewpoint along the Snake River. An oxbow is a crescent-shaped section of river, and this spot is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset when the river’s surface can reflect the peaks of Mount Moran. We chose to visit during sunset, and although we didn’t get perfectly calm waters for a reflection, it was still the perfect end to our day in Grand Teton National Park. If you have the time, consider bringing a picnic and enjoying the views for a bit longer.
(8) – The Trapper Grill
This restaurant was super close to our campsite, so even though we ate here for lunch, we decided to come back for dinner. There was a different, fancier, menu for dinner though. I ordered the Venison Chop and it was very good, and so was our service.
(9) – Signal Mountain Campground
After a full day of adventure, we headed to Signal Mountain Campground, which was one of our favorite places to camp during the trip. Situated on the shores of Jackson Lake, the campground offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. We were lucky enough to snag a campsite right near the water, where we enjoyed a peaceful evening with the Tetons looming in the distance. The campground also has great facilities and is a good base if you plan to spend more time exploring the park.
If you’re looking for a non-camping option, Signal Mountain Lodge offers cozy rooms praised for their cleanliness. The location in the park is hard to beat too. Click here for availability for Signal Mountain Lodge.
DAY 4 – GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK & EASTERN IDAHO
Day 4 is all about pushing yourself to new heights (literally and figuratively). Today starts with a challenging hike and wraps up with a scenic drive through Eastern Idaho.
(1) – Signal Mountain Lodge General Store – A great stop for snacks and coffee, and they even have lattes! It’s right by Signal Mountain campground, so not only did we get good coffee, but it was also super convenient location-wise.
(2) – Delta Lake Hike
We kicked off the day with our biggest hike of the trip—the 7.8-mile trek to Delta Lake. This hike is known for its stunning turquoise waters and it reminds me of Lake Louise in Banff National Park a bit, but it’s far less crowded, giving you the feeling of discovering a hidden gem.
This hike is strenuous, so be prepared for some elevation gain and tricky terrain. The trail starts at the Lupine Meadows trailhead and begins with a relatively easy walk, but soon you’ll be scrambling up rocky terrain and crossing boulder fields. The ascent is steep, and at times, it feels more like climbing than hiking, so bring sturdy shoes with good traction.
I wrote a whole blog on this hike, so please check out the details here!
(3) – Citizen 33 Brewery
After the intense hike, we were ready to take it down a notch and head into eastern Idaho. On the way to our next stop (Upper Mesa Falls), we stopped at Citizen 33 Brewery in Driggs, ID for some drinks and a late lunch/early dinner. It was about an hour and 15 minutes away from Lupine Meadows trail head.
I had the smash burger and my husband had the chicken tenders. We would definitely recommend this cute place for food, drinks and service – this spot hit the spot after our Delta Lake hike!
Also, I want to note that it was cool driving and getting to see the Teton range from a distance across hay/grassy fields. While being in the parks is awesome, this was scenic in a more calm and quaint way.
(4) – Upper Mesa Falls
Next, head to Upper Mesa Falls, which is about another 1.5 hours from the town of Driggs. The drive itself is full of scenic views as you pass through lush forests and wide-open spaces.
When we arrived at Upper Mesa Falls, we found the visitor center closed, but there was still a lot to explore. There’s a short, accessible trail that leads you to a viewpoint where you can see the Upper Mesa Falls, a stunning 114-foot waterfall. The falls are nestled in a beautiful canyon surrounded by cliffs, and it’s a peaceful, less-visited spot compared to other attractions in the area.
If you’re up for more exploration, there’s also a nature trail that offers a closer look at the surrounding landscape, and it’s a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs after the hike to Delta Lake.
(5) – Beaver Creek Campground
After spending the evening at Upper Mesa Falls, we set off for our next campsite, which would be our home for the night: Beaver Creek Campground. This campground is located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest about 35 minutes outside of West Yellowstone. It’s a bit more remote than the campgrounds in Grand Teton National Park, which made it a perfect place to retreat after our busy day. The campground feels peaceful, and it’s surrounded by dense forest and meadows.
The campground has amenities including picnic tables, fire pits with cooking grates, and clean pit toilets. It’s a perfect place to settle in for a peaceful night surrounded by nature. If you’re into stargazing, this is a fantastic spot to do it—without the light pollution that can be found in busier areas. You can often catch a glimpse of the Milky Way or shooting stars, depending on the time of year.
If you desire to stay in a hotel though, here are several recommendations:
- Kelly Inn West Yellowstone: If you’re looking for a charming, wildlife-themed hotel, Kelly Inn West Yellowstone is a great choice. Guests rave about its cozy rooms, comfy beds, and complimentary breakfast. The hotel’s prime location, just minutes from the park, is a major highlight. While it may be on the pricier side, most visitors find the cost reasonable for the area. Cleanliness is a strong point, with spacious, well-maintained rooms throughout. Click here to learn more about and book.
- Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone: Located just a short distance from Yellowstone, Explorer Cabins offer a semi-modern and rustic yet comfortable experience. The cabins are spacious and ideally situated near restaurants and the park entrance. Many guests love the cozy, nature-inspired atmosphere, and there have been many positive mentions on cleanliness. The cabins also feature handy amenities like kitchenettes and fireplaces, though the breakfast options could use some improvement. Click here to learn more about and book.
- Yellowstone Peaks Hotel: Situated in Island Park, ID, just south of the park, Yellowstone Peaks Hotel offers a more secluded retreat. These luxury cabins come with relaxing perks, including a hot tub and private sauna. If you’re traveling with a pet, the hotel is pet-friendly for an additional fee, making it a great option for furry friends. It’s a wonderful spot to unwind after a day of exploring Yellowstone. Click here to learn more about and book.
DAY 5 – TRAVEL DAY
On our final day, we had a relaxed morning before heading back to Bozeman, Montana. After packing up camp, we began the drive north, taking in the last beautiful views of the Teton Valley and Caribou-Targhee National Forest along the way.
(1) – West Yellowstone
Before leaving the area, if you have time, stop in the quaint town of West Yellowstone. This charming gateway to the park offers plenty of character, with its rustic, western vibe and easy access to Yellowstone’s iconic attractions. We strolled through the town, browsing local shops and enjoying the sights.
(2) – Big Sky, Montana
Although we didn’t have much time to explore Big Sky, we were immediately taken with its stunning mountain views and peaceful atmosphere. We stopped in the Big Sky Town Center, where we stretched our legs and reorganized our suitcases and camping gear. It was the perfect way to experience the area’s serene beauty and unwind before heading back to Bozeman.
(3) – Explore Rentals
We made a quick stop at Explore Rentals to return our (thankfully) unused bear spray. It was an easy, efficient pit stop on our way to the airport.
(4) – Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
As we made our way to Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, we reflected on the incredible landscapes we’d explored, from the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the jaw-dropping beauty of Grand Teton. After checking in, we grabbed a bite to eat and a beer flight at Copper Horse Restaurant inside the airport. It was a perfect way to wrap up the trip—savoring local brews while reminiscing about the unforgettable memories we’d made during our journey.
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