The Final 7-Day Yellowstone Highway Journey Itinerary

A Yellowstone and Grand Teton street journey is finest loved over 7 days, supplying you with sufficient time to discover each parks’ highlights and hidden gems. The route I’ve laid out begins with the long-lasting spots of Yellowstone and ends with an journey by the dramatic peaks and pristine lakes of Grand Teton Nationwide Park, masking round 250 miles of scenic driving.

This itinerary captures the most effective of those two neighboring parks, from the steamy geysers and colourful sizzling springs of Yellowstone to the rugged mountain vistas of Grand Teton. But when 7 days feels too lengthy or when you’re on a tighter schedule, no drawback! You may tailor this information to suit your timeframe by specializing in the sights that excite you most.

Right here’s every little thing you want for an epic Yellowstone street journey in 2025. I’ve packed this 7-day itinerary with all of the must-see stops, insider ideas, and important recommendation to make this journey unforgettable. So, let’s prepare for some of the iconic street journeys within the American West!

This map highlights all of the must-see stops alongside the best way (over 50 Instagrammable spots). Beneath, I’ll break down every vacation spot and share ideas for maximizing your time in these unbelievable nationwide parks.

On Day 2, you’ll dive straight into the wonders of Yellowstone, beginning with the surreal landscapes of Mammoth Scorching Springs. As you journey by the park, you’ll transition from effervescent terraces to huge valleys teeming with wildlife, earlier than ending your day on the historic Tower-Roosevelt space.

Mammoth Scorching Springs is one among Yellowstone’s most original options—a sprawling terrace of effervescent, steaming limestone formations. It’s always altering, with sizzling water from deep throughout the Earth sculpting new options over time. The world can also be house to the historic Fort Yellowstone, supplying you with a glimpse into the park’s previous.

• Higher and Decrease Terraces: Begin your go to by exploring the boardwalks that wind by the Higher and Decrease Terraces. Every terrace presents a special perspective of the new springs, with cascading mineral formations that vary in shade from white to rust-red. I like to recommend beginning on the Higher Terraces for the most effective views, then working your manner down.
• Liberty Cap: Don’t miss this towering, dormant sizzling spring cone, which stands out among the many terraces. It’s an awesome spot for images and an enchanting reminder of Yellowstone’s volcanic exercise.
• Historic Fort Yellowstone: Take a brief stroll to Fort Yellowstone, the place you’ll be able to discover the preserved buildings from when the U.S. Military managed the park. The Customer Heart right here presents insightful displays on the historical past of Yellowstone, making it price a fast go to.

In winter, the terraces could be particularly lovely, with steam rising from the snow-covered formations. The boardwalks are often accessible, however you’ll need to bundle up and put on sturdy boots for icy situations.

After soaking within the sights at Mammoth, it’s time to move to Lamar Valley, typically referred to as the “Serengeti of North America” as a consequence of its plentiful wildlife. That is the most effective place in Yellowstone to identify wolves, bison, and even the occasional grizzly bear. The valley’s wide-open areas make it straightforward to see animals from the street, so hold your eyes peeled!

• Wildlife Watching: Early morning or late night are the most effective occasions to see wildlife. Carry binoculars for a more in-depth have a look at wolves or bears that is perhaps additional away. Pull over on the designated viewpoints or wherever you see different vehicles stopped—likelihood is, they’ve noticed one thing fascinating!
• Bison Herds: You’ll possible see giant herds of bison grazing and even crossing the street. Bear in mind to maintain a protected distance—these animals are huge and could be unpredictable.
• Slough Creek: This space inside Lamar Valley is a hotspot for wolf watching. In the event you’re fortunate, you would possibly catch a glimpse of the park’s well-known wolf packs. There’s a parking space the place you’ll be able to pull over and look ahead to wildlife.

In spring, you would possibly see new child bison calves and different younger wildlife. Winter presents a quieter, snow-covered panorama the place you’ll be able to typically spot animals extra simply in opposition to the white backdrop. Be cautious of street situations, as snow and ice could make driving more difficult.

Your day wraps up within the Tower-Roosevelt space, a spot wealthy in historical past and pure magnificence. Named after the well-known Roosevelt Lodge, this space presents entry to a few of Yellowstone’s lesser-known gems. You’ll discover sights just like the Petrified Tree and Tower Fall right here.

• Roosevelt Lodge: This rustic lodge is a good spot to cease for a meal or simply stretch your legs. It’s named after President Theodore Roosevelt, an enormous fan of Yellowstone. In the event you’re visiting in the summertime, contemplate reserving a guided horseback experience or a stagecoach tour.
• Tower Fall: Only a quick drive from the lodge, Tower Fall is one among Yellowstone’s most iconic waterfalls. It plunges 132 ft into the canyon beneath. The perspective is well accessible, and there’s a brief path if you wish to discover additional.
• Petrified Tree: A fast cease on the Petrified Tree presents a glimpse into Yellowstone’s historic previous. This fossilized redwood tree, encased in stone, is an enchanting sight. It’s a reminder that this space was as soon as a lot hotter and wetter.
• Blacktail Plateau Drive: In case you have additional time, take this scenic, one-way filth street. It presents gorgeous views and extra wildlife-spotting alternatives. It’s a peaceable detour with fewer crowds, good for individuals who need to discover off the overwhelmed path.

Within the fall, this space is a good place to see elk in the course of the rutting season. You would possibly hear the males bugling as they compete for mates—a novel and memorable expertise. Winter visits require a bit extra preparation since some roads could also be closed as a consequence of snow. Nonetheless, the solitude and snow-covered landscapes are effectively definitely worth the effort.

A 1.5-hour drive from Mammoth Scorching Springs takes us to Canyon Village. It’s house to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, with its thunderous waterfalls and strikingly colourful cliffs!

From there, you’ll head into Hayden Valley, a lush, open plain that’s the most effective spots within the park to see bison, elk, and even the occasional grizzly bear. At the present time is all about soaking in Yellowstone’s epic surroundings and watching its wildlife in motion.

Canyon Village is your launching level for exploring one among Yellowstone’s most iconic landmarks—the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. This space is thought for its dramatic cliffs, vibrant hues, and the roar of waterfalls echoing by the canyon. It’s a must-see, and also you’ll need to give your self loads of time to take all of it in.

• Decrease Falls Viewpoints: Begin your exploration on the brink of Decrease Falls, essentially the most well-known waterfall within the park, plunging 308 ft into the canyon beneath. The perspective presents a jaw-dropping perspective, particularly within the early morning when the sunshine hits the mist. In the event you’re up for it, hike down the steep however rewarding Uncle Tom’s Path for a more in-depth view.
• Artist Level: Only a quick drive from the Decrease Falls, Artist Level presents some of the iconic views in all of Yellowstone. From right here, you’ll get a panoramic view of the canyon with the Decrease Falls framed completely within the distance. It’s a spot that’s impressed numerous work and pictures, and it’s straightforward to see why. I like to recommend visiting within the morning or late afternoon for the most effective lighting.
• North Rim Drive: After soaking within the views from Artist Level, head over to the North Rim Drive. This scenic loop presents a number of pullouts with views of the canyon and Higher Falls. Lookout Level and Inspiration Level are notably gorgeous and fewer crowded than Artist Level, supplying you with a extra peaceable expertise.
• Canyon Customer Schooling Heart: Earlier than leaving Canyon Village, cease by the Customer Heart to be taught extra about Yellowstone’s geology. The displays right here present an enchanting have a look at the volcanic forces that formed the park!

After exploring Canyon Village, it’s time to move south into Hayden Valley. This broad, open valley is a chief location for wildlife viewing and is crisscrossed by the Yellowstone River. It’s house to a number of the park’s most iconic animals and is a favourite spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Previous Devoted is the famous person of Yellowstone, well-known for its common eruptions that shoot water and steam excessive into the air. Whereas it’s not the biggest geyser within the park, it’s essentially the most dependable, erupting roughly each 90 minutes.

• Previous Devoted Eruption Viewing: Head straight to the viewing space round Previous Devoted. There’s a big, semi-circular seating space the place you’ll be able to comfortably watch the geyser erupt. I like to recommend discovering a spot with a great view of each the geyser and the sky for some dramatic images. In the event you miss one eruption, don’t fear—the subsequent one isn’t far off!
• Previous Devoted Customer Schooling Heart: After watching the eruption, pop into the close by Customer Heart. It presents fascinating displays on the park’s geothermal options, and the rangers can provide you predictions on when different geysers within the space would possibly erupt.

In winter, the world round Previous Devoted is a winter wonderland, accessible by snowmobile or snowcoach. Watching the geyser erupt in opposition to a backdrop of snow is an unforgettable sight. In summer time, the world could be fairly sizzling and busy, so attempt to go to early within the morning or later within the afternoon.

The Higher Geyser Basin, the place Previous Devoted resides, is house to the biggest focus of geysers on the planet. It’s an otherworldly panorama full of geysers, sizzling springs, and fumaroles, all effervescent and steaming away. Take your time exploring this space—there’s a lot to see, and every function is exclusive.

• Geyser Hill: Begin your exploration at Geyser Hill, only a quick stroll from Previous Devoted. This space is filled with lesser-known geysers which are simply as fascinating. Look out for Anemone Geyser, which erupts continuously, and Beehive Geyser, recognized for its highly effective eruptions that may attain 200 ft within the air.
• Morning Glory Pool: Probably the most lovely sizzling springs within the park, Morning Glory Pool is known for its vibrant colours, starting from deep blue to vibrant yellow. The pool’s shade has modified over time as a consequence of pure and human-caused components, however it stays a shocking sight. It’s a few 1.5-mile spherical journey stroll from Previous Devoted. The trail is simple and effectively definitely worth the effort.
• Citadel Geyser: One other spectacular geyser within the Higher Geyser Basin, Citadel Geyser erupts about each 10-12 hours. Its eruptions last more than Previous Devoted’s, with water spewing for about 20 minutes. That is adopted by a steam section that may final 30-40 minutes. In the event you’re close by when it’s about to go off, it’s positively price stopping to look at.
• Riverside Geyser: Positioned alongside the Firehole River, Riverside Geyser is exclusive as a result of it shoots water out at an angle. This creates an exquisite arching spray that displays within the river beneath. It erupts about each 6 hours, so examine the predictions on the Customer Heart to time your go to.

After exploring the Higher Geyser Basin, take a brief 10-minute drive to the Halfway Geyser Basin. This space is smaller however simply as spectacular, that includes a number of the most vibrant and colourful sizzling springs within the park.

• Grand Prismatic Spring: The star of Halfway Geyser Basin, Grand Prismatic Spring is the biggest sizzling spring in the USA. It’s additionally some of the photographed spots in Yellowstone. The colourful colours—deep blue on the heart, transitioning to inexperienced, yellow, and orange—are attributable to heat-loving micro organism. One of the best ways to see it’s from the boardwalk that winds across the spring. For a hen’s-eye view, take the quick hike to the Grand Prismatic Overlook on the Fairy Falls Path.
• Excelsior Geyser Crater: Just some steps from Grand Prismatic, you’ll discover Excelsior Geyser Crater. As soon as a strong geyser, it’s now a boiling sizzling spring that discharges over 4,000 gallons of water per minute into the Firehole River. The large, steamy crater creates an eerie and fascinating environment.
• Opal Pool and Turquoise Pool: These smaller, less-visited swimming pools close to Grand Prismatic Spring supply their very own distinctive magnificence. The colours are putting, and the encircling steam provides a mystical high quality to the expertise. These swimming pools are much less crowded, making them an awesome place to take a quieter second and soak within the surroundings.

The very best time to go to Grand Prismatic Spring is within the late morning or early afternoon when the solar is excessive sufficient to carry out the vivid colours. In winter, Halfway Geyser Basin could be more difficult to entry. But when you will get there, the steam rising in opposition to the snow-covered floor is a sight to behold.

Day 5 of your Yellowstone journey takes you to the serene and scenic West Thumb Geyser Basin and the expansive Yellowstone Lake. These areas supply an ideal mixture of geothermal wonders and peaceable lakeside views.

The drive from the Higher Geyser Basin to West Thumb is about half-hour, supplying you with loads of time to take pleasure in a leisurely morning earlier than heading out. At present is all about soaking within the quieter, much less crowded components of Yellowstone whereas nonetheless experiencing its distinctive geothermal exercise.

West Thumb Geyser Basin is exclusive as a result of it sits proper on the sting of Yellowstone Lake. This presents a uncommon mixture of geothermal options and lakeside views. It’s a smaller basin, however it’s filled with fascinating sizzling springs, mud pots, and geysers. All of this comes with the gorgeous backdrop of the lake.

• Fishing Cone: This submerged geyser bought its identify as a result of early guests used to catch fish within the lake after which prepare dinner them within the sizzling spring—proper on their fishing line! Whilst you can’t try this anymore, it’s nonetheless an enchanting function to take a look at. It’s particularly fascinating at low water ranges when the cone is extra seen.
• Abyss Pool: One of many deepest sizzling springs in Yellowstone, Abyss Pool lives as much as its identify with darkish, mysterious waters that appear to plunge into the earth. It’s a bit eerie however completely mesmerizing.
• Black Pool: Regardless of its identify, Black Pool is now a vibrant blue-green. This variation occurred as a consequence of temperature shifts that killed off the dark-hued micro organism that when lived in its waters. It’s some of the colourful options within the basin and positively price a cease.
• Large Cone: This small, inconspicuous geyser doesn’t erupt typically, however when it does, it shoots water instantly into the lake. It’s a reminder of how lively the geothermal space is, even proper on the water’s edge.
• Lakeside Geysers and Scorching Springs: The boardwalk at West Thumb takes you alongside the shoreline. Right here, you’ll be able to see geysers and sizzling springs effervescent proper subsequent to the water. The distinction between the cool blue of the lake and the steaming sizzling springs is putting and makes for some nice images.

The drive from Yellowstone Lake to Grand Teton Nationwide Park takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Grand Teton’s jagged peaks, clear lakes, and plentiful wildlife make it a must-visit on any street journey by the area.

At present’s itinerary is all about immersing your self in the great thing about these mountains, with stops at a number of the park’s most well-known and breathtaking spots.

After spending the morning at Jenny Lake, head to the Snake River Overlook. This is without doubt one of the most well-known viewpoints in Grand Teton Nationwide Park. Photographer Ansel Adams made this spot well-known together with his black-and-white picture of the Tetons and the Snake River. That photograph turned some of the iconic photos of the American West.

• Snake River Overlook: The overlook presents a panoramic view of the Snake River winding by the valley, with the Teton Vary towering within the background. It’s an ideal spot for pictures, particularly at dawn or sundown when the sunshine is delicate, and the mountains are bathed in heat colours. I prefer to carry a thermos of espresso and sit right here for some time, simply taking within the view.
• Oxbow Bend: Somewhat additional alongside the street, you’ll discover Oxbow Bend, one other good spot for pictures. Right here, the river creates a relaxed, reflective floor that superbly mirrors the mountains. It’s additionally a great place to identify wildlife, particularly within the early morning or late night. Moose, beavers, and a wide range of birds are sometimes seen right here.

The Snake River Overlook is gorgeous year-round, however fall is a very particular time to go to. The timber alongside the river flip vibrant yellow, and the early morning gentle is ideal for pictures. In winter, the world is commonly lined in snow, making a serene and nearly otherworldly panorama.

In case you have additional time, there are many different superb spots to discover in Grand Teton Nationwide Park. Listed here are just a few further suggestions:

• Sign Mountain Summit Highway: Drive as much as the highest of Sign Mountain for panoramic views of the Teton Vary and the encircling valley. The street is open seasonally, often from late Could to mid-October, and the summit is a good place to look at the sundown.
• Schwabacher Touchdown: That is one other implausible spot for pictures, providing views of the Tetons mirrored within the calm waters of the Snake River. It’s particularly lovely at dawn, and also you’re prone to have it principally to your self when you arrive early.
• Mormon Row: For a little bit of historical past, go to Mormon Row, the place you’ll discover outdated homesteads and barns that date again to the early 1900s. The enduring Moulton Barn, with the Tetons as a backdrop, is without doubt one of the most photographed spots within the park.
• Taggart Lake and Bradley Lake Hike: This average hike is a 6-mile loop that takes you to 2 lovely alpine lakes. It’s a good way to flee the crowds and revel in some peaceable time in nature.

As your epic Yellowstone and Grand Teton journey involves an finish, you’ll spend your last morning soaking in the previous couple of moments of the gorgeous Teton surroundings.

Your final morning in Grand Teton is an ideal time to revisit a favourite spot or discover a brand new one earlier than hitting the street. The early hours are sometimes essentially the most peaceable, with fewer crowds and a great likelihood of seeing wildlife.

• Dawn at Mormon Row: Begin your day with a dawn go to to Mormon Row. The delicate morning gentle on the historic barns with the Teton Vary within the background is breathtaking and offers some of the iconic photograph alternatives within the park. It’s a quiet spot within the early morning, good for some reflection and pictures.
• Moose-Wilson Highway: In the event you haven’t explored this space but, the Moose-Wilson Highway is a good place for a morning drive. It’s the most effective spots within the park for seeing moose, particularly within the early morning. The street is slim and winding, so take it sluggish and benefit from the surroundings. Maintain your digital camera useful—you by no means know what you would possibly spot!
• Jackson Lake Overlook: For one last, sweeping view of the Tetons, cease by the Jackson Lake Overlook. The calm waters of Jackson Lake reflecting the mountains create a serene and unforgettable scene. It’s an awesome place to take a brief stroll alongside the shore or simply sit and take within the view one final time.
• Teton Park Highway: In the event you’re heading to Jackson Gap on your flight, contemplate taking the scenic Teton Park Highway as you permit. It presents lovely views of the Tetons and several other pullouts the place you’ll be able to cease for images or a brief stroll. The street connects with the primary freeway close to Moose, making it a handy and scenic route.

In the event you’re driving again to Bozeman, the route takes you north by the scenic landscapes of Wyoming and Montana. It’s a 4.5-hour drive, however with loads of locations to cease alongside the best way if you wish to stretch your legs or take within the views one final time.

Earlier than you pack up and begin your Yellowstone journey, there are just a few essential issues to bear in mind as you put together on your journey.

The very best time to go to Yellowstone is determined by what you need to expertise.

• Spring (April to early June): A quieter time with plentiful wildlife and highly effective waterfalls, however some roads should still be closed, and the climate is unpredictable.
• Summer time (Mid-June to August): Heat climate and full entry to the park, however anticipate giant crowds and excessive demand for lodging.
• Fall (September to October): Cooler temperatures, gorgeous fall foliage, and lively wildlife. Crowds skinny out, however some amenities shut, and early snow is feasible.
• Winter (November to March): A serene, snow-covered panorama with restricted entry, splendid for a peaceable, off-the-beaten-path expertise. Requires extra preparation and winter gear.

The size of your Yellowstone street journey is determined by how a lot you need to discover:

• 1-2 Days: Hit the most important highlights like Previous Devoted and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. It’s a fast, whirlwind tour.
• 3-4 Days: A extra relaxed tempo, permitting time to go to further spots like Mammoth Scorching Springs and Norris Geyser Basin.
• 5-7 Days: Supreme for an intensive exploration, together with lesser-known areas like Lamar Valley and Tower-Roosevelt. It’s also possible to take pleasure in longer hikes and extra wildlife viewing.
• 7+ Days: Develop your journey to incorporate close by Grand Teton Nationwide Park or different surrounding sights.

For a well-rounded expertise, 5-7 days is right to totally immerse your self in Yellowstone’s magnificence.

In case you have some additional time and need to discover past Yellowstone, there are a number of unbelievable locations close by price including to your journey:

Planning your Yellowstone street journey is thrilling, however you may need some questions. Listed here are solutions to frequent queries that can assist you plan your journey.

In the event you’re quick on time however need to hit the highlights, right here’s a compact 5-day itinerary:

The whole driving time is determined by your route, however a loop across the park’s primary sights often takes about 4-7 hours of driving unfold out over your journey. For instance, driving from Mammoth Scorching Springs to Previous Devoted is about 1.5-2 hours, and from Previous Devoted to West Thumb Geyser Basin takes about half-hour.

Yellowstone presents a wide range of hikes for all ability ranges. For novices, a number of the finest hikes embody the Mystic Falls Path (2.4 miles), Fairy Falls Path (5 miles), and Storm Level Path (2.3 miles). These trails supply lovely surroundings with out being too strenuous, making them good for these new to climbing.

Sure, there are a number of guided excursions accessible, starting from wildlife safaris to ranger-led walks and boat excursions on Yellowstone Lake. These excursions can supply deeper insights into the park’s pure wonders and are an awesome choice when you choose a extra structured expertise.

With growing reputation, some nationwide parks now require reservations throughout peak seasons. Whereas Yellowstone presently doesn’t require entry reservations, it’s clever to e-book lodging and campsites effectively upfront, particularly in the course of the summer time months when demand is excessive.

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