Certain areas of Yellowstone National Park make you feel as though you`ve been transported elsewhere. Bright blue-green thermal pools. Towering geyser eruptions that shoot high into the air. And herds of bison that could be part something not of this world. It was our initial stop on a grand loop that took us through Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, then down to Colorado and Rocky Mountain National Park, before returning home through the Utah National Parks.
After a summer spent in Washington State and Oregon, Yellowstone was a stunning change from our steady summer diet mountain peaks, alpine lakes, and evergreen trees.
In this Yellowstone National Park itinerary, you’ll obtain a thorough guide to the finest things to do and see, where to reside, travel recommendations based on our experience, and exactly how to spend 4 days in Yellowstone.
As one of the most visited national parks in the United States, you`ll regularly share some highlights with hundreds of other visitors. Facing the crowds is worthwhile to see Yellowstone`s stunning landscapes.
Additionally, if you`re strategic about allocating your time (hint: that`s what this guide is designed for), you`ll be able to evade most of the crowds.
Planning a vacation to Yellowstone? Don’t miss our guide to where to lodge in Yellowstone where we delve deep into how to choose the perfect place to stay in the park.
Pssst! This 4 day Yellowstone itinerary pairs excellently with this 3 Day Grand Teton Itinerary to complete a 7 day route through two of the greatest national parks in the United States.
Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.
Table of Contents
The Best Time to Visit Yellowstone
Before detailing our complete itinerary as promised, let`s briefly discuss logistics, which are important in Yellowstone National Park given its enormous size.
If you don’t strategize how to organize your time, you’re going to spend more time commuting, and you’re going to see less places.
The best time to visit Yellowstone in regards to both weather and roads being open is the summer – temperatures are high, snow has melted, and the roads are usually completely accessible, so you’ll be able to see the entire park.
As one presumably anticipated, the crowds materialized in summer and we found the experience rather unbearable.
The parking lots were constantly full, and the reality that all areas in Yellowstone were an easy walk from the vehicle meant that those trails had a large number of people. The fact that children were out of school at that time compounded the issue because families took their road trips during the summer months, and Yellowstone was a highly popular destination.
Autumn provides the best blend of accessible roads, weather conditions, and smaller crowds. Although we were once in Yellowstone in early September just after Labor Day when the temperature dipped below twenty degrees Fahrenheit and it had just snowed. Therefore, the climate is somewhat unpredictable, but the benefit is that crowds start to thin out and wildlife begins to grow more active.
An additional downside is that parts of the park close in the fall due to high Grizzly Bear activity – specifically the area around Mt. Washburn, which was closed during our visit and meant the road connecting the Canyon region and Lamar Valley was closed. This was disappointing.
In springtime, the snow thaws and you`ll start seeing wildlife venturing out, including bear cubs and the young of elk and bison. However, you`ll have difficulty observing much of the park since many roads within the park are closed through April in most years. I`d advise against scheduling a trip to Yellowstone National Park before May.
If visiting Yellowstone in winter, it’s a real winter wonderland. But almost all the roads are closed, and much can`t be seen
Whenever you choose to visit, check road conditions here.
How Many Days in Yellowstone National Park?
Based on our experiences, I would state you need no less than 4 days in Yellowstone National Park. Five or six would be preferable, I believe, but most individuals do not have the luxury of having that much time off.
With four days, you’ll be able to structure your trip with a major activity each morning and evening to avoid the midday congestion that occurs at all the prominent sights in the park.
If you have less availability than that, we offer ideas below the detailed itinerary we`ve written with ways to structure your visit into one, two, or three days.
How to Get to Yellowstone
Reaching Yellowstone requires a bit more planning than some other national parks. The most direct option is to road trip there, which you can do from locations like Denver or Salt Lake City without too much difficulty. We drove from Seattle and stopped overnight in Missoula, Montana to break up the journey a little.
If driving independently isn’t an option, you’ll need to fly into either Jackson, Wyoming, or Bozeman, Montana, and rent a car to drive into Yellowstone.
I organized this itinerary assuming you’d be flying into Bozeman. We drove through Bozeman on our way into the park, and I basically arranged the trip similarly to how we did it. You’ll start at Mammoth Hot Springs in the northwest corner of the park because that`s closest to Bozeman. It’s roughly one and a half hours from the airport to Mammoth Hot Springs, depending on traffic conditions.
If you happen to be in town on a Sunday, then you ABSOLUTELY MUST stop by Smorgasburg, a huge outdoor food marketplace with hundreds of local food vendors serving an eclectic and diverse assortment of food. You can view all the vendors on their website. Come with an empty stomach. It’s behind the Row on Sundays.
Then you`ll enter Yellowstone from the south near the West Thumb Geyser Basin and Old Faithful, so tackle those areas first and rearrange the itinerary below. It`s approximately an hour and a half from Jackson to Yellowstone, not counting a stop in Grand Teton.
Where to Stay in Yellowstone
This is a rather complicated question, because initially it relies upon whether or not you are camping.
If a rustic cabin in the woods isn`t one`s style, then perhaps this ultra-modern isolated retreat instead?
Lodging Inside Yellowstone National Park
If camping isn`t your preferred activity, you only have a few options inside the park, and that’s the historic park lodges.
While these locations are beautiful and the setting couldn’t be better (it’s going to save you a LOT of time to not have to drive in and out of the park every day), you’re going to pay additional for the convenience and location. The other thing to know is that they book up VERY QUICKLY. And there’s a very restricted supply of rooms.
Consider reserving lodging at Mammoth Hot Springs for two nights, which will suitably place you to explore the Mammoth Hot Springs area and Lamar Valley (substitute: Canyon Lodge), and then two nights at the REMARKABLE Old Faithful Inn (substitute: Old Faithful Lodge).
Locating accommodations this way means being well-positioned to access Mammoth, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and the Lamar Valley from Mammoth Hot Springs, then Old Faithful and the West Thumb from Old Faithful Inn.
Lodging Outside of Yellowstone National Park
If you’re working with a limited budget or the lodges are all booked up, a few alternatives are available.
Following the same principle of spending two nights near the Lamar Valley and Grand Canyon, and two nights close to Old Faithful and the geysers, you should book your first two nights in Gardiner, MT and the last two nights in West Yellowstone.
Staying in Gardiner, Montana
From Gardiner, it’s an hour to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the Lamar Valley, and only 22 minutes to Mammoth Hot Spring.
Hotels in Gardiner
Gardiner offers visitors a virtually limitless number of hotel choices to select from. We believe you should consider the Yellowstone Gateway Inn and the Yellowstone Riverside Cottages.
The Yellowstone Gateway Inn possesses hotel-style rooms with rustic decor, but the true star attraction is the suites, which are essentially apartments with full kitchens and ample space whether you’re a traveling couple, or you’re planning a family reunion in Yellowstone. Additionally, it’s quite literally right outside the north entrance to the park. It will serve as a great home base for exploring Yellowstone, and you can check prices and availability by clicking here.
The accommodation near the entrance to Yellowstone National Park known as Yellowstone Riverside Cottages is situated in a similar location, just a couple of minutes outside the park entrance, and offers lodging options of varying sizes, layouts, and styles to choose from. Opt for a more rustic privately located cottage, which has adequate space for a couple or small group (most include kitchens), or a more modern suite style room. They provide lodging suitable for couples as well as groups of four to six individuals. Some rooms – especially the suites – feature scenic views of the Yellowstone River from a private balcony area. You can review pricing and availability details for your planned visit by accessing this link.
Vacation Rentals in Gardiner
Gardiner has several vacation rentals as well, mostly clustered along the river and hotel area. However, with cleaning fees nowadays, rentals are often the same or more costly than hotels, and less flexible.
Couples should consider this small yet cozy lodging, which provides all the needed amenities for exploring Yellowstone in a great setting, or this modern housing unit that is conveniently located just short distance from the park entrance.
Groups should look at this little castle, which accommodates 10 and has ample shared living space for everyone, or this roomy home that houses 11 and has great perspectives from the private deck.
Staying in West Yellowstone, Idaho
From West Yellowstone, it’s only 50 minutes to Old Faithful, making it a fantastic location for exploring the southern half of the park. The town provides numerous amenities – eateries, restaurants, gas stations, and more.
The top selections for accommodations in West Yellowstone include:
- Accommodations: The exceptionally stunning Adventure Inn and the 1872 Inn (adults only – fantastic spot for partners in Yellowstone!) are at the top of my list for my next visit to Yellowstone. Families or groups should consider the Kelly Inn West Yellowstone, which contains family rooms with bunk beds, or the Faithful Street Inn, which has complete houses with alternatives that have two and three bedrooms – perfect for groups who need a little extra space.
- Glamping: We adore Under Canvas in Moab and Zion, and they have a site in West Yellowstone! If you’re searching for an incredibly unique stay in a safari-style tent under the stars, consider Under Canvas Yellowstone. The compromise for the distinctive stay is that it’s about half an hour outside the park entrance, which will mean some extra driving.
- Holiday Rentals: Couples, review this private one bedroom cabin or this rustic log cabin in town. Families and groups, explore this two bedroom cabin (sleeps four) or this newly built cabin (also sleeps four).
Camping in Yellowstone National Park
If you plan to camp, you`ll be glad to know there are 12 campgrounds in the park offering over 2,000 campsites. However, they are incredibly competitive.
Advance reservations are accepted at five campgrounds within the park:
- Canyon
- Bridge Bay
- Grant Village
- Madison
- Fishing Bridge RV Park
My proposals are to remain at Canyon for two evenings, which positions you perfectly to witness the Grand Canyon and Lamar Valley early, when you`ll have the best experience. Then spend the second two nights at either Grant Village or Madison, which positions you for Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, and the West Thumb.
To potentially reserve a spot, you’ll need to either:
- Ensure reservations are made as far ahead of schedule as possible – at minimum six months in advance, even earlier if intending travel during the summer months.
- Repeatedly check availability of campsites to uncover cancellations, which is how lodging was secured at Canyon and Grant Village sites.
Tips for Planning a Perfect Yellowstone Itinerary
The following tips are based on our experience in Yellowstone National Park, which was in early autumn.
- How to Respect the Indigenous Residents: In Yellowstone, there is an incredible abundance of wildlife essentially anywhere. Elk, bison, grizzly bears, some wolves, and even moose are present! Bear in mind – they are WILD CREATURES. Remain at minimum 25 yards from elk and bison, and 100+ yards from grizzly bears and wolves.
- Where Wildlife Can Be Found: The two finest spots in the park for spotting wildlife are the Lamar Valley (excellent for wolves, bison, and occasionally grizzly bears) and the Hayden Valley (SO MANY BISON). The ideal time to see wildlife is within an hour of sunrise and sunset. We did a nightly “game drive” every evening, and went out to the Lamar Valley at 5:00 am (it was literally 16 degrees F) to spot wolves. Butttttt….
- BRING OPTICAL DEVICES: There were wolves in the Lamar Valley, but all I had was my zoom lens on my camera and we weren’t able to actually see them. If you want to see wildlife, you should invest in a quality set of binoculars before your trip. My mom went to Yellowstone a few weeks after we did and I told her to buy binoculars. Guess what? She saw both wolves and grizzly bears, which we missed. I’m DEFINITELY not bitter about that though.
- Avoiding Crowds: The crowds in Yellowstone are insane. And it doesn’t help that everything is within a few hundred yards of a parking lot. I would plan on an early morning outing, a leisurely lunch, and then a late afternoon activity. Going to any of the main sights between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm is a fool’s errand – you’ll end up spending more time waiting for parking than seeing the sights. Plus, a side bonus, the light will be better for pictures.
- Time of Day Considerations: The pools in Yellowstone are one of the highlights – how the heck are they that color? Early and late in the day, which is when I JUST told you to go see them, they are going to be less vibrant because the sunlight really brings out the colors, but there is a cool steam effect that happens when the hot steam hits the cool air. Midday is when they really shine (see below for the same pool at different times of day) but the crowds are borderline unbearable.
- Recall the Elevation: Yellowstone is pretty high up, around 8,000 feet, which I didn’t quite realize. Take it easy on your first day to adjust, and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Remember, Yellowstone National Park is immense – one of the largest national parks in the country, in fact. We found the driving times between locations most surprising.
For example, given that the road connecting Canyon Campground and Tower Junction was closed, it took us TWO HOURS to reach the Lamar Valley by one route. We departed at 4:00 am to arrive there for dawn.
How to Plan an Incredible 4 Day Yellowstone Itinerary
Now that you’re prepared with all the logistical details to help you make the most of your time, onto the actual itinerary and exactly what to do in Yellowstone.
The Best Things to Do in Yellowstone – DO NOT MISS THESE
There are five things you should be sure to experience during your trip to Yellowstone. You`ll find more details on them in the guide below.
- The towering eruptions of Old Faithful are predicted with around 90% accuracy within 10 minutes according to signs at the Visitors Center viewpoint. Seeing the towering magnificence of Old Faithful over the iconic Old Faithful Inn building provides a sense of its impressive scale.
- The vividly colorful Grand Prismatic Hot Spring is best viewed from the postcard-perfect outlook along the scenic Fairy Falls Trail.
- Witnessing the natural splendor of the Lamar Valley at sunrise and sunset offers a chance to spot wild wolves in their natural habitat, worth the slightly longer journey.
- The underestimated West Thumb Geyser Basin delighted us so much that we returned twice to rediscover its charms.
- Another often overlooked gem, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone deserves a visit around 9-10 am to experience the phenomenal colors and formations illuminated by the rising sun`s radiant rainbow.
Now, onto how to fit all of those things in over the course of your time in Yellowstone.
Your route will essentially progress from north to south through the park. This means the two sights we most favor – Grand Prismatic and Old Faithful alongside the geyser trail – will be saved for last.
Here is what the detailed 4 day Yellowstone itinerary below appears like when separated out by day.
- Day 1: Enjoying Mammoth Hot Springs and the Hayden Valley
- Day 2: Exploring the Lamar Valley, a hike, and geothermal areas at Golden Hour
- Day 3: Touring the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Yellowstone Lake, and the West Thumb Geyser Basin
- Day 4: Visiting Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, and ALL of the geysers
Day 1: Mammoth Hot Springs and the Hayden Valley
Today, you’ll arrive in Yellowstone with about half a day to work with. Head straight to Mammoth Hot Springs to see one of the most unique geothermal features in the park, then move on to the Hayden Valley at sunset.
Where to Stay: Canyon Village (Campground or Lodge) or Gardiner, Montana.
Arrival and Mammoth Hot Spring
Whether you’re driving to Yellowstone or flying in from a different state, you probably won’t be arriving in the park until mid-morning at the earliest.
Presuming you’re flying into Bozeman, get your rental automobile at the airport and head directly to Mammoth Hot Spring.
Mammoth Hot Springs is a short little boardwalk circuit that takes visitors past a few different geothermal features, but the highlight is the Terraces – a hot spring that looks like something straight from Alien. It’s one of the most distinct sites in the park, and it’s an easy walk on the boardwalk.
Next, check into lodging and settle in. Enjoy an early dinner before the sunset safari excursion.
Sunset Drive Through the Hayden Valley
This beautiful lodging positioned on top of a hill on Pender Island, one of our preferred weekend escapes from Vancouver, is a gemstone. It’s ideal for a pair seeking a retreat from the city where you can savor each other’s company minus the distractions that come with living at home in the city.
Driving south on Grand Loop Road from Canyon Junction, you will eventually arrive at Hayden Valley. I have not planned specific stops since it depends on conditions and wildlife locations each day. But exploring from Canyon Junction to Sulphur Cauldron and back near sunset is sure to provide many animal sightings.
Our strategy was initially to pull over when multiple vehicles had congregated together, since the photographers were likely gathering in that area to photograph someone of note. Secondly, we would stop at lookouts with scenic views and wait for a short period to see if any activity could be observed.
Other than that, I don’t have much additional information for you here. There’s more detail on the Lamar Valley, which is your destination tomorrow morning. For now, head home and get some rest. It’s going to be an early start.
Day 2: Wildlife Safari and Geysers
Today presents your best opportunity to spot wolves, and potentially grizzly bears too. Note, I’m not stating you’re probably going to see grizzlies, I’m conveying this might be your best chance.
Where to Stay: The same lodging you used during the first evening – Canyon Village (Campground or Lodge) or Gardiner, MT.
Lamar Valley at Dawn
When I say dawn, I refer to dawn. Canines are most lively in the predawn hours, and it’s virtually impossible to see them once the sun rises and they lay in the grass to relish in the sun`s warmth.
You want to be out in the Lamar Valley a full hour before sunrise, which means an early start is necessary.
Yellowstone is likely the most ideal location for viewing wolves in their natural habitat. Gradually, they have been displaced from traditional territories and killed by the ever-expanding human footprint that encroaches on areas where they reside. Certainly, the extermination initiatives sanctioned by the US to protect livestock (among other rationales) did little to help either.
But in the mid 1990s, 41 wild wolves were released into Yellowstone and the rest is history. Today, there are about 100 wolves in the park at any given time, and the northern part of the park, including the Lamar Valley, is the best place to see them.
This online resource contains insightful information about wolves within Yellowstone.
Where to go in the Lamar Valley depends on one`s interests. But the best locale we found was near this location. There was an elevated area with many people utilizing high-quality optical devices searching for wolves. They observed them, we didn`t. Mostly because we didn`t have optical devices.
Obviously that location may not always provide the best opportunity to see wolves – as you travel, look for gatherings of people on small hills with telescopes throughout the valley. They`re your best chance to find where the wolves are spending time that morning and will likely help you view them too.
A Morning / Afternoon Hike
Outside, there are ponds where water flows through human rock sculptures and other smaller religious buildings where monks offer blessings in exchange for donations.
Foremost is the hike to Bunsen Peak. It’s a 4.5 mile trek up to the summit of, you guessed it, Bunsen Peak, which offers some gorgeous perspectives over the park. It climbs 1,300 feet, which is no joke at this altitude, so be prepared to do some heavy breathing. Try not to topple the house down.
The Game Parlour is located in the Inner Sunset area. It is a cafe that focuses on board games, offering nearly every tabletop game option while also providing a completely gluten-free menu.”
If you’re open to experience, try the Sepulcher Mountain Trail instead. This hike requires substantial effort, but the rewards include some of the best views in the park. It’s an 11 mile loop trail that ascends a significant 3,400 feet to the summit, situated at 9,652 feet. If selected, this route will occupy most of your day.
More Geysers at Golden Hour
Head over to the Norris Geyser Basin for the late afternoon sun. It’s a 30-40 minute drive from Mammoth Hot Spring, or a 20 minute drive from Canyon Lodge.
The highlight here for us was the Steamboat Geyser, the world`s tallest geyser. Disappointingly, it doesn`t erupt very often (we missed it), but merits a stop.
It’s worth doing the entire figure-eight trail to take in all of the natural beauty in both areas, Back Basin and Porcelain Basin. It’s about 2.5 miles all-in and is mostly boardwalk.
Day 3: The Grand Canyon… of the Yellowstone
Today, embark on a trip to one of the most treasured locations along this entire Yellowstone itinerary: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Then journey south through the Hayden Valley, beside the lake, and conclude with West Geyser Basin, the underrated spectacle in Yellowstone.
Where You Will Stay Tonight: You`ll want to checkout of your current lodging today and move to either the Grant Village Campground, the historic Old Faithful Inn, or the town of West Yellowstone, based on your selected accommodations.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
For this area, there are a ton of viewpoints on both the north and south rim of the canyon, and you should do your best to visit them all.
Begin on the south side around 8:30 am and head out to Artist Point, the picture-perfect perspective of the Canyon and Lower Falls that one didn’t realize was needed. Remain here until the rainbow appears – usually between 9:00 and 10:00 am, when the sunlight strikes the water.
There is a brief hike (2.7 miles round trip) to Point Sublime leaving from Artist Point. The trek could offer additional views of the canyon and river but you lose sight of the falls along the way. We opted to spend more time at Artist Point instead.
Next, traverse to the other side of the canyon and drive the scenic roadway, stopping at all the viewpoints. If short on time, undoubtedly the best perspective is the Lower Lookout Point.
It’s a short hike downhill from the parking area (you’ll have to climb back uphill on the way back) but the views are spectacular. Here are some pictures to show you what to expect.
Complete the scenic loop – you can only drive in one direction so you have no choice but to finish – and head south on Grand Loop Road through the Hayden Valley, passing herds of American bison (but likely not as numerous as those seen at dusk) before reaching Yellowstone Lake, which makes for a great spot for lunch and sightseeing.
Have a midday meal by the lake (we ate here and it was a great lakeside spot) and then drive out to Gull Point. This scenic loop reconnects with the main road, so no need to turn around.
Now reenergized, tackle an afternoon hike. For scenic views over the lake, climb up to Elephant Back Mountainfor the lookout at the summit.
West Thumb Geyser Basin
Conclude your day with a trip to one of our favorite spots throughout the entire park – the West Thumb Geyser Basin. We actually returned twice!
The reason we enjoyed it so much? Natural thermal pools scattered throughout the area, varying in size, color, and bubbliness. AND it’s visited by fewer people than nearly every other location in Yellowstone.
You’ll want to complete the entire loop, beginning from the parking area and turning left at the junction to pass Abyss Pool and Black Pool – two of our favorites throughout the entire park for the incredible colors.
Then make your way along the shore of the lake, be sure to pause at Fishing Cone, a tiny formation in the water that bubbles and gurgles.
Unless the sun is high in the sky, you can see through the transparent water that there’s actually a fairly large cone below the surface.
During our fall visit to Yellowstone, which coincides with elk mating season, we observed a large male elk exhibiting mating behaviors toward females accompanied by young. Often referred to as bugling, the elk emitted a distinctive vocalization that blended shrieks and squeals while chasing the ladies. His offspring frolicked blithely amid the pathways as the dramatic scene unfolded, presenting a unique opportunity to witness this annual natural phenomena firsthand.
Day 4: Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin
Congratulations! You saved the best activities for the final day of your trip. You’ll begin at the famous Old Faithful geyser, then move on to see the spectacular Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, and wrap up at the Lower Geyser Basin.
Where to Stay: Spend the night in the same location as the previous night – Grant Village Campground, Old Faithful Inn, or West Yellowstone – before moving on to Grand Teton or heading back to the airport the following day.
Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin
I cannot recommend enough that you visit Old Faithful early in the morning to avoid the immense crowds.
Head there towards the early morning, before 8:00 am if feasible. Upon your arrival, you’ll notice signs predicting eruption times near the Visitors Center. It erupts approximately every one and a half hours, generally.
If it’s within half an hour of your arrival, you have a good opportunity! Head up to Observation Point, which is on the opposing side of Old Faithful from the parking area and Visitor Center, and provides a perspective from above that helps illustrate the scale of what you’re viewing. It’s a brief uphill hike to reach the viewing area, so plan for it to take 20-30 minutes to get there.
Once you’re there, relax and enjoy the show.
After Old Faithful completes its eruption cycle, you ought to explore the entire Upper Geyser Basin on foot, which contains the highest density of geysers globally.
Do a self-guided tour that pursues the trail from the Observation Point Trailhead, up to Morning Glory Pool with a few brief stops, and back past Castle Geyser and Daisy Geyser.
Our favorites included the Chromatic Pool, Grotto Geyser, Riverside Geyser, Castle Geyser, and the striking green-yellow Morning Glory Pool. It`s worthwhile stopping at each geyser and learning about what makes them exceptional. Plan on this walk, which is approximately three miles, taking about an hour and thirty minutes.
If you time it correctly, you can return to Old Faithful for a second eruption (we did!), which you’ll view from a different vantage point. One aspect you can’t truly see from above that we noticed here is all the water that is propelled out!
Here’s a map of the route, with our favorites indicated along the way.
Grand Prismatic Hot Spring
To experience the stunning scale and vivid hues of Grand Prismatic, head to the trailhead known as Fairy Falls to hike to the viewpoint overlooking the vibrantly colored natural basin below. The approximately 1.5 mile mostly flat route with some elevation gain rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas of the colorful geyser basin.
Then, direct yourself to the parking location for Midway Geyser Basin for a closer perspective of Grand Prismatic. We opted out of this part because of the line waiting to park – it was extremely busy! – but if parking is available, do it.
Lower Geyser Basin
Conclude your tour-of-geysers with a stop at the Lower Geyser Basin, which is puzzling, because on a map it’s actually highest since furthest north. This area was surprisingly cool.
Tour the bubbling Fountain Paint Pots loop, which takes 20-30 minutes. It culminates at the shockingly azure Celestine Pool, creating a fitting conclusion to your journey through Yellowstone`s geothermal areas.
Return to your lodgings to unwind and reminisce about the unforgettable sights, sounds, and smells – because geysers are smelly – you experienced during your time in Yellowstone National Park.
What to Do with Less Time on Your Yellowstone Itinerary
Have less time in Yellowstone? Here are some ideas on how to experience the best of Yellowstone in fewer days.
How to See Yellowstone National Park in 3 Days
If you only have 3 days in Yellowstone, the primary thing we’d do is combine days three and four into a single epic day where you experience the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone in the morning, drive west to encounter the geysers ( Old Faithful, the Upper Geyser Basin, and Grand Prismatic Hot Spring), and continue southeast to finish your day at the West Thumb Geyser Basin.
This effectively means you’ll have to skip the climb up to Elephant Back Mountain to save time.
For that version of the itinerary, follow days one and two as outlined previously, then combine days three and four as we just described. Here’s what the day-to-day schedule looks like.
- Day 1: Exploring Mammoth Hot Springs and the Hayden Valley
- Day 2: Witnessing wildlife in The Lamar Valley, taking a hike, and catching Golden Hour in the thermal areas at Golden
- Day 3: Marveling at the canyon scenery in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and sampling the thermal areas
What to Do in Yellowstone in 2 Days
With only two days allotted for Yellowstone, the simple fact remains you will be unable to experience everything within. The park is just too expansive.
One significant point here – With only two days, we’d recommend selecting one, central lodging (Canyon is your best option) and using that as your home base for the entire trip. That way, you won’t need to worry about relocating on different days and can dedicate the full time to exploring the park.
That necessitates making some reductions to the itinerary above. We’d promptly remove the Norris Geyser Basin and hike from the afternoon of day 2, and the Lower Geyser Basin from day 4.
On your first day exploring Yellowstone National Park from the northern entrance, make sure to experience the geothermal wonders of Mammoth Hot Springs early in your journey towards the impressive Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Stop to dine midday before heading to the Lamar Valley at dusk hoping to spot wolves in their habitat.
On your second day, follow day 4 of the itinerary previously mentioned for the stops at the renowned Old Faithful and popular Upper Geyser Basin, then head over to marvel at the breathtaking Grand Prismatic Hot Spring and hike to the scenic overlook. Enjoy lunch at the West Thumb Geyser Basin, and spend some time on the shore of Yellowstone Lake. Wrap up your day with a drive back north around sunset through the Hayden Valley for optimum chances of seeing wildlife, as this is the best time.
It’s worth a stop in both to see them yourself
- Day 1: Mammoth Hot Springs, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and Lamar Valley
- Day 2: Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, the West Thumb, and the Hayden Valley
The Best Way to Spend One Day in Yellowstone
If you have merely one day available in Yellowstone National Park, you’ll need to select specifically what you plan to see.
Instantly, you’re likely going to need to skip the Lamar Valley only because it is so far away from all the other areas in the park (at minimum an hour each way to get there and back). The Hayden Valley is a good substitute, but you possibly won’t see wolves there.
We will suppose sightseers want to observe the highlights – Mammoth Hot Springs, the Grand Canyon, and the geysers (Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic). To combine them all into one prolonged, extraordinary day, commence at the northwest corner of the park and progress southward.
For that reason, we’d recommend staying either in Mammoth Hot Springs, or outside the park in Gardiner, MT for the night before this day.
Begin your day early and make a brief stop at Mammoth Hot Springs. Stroll the boardwalk then continue on – it’s not the most engaging site of the day.
Next, head over to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, stopping on both sides of the river. Walk to the viewpoint near the parking lot on the south side, and drive around north side (see above in the detailed itinerary for what stops we liked best).
Next on the itinerary is viewing the spectacular hydrothermal features, beginning with the brilliantly hued Grand Prismatic Hot Spring and its scenic overlook accessed via a brief walk, then heading to legendary Old Faithful. Hike up for a stunning eruption display at Old Faithful, and loop through the colorful Upper Geyser Basin in its entirety.
Complete the route by traveling north along the shore of Yellowstone Lake (you may not have time for West Thumb, but include it if possible since it was our favorite!). Aim to be in the Hayden Valley around sunset for optimal chances to see herds of elk and bison roaming the golden plains.
It’ll be a whirlwind, but it’ll be an amazing one.
Yellowstone is an excellent example of the natural beauty that exists in the United States. Provided you are ready at times to share the scenery with many others, you will have an unforgettable time exploring the colorful hot springs, towering geysers, and diversity of wildlife.
Yes, I just utilized the word “cacophony” and I couldn’t be more pleased about it.
Anyway, enjoy! If you have a full week, this itinerary pairs very nicely with our 3 day Grand Teton Itinerary. We really enjoyed Grand Teton, and we saw SEVEN moose! It’s worth stopping by, even if you don’t have a full three days
We also feature a combined Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks itinerary.
