Yellowstone National Park Itinerary: 1 to 5 Perfect Days (2023)
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Putting together your Yellowstone National Park itinerary?
Yellowstone National Park is an area I used to beg my parents not to take me to when I was a kid. I would have rather stayed curled up in my room with a good book, imagining I was in Europe or New York or someplace rather than Montana. Maybe my dad just did not have a good Yellowstone National Park itinerary!
It took almost ten years before I realized how special of a place it was and learned how to appreciate it. Daniel and I went to visit not that long ago—it was his first time. From there, we were able to come up with an itinerary that allowed us to see almost everything. Not bad when there’s so much to see in the US National Parks (though I’m biased toward Montana national parks myself)!
Here are some of the basics, whether you are looking to spend three days in Yellowstone, four days in Yellowstone, or five days in Yellowstone.
If you want to visit Montana with a car, check out my Montana road trip guide!
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How many days do you need to visit Yellowstone National Park?
How many days do you need to see Yellowstone? It all depends on how much time you have! While you can rush through the major sights in one day, spending a bit more time there is worth it. Not only does it give you a chance to see some less-touristy areas of the park and give you a greater chance to spot wildlife, but it also get a better sense of the calm and wonder the area has.
I recommend three days minimum, but you can also extend your visit five days or longer depending on how many hikes and activities you want to fit in. Two days in Yellowstone is a little tight, but you can make work if you’re organized.
Also, it’s better to leave a little wiggle room for occasional lunch stops and unexpected animal encounters. You’ll also want to keep traffic in mind since that can affect how long it takes you to get from one attraction to the other. How many days in Yellowstone is up to you, but you should think about making sure that you have factored in finding parking and any delays, as well.
How many days to spend in Yellowstone also can depend on whether you have booked accommodations and rental car far enough in advance so you have enough time.
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- 2 days: perfect for a weekend visit and to see the highlights
- 3 days: ideal for hikers or those looking to add a tour
- 5 days: perfect for those who want to see almost everything and the surrounding area[/vc_cta][vc_column_text]
Yellowstone National Park itinerary: the perfect 3 days
Here’s what you need to know when you’re putting together your Yellowstone National Park itinerary for three days. If you would like to spend more time in America’s first park, then you’ll find some additional recommendations for more days below.
This Yellowstone itinerary is built on the premise that you are staying on the West Entrance of the park. It can be completed in reverse if you are staying on the east side.
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Day 1: Paint Pots and Geysers
Today is all about seeing the geological wonders of the park! First, you’ll drive south to the famous (and smelly) paint pots at Lower Geyser Basin. Take a walk along the boardwalk, but be careful not to step in them. These “paint pots” are formed from openings in the earth’s crust and the hot air that is released to the surface.
After exploring some of the muckier areas, you’ll want to take a stop at the Grand Prismatic Spring at Midway Geyser Basin. It’s one of the highlights of the west side of the park, and it also offers a number of trails nearby you can explore if you have the extra time. Parking can be a little tricky, so you might want to find a spot a little bit away and walk to the area where the paths are located. Again, remember to stay solely on the boardwalks so you don’t end up burning yourself!
Old Faithful provides some natural fireworks at the end of the day. There is an interval of about an hour and a half between each eruption, so you’ll want to take a look at the schedule so you can get there early enough to grab a seat. After that, head back home to your campsite. The distance from West Yellowstone to Old Faithful is about an hour, so you’ll want to keep that in mind.
If you haven’t had your fill of steam and geological features, you might also want to head to Norris Geyser Basin for a chance to see the world’s tallest geyser, Steamboat Geyser.
Day 2: Yellowstone Lake and Canyon
Yellowstone Lake sits at the center of the park. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic lunch or to do some animal spotting. Elk, deer, and the occasional bear wander down here for a drink, while osprey and eagles circle ahead looking for fish. For a short, easy hike, check out the Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail.
Arrive at Yellowstone Canyon later in the evening to see the sun set on this particularly beautiful view. If you choose to stop by in the morning or afternoon, you might also want to attempt the newly reopened Uncle Tom’s Trail. You have 300 steps down and up for a gorgeous view of the canyon’s most famous waterfall.
On the way back to your campsite, journey through Hayden Valley. This is most likely the area where you will be able to spot some bison, elk, and other animals. It also offers a panoramic worth stopping for.
Day 3: Hiking, Mammoth Springs, and Lamar Valley
Mammoth Hot Springs is located at the very north of the park. You might want to rise and shine early in order to enjoy a morning hike and relax in the hot springs after. Start out at the Albright Visitor Center in order to get a map of some of the trails. All routes in this area offer interesting views of the terraces.
Be warned that access is limited to vehicles larger than a compact car, so you’ll want to park farther down at the visitor center before making the hike up.
Or, choose to hike one of the many of the best hikes in Yellowstone National Park. While Yellowstone isn’t considered to be a hiker’s park as many of the others out west, there are still a number of amazing trails for all abilities. Just remember to take your bear spray with you if you’re in bear country and don’t get too close to wildlife if you see it on the trail.
If you have extra time, make sure to check out Lamar Valley. Known as “America’s Serengeti,” if you are going to see some of Yellowstone’s animals like wolves, grizzly bears, and bison, you’re sure to find them here. The valley is located near Mammoth, so it’s a quick drive to one of the best things to do in Yellowstone National Park.
Extended Yellowstone itinerary
Extended Yellowstone itineraryHave a little more time? Then you might want to consider checking out some additional activities and things to do in Yellowstone National Park.
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Recommended day pack: Osprey Daylite Pack 🎒
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Day 4: Hiking or fishing
Today you can choose one of the many hikes in Yellowstone or you can go fly fishing in Yellowstone! I recommend looking into choosing a bit more of a difficult hike if you would like after several days in the car. Some options include Avalanche Peak, the North Rim Trail, and Storm Point Nature Trail. There are a number of trails worth visiting if you have a few extra days.
For anglers, the Yellowstone River is the perfect place to get your fishing on. You can either outfit yourself in nearby Bozeman or you can book a Yellowstone tour from Bozeman to take you out. Even if you’re a beginner, there’s no better place in the world to learn!
⭐BOOK YOUR FISHING TOUR IN YELLOWSTONE HERE⭐
Day 5: Rafting, horseback riding, or Bozeman
Today you can decide to head to the nearby town of Bozeman and try out some of the amazing food and brew pubs (and maybe even catch a rodeo depending on what time of year you’re there). If you have a family, there are a number of things to do in Bozeman that will definitely keep them entertained today.
The Yellowstone River is perfect for first-time rafters and kids looking to get a little wet. There are several rafting companies in the area, and I would recommend booking a tour if you would like to check out the rafting options.
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For those who want to see the park from a different angle, you can book a horseback riding tour in Yellowstone. Tours are usually catered toward beginners, so you don’t have to worry about never having ridden before. Get your cowboy on with some of these tour companies:
Cities near Yellowstone National Park
Cities near Yellowstone National ParkWhile many people wouldn’t consider cities in Montana to be cities at all, there are some towns with larger populations where you can find food, lodging, and things to do. Here are the main cities in the area where you will likely spend time:
- West Yellowstone
- Jackson
- Cody
- Gardiner
- Bozeman
- Livingston
You’ll want to keep this in mind when you are planning on hotels in Yellowstone National Park so you can plan your itinerary accordingly.
Best places to stay in Yellowstone National Park
Here are some of my recommendations for places to stay either in the park or directly outside of it so you have easy access to everything. Some are West Yellowstone hotels, while others are located just outside.
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⭐BEST FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS: CROSSWINDS INN⭐
⭐BEST FOR COUPLES: 1872 INN⭐
⭐BEST FOR FAMILIES: CLUBHOUSE INN⭐
⭐BEST FOR INSTAGRAM: UNDER CANVAS WEST YELLOWSTONE⭐
⭐BEST FOR ADVENTURERS: BAR N RANCH⭐
⭐BEST AIRBNB: TRAPPER CABIN⭐
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Best time to visit Yellowstone National Park
Summer in Yellowstone is always the busiest time. While the weather is often the best during these months, that also means that you can face bumper-to-bumper traffic, packed attractions, and crowded hiking trails. If you can, early June and all of September for your Yellowstone National Park itinerary are better months to have the park to yourself. You’ll also have a higher chance of getting a camping permit or booking a room at one of the lodges.
The weather in Yellowstone can depend greatly on when you go. If you plan on June, then you will want to bring a coat to wear in the evenings and a rain jacket. The best time to go to Yellowstone is usually in the shoulder months when it is a little less crowded. This is also the best time of year to visit Yellowstone so you miss the super hot months of July and August.
However, winter in Yellowstone is completely underrated in my opinion. Not only can you enjoy the park without the crowds, but wildlife is more likely to make an appearance and you can go snowshoeing on the abandoned trails. Win-win in my opinion! Do keep in mind that the major facilities will be closed, but you also have access to skiing in nearby Bozeman.
How to get to Yellowstone National Park
You can start your Yellowstone itinerary in a few different ways–here are some options to get you going.
Flying to Yellowstone National Park
When you are visiting Yellowstone, it’s likely that you are going to need a car in order to get around. You’ll want to fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN). Flight prices balloon in the summer, so it might be worth it to look into prices a few months before your trip. Flights to Yellowstone National Park are operated by a number of different airlines, including United Airlines, Delta Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and more.
You can also fly into Jackson Hole at the Jackson Hole Airport, which gives you access to the east side of the park and makes it easy to see the Grand Tetons, as well. Yellowstone National Park flights tend to be a little more expensive through Jackson Hole because it is a smaller airport.
Most major airlines operate out of the Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN), and flights to Yellowstone can be expensive during the high season. I recommend booking your tickets in April if you are planning on visiting in the summer.
Taking Amtrak to Yellowstone National Park
One surprising way you can enjoy the journey to America’s most famous national park is taking the train to Yellowstone. Amtrak actually offers a package from Salt Lake City which takes you there by car or flying. Personally, I would recommend a road trip over this because you can also see some of the other national parks at your own pace if you’re coming from Salt Lake, but it’s all up to you. Unfortunately, there are no major railway stops near Yellowstone.
How to get around Yellowstone National Park
The most common way to get around Yellowstone is to rent a car and drive. Because Yellowstone does not have a public transportation option, getting around yourself is typically the best way to see the park unless you plan on booking a tour.
Car and camper rental for Yellowstone National Park
The best way to get around the park is by taking a car. There are a few tour services that can be helpful if you aren’t comfortable navigating the park on your own, but the best way to see a lot and on your terms is by having a car. You can rent one at the Bozeman airport, or in Jackson Hole if you are coming from that direction. Prices can be high mid-summer—I found options for around $175 not including gas and insurance.
Unfortunately, there is no shuttle service, meaning that you will have to find some other form of transportation either by renting a car or an RV rental in Bozeman. There aren’t any great gas stations within the park, so I recommend filling up before heading inside.
⭐RENT YOUR CAR FOR YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK HERE⭐
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Tours of Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park offers an impressive array of tour options for every type of adventurer. For those who prefer a guided experience, ranger-led programs are available throughout the park, offering deep insights into Yellowstone’s history, geology, and wildlife.
If you’re visiting in the winter, don’t miss out on the guided snowmobile or snowcoach tours–a truly unique way to experience the park’s winter wonderland. Photography tours are also available for those eager to capture the park’s stunning vistas.
Families will appreciate the kid-friendly tours, offering fun and engaging ways to explore and learn about the park. If you’re after a more personalized experience, consider booking a private tour with a professional guide who can tailor the itinerary to your interests. No matter what your pace or preference, there’s a tour that’s just right for you in Yellowstone.
⭐BOOK YOUR YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK TOURS HERE⭐
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Visiting Yellowstone National Park: FAQs
Here are some questions I’m frequently asked by travelers looking to head to Yellowstone.
When does Yellowstone National Park open?
Yellowstone National Park is technically open all year round, 24 hours a day. However, the accessibility to certain parts of the park varies by season due to weather conditions. Most park roads are closed to regular vehicles from early November to late April (snowmobiles and snowcoaches are permitted). The park starts opening roads to regular vehicles in late April or early May.
Visitor services, such as hotels, shops, and restaurants, also operate on a seasonal schedule, with most being open from late spring to early fall. To get the most up-to-date information, it’s always a good idea to check the official Yellowstone National Park website or call the park directly before your visit.
How much does it cost to go to Yellowstone National Park?
The entrance fees to Yellowstone are the same as they are for all other national parks in the United States. You will need to pay $35 per vehicle, which you can use up to seven days after purchase (you can now also buy specific park passes online). I recommend buying the annual park pass, which is $70 but gives you unlimited entrance to Yellowstone all year round. If you want to step up your game even more, you can buy the annual national parks pass for $80. Let’s just say that if you plan on doing any road tripping across America, you’ll want this.
If you plan on visiting from the east entrance and you are going through Grand Teton National Park, you will need to pay two entrance fees without the annual park pass.
⭐BUY YOUR ANNUAL NATIONAL PARK PASS HERE⭐
Which entrance is best for Yellowstone National Park?
Which entrance you will want to stay by will depend on what you are planning on seeing before or after the park. If you want to visit the Tetons, then the east entrance will be a natural extension of your trip there. For those looking to explore Glacier National Park before or after your Yellowstone National Park itinerary, then the west entrance will be your best bet. You are also likely to find more West Yellowstone restaurants and lodging at West Yellowstone, as well.
How long does it take to drive the loop through Yellowstone National Park?
You can drive through on your Yellowstone National Park itinerary within a few hours if you would like. However, most tourists tend to want to complete the loop and get the chance to see everything. It usually takes around 4 to 7 hours to drive the loop without stopping or just a few occasional breaks. Much of this can also depend on the time of year you are going and how bad the traffic is. Expect greater delays in the middle of the summer months!
It’s also common to have backup traffic when there are animal sightings, and bison have been known to block the road for sometime. If you are just planning on doing the loop and being done, I suggest getting up early and devoting an entire day to the drive.
Is there tent camping in Yellowstone available?
If you are planning Yellowstone National Park camping, you should look for spots both in the park and outside of it. Since they tend to fill up really fast, you’re going to want to book a few months before you plan on taking your trip. You can do so online here. There are also plenty of campgrounds in the surrounding area that offer affordable prices.
Where to eat near Yellowstone National Park
There aren’t a ton of Yellowstone National Park restaurants, but there are several outside the park worth visiting. Do keep in mind that you will be paying more because of your proximity to the park–if you are staying in Bozeman then you will find everything is a lot cheaper there!
You can always take a picnic with you after picking up some groceries on the west side of the park, as well.
Grant Village Lake House Restaurant
1095 Grant Marina Rd
+1 307 344 7311
This spot can get super busy, so make sure to call before to get a reservation if you can. While nothing too fancy is served here, it is more affordable than many of the other places to eat in Yellowstone. You’ll find basic fare with a stunning view of Yellowstone Lake.
Old Faithful Snow Lodge Obsidian Dining Room
2 Old Faithful Rd
+1 307 3447311
For something a bit fancier, head over to this restaurant located right by the famous natural monument. This is another spot where you will want to make a reservation before you visit. Expect to pay a little more, but it can be a nice treat at the end of the day after adventuring and hiking.
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Can’t-miss things to do in Yellowstone National Park
Narrowing down the top things to do on your Yellowstone National Park itinerary is like trying to choose your favorite ice cream flavor–much of what you will want to see will depend on whether you want to do some hiking or if you are simply planning on seeing the sights. However, there are a few things that you most certainly won’t want to miss on this list. The things to see at Yellowstone are a lot more than below, but if you have a limited amount of time, this is a good place to start.
Old Faithful
That’s the whole reason you came to Yellowstone to begin with right? But seriously, you shouldn’t miss it while you’re here. While not quite as faithful as it used to be, you can get an idea of when it will erupt from the multiple signboards that show when the next one is. I recommend visiting in late afternoon since most the main crowd will have filtered through then, and try to get there a little early so you can get a front-row seat!
Grand Prismatic Spring
The colors of this volcanic crater makes it the perfect place to grab that Instagram photo. It might be a little difficult to find parking, but it’s worth waiting for a spot or parking a bit away and making the walk down. In the same area are a number of other pools worth admiring–just remember to stay on the boardwalk provided. The water is hot and you can get burned!
Yellowstone Lake
Located in the center of the park, Yellowstone Lake offers a respite from the many tourists and is the perfect location for a picnic lunch. Keep on the lookout for wildlife coming to the waters to take a drink. If you would like, you can also book a boat tour that will take you around the lake and give you some information about the surrounding area.
Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
Personally, this is my favorite part of the park and the one that astounds people the most. While Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring tend to be the most-visited and known, the stunning canyon actually gives you an idea of why the park was named “Yellowstone.” It’s an amazing spot with a hike down to the waterfall on Uncle Tom’s Trail that is worth the huffing and puffing up 500+ steps!
Hayden Valley
If you’re in it for the animals, then Hayden Valley is where you will want to go when you want to see herds of bison, elk, and deer. You might also see some predators like wolves (though they do tend to be shy) looking out for their next meal. Be prepared for slow traffic–bison tend to block the road and take their sweet time getting to the other side!
Quick tips for visiting Yellowstone National Park
Here are my top five tips for making the most of your Yellowstone National Park visit:
- Get there early: The park’s most popular attractions like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring can get crowded later in the day. Aim to arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and have a more tranquil experience.
- Pack for all types of weather: Yellowstone’s weather can be unpredictable. Even in the summer, temperatures can drop quickly. Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket and warm clothing, to be prepared for all conditions.
- Stay on designated paths and Leave No Trace: This isn’t just for your safety but also to protect Yellowstone’s unique and fragile ecosystems. Walking off the boardwalks and trails can cause irreparable damage to the park’s geothermal features.
- Keep a safe distance from wildlife: Remember, this is their home and we’re just visitors. Use a telephoto lens for those amazing wildlife shots, and follow the park’s rules: stay at least 100 yards away from bears and wolves, and 25 yards away from all other wildlife.
- Book accommodations early: Whether you’re camping or staying in a hotel, spaces fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Make sure to book your accommodations well in advance to secure your spot.
Conclusion: the perfect Yellowstone itinerary
From the mesmerizing eruptions of Old Faithful, the calming allure of Yellowstone Lake, to the captivating wildlife encounters, there’s truly something for everyone in this Yellowstone itinerary. Remember to plan ahead, respect the park’s rules and wildlife, and most importantly, soak in every moment. Mother Nature has painted an exquisite masterpiece here in Yellowstone, and it’s all waiting for you to explore. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in America’s first national park.
What are you most excited to do on your Yellowstone National Park itinerary? Let me know if you have any questions in the comments!
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”National park essentials”]You’ll need to enter: National parks pass 🎟️
Document your trip: National parks journal ✏️
Wear your national parks love: National parks shirts 👕
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