Yellowstone and Grand Teton Itinerary

Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park are very different in size and landscape, but they’re so close together that most national park enthusiasts want to visit both parks during their trip.

Now, Yellowstone National Park is a massive two million acres, so we suggest taking multiple days to explore it all. In fact, we’ve got several handy itineraries for multiple days of fun.

But, if you’re limited on time and want to visit both Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a handy two-day itinerary that hits all the Yellowstone and Grand Teton highlights!

This itinerary starts at the West entrance to Yellowstone National Park, which is the most popular entrance. It’s also the closest to Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring, which are the most popular places in the park and get very busy in midday.

We recommend starting your day by 7am to avoid crowds, maximize your time, and see some amazing wildlife before the park crowds scare them off.

FAQs

Before we dive in, here’s some Frequently Asked Questions when it comes to trip planning.

Can I Really See Both Parks in Two Days?

Sure! You’re not going to be able to see everything in Yellowstone, but you can definitely see the highlights of both parks in a two-day time period.

Where Should I Stay?

If you’ve only got a limited amount of time and want to hit the Yellowstone and Grand Teton highlights, we suggest making West Yellowstone your home base. There are plenty of lodging options, and you’ll be close to Yellowstone’s West park entrance, which will save you time.

Should I Get a Hotel Near Grand Teton on the Second Day?

In other words, does it make more sense to stay near Yellowstone when you’re visiting that park and stay near Grand Teton when visiting that park? Sure, you can! But it’s not absolutely necessary.

West Yellowstone is only about two and a half hours from Jackson Hole, Wyoming (aka the very southern tip of Grand Teton). Since Grand Teton National Park is a giant loop, you’ll be able to see it all in a day, and comfortably return to your home base at West Yellowstone.

Okay! Are we ready? Let’s go!

Check out Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park Tours for an Epic Adventure!

Day One: A Snapshot of Yellowstone

See Scenic West Yellowstone

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

Start your adventure by driving along the crystal-clear Madison River. As one of the best rivers in the nation for fly fishing, it holds the honorable distinction of being a Blue Ribbon Fishery. Some sights you’ll pass by are Talus Mountain, Mount Haynes, and National Park Mountain.

Madison Junction

Approximate Time: 10 minutes

To start your epic day loop, head right at Madison Junction. Don’t forget to stop by the restroom if you need to!

Firehole Canyon Road

Approximate Time: 15 minutes

Admire the beautiful Firehole Canyon Falls and Canyon as we follow it upstream. Reach its churning cascades before rejoining the Grand Loop Road.

Fountain Flat Drive

man fishing on the river Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 15 minutes

Take a quick detour down Fountain Flat Drive, where you’ll find a lively, grassy meadow, two small hot springs, and the legendary Maiden’s Grave. You’ll also get another good look at the Firehole River, jumping and splashing with trout.

Firehole Lake Drive

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

A brief loop on the 3-mile Firehole Lake Drive leads to several stunning hydrothermal features, including the White and Pink Dome Geysers and the Great Dome Geyser. They’re all available from roadside lookouts or short boardwalk walks.

Midway Geyser Basin (and optional hike)

Approximate Time: 1-4 hours

The Midway Geyser Basin may just end up being your favorite stop in the park. Along the short boardwalk trail that encircles the gigantic, 370' Grand Prismatic Spring, you'll also witness a number of other smaller hot springs.

If you have time, be sure to pull into Fairy Falls Trailhead and take the 0.6 mile one-way hike to Grand Prismatic Overlook. If you’re feeling adventurous, this trail continues for another 1 mile (each way) to Fairy Falls, one of the park’s most spectacular waterfalls.

Old Faithful (optional stop)

geyser exploding creating a rainbow Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 1-3 hours

It’s not a trip to Yellowstone without visiting the iconic, reliable Old Faithful. The big geyser itself erupts about every 60-110 minutes, but if you get there early, don’t fret.

There’s lots to see and do nearby, including checking out the Visitor Center, Tribal Heritage Center, or visiting one of its many surrounding hydrothermal features along the Geyser Loop Trail.

If you need a snack, coffee, or restroom break, be sure to stop by the historic Old Faithful Lodge. That’s also where you’ll find the gift shop.

Kepler Cascades

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

A short boardwalk allows visitors to see the roaring Kepler Cascades. This multi-tiered fall has drops as long as 50 feet.

Continental Divide

Approximate Time: 10 minutes

Stop at Isa Lake and see the only lake in the world that flows into two different oceans. Not only that, this lake drains backward—the western end flows to the Atlantic, and the eastern end flows to the Pacific. It’s definitely a one-of-a-kind stop.

West Thumb Geyser Basin (optional stop)

sky blue basin in yellowstone Shutterstock Image

Approximate Time: 1-3 hours

This may just be one of the best-kept secrets in Yellowstone. Without traveling too far off the beaten path, you’ll be able to enjoy one of Yellowstone’s best geyser basins. Be sure to check out the famous Fishing Cone Geyser while you’re there! The Yellowstone Lake Overlook Trail is also worth a walk if you have time. It’s a quick 1.7-mile loop that’s popular with birders.

Gull Point

Approximate Time: 20 minutes

Take this scenic drive along the lake peninsula and enjoy a picnic stop at Gull Point.

Fishing Bridge

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

Fishing Bridge has a ranger station, a general store, and, of course, the fishing bridge. Be sure to walk along the bridge to scan for the Cutthroat trout that like to gather below. Then, when you’re done, rejoin the Grand Loop and continue north.

Hayden Valley

Approximate Time: 25 minutes

Continue your journey north by driving into the wildlife haven known as Hayden Valley. This marshy landscape attracts grazers from all over, and grazers attract predators. Keep on going until you reach the south rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

LeHardy Rapids

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

Take a short boardwalk down to the Yellowstone River and the roaring LeHardy Rapids. In early spring, these rapids are alive with jumping, spawning cutthroat trout.

Mud Volcano Geyser (optional stop)

mud volcano emitting white steam Shutterstock Image

Approximate Time: 1 hour

This may not be one of the park’s best-known geysers, but it should be! Mud Volcano is one of the most unique and overlooked hydrothermal areas of the park—and one of the most acidic! Be sure to check out Dragon’s Mouth Hot Spring—a roaring, sloshing, bubbling hot spring full of personality!

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone-South Rim Drive

Approximate Time: 1 hour

This drive leads to two more fantastic canyon viewpoints—the Upper Falls View and Artist Point—along with some optional hikes. I recommend Uncle Tom’s Trail. Take time to admire this geological wonder: the eras of rock carved through by the Yellowstone River's awesome power are truly breathtaking.

Brink of the Upper Falls (optional stop)

Approximate Time: 20 minutes

After you circle around, turn right just past the North Rim Drive to get one final look at the Upper Falls. This viewpoint, right at the brink of the falls, is one of the best in the park. You’ll need to walk just over a quarter mile on an easy trail to enjoy its viewing platform.

falls rushing between valleys Shutterstock Image

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone-North Rim Drive

Approximate Time: 1 hour

Your epic Grand Canyon adventure continues with a turn right onto North Rim Drive. The Brink of the Lower Falls has one scenic stop after another, including the Brink of the Lower Falls, Lookout Point, Grand View, and Inspiration Point. Most of these lookouts are roadside or accessed by a short walk. Be sure to stop by every point on your way up.

Grand Canyon Village (optional stop)

Approximate Time: Up to 1 hour

Canyon Village has a restaurant, a lodge, several shops, and a visitor center. If you do nothing else, be sure to stop by the visitor center—the displays, including one lit diorama of Yellowstone, are informative. They really help to visualize complex geological processes like the formation of the canyon and caldera.

Washburn Hot Springs Overlook

Approximate Time: 10 minutes

The Washburn Hot Springs Overlook is a great place to stretch your legs, look out at the Yellowstone caldera, and take a quick restroom break.

Chittenden Road (optional drive)

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

The drive up to Mount Washburn is sure to leave you breathless—whether from the heights or the narrow road. The stunning view that awaits you looks over the river, peaks, and valleys off in the distance.

Tower Falls (optional stop)

falls between forest

Approximate Time: 30 minutes- 1 hour

Tower Falls has a general store and, as you may have guessed, a waterfall. A short boardwalk leads to several breathtaking overlooks of the plunging 132-foot falls. There is also a one-mile there-and-back trail that leads to the river and past a few bubbling cauldrons.

Soda Butte

Approximate Time: 10 minutes

Up next is the majestic hot spring cone known as Soda Butte. Even though it's no longer active, it's still worth stopping by. Not to mention, cliff swallows have turned the cone into a kind of bird condominium, so be sure to check it out!

Tower Junction Pit Stop

Approximate Time: 15 minutes

Take a quick restroom break and fill up the tank before continuing your journey along the northern loop. If you’re feeling hungry, step into the historic Roosevelt Lodge to fill up your internal tank.

See the Petrified Tree

Approximate Time: 15 minutes

Take a short detour to see one of Yellowstone’s petrified trees—a fossilized remnant from a time when Yellowstone was covered in redwoods and warm-weather forests.

Blacktail Drive (optional drive)

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

Blacktail Drive is accessible to all vehicles, but exercise caution after rain. This gravel road is much more scenic and private than the main road, and that means you’ll have a better chance to see wildlife. Be aware that this one-way drive will take you back to Tower Junction, so you will have to turn around if you choose to take this optional side-trip.

Undine Falls

yellowstone falls Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 20 minutes

Undine Falls is where Lava Creek tumbles over basaltic stones. To reach the overlook, you just go down a few wooden steps. At the next pullover—just seconds ahead—lies the Lava Creek Trail and Picnic Area.

Mammoth Village

Approximate Time: 1 hour

If you’re here before about 4 p.m., consider checking out Mammoth Village. There’s the historical Fort Yellowstone, the Albright Visitor Center, and the Mammoth General Store. If you’re hungry, consider stopping by the Mammoth Dining Room.

Lower Mammoth Hot Springs Terrace

hot spring with white steam Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 1 hour

It’s time to check out Mammoth's famous Lower Terrace. Those stunning photos of snow-white terraces you see online? They happen right here.

You are bound to be enchanted by Minerva Terrace, Jupiter Terrace, and all of these park landmarks. I advise you to stroll the full 2.2-mile boardwalk if you have the time. Before leaving, don't forget to stop by Liberty Cap!

Upper Terrace Drive

Approximate Time: 20 minutes

And now, it’s on to the Upper Terrace! Some major highlights on this 1.5-mile drive are the Orange Spring Mound, Angel Terrace, and Aphrodite Terrace. You won’t want to miss this iconic drive around Yellowstone’s white, otherworldly landscape.

The Hoodoos

Approximate Time: 10 minutes

This quick looping drive takes you through Yellowstone’s “hoodoos.” Though we call them "hoodoos," they are actually boulders that rolled down from nearby Terrace Mountain. Real hoodoos are formed by erosion. You should take a few minutes to check out this boulder field and “false hoodoos” for yourself.

Rustic Falls and Golden Gate

Approximate Time: 20 minutes

These two pullovers let you admire the plummeting rustic falls and the Golden Gate viaduct. Though this new concrete bridge is much more stable than its wooden predecessor, its sheer height is sure to take your breath away.

Sheepeater Cliff

rocky formation of cliff Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

Pull in to see Sheepeater Cliff, a geometric basaltic wall that was named for the Sheepeater people, one of the few Native American tribes to have lived in Yellowstone year-round. These hexagonal columns formed naturally over 1.3 million years ago and cooled into the unique shape you see today.

Obsidian Cliff and Exhibit

Approximate Time: 15 minutes

Because of some extra-handsy tourists (shame! ), you aren’t allowed to walk directly to the Obsidian Cliff. But we’ll get a great view as you drive past, and then we’ll stop off at the exhibit. Then, take a short 5-minute walk to get another view of the cliff, with black glass shining and shimmering in the sun.

Roaring Mountain

Approximate Time: 15 minutes

You’ve seen them, and you’ve smelled them. Now, let’s hear them. Roaring Mountain is pocked with fumaroles, super-hot chasms that “roar” and hiss with steam. The ash-gray color of this mountain is caused by sulfur-reducing bacteria that dissolve the lava stone over time.

Museum of the National Park Ranger

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

Drown down this side road to check out a film about the park rangers, browse some historical exhibits, and maybe pick the brain of a current or retired park ranger. After all, without these dedicated employees, none of what you’re experiencing would be possible.

Norris Geyser Basin (optional stop)

norris geyser basin at sunset Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 1-2 hours

You’re not “geysered out” yet, are you? Because there is one more major basin to see before you head up to Mammoth Hot Springs. The Norris Geyser Basin is Yellowstone’s hottest and oldest geyser basin, featuring the tallest geyser in the world! You won’t want to miss this 2.9-mile looping boardwalk trail.

Artist’s Paintpots (optional)

Approximate Time: 45 minutes

Artists’ Paintpots 0.6-mile boardwalk begins in pine woods and emerges into a basin full of colorful mud pots. It's one of Shaka's top spots for avoiding the crowds while enjoying the park's unique, bubbly, gurgly hydrothermals.

Beryl Spring

Approximate Time: 10 minutes

This is one of the most radiant hot springs in the park, with a striking blue color like that of a beryl stone. It’s just on the side of the road, so it’s more than worth the stop.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shaka Guide | Travel Guide App (@shakaguide)

Gibbon Picnic Area and Falls

Approximate Time: 20 minutes

Want to enjoy the music of the Gibbon River while having lunch? Swing by the Gibbon Picnic Area! After you’re done, it’s less than a half-mile drive to Gibbon Falls, named for early Yellowstone explorer Colonel Gibbon.

Tuff Cliff

Approximate Time: 10 minutes

Yellowstone's early volcanic eruptions left behind this mountain of compacted, welded volcanic ash. Be sure to stop by to see it. Additionally, picnic tables and a restroom are available at the pullover.

Drive out of the West Exit

Approximate Time: 25 minutes

From here, it’s a scenic drive at dusk through the west exit. Then, you’ll be back in West Yellowstone and ready to rest and recharge for your day in Grand Teton!

Map of Yellowstone National Park Tour Stops Day One

Day Two: Exploring Grand Teton’s Highlights

Grand Teton National Park is roughly two hours south of West Yellowstone. If you leave “home base” around 6:00 am, you may want to stop at Old Faithful or Grand Prismatic Spring, in case they were too busy to see yesterday.

Once we’re headed south to Rockefeller Parkway, here’s our can’t-miss Grand Teton National Park stops!

Jackson Lake Overlook

Approximate Time: 5-10 minutes

Stop at Jackson Lake Overlook to get a first look at the Teton Mountain Range in all its glory, towering over the historic Jackson Lake.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shaka Guide | Travel Guide App (@shakaguide)

Colter Bay Village

Approximate Time: 1-2 hours

Need to fuel up? Need a snack or a stretch break? Colter Bay Village has it all! General store, grocery store, gas station, and souvenir shop! If you’re looking for a bit more adventure, Colter Bay Village offers:

kayaking
canoeing
motorboats
lake cruises
horseback riding
fishing
swimming
hiking
beach-going, and more

In fact, it’s often been described as a summer camp for the whole family!

Oxbow Bend

snowy mountain and overview of lake Shutterstock Image

Approximate Time: 5-10 minutes

There are four places within Grand Teton National Park known as “The Famous Four,” because they are the four most photographed areas in the entire park. Oxbow Bend is one of these.

This is also the most popular place to view a Grand Teton sunrise or sunset. Stop and gaze at the crescent shaped bend in the Snake River with the Teton range in the distance. Be advised, though–this turnout gets very busy around sunset, so plan accordingly!

Cunningham Cabin

Approximate Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Cunningham Cabin is another “Famous Four” places at Grand Teton. Take a short walk through history as you explore around one of the first homesteads in the area.

Schwabacher Landing

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

The third of the Famous Four! Schwabacher Landing used to be a popular boat launch, but in recent years, the Snake River shifted just enough that boats are no longer able to access it. Instead, you’ll have amazing views of the Teton Range and the surrounding forest reflected in the Snake River. It’s a great place for wildlife viewing, too!

Snake River Overlook

river on a forest with snowy mountain Shutterstock Image

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

Snake River Overlook is the fourth of the Famous Four. This one was made famous by nature photographer Ansel Adams, and for good reason. From this iconic viewpoint, you’ll be able to view the gentle bends of the Snake River set against the Teton Range.

But don’t be fooled by the serenity of the scene. Early fur trappers in the Tetons nicknamed the Snake River “The Accursed Mad River” because of its wild unpredictability.

Mormon Row

Approximate Time: 1 hour

Mormon Row was one of the first actual communities within Grand Teton National Park. In the early 1920s, it was a bustling, self-sufficient town. Today all that’s left behind are memories— and buildings, like the Moulton Barns and the Chambers Homestead.

These are now on the National Registry of Historic Places, and you’ll be able to walk among them. Also, the Moulton Barn has the distinction of being the most photographed barn in the United States. Make sure you snap your own picture!

Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center

Approximate Time: 1 hour

The Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center offers trail information, weather, and other general information. Check out exhibits, ranger-led talks, gift shop, and stroll the LED “rivers” on the floor!

Murie Ranch

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

Visit the historic home of the Muries—more commonly known as the Grandparents of the Conservation Movement. In fact, the John Denver song A Song For All Lovers is based on the famous couple!

Chapel of the Transfiguration

brown chapel with white mountain at the back Shutterstock Image

Approximate Time: 15 minutes

Come and find some peace inside this beautiful little chapel nestled in the shadows of the Teton range. This chapel was built in 1925, and it’s still an active Episcopal congregation today!

Menor’s Ferry Historic District

Approximate Time: 1-2 Hours

Stroll through the historic buildings that once belonged to–and were built by–William Menor himself. In the 1920s, Menor was the first homesteader to build on the West bank of the Snake River, and with the building of the ferry, he was able to open a whole new trade route to the Teton range!

Taggart Lake Trail

Approximate Time: Up to 3 hours

Taggart Lake Trail is a 3.8-mile loop just north of Moose Junction. It’s a moderately easy hike through sagebrush flats to the base of the Teton Mountain Range. This is a popular route for

Cottonwood Creek Picnic Area

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

Sure, Cottonwood Creek Picnic Area is a nice place to stop and rest, but the real stars of the show here are the wild burros that hang out in the field across the street. As long as you remember your safety tips and keep a safe distance, the burros will let you take selfies with them!

Jenny Lake Recreation Area

crystal clear lake with reflection of a mountain Shutterstock Image

Approximate Time: 2 hours

Hiking, biking, cycling, and more! The Jenny Lake Recreation Area offers it all. Swim in the lake, hike the amazing trails, take a scenic drive through the forest, and learn the tragically beautiful history of this sacred place.

Signal Mountain Scenic Drive

Approximate Time: 1 hour

This is a seven-mile drive that climbs nearly 1,000 feet above sea level. At the top, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of the entire Teton Valley. This drive is a little scary; the road is narrow, the switchbacks are sharp, and the sides of the road are pretty steep. But the view at the top? Totally worth it!

Signal Mountain Lodge

Approximate Time: 1 hour

They’ve got dining, lodging, and shopping! They even got a marina for kayaking, boating and fighting. Signal Mountain is the perfect pit-stop place on Teton Park Road.

After you’ve explored the best of Grand Teton, make your way back to West Yellowstone or nearby Jackson Hole!

Map of Grand Teton National Park Stops

Ready for a travel adventure like no other? Our exclusive audio tour of Grand Teton National Park is your ticket to the ultimate travel experience.

In Conclusion…

Although Yellowstone is a massive park in it’s own right, it’s still very much possible to experience the highlights of Yellowstone and Grand Teton on one trip. If you’re looking to spend more time in each park, check out our 7-Day Yellowstone Itinerary, 3-Day Yellowstone Itinerary, and our Grand Teton itinerary.

Visiting both parks? Get our Yellowstone and Grand Teton Tour Bundle!

We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com

Like this article? Share it on Pinterest!

yellowstone and grand teton