Yellowstone National Park Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

Time-Based Itineraries

Choose an itinerary framework that aligns with your available time, from a quick glimpse to an extensive exploration.

These plans help structure your visit for maximum enjoyment.

Options by Duration

24-hour layover for a quick glimpse
Weekend getaway (2-3 days) for highlights
One-week for comprehensive experience

Detailed Itineraries

From quick visits to extended explorations, find a plan that suits your schedule.

-hour Layover Highlights

This itinerary is very rushed, but seeks to capture a glimpse of Yellowstone. Assume arrival at West Yellowstone or Gardiner.

Quick Visit Plan

Morning: Focus on Old Faithful or Mammoth Hot Springs.
Afternoon: Drive to Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook.
Evening: Drive part of Hayden or Lamar Valley for wildlife.
A 24-hour visit offers a limited experience.

For structured tours, explore options on GetYourGuide.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 days

A focused plan to experience Yellowstone attractions over a short stay.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive West Yellowstone, explore Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic.
Day 2: Drive to Canyon Village, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Hayden Valley.
Day 3: Mammoth Hot Springs, Lamar Valley, depart.

One-Week Comprehensive Experience 7 days

A thorough exploration of Yellowstone's main attractions, covering both loops and regions.

Extended Exploration

Days 1-2: Old Faithful & Upper/Lower Geyser Basins.
Day 3: West Thumb Geyser, Yellowstone Lake.
Day 4: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Days 5-6: Lamar Valley wildlife, Mammoth Hot Springs, Gardiner.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration 14 days

Combines the 7-day Yellowstone itinerary with Grand Teton National Park and surrounding towns.

Comprehensive Regional Tour

Include 3-4 days in Grand Teton.
Add 2 days in Jackson Hole for town exploration.
Include 1-2 days exploring Cody, WY.
More hiking, wildlife viewing, and broader regional experience.

Long-Term Stay Recommendations

For stays longer than a few days, consider a vacation rental in a gateway town.

Central Base

A rental in West Yellowstone or Gardiner simplifies day trips into different park sections.

Avoid Frequent Moves

This approach avoids constantly changing accommodations, offering a more relaxed trip.

Local Immersion

Experience local life and support local businesses more thoroughly.

Planning Tip:

Book lodging and tours well in advance, especially for peak summer travel, to secure your preferred options.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your itinerary to your specific interests, whether history, food, adventure, or wildlife.

Historical & Heritage Focus

Concentrate on significant historical sites and lodges within and around the park.

Sites to Visit

Mammoth Hot Springs (Fort Yellowstone).
Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, Roosevelt Lodge.
Buffalo Bill Center of the West (Cody, Wyoming).
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway for historical context.

Consider guided historical tours on GetYourGuide.

Food & Culinary Experiences

Savor diverse dining experiences from historic lodges to local specialties.

Taste of Yellowstone

Dine in historic lodges for unique ambiance.
Indulge in huckleberry treats.
Try local wild game specialties.
Explore diverse culinary scenes in Jackson Hole.

Adventure & Outdoor Activities

Engage in thrilling activities amidst Yellowstone's vast natural landscapes.

Adrenaline & Exploration

Hike challenging trails like Mount Washburn.
Explore backcountry routes (permits required).
Enjoy fishing excursions in various rivers.
Consider whitewater rafting outside the park.

For ethical tours, consider G Adventures.

Family-Friendly Itinerary

Activities designed for all ages, focusing on accessible attractions and engaging programs.

Fun for All Ages

Accessible attractions: Old Faithful, geyser basin boardwalks.
Elk viewing at Mammoth Hot Springs.
Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (West Yellowstone).
Attend ranger programs tailored for kids.

Wildlife Emphasis

Maximize your chances of spotting diverse wildlife by focusing on prime viewing locations and times.

Best for Wildlife

Dedicate time to Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley.
Visit during dawn and dusk for prime viewing.
Consider booking a guided wildlife tour.
Expert guides share knowledge and locate animals.

Geothermal Wonderland

Immerse yourself in Yellowstone's unique thermal features and hot springs.

Geyser Gazing

Explore Upper, Midway, and Lower Geyser Basins.
Visit Norris Geyser Basin for dynamic features.
Spend time at Mammoth Hot Springs' travertine terraces.
Experience the park's iconic geothermal wonders.

Tailored Experience:

Customize your visit to Yellowstone by selecting an itinerary that aligns perfectly with your passions and preferences.

Budget & Seasonal Travel

Yellowstone offers experiences for every budget, and each season provides distinct advantages.

Backpacker's Guide

Travel Yellowstone on a budget with self-catering and free activities.

Cost-Saving Tips

Accommodation: Camping in developed campgrounds or backcountry.
Meals: Self-catering; buy groceries in gateway towns.
Transportation: Personal vehicle or carpool; use America the Beautiful Pass.
Activities: Hiking, ranger programs, self-guided wildlife viewing (mostly free).

For budget-friendly eco-stays, look into Ecobnb.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

A balanced approach to comfort and exploration without breaking the bank.

Balanced Travel

Accommodation: Mix of in-park lodge cabins/rooms and mid-range hotels.
Meals: Casual dining in park, mid-range restaurants in towns.
Transportation: Rental car is typical for this style.
Activities: Self-guided exploration with a few paid attractions or short tours.

Luxury Experience Plan

Indulge in premium comfort and exclusive experiences during your Yellowstone trip.

Luxury Accommodation

Stay in suites at historic in-park lodges.
High-end hotels and resorts in Jackson Hole.
Fine dining at lodges and upscale restaurants.

Exclusive Activities

Opt for high-end rental cars or private transfers.
Book private wildlife safaris or guided fly-fishing.
Arrange private horseback rides for unique experiences.

Summer Highlights

Full park access, warm weather, and extensive opportunities for outdoor activities characterize summer.

Peak Season Advantages

All park roads are open.
Warmest weather for extensive hiking and boating.
All facilities are typically open.
Expect the highest crowds during this time.

Winter Highlights

Experience a serene, snow-covered landscape with unique travel methods and easier wildlife spotting.

Winter Wonderland

Offers solitude and snow-covered scenery.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular.
Snowmobile or snowcoach tours into the interior.
Wildlife spotting against snow is often easier.

Spring/Fall & Event-Centered Visits

Shoulder Season Advantages

Fewer crowds than summer. Excellent wildlife viewing (spring for newborns, fall for elk rut). Fall features beautiful foliage. Weather can be variable, with some limited operations.

Festival Timings

Consider timing your visit with events in gateway towns, like the Cody Rodeo in summer or other local celebrations throughout the region.

Seasonal Considerations:

Each season in Yellowstone has distinct opportunities and challenges. Research current conditions and access before your trip for the best experience.

Yellowstone National Park Itineraries