4 day itinerary for Yellowstone And Grand Teton

Itinerary

A family trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks is a fantastic adventure filled with stunning landscapes, wildlife, and plenty of opportunities for fun. Here’s a family-friendly 4-day itinerary that balances exploration with relaxation. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Yellowstone

Morning:

• Arrival at Yellowstone: Depending on where you’re coming from, aim to arrive early. If you’re flying in, the nearest airports are in Jackson, WY, or Bozeman, MT.
• Check-in: Settle into your accommodation. There are family-friendly lodges and campgrounds within the park, but make sure to book in advance!

Afternoon:

• Mammoth Hot Springs: Start your adventure at Mammoth Hot Springs. The boardwalks are easy to navigate and perfect for kids. The colorful terraces are a sight to behold, and you might even spot some elk wandering around!

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy a family meal at the Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room or pack a picnic to enjoy in the park.
• Wildlife Watching: After dinner, take a short drive to the nearby Lamar Valley for some evening wildlife watching. Keep your eyes peeled for bison, elk, and maybe even a wolf!

## Day 2: Geysers and Waterfalls

Morning:

• Old Faithful: Head to the iconic Old Faithful geyser. Check the schedule for eruption times and plan to arrive a bit early to grab a good spot. The anticipation is half the fun!

Afternoon:

• Geyser Basin Exploration: After Old Faithful, explore the nearby Upper Geyser Basin. The boardwalks are stroller-friendly, and you’ll see other geysers and hot springs, like Castle Geyser and Morning Glory Pool.
• Lunch: Pack a lunch or grab a bite at the Old Faithful Lodge.

Evening:

• Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Drive to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The views from both the North and South Rims are breathtaking, especially the Lower Falls. There are short, family-friendly trails if you want to stretch your legs.
• Dinner: Head back to your lodge or campsite for dinner and share your favorite moments of the day!

## Day 3: Grand Teton National Park

Morning:

• Drive to Grand Teton: After breakfast, make your way to Grand Teton National Park. The drive is about an hour and offers stunning views of the Teton Range.
• Jenny Lake: Start at Jenny Lake. You can take a scenic boat ride across the lake or hike the easy loop around it. The views are spectacular, and it’s a great spot for family photos!

Afternoon:

• Hidden Falls: If the kids are up for it, hike to Hidden Falls. It’s a short, manageable hike that leads to a beautiful waterfall. The trail is well-marked and offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.
• Lunch: Enjoy a picnic by the lake or at one of the designated picnic areas.

Evening:

• Scenic Drive: Take a leisurely drive along the Teton Park Road. Stop at various viewpoints like Oxbow Bend and Snake River Overlook for more stunning views.
• Dinner: Head to Jackson, WY, for dinner. There are plenty of family-friendly restaurants, like the famous Bubba’s Bar-B-Que or the local favorite, The Merry Piglets.

## Day 4: Adventure and Departure

Morning:

• Wildlife Safari: Start your day with a guided wildlife tour. Many companies offer family-friendly tours that can help you spot animals like moose, bears, and more in their natural habitat.
• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation or a local café in Jackson.

Afternoon:

• Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art: Before you leave Jackson, check out this fantastic museum. It’s family-friendly and has beautiful art and exhibits that kids will enjoy.
• Last-minute Shopping: Stroll through Jackson’s charming town square for some souvenirs or local treats.

Evening:

• Departure: Depending on your travel plans, you can either head back home or extend your stay in the area. If you have time, consider a scenic drive through the area or a quick hike to soak in the last bits of nature.

Tips for a Family-Friendly Trip:

• Pack Snacks: Always have snacks and water on hand for the kids. There are limited food options in the parks.
• Dress in Layers: Weather can change quickly, so layers are key!
• Plan for Downtime: Kids (and adults!) can get tired, so don’t hesitate to take breaks and enjoy the scenery.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories with your family in Yellowstone and Grand Teton! Enjoy your adventure! 🌲🦌🏞️