6 day itinerary
Yellowstone, Glacier, Teton
Personalized with:Family friendlyMake it family friendly
Itinerary
Planning a family-friendly adventure through Yellowstone, Glacier, and Grand Teton National Parks sounds like an incredible journey! Here’s a fun and engaging 6-day itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and family bonding. Let’s dive in!
Day 1: Arrival in
Morning:
- Arrive at . If you’re coming from Jackson, WY, it’s about a 2-hour drive to the park’s South Entrance.
- Stop by the in West Yellowstone to kick off your adventure. It’s a great way to learn about the wildlife you might see in the park!
Afternoon:
- Head into Yellowstone and set up camp or check into your accommodation. The area is a great family-friendly spot.
- After settling in, take a leisurely stroll to the . The views from are breathtaking and perfect for family photos!
Evening:
- Enjoy a picnic dinner at one of the designated areas. Don’t forget to pack some s’mores for dessert!
- If the kids aren’t too tired, take a short evening walk to see if you can spot any wildlife.
Day 2: Geysers and Hot Springs
Morning:
- Start your day with breakfast at your lodging or a packed meal.
- Head to ! Arrive early to catch the iconic geyser’s eruption. The visitor center has great exhibits that kids will love.
Afternoon:
- Explore the . The boardwalks make it easy for families to navigate, and you can see other geysers like Castle and Grand.
- Have lunch at the Lodge or pack a picnic to enjoy in the area.
Evening:
- Drive to for a more relaxed walk along the lakeshore. The hot springs here are stunning!
- Return to your lodging for dinner and a family game night or storytelling session around the campfire.
Day 3: Wildlife and Scenic Drives
Morning:
- After breakfast, head to , often called the “Serengeti of North America.” It’s a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing, especially bison and elk. Bring binoculars for the kids!
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a packed lunch in the valley. Keep an eye out for wolves!
- After lunch, take a scenic drive through and stop at for a quick snack or ice cream treat.
Evening:
- Return to your lodging and have a relaxed dinner. If you’re up for it, a short evening walk around the area can be a nice way to wind down.
Day 4: Travel to
Morning:
- Pack up and head out early for (about a 1.5-hour drive).
- Stop at and take the . It’s a fun way to see the stunning scenery without too much hiking!
Afternoon:
- After the cruise, enjoy a family-friendly hike around . The Hidden Falls trail is a great option for families.
- Have a picnic lunch by the lake or at one of the designated picnic areas.
Evening:
- Check into your accommodation in the park or nearby Jackson, WY.
- Explore the charming town of Jackson. Grab dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like for some delicious Mexican food!
Day 5: Exploring Grand Teton
Morning:
- After breakfast, head to for a family-friendly walk with stunning views of the Tetons reflected in the water.
- Visit the just north of Jackson. It’s engaging for all ages and has beautiful outdoor sculptures.
Afternoon:
- Have lunch in Jackson or pack a picnic to enjoy at .
- Spend the afternoon at . The visitor center has great exhibits, and you can rent canoes or kayaks for some family fun on the water!
Evening:
- Return to your lodging for dinner. If you’re up for it, consider a sunset drive through the park for some last-minute wildlife spotting.
Day 6:
Morning:
- Depart early for (about a 6-hour drive, so pack snacks and games for the road).
- Arrive at West Glacier and stop by the to get maps and information.
Afternoon:
- Take a scenic drive along the . Stop at for a family photo and a short walk along the shore.
- Have a picnic lunch at one of the scenic pullouts.
Evening:
- Settle into your accommodation in or near Glacier. If time allows, take a short evening hike on the . It’s an easy, family-friendly trail with beautiful views.
Tips for a Family-Friendly Adventure:
- Always have snacks and water on hand for the kids.
- Plan for some downtime each day to avoid burnout.
- Engage the kids with fun facts about the parks and wildlife.
- Bring a camera to capture all those precious family moments!
This itinerary balances adventure with relaxation, ensuring that everyone in the family has a fantastic time exploring the natural wonders of Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Glacier National Parks. Enjoy your trip! 🌲🏞️🦌