Ultimate 7-Day Yellowstone and Grand Teton Itinerary for First-Timers
Planning a trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton can be overwhelming, especially with so many must-see spots packed into these iconic parks. From geysers and hot springs to stunning mountain peaks, it’s easy to feel like you’ll miss something important.
I know the feeling—when I first visited, I struggled to prioritize my time. Now, I’m here to help you skip that stress. This detailed 7-day itinerary is based on my own experiences, and it will easily guide you through both parks.
By the end, you’ll feel confident about your trip and ready to enjoy the highlights without overpacking your days.
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How Many Days Should You Spend in Yellowstone and Grand Teton?
I recommend dedicating 5 to 7 days to fully exploring both parks. Yellowstone needs 3-4 days to see its geothermal features and wildlife. Grand Teton, with its dramatic mountain views and scenic hikes, deserves at least 2 days. This balance gives you time to see the main sights without rushing.
If you’re short on time, you can still see the highlights. Here’s a quick breakdown based on different trip lengths:
- 3 Days: 2 days in Yellowstone (Lower Loop), 1 day in Grand Teton
- 4 Days: 3 days in Yellowstone, 1 day in Grand Teton
- 5 Days: 3 days in Yellowstone, 2 days in Grand Teton
- 6 Days: 4 days in Yellowstone, 2 days in Grand Teton
- 7 Days: 4 days in Yellowstone, 3 days in Grand Teton
If you’re really crunched for time, focus on Yellowstone’s Lower Loop. It can be seen in 1-2 days and includes highlights like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring. Then, spend a day exploring Jenny Lake and the scenic 42-mile loop in Grand Teton.
How to Get to Yellowstone and Grand Teton
The most convenient way to reach Yellowstone and Grand Teton is by flying into a nearby airport and renting a car. I recommend flying into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), which is located right inside Grand Teton National Park. Flying into Jackson puts you close to the action from the start.
Other airport options include:
- Yellowstone Airport (WYS)
- Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)
- Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
While you can start this itinerary in either park, I prefer beginning in Yellowstone. Starting here allows you to adjust to the elevation before tackling Grand Teton’s more strenuous hikes.
Easily Plan Your Perfect Yellowstone Trip with My 87-Page Guide
Join hundreds of travelers who’ve used this guide to plan a stress-free, unforgettable trip.
- Detailed, hour-by-hour itineraries for all must-see sights.
- Insider tips to help you skip the crowds and find hidden gems.
- Easy-to-follow maps and regional guides.
- Trusted advice from my years of exploring the national parks.
7-Day Yellowstone and Grand Teton Itinerary
This 7-day itinerary is crafted to help you experience the highlights of both Yellowstone and Grand Teton without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. By breaking it down into manageable days, you’ll get a taste of what each park has to offer, from geothermal features to wildlife to stunning scenery.
Here’s how I recommend spending your 7 days:
- Days 1-4: Yellowstone National Park
- Day 1: Old Faithful and the Upper Geyser Basin, including Grand Prismatic Spring.
- Day 2: Norris Geyser Basin and Mammoth Hot Springs.
- Day 3: Tower-Roosevelt and wildlife watching in Lamar Valley.
- Day 4: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Yellowstone Lake, and travel to Grand Teton.
- Days 5-7: Grand Teton National Park
- Day 5: Mormon Row, hike Taggart Lake, and drive the 42-mile Scenic Loop.
- Day 6: Explore the Jenny Lake area with options for hiking or boating.
- Day 7: Sunrise at Schwabacher Landing and head home.
Where to Stay in Yellowstone: I recommend staying in Canyon Village, the most central location inside the park. West Yellowstone or Gardiner are good options outside the park, but they will add more drive time to your itinerary.
Where to Stay in Grand Teton: I recommend either staying at the Jackson Lake Lodge or Colter Bay Village inside the park or outside the park in the nearby town of Jackson. Unlike Yellowstone, staying outside the park doesn’t add much driving time, so Jackson is an excellent option for more budget-friendly hotels and dining choices.
Need more help deciding where to stay in Yellowstone and Grand Teton? These guides cover the best lodges and hotels both inside and outside the parks.
Days 1-4: Yellowstone National Park
Day 1: Old Faithful & Upper Geyser Basin
Kick off your trip with a visit to one of Yellowstone’s most iconic sights—Old Faithful. I recommend arriving early, as this area gets crowded by mid-morning. Old Faithful erupts roughly every 90 minutes, so be sure to check the schedule at the visitor center when you arrive.
After watching the eruption, take your time exploring the Upper Geyser Basin. This area is packed with geothermal features like Castle Geyser, Grand Geyser, Riverside Geyser, Daisy Geyser, and Morning Glory Pool. Be sure to walk through the historic Old Faithful Inn and stop by the visitor center for a deeper dive into the park’s history or to speak with a ranger.
Next, head to Grand Prismatic Spring, making a quick stop at Biscuit Basin to see Sapphire Pool on the way. There are two ways to view Grand Prismatic:
- Grand Prismatic Overlook: This short 1.2-mile round-trip hike from the Fairy Falls Trailhead gives you a stunning view of the spring from above. The colors are best seen in the afternoon in direct sunlight when the morning fog has lifted.
- Midway Geyser Basin Boardwalk: If hiking isn’t your thing, you can see the spring up close on the accessible boardwalks.
End your day with a stop at the Fountain Paint Pot Trail in the Lower Geyser Basin, where you can see bubbling brownish-gray mud pots. As you head towards your accommodation for the night, take the scenic Firehole Canyon Drive, where you can pull over to see the roadside Firehole Falls.
Make sure you don’t miss anything with this complete list of the top things to do in Yellowstone, from geyser basins to wildlife hot spots.
Day 2: Norris Geyser Basin & Mammoth Hot Springs
Start day two at Norris Geyser Basin, home to Yellowstone’s hottest geothermal features. Explore the two main areas: Porcelain Basin and Back Basin. Don’t miss walking by Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world, although its eruptions are unpredictable. I suggest arriving before 9 AM to avoid parking issues and beat the crowds.
After exploring Norris, drive north to Mammoth Hot Springs, known for its unique travertine terraces. Walk the short trail through the Lower Terraces for the best views, and if time allows, drive the Upper Terraces Loop, too.
Mammoth Village is a good spot for lunch, or eat at one of the picnic areas near Fort Yellowstone.
End your day with a visit to the Roosevelt Arch in Gardiner, just outside the park’s north entrance. This historic arch was dedicated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1903 and is an excellent spot for a quick photo.
Day 3: Tower-Roosevelt & Lamar Valley
Today, head toward Tower-Roosevelt for a mix of hiking and wildlife watching. Start with a visit to Tower Fall, where a short walk from the parking lot gives you a stunning view of the waterfall. If you’re up for a short but steep hike, continue down the switchbacks to the Yellowstone River Overlook. For an easier option, visit Calcite Springs Overlook instead.
Head to the Dunraven Pass Trailhead by mid-morning to hike to the summit of Mount Washburn. This challenging 6.8-mile trail has panoramic views of the park. On a clear day, you can even see the Tetons! If you want to skip the hike, drive the famous Beartooth Highway outside the park’s northeast entrance instead.
Spend the afternoon wildlife watching in Lamar Valley, known as one of the best places to see Yellowstone’s wildlife. Bison, wolves, and bears are often spotted here, so bring binoculars for a better view of animals that may be farther in the distance.
Explore more trails like Mount Washburn in this guide to the best hikes in the park, which includes easy boardwalks and challenging backcountry trails.
Day 4: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone & Travel to Grand Teton
Begin your last day in Yellowstone by driving through Hayden Valley, an excellent spot to see wildlife such as bison, elk, bears, and bald eagles. I recommend finding a pullout and setting up with a pair of binoculars, spending about an hour looking for wildlife.
Next, head to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where you can explore both the North Rim and South Rim. Highlights include Artist Point and Upper Falls Viewpoint on the South Rim and Lookout Point and Grand View on the North Rim. To see the Lower Falls up close, hike the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, a short but steep walk that brings you to the edge of the powerful waterfall.
On your way to Grand Teton, make a quick stop at West Thumb Geyser Basin to see the colorful geothermal features alongside Yellowstone Lake. Continue south along Grand Loop Road, making sure to stop at Lewis Falls and the Grand Teton Sign before you cross into Grand Teton National Park.
End the day with dinner or a drink at Jackson Lake Lodge. The views of the Tetons from the back deck are some of the best in the park—perfect for watching the sunset.
If you’re short on time, you can still see Yellowstone’s best sights in just three days, including Old Faithful and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
Days 5-7: Grand Teton National Park
Day 5: Mormon Row, Taggart Lake, & 42-Mile Scenic Loop
Start your day early with a visit to Mormon Row, where you can see the famous Moulton Barns with the Tetons in the background. The early morning light is perfect for photos, and you’ll beat the crowds, making it a peaceful start to your first day in the Tetons.
Afterward, head over to the Taggart Lake Trailhead for an easy 4-mile loop hike. This trail gives you stunning up-close views of the Tetons and is perfect for all skill levels. If you want to escape the crowds at Taggart Lake, extend your hike to include Bradley Lake, which adds a couple of miles but provides lakeside views of the Tetons away from the crowds.
The parking lot at Taggart Lake fills up fast, especially during peak summer months. Plan to arrive by 8 or 9 AM to secure a parking spot and enjoy the trail without feeling rushed.
Once you’ve wrapped up your hike, stop by the Craig Thomas Discovery Center to learn more about the park, chat with a ranger, or stamp your national park passport.
In the afternoon, drive the 42-mile Scenic Loop, which includes must-see viewpoints like Oxbow Bend, Snake River Overlook, and Schwabacher Landing. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic pullouts, or grab lunch with a view at Signal Mountain Lodge.
Grand Teton has plenty to offer, from stunning hikes to scenic drives. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in the park.
Day 6: Jenny Lake & Cascade Canyon
Today is all about Jenny Lake, the heart of Grand Teton National Park. You’ve got options depending on how much hiking you want to do:
- Limited Mobility: Drive Jenny Lake Road and take a scenic boat tour across the lake. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of Jenny Lake with minimal walking.
- Family and Senior Friendly Hike: Take the boat across Jenny Lake and hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. You can continue on the Cascade Canyon Trail and turn back whenever you’re ready, making it a flexible option for all ages and abilities.
- Moderate Hike: Take the boat and hike deeper into Cascade Canyon. This 9-mile round-trip hike is one of my personal favorites, with moderate elevation gain and jaw-dropping scenery. It’s well worth the effort if you’re up for it! You can also choose to return at any point as the trail is out and back.
- Advanced Hike: If you’re an experienced hiker, tackle the Lake Solitude Trail. This challenging 16-mile trek takes you through Cascade Canyon and up to a pristine alpine lake. It’s the best hike I’ve ever done but only attempt it if you’re ready for a long day on the trail.
I recommend taking the boat shuttle to cut off two miles of hiking each way, which gives you more time to explore without adding extra mileage. Get to Jenny Lake before 9 AM to avoid the parking rush and lines for the boat.
Day 7: Moose-Wilson Road & Phelps Lake
Start your morning with a drive along Moose-Wilson Road, one of the best spots in the park for wildlife viewing. About a mile in, look for moose and bears around the pond. Early morning is ideal for spotting animals and avoiding crowds, so aim to get here just after sunrise.
Next, head to the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve for a moderate 6.4-mile hike to Phelps Lake. The trail starts behind the visitor center, following Lake Creek Trail before crossing Moose-Wilson Road and looping through the forest around Phelps Lake.
If you’re looking for something a little easier, you can opt for the shorter 3-mile Lake Creek-Woodland Trail Loop, which takes you to the lake’s near shore and back.
The Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve parking lot fills up quickly, especially during summer. Arrive by 8:30 AM to snag a spot.
After your hike, explore the Laurance S. Rockefeller Preserve Visitor Center and drive the rest of Moose-Wilson Road. Look for more wildlife and stop at the Granite Canyon Entrance for a photo with the Grand Teton entrance sign.
In the afternoon, visit the Menor’s Ferry Historic District. Walk through the old cabins and check out the restored ferry that used to cross the Snake River. Don’t forget to stop by the Chapel of the Transfiguration, where you’ll get a beautiful view of the Tetons framed by the chapel’s window. Afterward, treat yourself to an early dinner at Dornan’s.
Have More or Less Time? How to Modify Your Itinerary
Whether you have more or less time, this itinerary can easily be adjusted to fit your schedule. Here’s how to modify your trip based on how many days you have available.
Short on Time?
If you’re working with less than 7 days, it’s essential to prioritize the top spots. Here’s how to condense this itinerary without missing the highlights:
- 4 Days or Less: Focus on Day 1 (Old Faithful) and Day 4 (Grand Canyon) in Yellowstone, then pick Day 6 (Jenny Lake) in Grand Teton.
- 5 Days: Skip Day 3 (Lamar Valley) in Yellowstone and Day 7 (Moose-Wilson Road) in Grand Teton.
- 6 Days: For non-hikers, skip Day 7 in Grand Teton. If you want more hiking, skip Day 3 in Yellowstone instead.
Have Extra Time?
With extra days, you can slow down and explore more off-the-beaten-path spots or do more challenging hikes. Here’s what to do with additional time in the parks:
- In Yellowstone:
- Add hikes like the Beaver Ponds Loop near Mammoth or tackle the more strenuous Avalanche Peak Trail near Yellowstone Lake. Read more about the best hikes in Yellowstone here.
- In Grand Teton:
- Explore the String Lake Loop or extend your time at Jenny Lake by renting a kayak or canoe. Read more about the best hikes in Grand Teton.
- You could also add a scenic float trip down the Snake River for a unique view of the park.
Want to Extend Your Road Trip?
If you have more than a week, consider adding more nearby national parks to your itinerary:
- Glacier National Park: Just a 6-hour drive from Yellowstone, Glacier’s dramatic scenery and incredible hiking are perfect for those who love Grand Teton.
- Badlands and Mount Rushmore: About eight hours away, this South Dakota duo offers unique, otherworldly landscapes and a bit of history.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: An 8-hour drive from Grand Teton, this alpine park is known for its epic hikes and breathtaking (literally!) high-elevation views.
Top Tips for Planning Your Yellowstone and Grand Teton Itinerary
As you plan your trip to Grand Teton and Yellowstone, you should know a few things.
- Visit in Early Summer or Fall: The best time to visit is mid-June through early October. July and August bring the most crowds, so aim for June or September if you prefer cooler temperatures and fewer people.
- Start Early to Beat the Crowds: Popular spots like Old Faithful and Jenny Lake get busy fast. For parking and fewer people, plan to arrive before 8 AM. Early evening (after 4 PM) is also an excellent time to explore without the crowds.
- Book Lodging Early: If you want to stay inside the park, make reservations a year in advance. For camping, book your spot 6 to 12 months ahead. If staying outside the park, plan to book 3 to 6 months out, especially during peak season.
- Pack Layers: Mornings and evenings can get chilly, even in summer. Bring layers, a rain jacket, and sturdy hiking shoes.
- Download Offline Maps: Cell service is spotty in both parks, so download offline maps and any reservation details before arriving. I recommend using apps like Google Maps and AllTrails that allow offline use.
- Pack a Picnic: Dining options in the parks are overpriced and often crowded, especially in Yellowstone. Packing snacks and picnic lunches is cheaper and more convenient when sightseeing and hiking in the parks.
- Allow Extra Time for Wildlife Jams: Traffic delays from bison or other animals on the road are common. Allow extra time for your drive, and remember to be patient when stuck in traffic. If you stop to watch wildlife, pull completely off the road so you don’t block traffic. If hiking in bear country, carry bear spray and know how to use it.
- Check the National Park Service Website: The National Park Service website has the latest updates on road and trail closures and current conditions.
Planning to visit more than one national park this year? Save money and skip the lines with the America the Beautiful Pass, which gives you unlimited access to over 400 national park sites for the next 12 months. If you’re over 62, you can get the Senior Lifetime Pass instead for even more savings!
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Yellowstone and Grand Teton
Next Steps for Planning Your Yellowstone and Grand Teton Trip
This 7-day itinerary covers the must-see highlights in Yellowstone and Grand Teton. I hope this guide has made planning your trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton a bit easier. Feel free to reach out with any questions—I’m always happy to help fellow travelers find the best ways to explore these parks!
Remember to keep things stress-free, plan ahead, start your days early to avoid crowds, and allow for flexibility or plan changes.
More Yellowstone and Grand Teton Guides to Help Plan Your Trip:
Easily Plan Your Perfect Yellowstone Trip with My 87-Page Guide
Join hundreds of travelers who’ve used this guide to plan a stress-free, unforgettable trip.
- Detailed, hour-by-hour itineraries for all must-see sights.
- Insider tips to help you skip the crowds and find hidden gems.
- Easy-to-follow maps and regional guides.
- Trusted advice from my years of exploring the national parks.
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