10-Day Bozeman Travel Itinerary - Exploring Gardiner, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Cody, and Bighorn Canyon

  • Day 1: Explore Yellowstone National Park
    1 hr 29 min (85.8 mi) from Bozeman

    Yellowstone National Park is one of the most popular natural wonders in the world, known for its geothermal features, wildlife, and scenic views. Start your trip by exploring the Norris Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Lamar Valley. Don't forget to keep an eye out for bison, elk, and wolves on the way!

  • Day 2: Visit Grand Teton National Park
    1 hr 34 min (87.8 mi) from Yellowstone

    Grand Teton National Park is the perfect place for nature lovers who are fond of mountains, lakes, and diverse wildlife. Explore Jenny Lake and hike the Cascade Canyon trail where mountain goats, moose, and bears can be seen. Spend a relaxing evening at the Jackson Lake Lodge.

  • Day 3: Discover Cody and its Museums
    3 hr 14 min (166 mi) from Grand Teton National Park

    Cody is a unique western town to explore cowboys and cowgirls life. Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and learn about its history, gun collection, and art. Don't miss out on the rodeo and Cowboy Songs & Rangeballads show in the evening.

  • Day 4: Drive to Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
    2 hr 16 min (113 mi) from Cody

    Bighorn Canyon offers breathtaking views of canyons and mountains, camping opportunities, lakes, and a chance to see bighorn sheep and bald eagles. Hike on the Yellowtail Dam Trail, take a boat tour, and enjoy a picnic at the Ok-A-Beh Marina.

  • Day 5: Explore Bozeman and MSU Campus
    2 hr 9 min (120 mi) from Bighorn Canyon

    Take a break from National Parks and spend a day in Bozeman. Check out the Museum of the Rockies to learn more about Montana's history, and then walk around the main street for local shopping and dining experiences.

  • Day 6: Go Skiing at Big Sky Resort
    55 min (44.2 mi) from Bozeman

    Big Sky Resort is a popular winter destination for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Get your adrenaline pumping on the numerous runs, and admire the incredible views of Lone Peak.

  • Day 7: Witness the Lamar Valley's Wildlife
    1 hr 56 min (77.8 mi) from Big Sky Resort

    Go on a wildlife safari in the Lamar Valley and see bison, wolves, coyotes, and eagles. Bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for the famous Junction Butte wolf pack!

  • Day 8: Hike in Paradise Valley
    1 hr 57 min (74.3 mi) from Lamar Valley

    Paradise Valley is a paradise for hikers and anglers. Hike along the Yellowstone River and enjoy the stunning mountain views, and then go fly fishing and catch some trout. Relax at the hot springs swimming pool in the evening.

  • Day 9: Have Fun at Montana Grizzly Encounter
    36 min (17.8 mi) from Paradise Valley

    Take your family to the Montana Grizzly Encounter and see bears up close without entering Yellowstone. Observe their habits and behaviors, and learn about their conservation. You can also have a picnic and purchase souvenirs here.

  • Day 10: Visit Gardiner and Hot Springs
    48 min (31 mi) from Montana Grizzly Encounter

    End your trip in Gardiner, the north entrance to Yellowstone. Visit the Yellowstone Hot Springs and soak in the natural mineral water after a long road trip. Stop by the Roosevelt Arch for a group photo before leaving.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Yellowstone National Park (1-3 days, $30/vehicle)
  • Grand Teton National Park (1-2 days, $35/vehicle)
  • Cody Cowboy Village (1 night, $100-300)
  • Buffalo Bill Center of the West ($19)
  • Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area (1-2 days, $20/vehicle)
  • Museum of the Rockies ($10-14)
  • Big Sky Resort ($129/day)
  • Lamar Valley Wildlife Safari ($435/person)
  • Paradise Valley Hot Springs ($10/person)
  • Montana Grizzly Encounter ($10-15/person)
  • Yellowstone Hot Springs ($15-20/person)
  • Total Estimated Costs ($1,090-1,560)

Transportation

Transportation is key to having a smooth trip around Montana, USA. For visitors flying into Bozeman, the Gallatin Field Airport (BZN) is an excellent choice. It is only 8 miles west of Bozeman, making transportation easy.

For exploring the national parks, it's recommended to rent a car from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport to avoid the crowds of shuttles offered.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, add a visit to Livingston and Chico Hot Springs Resort or Ennis and Fly Fishing on the Madison River. Additionally, if you have less time, consider cutting your national park tour or only visiting Yellowstone as it offers the most prominent signs of the region.

Airports

Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) is located 8 miles west of Bozeman, Montana. It provides a gateway to the region's natural parks and other destinations. The airport offers flights from various airlines, including Delta Airlines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines and Frontier Airlines.

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