7-Day Relaxation Itinerary for Yellowstone National Park

  • Day 1: Arrive in West Yellowstone
    0 minutes from Yellowstone Airport

    Welcome to Yellowstone! This charming little town is a perfect place to start your trip. You might want to stroll around the streets and catch some of the local flavor. In the evening, you can relax in one of the cozy cabins or lodges and get ready for a great adventure.

  • Day 2: Old Faithful Geyser
    50 minutes (30 miles) from West Yellowstone

    The famous Old Faithful Geyser is a must-see for all visitors of Yellowstone. This natural wonder has been thrilling visitors for over a century with its predictable eruptions. Spend some time walking around the geyser basin and enjoy the unique landscape.

  • Day 3: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
    1 hour 20 minutes (50 miles) from Old Faithful

    The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a breathtaking sight that you shouldn't miss. Follow the walking trail along the rim of the canyon and admire the colorful rocks and the stunning waterfall. If you have more time, you can also hike down to the bottom of the canyon and get a different perspective.

  • Day 4: Boiling River
    1 hour (35 miles) from Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

    The Boiling River is a natural hot spring that flows into the Gardner River. Take a dip in the warm water and enjoy a natural spa experience surrounded by beautiful scenery. Note that the river is only accessible during certain times of the year and may close due to high water levels.

  • Day 5: Mammoth Hot Springs
    1 hour 15 minutes (45 miles) from Boiling River

    The Mammoth Hot Springs are another remarkable natural feature of Yellowstone. These terraces of mineral deposits are constantly changing and create a unique landscape. Take a walk around the boardwalk and explore the various pools and formations. You might also see some of the wildlife that calls this area home.

  • Day 6: Lamar Valley
    1 hour 30 minutes (50 miles) from Mammoth Hot Springs

    The Lamar Valley is known as the "Serengeti of North America" for its diverse wildlife populations. Take a wildlife tour or go on a hike to see the bison, elk, wolves, and bears that roam this vast valley. If you're lucky, you might also see some of the endangered species that are being reintroduced in the area.

  • Day 7: Departure
    1 hour 30 minutes (90 miles) from Lamar Valley to Yellowstone Airport

    Say goodbye to Yellowstone and head back to the airport. You might want to stop at some of the scenic viewpoints along the way and take some last-minute pictures. Thanks for visiting and come back soon!

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Old Faithful Geyser (2 hours, free)
  • Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone (3 hours, free)
  • Boiling River (2 hours, free)
  • Mammoth Hot Springs (2 hours, free)
  • Lamar Valley (4 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $0

Transportation

You will need a car to get around Yellowstone National Park. There are no public transportation options within the park, and taxis and ridesharing services are not available. You can rent a car at Yellowstone Airport, and the average cost is around $50 per day. The roads in Yellowstone can be tricky due to the high altitude and changing weather conditions, so make sure to check the weather forecast and road conditions before driving.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can explore some of the other areas of Yellowstone, such as the Hayden Valley, the Beartooth Highway, or the Yellowstone Lake. If you have less time, you might want to skip Boiling River or Lamar Valley. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as there will be some walking and hiking involved. Also, bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited dining options within the park.

Airports

Yellowstone Airport (WYS) is the closest airport to Yellowstone National Park, located in West Yellowstone, Montana. It is a small airport that serves regional flights, and the closest major hub is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), which is 5 hours away by car. WYS is located just 2 miles from the west entrance of the park, and there are shuttle services that can take you to your lodging within the park.

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