How many days do you need in Yellowstone?

This itinerary covers 4 days in Yellowstone, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Yellowstone?

Plan your perfect 4 days trip to Yellowstone. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Exploring Yellowstone in 4 Days

Day 1: West Yellowstone Wanderings

West Yellowstone, Montana, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Running Bear Pancake House

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Running Bear Pancake House, known for its delicious pancakes and friendly service.

$$, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center

Learn about Yellowstone's wildlife conservation efforts at the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center through educational exhibits and live animal displays.

$$, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bullwinkle's Saloon & Eatery

Enjoy a delicious lunch at Bullwinkle's Saloon & Eatery, known for its Montana-style cuisine and cozy atmosphere.

$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Yellowstone Historic Center

Immerse yourself in the history of Yellowstone at the Yellowstone Historic Center, featuring exhibits on the park's heritage and cultural significance.

$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Three Bear Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Three Bear Restaurant, offering a diverse menu of American classics and hearty comfort food.

$$, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in West Yellowstone

Day 2: Old Faithful Exploration

Old Faithful, Wyoming, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Old Faithful Inn Dining Room

Start your day with a scenic breakfast at the historic Old Faithful Inn Dining Room, overlooking the iconic geyser.

$$$, 1 hour

10:00AM

Witness Old Faithful Eruption

Experience the natural wonder of the Old Faithful geyser as it erupts approximately every 90 minutes, reaching heights of up to 184 feet.

$, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Geyser Grill

Enjoy a casual lunch at Geyser Grill near Old Faithful, offering quick bites and refreshing beverages for a midday break.

$$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hike the Upper Geyser Basin Trails

Embark on a scenic hike through the Upper Geyser Basin trails to explore various geothermal features and colorful hot springs.

$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Snow Lodge Obsidian Dining Room

Savor a delightful dinner at Snow Lodge Obsidian Dining Room, offering a blend of regional and contemporary cuisine in a cozy lodge setting.

$$$, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Old Faithful

Day 3: Grand Canyon Wonders

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Wyoming, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Canyon Lodge Dining Room

Start your day with a scenic breakfast at Canyon Lodge Dining Room overlooking the stunning Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

$$$, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hike the South Rim Trail

Embark on a picturesque hike along the South Rim Trail of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, offering breathtaking views of the canyon and waterfalls.

$, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Canyon Village Deli

Grab a quick and tasty lunch at Canyon Village Deli before continuing your exploration of the canyon's viewpoints and trails.

$, 1 hour

3:00PM

Artist Point Scenic Overlook

Visit the iconic Artist Point scenic overlook to capture panoramic views of the Lower Falls and the colorful canyon walls, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

$, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lake Hotel Dining Room

Enjoy a gourmet dinner at Lake Hotel Dining Room, offering a fine dining experience with a menu inspired by local and seasonal ingredients.

$$$, 2 hours

Find Hotels in Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

Day 4: Wildlife & Hot Springs

Lamar Valley and Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyoming, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room

Start your day with breakfast at Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room, known for its hearty breakfast options and scenic views of the terraces.

$$, 1 hour

10:00AM

Wildlife Watching in Lamar Valley

Embark on a wildlife watching adventure in Lamar Valley, known for its abundant wildlife including bison, wolves, and bears. Keep your camera ready!

$, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room

Enjoy a rustic lunch at Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room, nestled in a picturesque setting with views of the surrounding wilderness.

$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces

Discover the otherworldly beauty of the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces, a unique geothermal feature with intricate travertine formations and vibrant colors.

$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mammoth Hotel Dining Room

Conclude your day with dinner at Mammoth Hotel Dining Room, offering a diverse menu of classic dishes with a touch of elegance.

$$$, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Lamar Valley and Mammoth Hot Springs

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Itinerary created by Plantrip Team February 4, 2024 AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Exploring Yellowstone in 4 Days

Day 1: West Yellowstone Wanderings

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 2: Old Faithful Exploration

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Grand Canyon Wonders

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

Day 4: Wildlife & Hot Springs

8:00AM

10:00AM

1:00PM

3:00PM

6:00PM

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