5-Day Adventure Itinerary in Yellowstone National Park

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

West Yellowstone, Montana

8:00AM

Breakfast at Running Bear Pancake House

Start your day with hearty pancakes and locally inspired dishes to fuel up for an exciting park exploration.
Located in the town center, just a short walk from your accommodation.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Yellowstone Visitor Center

Learn about the park’s geothermal features and wildlife through engaging exhibits and get tips from park rangers.
Short drive from the pancake house, follow Yellowstone Avenue.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Slippery Otter Pub

Enjoy a delicious burger or sandwich while soaking in the local atmosphere and wildlife decor.
A quick drive back on Yellowstone Avenue, just a 5-minute ride.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the West Entrance

Take a leisurely hike along the nearby trails, observing the stunning landscapes and potential wildlife sightings.
Easily accessible from the visitor center upon entering the park.
USD0, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center

Observe and learn about the incredible wolves and grizzly bears that inhabit the area with up-close viewing opportunities.
Backtrack to the visitor center area.
USD15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a local diner

Savor a cozy dinner featuring comfort food before resting up for an active next day.
Explore nearby diners within West Yellowstone.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Grand Teton Wonders

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

6:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel or nearby café

Grab a quick breakfast to embark on an early departure to Grand Teton National Park, which offers breathtaking views.
Prepare for a scenic 1-1.5 hour drive via US-191.
USD10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Jenny Lake Boat Ride

Enjoy a beautiful boat ride across Jenny Lake, taking in views of the majestic Teton Range.
Located at Jenny Lake, accessible once inside Grand Teton.
USD18, 2 hours

10:30AM

Hike to Hidden Falls

Begin a moderate hike to Hidden Falls, a stunning cascade that is an absolute highlight of the park.
Access the trailhead near the boat dock.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Signal Mountain Lodge

Enjoy a meal with stunning lake views at this lodge's restaurant.
Head back toward the lodge, about a 30-minute drive.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Oxbow Bend

Stop to take photos and enjoy the natural beauty of this breathtaking viewpoint.
Follow US-89/191 back towards Jackson Lake.
USD0, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Yellowstone National Park

Drive back and enjoy the sights along the way, keeping an eye out for wildlife.
Via the same US-191 route, back into the park.
USD0, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Old Faithful Lodge

Experience a delicious dining option within the park, famous for its historic ambiance.
Proceed to Old Faithful area upon returning to the park.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Geysers and Hot Springs

Old Faithful Area

8:00AM

Breakfast buffet at Old Faithful Lodge

Start your day with a hearty breakfast spread to prepare for a day of exploration.
Located conveniently within the lodge.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Old Faithful Geyser

Witness the iconic eruption of Old Faithful, one of the most famous geysers in the world.
Only a short walk from the lodge.
USD0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Geyser Hill Loop Trail

Take a leisurely hike along Geyser Hill, exploring several other geysers in the area.
Start the loop adjacent to Old Faithful.
USD0, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge

Indulge in a delightful meal with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
Head to the Snow Lodge, just a brief walk away.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Morning Glory Pool

Visit the stunning Morning Glory Pool, known for its vibrant colors and clear water.
A lovely hike from the Old Faithful area.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at the Old Faithful Inn

Unwind and absorb the unique timber architecture of this historic lodge in the park.
A close walk from the Old Faithful area.
USD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Old Faithful Lodge

End your day with a comforting meal at the lodge before a restful night.
Return to the lodge for dinner.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Mammoth Hot Springs Tour

Mammoth Hot Springs

8:00AM

Breakfast at Baker's Hole Campground

Enjoy a simple breakfast at the campground while enjoying the serene outdoors.
Short drive from Old Faithful to Mammoth.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces

Wander the otherworldly travertine terraces and their thermal features, marveling at nature's artistry.
Follow designated walking paths and boardwalks.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Historic Fort Yellowstone

Discover the history of the park through exhibits and a guided tour of the fort.
Located near Mammoth Hot Springs.
USD0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room

Try a local-inspired meal featuring seasonal ingredients in a charming setting.
Just a short stroll from the terraces.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Lamar Valley Wildlife Viewing

Head towards Lamar Valley, famous for its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes, for some great photo opportunities.
Drive to Lamar Valley, about 30-40 minutes from Mammoth.
USD0, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Return to Mammoth

Head back to Mammoth, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
Via the same route back.
USD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room

Enjoy another fantastic dinner at this lovely locale before settling in for the night.
Strolling back to the dining room from your accommodation.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Serene Yellowstone Lake

Yellowstone Lake

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Lake Hotel

Indulge in a delightful breakfast at Yellowstone Lake with amazing views of the water.
Drive to Lake Hotel, approximately 1 hour from Mammoth.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Yellowstone Lake Exploration

Spend the morning hiking along the shores or renting a canoe to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty.
Access various trails from the hotel or boat rentals nearby.
USD35, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Lake General Store

Grab a quick lunch with a selection of sandwiches and refreshments.
Visit the general store adjacent to the hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Fishing Bridge

Explore Fishing Bridge, where you may observe anglers and a variety of bird species.
A short 20-minute drive from Yellowstone Lake.
USD0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Wildlife Watching Drive

Take a scenic drive along the waterways, keeping your eyes peeled for elk, bison, and other wildlife.
Follow designated routes allowing for wildlife observations.
USD0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Lake Hotel

Conclude your Yellowstone adventure with a majestic dinner overlooking the lake.
Return to Lake Hotel for a relaxing final meal.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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