Epic 13-Day Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, USA

9:00 AM

Breakfast at The Park Café

Start your adventure with a hearty breakfast at The Park Café, famous for its pancakes and fresh ingredients.
Located near Liberty Park, it's a lovely start.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit the Utah State Capitol

Learn about Utah's history while exploring the stunning architecture of the Utah State Capitol.
A brief 10-minute drive from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Red Iguana

Enjoy lunch at the renowned Red Iguana, a celebrated Mexican restaurant offering a variety of moles.
About 15 minutes from the Capitol.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Head to Jackson

Begin your scenic road trip and enjoy the views as you head to Jackson, WY.
Take I-15 N and US-89 N.
Fuel cost about USD30, 4 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Gun Barrel Restaurant

Dine on fine game meat and seafood at The Gun Barrel Restaurant in Jackson.
Located in the city center.
USD45, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Explore Jackson

Jackson, USA

8:30 AM

Breakfast at Persephone Bakery

Enjoy delicious pastries and coffee on the patio of Persephone Bakery, perfect for fuel before a day of exploring.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art

Marvel at wildlife-themed artwork in this beautiful museum perched on a hill above the National Elk Refuge.
Only a 15-minute drive from the bakery.
USD12, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Local

Relish locally sourced ingredients at The Local, known for its fresh burgers and seasonal dishes.
Head back into the town center.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Afternoon at Grand Teton National Park

Explore the breathtaking landscapes, towering mountains, and pristine lakes in Grand Teton National Park.
A quick 30-minute drive from Jackson.
USD35 (entrance fee), 4 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Oxbow Bend

Enjoy an exquisite dining experience overlooking the Stunning Oxbow Bend, a hidden gem.
Located in the park.
USD40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Grand Teton Adventure

Grand Teton National Park, USA

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Signal Mountain Lodge

Savor a hearty breakfast while enjoying the stunning views of Jackson Lake at Signal Mountain Lodge.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Hiking the Cascade Canyon Trail

Embark on a memorable hike through the stunning Cascade Canyon, surrounded by towering peaks and cascading waterfalls.
Drive to the String Lake trailhead.
Free, 3-4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Jenny Lake Picnic Area

Pack a picnic to enjoy at Jenny Lake with stunning mountain views as your backdrop.
Hike back to Jenny Lake if you hiked Cascade Canyon.
USD10 (picnic supplies), 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit the Chapel of the Transfiguration

Explore this charming log chapel set against the backdrop of the majestic Tetons.
A short drive from Jenny Lake.
Free, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Scenic Drive on Teton Park Road

Take in the beauty of Grand Teton National Park from the comfort of your vehicle on Teton Park Road.
Free, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Rustic Restaurant

Indulge in farm-to-table dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.
Located back in Jackson.
USD35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Yellowstone National Park Begins

Yellowstone National Park, USA

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Fuel up with a quick breakfast at your lodging before heading into Yellowstone.
USD10, 30 minutes

8:00 AM

Drive into Yellowstone National Park

Enter Yellowstone National Park through the South Entrance, getting ready for an incredible multi-day exploration.
Follow US-191 N directly into the park.
USD35 (entrance fee), 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Old Faithful Geyser

Witness the iconic eruption of Old Faithful, one of the park's most famous geothermal features.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Explore the Upper Geyser Basin

Stroll through the Upper Geyser Basin to see an array of geothermal features beyond Old Faithful.
Free, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Old Faithful Lodge Cafe

Grab a quick lunch at the historic Old Faithful Lodge, offering classic park fare.
USD20, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Morning Glory Pool

Discover the vibrant colors of Morning Glory Pool, accessible via a short walk from the parking area.
Free, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Drive to Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Enjoy the scenic drive as you make your way to the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.
Follow South Rim Drive.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Canyon Village

Dine at the Canyon Village dining area, where hearty meals await after a day of exploration.
USD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Yellowstone Wildlife Safari

Yellowstone National Park, USA

6:30 AM

Early Breakfast at Canyon Lodge

Start your day early with a buffet breakfast at Canyon Lodge, fueling for a wildlife adventure.
USD20, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Wildlife Watching in Lamar Valley

Head out to Lamar Valley in search of bison, elk, and wolves during the morning light.
Drive along the Northeast Entrance Road.
Free, 3 hours

11:00 AM

Visit Mammoth Hot Springs

Explore the stunning terraces and geothermal features of Mammoth Hot Springs.
Drive to Mammoth via the Northeast Entrance Road.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room

Enjoy a meal after your exploration, overlooking unique hydrothermal formations.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Continue Wildlife Viewing at Hayden Valley

Take in more of Yellowstone's wildlife as you drive through the picturesque Hayden Valley.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Return to Canyon Village

Head back to Canyon Village to relax and enjoy the evening.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Canyon Lodge

Finish your day with a fulfilling dinner at Canyon Lodge.
USD30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Geothermal Wonders of Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park, USA

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Another quick breakfast at Canyon Lodge before setting out to see more attractions.
USD10, 30 minutes

8:00 AM

Visit Norris Geyser Basin

Uncover the wonders of Norris Geyser Basin, home to the hottest thermal features in Yellowstone.
Drive approximately 30 minutes north from Canyon Village.
Free, 1.5 hours

9:30 AM

Explore Artist Paint Pots

Wander through Artist Paint Pots, where you'll encounter bubbling mud and colorful hot springs.
A short drive from Norris Basin.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Roosevelts Lodge

Grab lunch at Roosevelt Lodge, featuring hearty meals in a rustic atmosphere.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Tower Fall

Enjoy a short hike to Tower Fall, one of Yellowstone's iconic waterfalls.
Drive to Tower Fall from the lodge.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Check out Dunraven Pass

Take a scenic drive over Dunraven Pass and enjoy stunning views of the park.
A drive on the Grand Loop Road.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Canyon Village

Relax after a long day with dinner back at Canyon Village.
USD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Exit Yellowstone Towards Cooke City

Cooke City, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Canyon Lodge

Enjoy breakfast at Canyon Lodge before continuing your journey.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Cooke City

Set off toward Cooke City, taking in the beautiful landscapes and scenic views in the route.
Follow Beartooth Highway (US-212).
Fuel cost about USD20, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Cooke City

Take some time to walk through Cooke City, appreciating this historic mountain town.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Miner’s Saloon

Grab a bite at The Miner’s Saloon, known for their burgers and local beer.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit the Beartooth Scenic Byway

Enjoy breathtaking views along the Beartooth Scenic Byway, considered one of America’s most scenic highways.
Continue driving on US-212.
Free, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Your Accommodation

End the day with dinner at your accommodation in Cooke City, enjoying local specialties.
USD30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Travel to Billings

Billings, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Enjoy a fulfilling breakfast at your lodging in Cooke City.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Billings

Head to Billings, experiencing beautiful views along the way.
Take US-212 to US-87.
Fuel cost about USD30, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Burger Dive

Savor some of the best burgers in Billings at The Burger Dive, known for their creative toppings.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Visit Pictograph Cave State Park

Explore ancient rock art in Pictograph Cave State Park, a fascinating cultural site.
A short drive from downtown Billings.
USD5, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Check into Your Accommodation

Rest and recharge at your chosen accommodation in Billings.
Varies, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at Montana's Rib & Chop House

End your day with a hearty meal at Montana's Rib & Chop House, famous for their steak and ribs.
USD40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Red Lodge Exploration

Red Lodge, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Have a filling breakfast before setting off for Red Lodge.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Red Lodge

Enjoy a scenic drive from Billings to Red Lodge, famous for its charm.
Follow US-212.
Fuel cost about USD20, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore Red Lodge

Take a walking tour through Red Lodge, discovering its unique shops and local art.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Foster & Logan’s Pub

Enjoy comfort food and local flavors at Foster & Logan’s Pub, a local favorite.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Red Lodge Mountain Resort

Explore the beautiful landscapes at Red Lodge Mountain Resort, where you can hike or take a scenic chairlift ride.
Free (chairlift fee varies), 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Red Lodge Pizza Co.

Relish in delicious wood-fired pizzas at The Red Lodge Pizza Co., a popular hangout spot.
USD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Cody Culture Day

Cody, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Enjoy a filling breakfast in Red Lodge before heading to Cody.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Cody

Scenic drive to Cody, known for its western history and culture.
Follow US-212 and then US-14.
Fuel cost about USD20, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West

Explore this fantastic museum dedicated to Western history and culture.
Located in the heart of Cody.
USD20, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Irma Hotel

Experience hearty ranch-style meals at the Irma Hotel, a historic establishment.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Stroll through Cody's Historic District

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Cody's unique shops and galleries.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Visit the Cody Nite Rodeo

Witness a rodeo event that captures the true spirit of the American West.
USD25 (varies by event), 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Proud Cut Saloon

Enjoy Western cuisine and a lively atmosphere at The Proud Cut Saloon.
USD30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Relax and Explore Thermopolis

Thermopolis, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Cody.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Thermopolis

Drive towards Thermopolis to experience the famous hot springs.
Take US-20 S.
Fuel cost about USD20, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Visit Hot Springs State Park

Relax and enjoy the natural hot springs in Hot Springs State Park, renowned for its healing properties.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Sign of the Plow

Savor a locally sourced and freshly prepared meal at The Sign of the Plow.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Thermopolis Dinosaur Museum

Discover fascinating dinosaur fossils and exhibits at Thermopolis Dinosaur Museum.
USD10, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Downtown Thermopolis

Stroll around the quaint downtown area, filled with unique shops and local art galleries.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The One Eyed Buffalo

End the day with a meal at The One Eyed Buffalo, known for its burgers and local beers.
USD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Scenic Drive to Lander

Lander, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Have a filling breakfast in Thermopolis before heading out.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Lander

Enjoy the scenic drive to Lander, taking in sweeping views of the countryside.
Take WY-20 towards Lander.
Fuel cost about USD20, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

Visit Sinks Canyon State Park

Experience the natural beauty of Sinks Canyon State Park with hiking trails and stunning views.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Lander Bar

Savor classic American burgers and delicious fries at the Lander Bar.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Explore Downtown Lander

Stroll through downtown Lander for local shops and unique sights.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit the Lander Art Center

Enjoy impressive local artworks and exhibitions at the Lander Art Center.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Cowboy Cafe

Experience a memorable meal with hearty cowboy dishes at The Cowboy Cafe.
USD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Return to Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Accommodation

Finish your road trip adventure with breakfast in Lander.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive Back to Salt Lake City

Begin your journey back to Salt Lake City, reflecting on your incredible road trip.
Follow WY-789 S and US-15 S.
Fuel cost about USD30, 5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at The Copper Onion

Arrive back and enjoy a delightful lunch at The Copper Onion, known for farm-to-table flavors.
Located in downtown Salt Lake City.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Visit the Temple Square

Spend your last afternoon wandering around the breathtaking Temple Square and its beautiful gardens.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Depart from Salt Lake City

Conclude your 13-day adventure, enriched by unforgettable experiences.
Free, N/A
View Hotel Availability