Ultimate 2-Day Yellowstone National Park Itinerary

Day 1: Wildlife and Geysers

Yellowstone National Park, USA

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Lake House

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Lake House, offering stunning views and a diverse menu including pancakes and eggs benedict.
Located near Lake Yellowstone, start your morning here before heading out.
USD20, 1 hour

8:30AM

Wildlife Watching in Lamar Valley

Drive to Lamar Valley, known for its abundant wildlife, where you may spot bison, elk, and even wolves.
A scenic drive of about 1.5 hours from Lake Yellowstone to Lamar Valley.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Mammoth Hot Springs

Explore the striking terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs, with boardwalks that let you closely view the steaming mineral formations.
Drive another hour from Lamar Valley to Mammoth Hot Springs.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room

Enjoy a delightful lunch featuring local dishes, like bison burgers or fresh salads, while taking in views of the hot springs.
Located conveniently within the Mammoth Hot Springs area.
USD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Norris Geyser Basin

Venture to Norris Geyser Basin, the hottest and most dynamic geyser area in Yellowstone, filled with colorful hot springs and fumaroles.
A short 30-minute drive from Mammoth Hot Springs.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Old Faithful Geyser

Witness the iconic eruption of Old Faithful, which occurs approximately every 90 minutes, and explore its surrounding geyser basin.
Drive for about an hour from Norris to Old Faithful.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Old Faithful Inn

Savor dinner inside the historic Old Faithful Inn, featuring rustic architecture and a menu with options like steaks and seasonal specialties.
Conveniently located next to Old Faithful Geyser.
USD30, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Evening Stroll around Old Faithful

Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll to watch the sunset over the geysers, capturing a magical end to your first day.
Walk around the boardwalk surrounding Old Faithful and the nearby geysers.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Scenic Drives and Hot Springs

Yellowstone National Park, USA

7:30AM

Breakfast at Old Faithful Inn

Start your day with breakfast at the Old Faithful Inn, where you can enjoy a buffet-style breakfast featuring local ingredients.
Enjoy a short walk from your lodging to the Inn for breakfast.
USD20, 1 hour

8:30AM

Grand Prismatic Spring

Visit the breathtaking Grand Prismatic Spring, renowned for its vivid colors and unique structures.
A 20-minute drive from Old Faithful to Grand Prismatic Spring parking area.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Hike to Fairy Falls

Take a scenic hike to Fairy Falls for stunning views and serene natural beauty, surrounded by old-growth forests.
The trailhead is located at the Grand Prismatic Spring parking area.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Firehole Canyon Drive

Pack a picnic or stop at a nearby convenience store to enjoy lunch near the scenic Firehole Canyon Drive with its captivating river views.
Set up at one of the picnic areas along Firehole Canyon Drive.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Swim at Firehole River

Cool off in the warm waters of Firehole River, a popular spot for swimming and relaxing.
Easily accessible by a short hike from the picnic area.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Hayden Valley

Drive through the beautiful Hayden Valley, an excellent area for more wildlife spotting, particularly bison and elk.
A scenic 30-minute drive from Firehole Canyon Drive.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Yellowstone Lake

Conclude your trip with a visit to the tranquil Yellowstone Lake, where you can relax by the shore and reflect on your adventures.
Easy 30-minute drive from Hayden Valley to Yellowstone Lake.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Lake Yellowstone Hotel

Enjoy a farewell dinner at the historic Lake Yellowstone Hotel, with beautiful views of the lake and an excellent menu featuring fresh fish.
Located directly at Yellowstone Lake, perfect for a final meal.
USD35, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Sunset at Yellowstone Lake

Cap off your memorable Yellowstone trip with a picturesque sunset over Yellowstone Lake, a moment to cherish.
Walk to the lakeside from the dining area for the best views.
Free, 1 hour
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