15-Day Scenic National Parks Adventure: Yellowstone, Grand Teton & Glacier from Denver

Day 1: Travel & Arrival

Denver, USA to Grand Teton National Park, USA on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Denver Biscuit Company

Kick off your trip with a hearty breakfast at this popular spot in Denver known for giant biscuit sandwiches, perfect to fuel your drive.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Grand Teton National Park

Embark on a scenic 8-hour drive north from Denver to Grand Teton National Park, enjoying the changing landscapes along the way.
USD50 (Gas Estimate), 8h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Dornan's

Dine at Dornan's in Moose, offering mountain views and delicious local cuisine, a perfect welcome to the Tetons.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 2: Grand Teton Exploration

Grand Teton National Park, USA on May 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Pearl Street Bagels

Enjoy fresh bagels and coffee in nearby Jackson, a great start before exploring the park.
USD12, 0h45m

8:30am

Hiking Taggart Lake Trail

This 3.4-mile hike offers stunning views of the Tetons and Taggart Lake, perfect for all skill levels. Open sunrise to sunset.
Free, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Jenny Lake Lodge Dining Room

Refuel with a scenic view over Jenny Lake and tasty American dishes in a rustic setting.
USD35, 1h0m

1:30pm

Boat Ride on Jenny Lake

Take the shuttle boat across Jenny Lake, operational from 9am-5pm in May, to access additional trails and viewpoints.
USD18, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center

Learn about park history, geology, and wildlife, open 8am-5pm.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Blue Lion

Enjoy a cozy atmosphere with locally inspired dishes in Jackson.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 3: Wildlife & Scenic Drives

Grand Teton National Park, USA on May 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Persephone Bakery

Artisan pastries and coffee in Jackson to energise your day.
USD15, 0h45m

8:30am

Wildlife Safari Drive

Drive the Moose-Wilson Road and Oxbow Bend for early morning wildlife sightings including moose, bears and eagles.
Free, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Dornan’s

Casual and tasty meals amid spectacular Tetons scenery.
USD35, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Mormon Row Historic District

Discover the iconic homesteads and barns with mountain backdrops, ideal for photography.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Relax at Jackson Lake

Enjoy lakeside relaxation or optional kayaking, rental fees apply.
USD30 (Kayak Rental Optional), 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Snake River Grill

Touched with elegance, the grill offers gourmet dishes perfect for a memorable night.
USD50, 1h30m

Day 4: Grand Teton and Transfer to Yellowstone

Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone National Park, USA on May 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Sweetwater Grill

Rustic and hearty breakfast in Jackson before departure.
USD20, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Yellowstone National Park South Entrance

A scenic 1.5-hour drive offers views of both parks and sets you up for your Yellowstone adventure.
USD10 (Park Fee), 1h30m

11:00am

Check into hotel/lodge in Yellowstone

Settle in and prepare for exploring America’s first national park.
Varies, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Old Faithful Inn Dining Room

Enjoy classic park dining with views of the famous Old Faithful geyser.
USD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Watch Old Faithful Geyser Eruption

Catch the predictable eruption, which occurs approximately every 90 minutes, a must-see natural wonder.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Walk the Upper Geyser Basin Trails

Explore other thermal features like Grand Prismatic Spring and colorful hot springs, open daylight hours.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Old Faithful Inn

Relax with hearty fare after a day of exploration.
USD45, 1h30m

Day 5: Yellowstone Geysers & Wildlife

Yellowstone National Park, USA on May 11, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Canyon Lodge

Start your day with a quick and energizing breakfast at the popular lodge.
USD20, 0h45m

8:00am

Visit Yellowstone Canyon and Falls

Experience stunning views of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and its impressive upper and lower falls. Open sunrise to sunset.
Free, 3h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Canyon Village

Casual dining options in the village with quick meals and panoramic views.
USD30, 1h0m

1:00pm

Afternoon Wildlife Watching at Hayden Valley

One of the best spots for bison, elk, and possibly bears; optimal in the afternoon light.
Free, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Lake Yellowstone Hotel

Enjoy elegant dining with views of Yellowstone Lake as the sun sets.
USD50, 1h30m

Day 6: Thermal Features & Scenic Drive

Yellowstone National Park, USA on May 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Yellowstone General Store

Grab a breakfast sandwich or pastries before heading out.
USD15, 0h30m

7:30am

Drive the Lamar Valley

Morning drives here are legendary for wolf and bear sightings, offering some of the best wildlife experiences in Yellowstone.
Free, 4h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Roosevelt Lodge

Enjoy a western-themed lunch in a rustic setting inside the park.
USD35, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces

Explore unique travertine terraces open from 8am to sunset with boardwalks and walking trails.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Evening Stroll at Mammoth Hot Springs

Relax with a gentle walk around the historic Fort Yellowstone area and surrounding facilities.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Mammoth Dining Room

Experience hearty meals and friendly atmosphere at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 7: Yellowstone to Glacier Transfer

Yellowstone National Park to Glacier National Park, USA on May 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Mammoth Hot Springs

Enjoy a quick meal before a long day of driving to Glacier National Park.
USD20, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive to Glacier National Park

Set out on an approximately 7-hour drive through beautiful Montana landscapes towards Glacier National Park.
USD60 (Gas Estimate), 7h0m

3:30pm

Check-in and rest

Arrive at your accommodation near Glacier National Park and relax after the drive.
Varies, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Belton Grill

Casual dining in West Glacier with American classics, a great welcome meal.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 8: Glacier National Park Introduction

Glacier National Park, USA on May 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at West Glacier Restaurant

Start your day with a full breakfast close to the park entrance.
USD18, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive Going-to-the-Sun Road

Drive this famous scenic road offering spectacular views and access to major trailheads. Note that full opening may not occur until late May, so check road status.
USD30 (Park Entry), 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Logan Pass Visitor Centre

Pack a picnic or enjoy light bites from the visitor centre café while admiring the alpine scenery.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Hike Hidden Lake Trail

This trail from Logan Pass leads to stunning views of Hidden Lake and potential wildlife sightings. Open daylight hours, approx 3-hours round trip.
Free, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Glacier Highland Restaurant

Enjoy creative cuisine with local ingredients in a laid-back atmosphere in West Glacier.
USD45, 1h30m

Day 9: Glacier National Park Hiking

Glacier National Park, USA on May 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Swiftcurrent Motor Inn

Comfortable breakfast near Many Glacier area to prepare for hikes.
USD18, 0h45m

8:30am

Many Glacier Valley Hike

Explore beautiful lake and mountain terrain; great for spotting wildlife like bears and mountain goats. Trail open sunrise to sunset.
Free, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Swiftcurrent Dining Room

Relax with lakeside views and a variety of wholesome meals.
USD35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Boat Tour on Swiftcurrent Lake

Take a guided boat trip from Many Glacier Hotel to admire stunning scenery (seasonal, check availability).
USD55, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Grinnell Glacier Overlook

Optional hike or shuttle to viewpoint to witness breathtaking glacier views. Open daylight hours.
USD10 (Shuttle Fee Optional), 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Jammer Joe’s Grill

Casual dining with hearty meals, perfect after an active day.
USD30, 1h30m

Day 10: Scenic and Leisure Day

Glacier National Park, USA on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Avalanche Bar and Grill

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast in Whitefish before exploring less strenuous areas.
USD18, 0h45m

9:00am

Explore Apgar Village & Lake McDonald

Stroll lakeside paths, kayak, or rent bikes to enjoy this charming village and scenic lake setting.
USD25 (Rental Fees Optional), 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Eddie’s Cafe

Comfort food with local flair in West Glacier, great for refuelling mid-day.
USD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Polebridge Mercantile

Drive northwest to this historic spot for baked goods and a glimpse of rustic Montana life.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Belton Chalet

Dine in a historic lodge atmosphere with upscale yet cozy Montana cuisine.
USD50, 1h30m

Day 11: Return Journey Start

Glacier National Park to Bozeman, USA on May 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Glacier Highland

Final hearty breakfast in Glacier area before heading back south.
USD18, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive to Bozeman, Montana

Enjoy a 5-hour scenic drive to Bozeman, a vibrant town for overnight rest and culture.
USD40 (Gas Estimate), 5h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Montana Ale Works

Grab a tasty lunch in downtown Bozeman featuring local ingredients and craft beers.
USD30, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Downtown Bozeman

Walk the charming streets with shops, galleries and museums open until early evening.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Black Iron Kitchen

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes with a focus on regional flavours.
USD45, 1h30m

Day 12: Bozeman to Denver

Bozeman, USA to Denver, USA on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at The Nova Cafe

Popular brunch spot in Bozeman for leisurely breakfast before departure.
USD20, 0h45m

8:00am

Drive back to Denver

Embark on roughly a 9-hour drive back south to Denver with stops for breaks and meals.
USD60 (Gas Estimate), 9h0m

6:30pm

Dinner in Denver at Euclid Hall

Cap off your journey with comfort food and craft beers in a lively local setting.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 13: Rest & Explore Denver

Denver, USA on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Jelly Cafe

Famous for creative pancakes and breakfast dishes, a great way to start your relaxed day.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Denver Botanic Gardens

Visit the beautiful gardens open daily from 9am to 8pm, showcasing diverse plant collections and art installations.
USD15, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at City O' City

Enjoy vegetarian and vegan dishes in an eclectic downtown spot.
USD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Denver Art Museum

Explore extensive collections including Native American art; open 10am to 5pm Tues-Sun.
USD13, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Larimer Square

Stroll this historic block with shops and cafes, perfect for an early evening walk.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Mercantile Dining & Provision

Savour farm-to-table dining in a bright, modern space.
USD50, 1h30m

Day 14: Day Trip from Denver

Denver, USA on May 20, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Denver Biscuit Company

Fuel up with generous portions before a day trip.
USD15, 0h45m

8:00am

Day Trip to Rocky Mountain National Park

A 1.5-hour drive to this stunning park with breathtaking mountain views and trails open sunrise to sunset.
USD30 (Park Entry), 8h0m

12:30pm

Picnic Lunch in Rocky Mountain National Park

Enjoy a packed picnic at Bear Lake or Sprague Lake for scenic dining.
Free, 1h0m

4:30pm

Return to Denver

Drive back to the city with time to relax before dinner.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Rioja

Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine in an upscale setting to celebrate your last night.
USD60, 1h30m

Day 15: Departure Day

Denver, USA on May 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Popular spot for creative and satisfying breakfast options near downtown Denver.
USD20, 1h0m

10:00am

Pack and Check-out

Prepare for your departure from Denver with plenty of time to get to the airport or travel to your next destination.
Free, 2h0m