Montana, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, Wyoming, and Idaho Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Montana & Exploring Glacier National Park

Morning: Arrive in Montana and head straight to Glacier National Park to enjoy scenic viewpoints and hiking trails.

Afternoon: Take the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road drive to experience breathtaking mountain vistas and stop for photos.

Evening: Relax in the nearby town of Whitefish, enjoying local cuisine and preparing for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Yellowstone National Park - Northern Loop

Morning: Enter Yellowstone National Park via the North Entrance, visiting Mammoth Hot Springs for unique terraced formations.

Afternoon: Explore Lamar Valley, known for abundant wildlife including wolves and bison.

Evening: Stay in Cody, Wyoming, soaking in western heritage and dining at local steakhouses.

Day 3: Yellowstone National Park - Geysers and Falls

Morning: Visit Old Faithful and the surrounding geyser basins filled with colorful geothermal features.

Afternoon: Head to Grand Prismatic Spring and then on to the iconic Yellowstone Falls in the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

Evening: Overnight near West Yellowstone, enjoy a casual stroll through the town.

Day 4: Grand Teton National Park Exploration

Morning: Cross into Wyoming and explore Grand Teton National Park, starting with Jenny Lake and scenic hikes.

Afternoon: Enjoy wildlife viewing along Snake River or opt for a boat tour on Jackson Lake.

Evening: Stay in Jackson, Wyoming, taking in the town’s western charm and vibrant nightlife.

Day 5: Wyoming and Idaho Scenic Drive & Departure

Morning: Drive west toward Idaho, stopping in the town of Driggs for breakfast and mountain views.

Afternoon: Explore the Sawtooth National Recreation Area for light hiking and lakeside relaxation.

Evening: Depart from Idaho Falls or continue onward depending on travel plans.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Glacier National Park: 4-5 hours; Park entry $35 per vehicle
• Mammoth Hot Springs: 2 hours; Included in Yellowstone entry
• Lamar Valley Wildlife Viewing: 3 hours; Included in Yellowstone entry
• Old Faithful & Geyser Basins: 3-4 hours; Included in Yellowstone entry
• Yellowstone Falls: 2 hours; Included in Yellowstone entry
• Grand Teton National Park: 4-5 hours; Park entry $35 per vehicle
• Boat Tour on Jackson Lake: 1.5 hours; Approx. $40 per person
• Sawtooth National Recreation Area: 3 hours; Free access

Total Estimated Cost: $110 - $140 per vehicle + optional activity fees

Tips

For travelers wanting to extend the trip, consider adding extra days for more hiking in Glacier National Park or spending additional nights in the Grand Tetons to enjoy seasonal activities like rafting or horseback riding. To reduce trip duration, focus on Yellowstone and Grand Teton highlights only, skipping Glacier National Park, allowing more leisure time in one or two locations instead of multiple states.