Our recent adventure through Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park was nothing short of spectacular. Starting from the charming town of Jackson Hole, we embarked on a scenic road trip filled with geysers, waterfalls, and plenty of wildlife encounters.

Whether it was witnessing the power of Old Faithful or spotting wolves in Lamar Valley, every moment felt like a brush with nature’s finest.

 

Explorea LLC Custom Itinerary - YellowStone

Day 1-2: Exploring Jackson Hole and Grand Teton

Highlights: Jackson Hole & Grand Teton National Park

• Iconic Antler Arches – Visit Jackson Hole’s town square to see the famous elk antler arches, a symbol of the area’s unique wildlife and charm.
• Scenic Jenny Lake – Stop at this serene lake in Grand Teton National Park, where the calm waters mirror the snow-capped Tetons. Enjoy hiking trails or a scenic boat ride.
• Grand Teton National Park – Explore rugged mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and lush valleys. Keep an eye out for wildlife like elk, moose, and black bears.
• Breathtaking Drives – Experience awe-inspiring views of the Tetons and surrounding landscapes as you drive through the park.
• Jackson Hole – Enjoy the cozy yet adventurous atmosphere of Jackson Hole, the perfect base for exploring the Tetons.

Explorea LLC Custom Itinerary - YellowStone

Day 3-4: Yellowstone National Park Highlights

• Grand Prismatic Spring – Continuing on the drive the following days, enjoy the vibrant geothermal pool with stunning hues of blue, green, and orange. Walk the boardwalk for close views or hike to the overlook for a spectacular perspective.

Old Faithful Geyser – Witness Yellowstone’s most iconic geyser erupting with its famous precision. It’s a must-see for visitors. Be sure to arrive early to get a good spot for viewing, as it tends to get crowded around eruption times.

Geothermal Wonders – Explore Yellowstone’s unique landscapes, shaped by geothermal activity, with colorful hot springs, geysers, and bubbling pools.

Explorea LLC Custom Itinerary - YellowStone
Explorea LLC Custom Itinerary - YellowStone
Explorea LLC Custom Itinerary - YellowStone
Explorea LLC Custom Itinerary - YellowStone

Grand Canyon of Yellowstone: A Painter’s Inspiration

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is a dramatic canyon with sheer cliffs and powerful waterfalls. Artist Point provides a postcard-perfect view of the Lower Falls. At Artist Point, the view of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone was a sight to behold, with steep cliffs plunging into the roaring river below.

The canyon’s walls are a canvas of colors, with hues of red, yellow, and orange created by volcanic activity over millions of years.

Whether you’re hiking along the rim or just enjoying the viewpoints, this area is one of Yellowstone’s most scenic spots.

Other highlights included the Black Sand Basin and the stunning waterfalls at Upper Falls.

Day 5-6: Lamar Valley- A Wildlife Paradise

• Lamar Valley – Dubbed the ‘Serengeti of North America,’ it’s Yellowstone’s premier spot for wildlife viewing.
• Abundant Wildlife – See herds of bison, elk, coyotes, and wolves in their natural habitat. With some luck, spot a grizzly bear or black bear family.
• Best Viewing Times – Early mornings and late evenings offer the greatest chances for wildlife sightings.
• Safety First – Observe wildlife from the safety of your car to ensure a respectful and secure experience for all.

Explorea LLC Custom Itinerary - YellowStone Collage
Explorea LLC Custom Itinerary - YellowStone MammothHotSprings

Day 7: Mammoth Hot Springs and Final Stops

Mammoth Hot Springs is unlike any other feature in Yellowstone. The terraced formations are made of limestone, and the hot water flowing over them creates a unique landscape that changes over time. The area is also home to historic structures like the Mammoth Hotel, where visitors can stay overnight or enjoy a meal with a view. It’s a peaceful end to a day of exploring.

The trip concluded with a visit to Mammoth Hot Springs, a geological marvel with terraced limestone formations.

Final Thoughts

Our journey through Yellowstone and Grand Teton was an unforgettable experience, from scenic drives to wildlife encounters. Each moment offered a glimpse into the pristine beauty of these national parks, reminding us why they are among America’s greatest treasures. Whether it’s spotting wolves in Lamar Valley, marveling at the geysers, or relaxing by the lakes, Yellowstone and the Tetons provide an adventure for every traveler. We leave with memories of towering mountains, bubbling springs, and wide-open valleys—a testament to the wonders of nature.