Looking for a Yellowstone National Park itinerary? I’ve got you covered!
Yellowstone is a real gem in the U.S., with jaw-dropping landscapes, fascinating geothermal features, and classic sights you won’t want to miss.
If you’re into nature and want to explore diverse ecosystems, or if spotting wildlife like bison, elk, and bears excites you, Yellowstone has it all.
Here’s a 3-day Yellowstone National Park itinerary I’ve put together to help you make the most of your visit. Let’s dive in and explore everything this amazing park has to offer!
Day 1 of Yellowstone National Park Itinerary
Morning: Old Faithful and Upper Geyser Basin
Start your 3-day Yellowstone National Park itinerary with a visit to Old Faithful, one of the park’s most iconic geysers.
Famous for its regular eruptions, Old Faithful is a must-see. It erupts every 35 to 120 minutes, lasting from 1.5 to 5 minutes, and shoots water up to 106-180 feet high.
Not only did this amazing natural wonder help create the park, but it’s also one of its main attractions. Be sure to check eruption times at the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center or use the GeyserTimes app for reliable predictions.
Afterwards, explore the Upper Geyser Basin, home to many geysers and hot springs, like Castle Geyser and Morning Glory Pool.
Castle Geyser puts on a dramatic show, while the colorful Morning Glory Pool looks like something from another planet.
I recommend spending at least 2 hours here to fully take in the geothermal activity and surreal landscapes.
Afternoon: Midway Geyser Basin and Grand Prismatic Spring
In the afternoon, head to Midway Geyser Basin to check out the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the park and the third largest in the world.
Its vivid colors, created by heat-loving bacteria, are truly mesmerizing. The spring is between 200 to 330 feet wide and plunges 121 feet deep, making it an unmissable sight.
Take a short hike up to the Grand Prismatic Overlook for the best views. From there, you’ll get a complete panoramic view of the spring, showing off its beauty from a whole new perspective.
Evening: Black Sand Basin
Finish your day at Black Sand Basin, known for its striking black volcanic sand and colorful hot springs like Emerald Pool, famous for its clear green water, and Rainbow Pool, which changes colors.
The contrast between the dark sand and vibrant springs creates a stunning view. This area is quieter than others in the park, giving you a more peaceful, reflective experience.
Take your time to relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere while marveling at the unique geothermal features of Black Sand Basin.
Day 2 of Yellowstone National Park Itinerary
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Morning: Hayden Valley
Start your day early with a visit to Hayden Valley, a prime spot for wildlife observation.
This picturesque valley is home to approximately 1300 bison year-round and offers excellent opportunities to see grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, and other wildlife.
The best time for wildlife activity is early morning, so plan to arrive just after sunrise. The early morning light creates a magical setting, enhancing your wildlife viewing experience.
Bring binoculars for a closer look at the animals from a safe distance.
Afternoon: Yellowstone Lake and West Thumb Geyser Basin
In the afternoon, drive over to Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America. Enjoy a peaceful picnic by the lake and take in the tranquil surroundings.
The lake’s massive size and crystal–clear blue waters, framed by mountains, offer a stunning view perfect for unwinding. If you’re up for some adventure, consider renting a kayak and exploring the lake.
Next, head to the nearby West Thumb Geyser Basin, where you can see geothermal wonders right along the lake’s edge.
Highlights include Abyss Pool, one of the deepest hot springs in the park, and Fishing Cone, where early visitors used to cook their freshly caught fish in the hot spring.
I recommend spending at least an hour here. The boardwalk trails make it easy to explore the geothermal features while enjoying the beautiful lake views.
Evening: Lamar Valley
Wrap up your day by visiting Lamar Valley in the northeastern part of the park, often called the “Serengeti of North America.”
This area is famous for its abundant wildlife, like bison, grizzly bears, and pronghorns. To increase your chances of spotting wildlife, stay until dusk.
The valley’s wide-open spaces make it a great place for animal sightings, and it’s one of my favorite spots in the park for this.
Evening is the best time for wildlife viewing since many animals are more active at this time. Don’t miss the chance to see these amazing animals in their natural habitat, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lamar Valley.
Day 3 of Yellowstone National Park Itinerary
Morning: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
On your final day, visit the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, a spectacular canyon carved by the Yellowstone River.
Stretching for about 24 miles, it features breathtaking viewpoints like Inspiration Point, offering a dramatic view of the canyon and the river below.
Artist Point is another highlight, renowned for its stunning vistas that have inspired countless artists. The canyon’s vibrant colors, caused by minerals, make it even more beautiful.
Don’t miss the majestic waterfalls such as the Lower Falls and Upper Falls, which enhance the canyon’s beauty.
Make sure to allocate around 2 hours for hiking and exploring the viewpoints. If you’re a photographer, I recommend arriving early in the morning to capture the colorful rainbow that often appears above the waterfall.
Afternoon: Mammoth Hot Springs
In the afternoon, drive to Mammoth Hot Springs, known for its terraced hot springs that are a sight to behold.
These terraces, formed by deposits of calcium carbonate, change colors throughout the seasons, transforming the landscape continuously.
Plan to spend approximately 2 hours exploring this unique area. The colors of the terraces look especially beautiful in the late afternoon, creating a mesmerizing sight that you shouldn’t miss.
While you’re there, make sure to visit the historic Fort Yellowstone, located nearby. This site provides insights into the park’s early history and its role in the U.S. Army’s administration of the area. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Yellowstone’s past.
Evening: Lower Geyser Basin
Conclude your day at the Lower Geyser Basin, Yellowstone’s largest geyser area. Here, you’ll encounter some of the park’s most impressive geothermal features.
The Great Fountain Geyser is especially famous for its breathtaking eruptions, shooting water up to 100 feet high and lasting up to an hour. Nearby, Clepsydra Geyser erupts almost continuously, adding to the area’s charm.
These geysers look especially beautiful at sunset, when the light makes them even more stunning. Take a walk along the boardwalks and trails to get a closer look at these amazing natural wonders.
It’s a perfect way to end your Yellowstone National Park itinerary, with memories of these spectacular sights.
Tips for Visiting Yellowstone National Park
- Timing: Visit popular spots early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and catch active wildlife.
- Accommodation: Stay at campgrounds located within or near the park to minimize driving time. Some recommended campgrounds include:
- Madison Campground: Located near the West Entrance, it’s centrally located and offers beautiful views of the Madison River.
- Bridge Bay Campground: Situated on Yellowstone Lake, it provides easy access to fishing and boating activities.
- Grant Village Campground: Near the South Entrance, it’s close to hiking trails and offers amenities like showers and a general store.
- Driving: Yellowstone is huge, and getting around can take longer due to traffic and wildlife. Plan routes carefully and allow extra travel time.
- Safety: Keep a safe distance from wildlife (100 yards from bears, 25 yards from other animals) and stick to marked paths to protect the park’s delicate geothermal areas.
- Preparation: Bring enough water, snacks, and layered clothing for changing weather. Yellowstone’s climate can be unpredictable, so be ready for anything.
- Entrance Fees: Fees range from $20 to $35 per vehicle. If you’re visiting multiple national parks, consider buying the $80 America the Beautiful Pass.
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3-Day Yellowstone National Park Itinerary: Summary
Yellowstone National Park is a destination like no other, offering a wealth of natural beauty and wildlife.
This 3-day Yellowstone National Park itinerary covers the park’s top attractions, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Start planning your adventure today and discover the wonders of Yellowstone firsthand!
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