How to Plan a 5-Night Yellowstone Itinerary Like an Expert

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most beautiful spots in the country. It’s a perfect family vacation and can easily be customized for anyone from the most outdoorsy to less mobile multi-generational groups including seniors and children. If you’re overwhelmed and looking for Yellowstone vacation ideas, this 5-night/6-day Yellowstone itinerary will make planning easy. Get ready for days full of glorious scenery, amazing daily hikes, and epic animal spotting!

In this guide you will find:

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5-Night Yellowstone Itinerary

Day 1 of Your Yellowstone Itinerary: From Bozeman to West Yellowstone 

Stay: Best Western Desert Inn, West Yellowstone, MT

Late September/early October is the perfect time for a Yellowstone road trip. The summer hoards were gone, and although there’s not a lot of variety in fall foliage, the yellow aspens and golden fields made for some great photos. It was crowded enough, with full parking lots and traffic jams near the most popular sites, that I couldn’t imagine wanting to be there during high season. For me, the point was space, so being crammed up against others fighting for a view would be the opposite of what I came for.

Before we left Bozeman, we stopped off at Walmart to pick up our pre-ordered bear spray (a must for hiking in Yellowstone and cheaper to just buy vs. rent). Next, we made an oh-so-necessary stop at Mountains Walking Brewery. A selection of their excellent beers was our companion for the rest of our trip and was well worth the quick detour. Twisted Karma and Sweets Blackberry were both delicious!

Road work blocked traffic for what seemed like an eternity, so we got into West Yellowstone much later than anticipated. I don’t know if this is the norm or just a random chance, but we had to wait a full 45 minutes for the construction sign to let our side of the road go, only to get stopped again a couple of miles down the road for another half hour. Ugh!

We finally checked into our hotel and grabbed tacos from Las Palmitas, a school bus that serves solid Mexican food. There was a long wait for food, which gave us time to head back to our room for jackets. The temperature drops off quickly when the sun goes down!

Day 2 of Your Yellowstone Itinerary: Animal Spotting in Hayden Valley and Waterfalls in Artist’s Point

Stay: Best Western Desert Inn, West Yellowstone, MT

My number one tip for these parks is to invest in an audio tour if you’re driving yourself. The park has no cell service, so you can forget looking up maps or details on the fly. This app is like having a personal tour guide with you, and it just so happens to be a dead ringer for Jeff Bridges (so much so that we were convinced it was him, but my post-trip Google sleuthing indicates it was not). It uses GPS tracking to chime in with recommended stops and tons of history and science as you drive through the park, which led to us finding lots of sites we wouldn’t have considered otherwise.

My second most important tip is if you see a bunch of people pulled over, then there’s a good chance there’s something cool to see. I’ve never seen so much high-end camera equipment. These guys know how to find the cool stuff, so go where they go. On our drive into the park, we saw tons of people stopped on the side of the road and asked them what was going on. There was a bear with his recent elk kill on the other side of the river. Although we opted not to stop since the nearest parking was so far away, we managed to catch a quick glimpse of the bear. 

Pro Tip: If you see a group pulled over with their fancy cameras out, stop and go see what they’re looking at!

Hayden Valley

Animals are at their most active at dawn and dusk, and for East Coasters like us, it was easier to start early. Hayden Valley is in the middle of the park, so you’re looking at an hour’s drive even from the closer West Yellowstone side. So we set off in the dark with coffee and muffins from our hotel, and wow, did it ever pay off.

We arrived just before sunrise to see an enormous bison herd spread across the valley. It was awe-inspiring and gorgeous for photo purposes to see so many of these imposing creatures in such gorgeous morning light. It was a photographer’s heaven! Take a photo tour with a local expert to ensure you know all the best animal-spotting locations. 

Upper Falls

To get to Hayden Valley, we had passed by the famous Upper Falls, so we doubled back and opted for the 3.8-mile hike to the falls. You can drive to the Falls viewpoints if you prefer, but the hike was relatively easy and gave us multiple vantage points for the Upper Falls and Lower Falls. Afterward. we headed nearby to the stunning Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Artist Point. This is a must-see area of the park!

We checked out lunch at one of the park dining areas and were pleasantly surprised with the quality of our steak stirfry and bison meatloaf. On subsequent days, we opted to pack our lunch with provisions picked up at the local grocery stores so we could eat wherever and whenever the mood struck. The park is big, so sometimes dining can be quite far away. 

We found a random pull-off that was chock full of elk and stopped to take some pictures. We got incredibly lucky to have such a close view of a bull elk with a huge rack of horns, and it was almost like he posed for us! This was our first day, so we were psyched to see elk, but it turns out they’re quite prevalent, so by the end of the trip, elk elicited more of a “whatever” response. There’s nothing like the first time!

Norris Geyser Basin

On the drive back to our hotel, we were able to check Norris Geyser Basin off our list. The park is chock full of geysers and other geologic features. This 2.9-loop trail is not hiking so much as just a long walk on an elevated path that keeps you from falling into boiling hot water. Norris made for a perfect introduction to Yellowstone’s many unique geologic features with steam rising from the earth and brightly colored pools. They look so inviting, but don’t go too close as people have died falling into these super heated pools!

By this point, we were totally beat even though it wasn’t that late in the day. We headed back for some rest and dinner in our room. We picked up groceries at one of the stores in town and surprisingly good pizza from Wild West Pizzeria. After so much hiking, we were starved, and it went down very easy with a Mountains Walking beer!

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Day 3 of Your Yellowstone Itinerary: Explore Grand Prismatic Springs & Old Faithful

Stay: Best Western Desert Inn. West Yellowstone, MT

Grand Prismatic Springs

We headed back into the park to check out another very famous spot – Grand Prismatic Springs and the Midway Geyser Basin. From the basin, you can get up close to the amazing multicolored Grand Prismatic Springs but with the wind blowing, you’re mostly seeing steam. The real view is from above, so park at the Fairy Falls Trailhead and hike up to the Grand Prismatic Overlook. This isn’t a particularly long walk, but it is uphill. 

Fairy Falls

We continued on the Fairy Falls path to see the falls themselves. This was one of our least favorite hikes because the majority of it was through pretty boring woods. But the payoff of a lovely waterfall was worthwhile. It’s not a must, but if you have plenty of time like we did, it’s not a good post-Grand Prismatic option and is easy enough for little kids.

Old Faithful

From here we continued down into the upper geyser basin and the park’s most famous stop – Old Faithful. By this point, it had turned cold so we made our way around all of the geysers pretty quickly. Old Geyser is predictable enough that the park publishes an anticipated eruption time, so you should definitely check when you have cell service to make sure you time your visit appropriately. 

For many people, Old Faithful is the thing to see at Yellowstone, but I am of the controversial opinion that it is overrated. In fairness, I’ve seen a pretty cool geyser in Iceland before, so maybe it’s that it doesn’t hold a once-in-a-lifetime appeal for me. But even with the schedule, we waited ages, and it was cool to see it erupt but nothing in comparison to seeing a herd of bison or a pack of wolves.

There are two main seating areas to view Old Faithful, and for whatever reason nearly everyone was packed into the one to the right. I didn’t feel like being in a crowd, so we sat in the much sparser left seating area, and we could see just as well.

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Day 4 of Your Yellowstone Itinerary: Mammoth Hot Springs and an Incredible Hike

Stay: Wyndham Gardiner, Gardiner, MT

Mammoth Geyser Basin

On day 4 we changed hotels to the Wyndham Gardiner, near the northern entrance to the park, so we could be closer to the parts of the park we hadn’t seen yet. First up for the day, another must-see, Mammoth Hot Springs! This otherworldly thermal area is unlike any other in the park due to its unusual travertine formations. It’s an easy 1.75-mile walk around the upper and lower terraces.

Yellowstone River Picnic Area

We chose the Yellowstone River Picnic Area, a 3.9-loop trail for our daily hike. It has a gentle rise to a high vantage point with a beautiful view of both river and canyon. One note is that it was very windy on the day we went, so definitely hold on to anything not connected to your body! 

For dinner that night, we went to the popular Gardiner restaurant The Corral for elk burgers. The burgers were a bit too dry for my taste, so they weren’t my favorite dinner of the trip.

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Day 5 of Your Yellowstone Itinerary: Lamar Valley and My Favorite Yellowstone Hike

Stay: Wyndham Gardiner, Gardiner, MT

Lamar Valley

Another crack of dawn start today, so we could head deep into the park to the must-see Lamar Valley, known as America’s Serengeti. We didn’t have as much luck here as we did at Hayden, but we still had a pretty epic animal-viewing experience. We saw an entire pack of wolves, making a beeline for a lone bison bull.

It turns out that even a 20-wolf-strong pack doesn’t want to take on one of these big guys, so after some tentative sniffing, they let him be. The wolves were quite far off, so there were no great pictures of this, but some of the people near us with amazing spotting scopes let us take a peek. Wolves were one of the animals I most hoped to see, so I was thrilled to check them off my list.

Bear’s Tooth Highway

We felt like we’d seen most of the park, so we took a detour out of it to drive Bear’s Tooth Highway. It’s an extremely scenic drive into the mountains complete with hairpin turns and even some snow. We followed this drive until the road was unexpectedly closed and reached the highest point of our trip – almost 10,000 feet. I’ve since read harrowing articles about how the weather can turn frightening on this drive. I am thrilled that we got to check it out without once fearing for our lives. 

Slough Creek Trail

That afternoon we set off on our favorite hike of our Yellowstone visit – Slough Creek Trail. I couldn’t have predicted from what I’d read about this path that it would be such a delight, so it’s a true hidden gem. It’s a 20-mile out and back, so we just walked until we felt like turning around. Probably about 5 miles round trip for our journey. We saw almost no one on the whole hike, and the golden fields, yellow aspens, and views of the mountains were incredible. There was a moment on the trail when there was complete silence, something I’ve never experienced in normal life, and it was bliss!

We capped off a great day with delicious elk chili and Western sour cherry cider on the patio at Wonderland Cafe. This was my favorite meal in the Yellowstone area, so don’t miss it!

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Day 6 of Your Yellowstone Itinerary: One Last Geyser

West Thumb Geyser Basin

On day 6, we packed up to head to Jackson Hole, but you can also return to Bozeman for departure. To get to Jackson Hole, we took the scenic route through Yellowstone and Grand Teton parks, so it made for a great drive. This allowed us to check out the one major area we’d missed, Yellowstone Lake and the West Thumb Geyser Basin. I wouldn’t call this a must-see but it’s photogenic and was worth a quick stop on the way south out of the park.

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Where to Stay Near Yellowstone

When considering where to stay during your 6 days in Yellowstone, your choices are staying in the actual park, West Yellowstone (west of the park) or Gardiner (north of the park). Alas, there appears to be no such thing as a nice hotel near Yellowstone. So, no matter what you’re stuck spending more than you expect for a 2-star kind of hotel experience.

Staying on the property has a major convenience factor, but properties book up way in advance (as much as a year from what I read). Prices are very high for generally pretty mediocre accommodations. Old Faithful Snow Lodge is the best-reviewed by travelers.

West Yellowstone is a bustling town with more restaurant and hotel options, so we opted for three nights there and two in Gardiner. The park is huge, so you’ll want to move around to avoid super long driving times. 

We opted for the Best Western Desert Inn on the West Yellowstone side and the Wyndham on the Gardiner side because they were reasonably priced, well located near the park, and, most importantly, had kitchenettes that let us eat more meals in our room. I’d describe the hotels as good enough. They’re not as nice as what I’d book for myself in most cities (there isn’t anything as nice as even your local Marriott), but the beds were comfortable, and the rooms were clean. Both came with free breakfast, served in a COVID-safe way, which was a nice bonus.

Yellowstone Travel Tips – FAQ

Is Yellowstone a good destination for a family road trip?

Yes! A Yellowstone itinerary is perfect for the whole family! It’s relatively easy to get around because you can park and take a short walk to all the most famous sites. Kids will love seeing animals in their native habitats, and spots like Mammoth Hot Springs will make them feel like they’re on another planet.

Is Yellowstone suitable for toddlers and young children?

Yellowstone is a great trip for families with young children because many park highlights are accessed by parking nearby and taking a short, flat walk. Toddlers might have to skip hikes, but smaller kids can be strapped to your chest. Watch young children closely at all geothermal attractions and stay on the marked path because leaving the main path can be dangerous. In particular, the abundant wildlife and unusual geothermal attractions will blow your kids’ minds.

Is Yellowstone suitable for older travelers?

For the same reason Yellowstone can be great for young children, it’s also an ideal trip for older travelers. A car, binoculars, and a willingness to walk short distances will allow you to enjoy many of Yellowstone’s best attractions. Learn more about Yellowstone accessibility.

What are the best Yellowstone kid-friendly attractions?

When planning a family trip to Yellowstone, kid-friendly activities are abundant and sure to delight visitors of all ages. Start with easy hikes like the Fairy Falls Trail, where the kids can marvel at the stunning waterfalls and vibrant hot springs. For a more interactive experience, take a trip to the Junior Ranger Station at Old Faithful, where children can participate in educational programs, earn badges, and learn about the park’s unique wildlife and geology.

Don’t miss a visit to Boiling River, a naturally heated river where families can safely wade and enjoy a warm soak. Lastly, the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center just outside the park in West Yellowstone offers an up-close look at these magnificent animals, making it an exciting stop for young wildlife enthusiasts. These activities not only keep the kids engaged but also create memorable experiences that make Yellowstone an unforgettable family destination.

How long should my Yellowstone itinerary be?

4 nights in Yellowstone is a good start, but there’s more than enough to do to stay another night or two. The park is big, so driving times can be long. You don’t want to feel rushed as you explore top Yellowstone attractions like Mammoth Hot Springs, Grand Prismatic Basin, Old Faithful, and Artist’s Point.

Are there bathrooms in Yellowstone?

I was very pleasantly surprised by Yellowstone’s bathrooms. They were plentiful all around the park, remarkably clean, and always included full containers of hand sanitizer.

When is the best time to visit Yellowstone?

My preferred times to visit Yellowstone for maximum beauty and accessibility are summer and fall.

Summer in Yellowstone

Summer weather in Yellowstone is mild, with highs in the 60s and 70s. Crowds are at their biggest, so book hotels early and be prepared to look for parking at the most popular Yellowstone attractions. Fire season typically runs from July to September, so consult the NPS site and IQA air reports to be prepared.

Fall in Yellowstone

Things start closing the further you head into fall, so not every activity, rest stop, or trail will be open, but there was more than enough to do in September and early October. Better yet, the summer crowds have departed. It’s still crowded at the most popular spots, but in less-known areas, you can have the park to yourself. There’s still fire potential, and weather starts cooling quickly and October days might peak in the 40s. I recommend going in September or October if you’re looking for beautiful Yellowstone foliage.

Spring in Yellowstone

Wildlife watching is at its peak as animals emerge from hibernation. You’ll see bison calves and possibly bear cubs. Be aware that some roads and facilities may still be closed due to snow. Pack layers for chilly mornings and evenings.

Winter in Yellowstone

Yellowstone transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snow coach tours. Wildlife spotting is easier against the snow, but dress for extreme cold and ensure your vehicle is prepared for winter driving.

How do I know if parts of Yellowstone are closed?

Check the NPS site for closures and warnings. We were there when the Lone Star fire was burning, so some trails were closed. Other areas were closed due to bear or other wildlife activity. I hadn’t really considered the impact of fires until about a week before our trip. One warning is that all the West Coast fires could have ruined my trip, but thank goodness they didn’t. Check out IQAir if you’re concerned about air quality.

How do you avoid bears in Yellowstone?

I was definitely scared of encountering a bear during our trip and was very glad we only saw one from afar. Don’t forget your bear spray and make sure you know how to use it.

What animals live in Yellowstone?

I was hoping to see a moose in the park but I heard from a local that most of them migrated to Grand Teton after the last big fires. So we didn’t luck out and see moose until we got there. But we managed to spot a bear, wolves, a fox, deer, and more elk than you can shake a stick at. Oddly missing were birds of prey. I saw an eagle from a distance but the skies were generally devoid of interesting birds during my visit.

How much does Yellowstone entry cost?

Park entry is $35 for a one-week pass, which covers just Yellowstone (not nearby Grand Teton). Instead, invest in an America the Beautiful Pass, which works for one year at any national park. We bought our pass from REI for just $80, and it has more than paid for itself.

Tips for Adapting Your Yellowstone Itinerary for Multi-Generational Travel

Yellowstone is a fantastic destination for families of all ages, making it perfect for multi-generational trips.

Traveling with Seniors:

• Opt for shorter hikes like the boardwalk around Old Faithful or the Grand Prismatic Spring overlook trail.
• Consider staying in accommodations with easy access to main attractions, such as lodges near park entrances.

Traveling with Children:

• Engage kids with the park’s Junior Ranger Program, where they can earn badges by completing educational activities.
• Choose family-friendly hikes like the Trail to Artist Point for views of the Yellowstone Falls.
• Bring snacks and games for long car rides between park highlights.
• Bathrooms can be few and far between – encourage kids to use go whenever they have the chance!

Group-Friendly Planning:

• Book larger cabins or vacation rentals that can accommodate everyone comfortably.
• Include a mix of activities to balance adventure with relaxation, like a day hiking and another day at Mammoth Hot Springs.
• Plan meals in advance, whether picnics in scenic spots or dining at Yellowstone lodges.

Favorite Yellowstone Tours

A tour takes the stress out of planning and navigating, and the guides know all the best spots for animal-spotting. To make the most out of your time, consider some of our recommended tours:

Adventurous Tastes is reader-supported. I’ve included affiliate links in this post. If you make a purchase, we may receive commissions. All opinions are my own.

Explore more family-friendly road trips

Looking for more Yellowstone planning tips? Check out our 10 can’t-miss experiences in Yellowstone and Grand Teton and our Yellowstone FAQ. Looking for adventure beyond Yellowstone? Check out our Iceland road trip by camper van itinerary, visit the Catskills in the fall, or try the family-friendly hikes near Seattle.

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Adventurous Tastes is reader-supported. I’ve included affiliate links in this post. If you make a purchase, we may receive commissions. All opinions are my own.

Updated February 2024