A Grand Teton to Yellowstone to Glacier National Park road trip offers an unforgettable journey through some of America’s most stunning landscapes. This epic adventure spans three iconic national parks, showcasing diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and natural wonders. From the jagged peaks of Grand Teton to the geothermal marvels of Yellowstone and the glacial valleys of Glacier, this road trip promises breathtaking vistas, outdoor adventures, and memories to last a lifetime.
What is the ideal itinerary for a Grand Teton to Yellowstone to Glacier National Park road trip?
Day 1-3: Grand Teton National Park
Start your journey in Jackson, Wyoming, the gateway to Grand Teton National Park. Here’s a breakdown of activities:
- Day 1:
- Arrive in Jackson
- Explore Jackson Hole
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Visit Jackson Lake for kayaking or canoeing (if time allows)
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Day 2:
- Sunrise at Oxbow Bend
- Visit Mormon Row
- Explore Jenny Lake (hiking, boat rides, or relaxation)
- Hike to Phelps Lake via Lawrence S. Rockefeller Preserve (2-mile gentle walk or 7-mile loop)
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Drive Moose-Wilson Road at dawn or dusk for wildlife viewing
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Day 3:
- Final morning in Grand Teton
- Drive to Yellowstone National Park via John D. Rockefeller Memorial Parkway (approximately 1 hour)
Day 4-6: Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, offers a wealth of natural wonders:
- Day 4:
- Visit Midway Geyser Basin (Grand Prismatic Spring and Overlook)
- Hike to Fairy Falls (if time allows)
- Watch Old Faithful erupt
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Explore Old Faithful Visitor Education Center
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Day 5:
- Explore the Upper Loop
- Wildlife viewing in Lamar Valley
- Visit Mammoth Hot Springs
- Explore Norris Geyser Basin
- Hike to Brink of the Lower Falls at Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
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Stop at Lookout Point
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Day 6:
- Catch sunrise at Yellowstone Lake
- Wildlife viewing in Hayden Valley
- Begin drive to Glacier National Park (approximately 7 hours via I-90 and I-15)
Day 7-10: Glacier National Park
The final leg of your journey takes you to the ‘Crown of the Continent’:
- Day 7:
- Drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Stop at Logan Pass and Hidden Lake Trailhead
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Overnight at Many Glacier Hotel
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Day 8:
- Hike to Grinnell Glacier (7.5-mile round-trip)
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Explore other trails and scenic drives
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Day 9:
- Hike the Highline Trail (11.6-mile one-way)
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Visit Saint Mary Falls (1.7-mile out and back)
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Day 10:
- Final morning in Glacier National Park
- Depart from nearby airport (e.g., Great Falls, MT)
What are the top attractions in Yellowstone National Park?
Yellowstone National Park is home to numerous world-famous attractions:
- Old Faithful
- Location: Upper Geyser Basin
- Entry Fee: Included in park entrance fee
- Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
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Accessibility: Open year-round (check eruption times)
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Grand Prismatic Spring
- Location: Midway Geyser Basin
- Entry Fee: Included in park entrance fee
- Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
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Accessibility: Open year-round
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Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- Location: Yellowstone River
- Entry Fee: Included in park entrance fee
- Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
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Accessibility: Open year-round (some trails may close due to snow)
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Mammoth Hot Springs
- Location: Northwest corner of Yellowstone
- Entry Fee: Included in park entrance fee
- Estimated Time: 1-2 hours
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Accessibility: Open year-round
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Lamar Valley
- Location: Northeast corner of Yellowstone
- Entry Fee: Included in park entrance fee
- Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
- Accessibility: Best for wildlife viewing in early morning and late evening
What are the must-see scenic drives in Glacier National Park?
Glacier National Park offers some of the most spectacular scenic drives in North America:
Going-to-the-Sun Road
- Length: 50 miles
- Notable Viewpoints: Logan Pass, Hidden Lake Trailhead, Wild Goose Island Viewpoint
- Parking: Limited at popular stops; arrive early
- Restrictions: Open from late June to early October (weather dependent)
Many Glacier Road
- Length: Approximately 12 miles
- Notable Viewpoints: Many Glacier Hotel, Swiftcurrent Lake
- Parking: Ample near hotel and lake
- Restrictions: Open year-round, but may close due to snow
What should I pack for a Grand Teton to Yellowstone to Glacier National Park road trip?
A comprehensive packing list is essential for this epic road trip:
Essential Gear
- Vehicle in good condition with full tank and proper tire pressure
- Navigation tools: GPS, maps, compass
- Clothing layers for varying weather
- Hiking boots and rain gear
- Safety equipment: First aid kit, spare tire, jumper cables
- Camping gear (if applicable): Tent, sleeping bag, camping stove
Food and Water
- Non-perishable snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits
- Water bottles or hydration packs
- Cooking gear: Portable stove, cooking pot, utensils
- Bear-proof food storage containers
Park-Specific Items
- Bear spray (mandatory in bear country)
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- America the Beautiful annual pass or individual park passes
- Reservations for lodges and campsites (book well in advance)
Remember to respect wildlife, stay on designated trails, and follow all park regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.