7-Day Itinerary for Yellowstone National Park

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of West Yellowstone

• Morning: Arrive in West Yellowstone, Montana and check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Visit the Yellowstone Association Museum to get an overview of the park’s history, geology, and wildlife.
• Evening: Take a stroll along the Madison River and enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants.

Day 2: Exploring Upper and Lower Yellowstone Falls

• Morning: Drive through the west entrance of the park and head to the Upper Yellowstone Falls trailhead.
• Hike the short, paved path to the top of the falls for breathtaking views.
• Afternoon: Continue to the Lower Yellowstone Falls area and take a short walk to the viewing platform.
• Evening: Camp overnight at Grant Village or stay in a nearby lodge.

Day 3: Geysers and Hot Springs

• Morning: Visit Old Faithful, watching for its eruption times (check with park rangers for schedules).
• Afternoon: Explore the surrounding geyser basins and take short walks to see other geothermal features.
• Evening: Soak in the natural hot springs at Norris Geyser Basin or nearby Norris Campground.

Day 4: Grand Prismatic Spring and Mammoth Hot Springs

• Morning: Drive to Midway Geyser Basin to explore the Grand Prismatic Spring, one of Yellowstone’s most famous attractions.
• Afternoon: Visit Mammoth Hot Springs and take a short walk through the travertine formations.
• Evening: Stay overnight at the historic Mammoth Hotel or nearby campgrounds.

Day 5: Lamar Valley and Tower Fall

• Morning: Drive to Lamar Valley, often called America’s Serengeti for its abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Afternoon: Take a guided tour or drive through the valley, spotting bison, elk, and more.
• Evening: Return to the park’s south entrance and camp overnight at Canyon Campground.

Day 6: Yellowstone Lake and the Grand Loop Road

• Morning: Drive along the shores of Yellowstone Lake and take in its stunning views.
• Afternoon: Continue on the Grand Loop Road, stopping at scenic viewpoints and taking short walks.
• Evening: Stay overnight at Lake Hotel or nearby campgrounds.

Day 7: Tower Fall and Departure

• Morning: Visit Tower Fall for a breathtaking view of this towering waterfall.
• Afternoon: Return to West Yellowstone, Montana and depart the park.
• Reflections: Take time to reflect on your incredible adventure through Yellowstone National Park!