Grizzlies, Geysers, & Grandeur – Grand Teton, Yellowstone, & Glacier

Old Faithful Geyser – this iconic geyser displays its tall hot water spout every 90-120 minutes, and crowds cheer after each “eruption.” There is a one-mile boardwalk around Old Faithful that overlooks many other geothermal features. The often-crowded Visitor Center and Lodge area has several restaurants and shops. This is one of the only places inside the park with even some cell phone reception – most other places have zero!

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone – this less famous and smaller “Grand Canyon” was created by the Yellowstone River and boasts dramatic looming waterfalls and scenic overlooks. The walk between the falls is short with a small grade.

Yellowstone Lake – on the southern portion of the park is the grand, peaceful, and cold Yellowstone Lake with over 140 miles of shoreline. Small boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and boat tours are available inside the park.

Geothermal Features – there are over 10,000 geothermal features in Yellowstone. As you drive around the park, they are everywhere – some with vibrant colors, grey mud pots, gushing geysers, and steam vents. Some of the most dramatic and colorful are found in the Upper Terraces area, including the 1.7-mile boardwalk showcasing the Terraces at Mammoth Hot Springs. Fountain Paint Pot and the West Thumb Geyser Basin are also worth a visit. As the signs tell you repeatedly, these boiling hot features will kill humans and animals – so don’t ever allow anyone to come in contact.

Wildlife – few leave Yellowstone without seeing bison, elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, wolves, or bears (including grizzlies). These animals are best viewed from one’s car or a safe distance away, since many injuries and deaths occur each year with eager tourists trying to get too close. Bisons, elk, moose and bears are interesting, but they are not human friendly.

Going-to-the-Sun Road – this 50-mile scenic drive is the most popular activity in the park and requires a reservation through Recreation.gov. (If you reserve a rental kayak or bike through one of the concessionaires inside the park on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, you will receive a one-day pass). We recommend driving the Going-to-the-Sun Road on your first day to get a sense of the park.

Popular Hikes – check out Avalanche Lake and the Highline Trail (not for those afraid of heights!).

Lake McDonald – this 10-mile-long mountain lake near the West Glacier entrance has a lovely lodge, shops, restaurants, campgrounds, and private rentals such as kayaks and stand-up paddle boards.