Our journey through Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks was packed with breathtaking views, thrilling wildlife sightings, and a lot of fun. Buckle up as we recount our unforgettable week in Wyoming!
Starting Point: Salt Lake City Our adventure kicked off with a flight into Salt Lake City, Utah. From there, we set off with high spirits and cameras ready to capture every moment. With a quick stop for supplies, we were on our way to Yellowstone.
We stayed the night at Rexburg due to a Late flight to SLC but as a suggestion, this can be avoided. Next morning we started early to Yellowstone National Park.
Days 1-3: Exploring Yellowstone National Park Yellowstone, with its diverse geothermal features and rich wildlife, provided us with endless opportunities for adventure:
- Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Our first stop was the stunning Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. We took in breathtaking views from various overlooks, including Artist Point, which offers a fantastic vantage of the Lower Falls. We also ventured down the Uncle Tom’s Trail for a closer look at the thundering falls and felt the mist on our faces.
- Scenic Hikes: We tackled some amazing hikes, including the Fairy Falls Trail, which led us to a stunning waterfall and offered panoramic views of the Grand Prismatic Spring. The hike to Mount Washburn provided an exhilarating climb and a sweeping vista of the park’s diverse landscapes.
- Mammoth Hot Springs and Tower Falls: We explored the unique terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs, where hot water has created intricate limestone formations. Tower Falls was another highlight, with a short but scenic hike to the viewpoint where we marveled at the cascading water.
- Geothermal Wonders: Yellowstone’s geothermal features were mesmerizing. We explored the Norris Geyser Basin, where we saw the Steamboat Geyser, one of the tallest in the world. The colorful Grand Prismatic Spring was another highlight, with its vibrant hues reflecting the summer sun.
- Wildlife Viewing: Summer is a prime time for wildlife sightings in Yellowstone. We enjoyed early morning drives through Lamar Valley, spotting herds of bison and a lone wolf in the distance. The Hayden Valley was also a great spot to see elk and the occasional grizzly bear.
Note: Due to Road closer not being able to cover Town of Gardiner. This was on our list, and its beautiful place to visit.
Days 4-6: Discovering Grand Teton National Park After leaving the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone behind, we headed south to Grand Teton National Park. Jackson Hole, the charming gateway town, was our home base.
- Teton Range Majesty: The towering peaks of the Teton Range were even more spectacular in summer. We took the scenic drive through the park and stopped at various overlooks, including Oxbow Bend, where the reflection of the mountains in the Snake River was simply magical.
- Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point: We embarked on a summer hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. The trail was lush and full of wildflowers, and the views from Inspiration Point were nothing short of breathtaking. We even spotted some mountain goats on the cliffs!
- Lakes and Outdoor Fun: We rented kayaks at Jenny Lake and spent a peaceful afternoon paddling around, soaking in the stunning mountain scenery. A boat shuttle took us across the lake, where we began our hike to Hidden Falls and then continued to the beautiful Cascade Canyon.
- Jackson Hole: This town was a delightful mix of Western charm and modern amenities. We enjoyed exploring the local shops, tasting some fantastic local cuisine, and soaking in the vibrant summer atmosphere. Don’t miss a visit to the famous Million Dollar Cowboy Bar for a true taste of the Wild West!
Day 7: Return to Salt Lake City Our final day was a bittersweet journey back to Salt Lake City. On the way, we made a stop at the Bonneville Salt Flats, which were even more spectacular under the summer sun. The vast, reflective surface created a surreal and beautiful experience.
- Bonneville Salt Flats: Walking on the salt flats felt like stepping onto another planet. The endless expanse and unique terrain provided a perfect backdrop for some fun and quirky photos.
- Salt Lake City Exploration: We wrapped up our trip with a leisurely afternoon in downtown Salt Lake City. We explored the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, visited the impressive Salt Lake City Public Library, and enjoyed a relaxing meal at one of the local eateries.
This summer journey through Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks was an exhilarating experience filled with adventure, beauty, and unforgettable moments. If you’re planning a trip to these incredible parks, get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
Pro Tips: staying in Yellowstone in the Grand Canyon could cover everything if you are comfortable driving for 1-2 hrs. This trip through America’s national parks was truly a journey of a lifetime, filled with natural wonders, outdoor adventures, and unforgettable memories. Thanks to our great and lovely group who enjoyed moments even every next 2 days packing and arranging stuff from lodges.