How to Visit: Wyoming's National Parks
How to Visit: Wyoming's National Parks
Ani Danelz | National Park Guide
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This budget-friendly guide will walk you through visiting Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks
Total trip time: 5-7 days
Nearest major city: Bozeman or Billings, Montana
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Grand Tetons National Park
Grand Teton National Park
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Grand Teton National Park is a stunning national park located in the U.S. state of Wyoming. Established in 1929, the park covers approximately 310,000 acres and is renowned for its majestic mountain range, pristine lakes, and diverse ecosystems.
The park is named after the Grand Teton, the tallest peak in the Teton Range, which rises dramatically to an elevation of 13,775 feet (4,199 meters). The rugged peaks of the Teton Range are a prominent and iconic feature of the park.
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Trails
Phelps Lake Loop Trail
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Phelps Lake; 7.0 miles
This is a hike along the creek and around Phelps Lake. Keep an eye out for wildlife along this trail - bears and moose are frequently sighted in this area. Most of the hike is flat with occasional inclines.
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Jenny Lake
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Jenny Lake: 7.2 miles (moderate)
This is the perfect hike with phenomenal views of Jenny Lake and the Teton Range at different points.
This trail is relatively flat with little elevation gain but a great value for the distance. The beautiful waters flowing in from the Snake River watershed create a habitat for many aquatic animals.
This is a very popular hike (and spot for people to hang out), so recommend getting there early!
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Cascade Canyon Trail
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Cascade Canyon Trail: 9.1 miles (moderate)
This is an unbelievable hike into the base of the Cathedral Group in the Grand Tetons. To access this trailhead, you can take the Jenny Lake shuttle boat to cross the lake, or you can hike around the lake.
The Cascade Canyon Trail will bring you deep into Grand Teton National Park. This popular hike will start from the shore of the lake at the boat dock and take you up to the 200 foot tall Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, both providing great views of Jenny Lake and the National Park.
Cascade Canyon is a popular entrance point leading to a large network of hiking trails that are commonly used as overnight backpacking routes. At the end of this route, you can continue to Lake Solitude by taking a right.
This is a great trail for spotting wildlife. Be on the lookout for moose and bears as they are known to commonly inhabit this area.
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Hidden Falls Trail
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Hidden Falls via Jenny Lake Trail: 4.9 miles (moderate)
Beautiful waterfall hike as an add-on to your Jenny Lake hike, as well as Inspiration Point and Cascade Canyon.
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Inspiration Point
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Inspiration Point via Jenny Lake Boat Shuttle: 1.8 miles (moderate)
This popular hike is a short walk from the boat shuttle, but also can be accessed from the Jenny Lake Trail. This point overlooks Jenny Lake and truly provides inspiration to spend more time in nature and more time living in the moment.
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Things to Do
Jackson Lake
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Jackson Lake covers approximately 25,540 acres, making it one of the largest lakes in the Teton Range and the second-largest lake in Grand Teton National Park.
The lake is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, including the Teton Range to the west. The reflection of the mountains on the calm waters of Jackson Lake creates picturesque views, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Jackson Lake offers a range of recreational opportunities. Boating, fishing, and kayaking are popular activities on the lake. The lake is known for its clear waters and the chance to view the Teton Range from the perspective of the water.
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Signal Mountain
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The Signal Mountain Summit Road provides access to the top of Signal Mountain, where a scenic overlook awaits. From this vantage point, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the Teton Range, including the iconic Grand Teton, as well as Jackson Lake and the surrounding landscape.
While you can hike to the top of Signal Mountain, it is kind of a boring trail, so would recommend driving to the overlook. Save your legs for some of the other hikes listed above!
Signal Mountain is not only a destination for its stunning vistas but also serves as a central point for activities within Grand Teton National Park. Whether enjoying the scenic overlook, embarking on a hike, or simply appreciating the natural beauty, Signal Mountain offers a memorable experience in the heart of the Teton Range.
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Signal Mountain Lodge
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At the base of Signal Mountain, there is the Signal Mountain Lodge, which serves as a hub for services and accommodations. The lodge offers a range of amenities, including lodging options, a general store, dining facilities, and a marina.
This is also the best place for service in the park, if you want to check your texts/emails.
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Places to Stay
Hotel Options
Luxury
Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa
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Set in Teton Village in Wyoming, 1 mi from Grand Teton National Park, Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa features an outdoor pool. The resort has a ski pass sales point and ski storage space, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant or a drink at the bar.
Each room at this resort is air conditioned and comes with a TV. The rooms are fitted with a private bathroom fitted with a bath or shower. For your comfort, you will find free toiletries and a hair dryer. Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa features free WiFi throughout the property.
You will find a 24-hour front desk and a gift shop at the property.
Guests can enjoy various activities in the surroundings, including skiing, golfing and horse riding. The resort also offers ski equipment hire and bike hire. The nearest airport is Jackson Hole Airport, 22 miles from Teton Mountain Lodge and Spa, a Noble House Resort.
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Comfort
Teton Cabins
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Providing mountain views, Teton Cabins in Moran provides accommodations and a terrace. Private parking is available on site at this recently renovated property.
At the farm stay, units have a wardrobe. All rooms are equipped with a private bathroom with a bath, a hair dryer, and free toiletries. At the farm stay, all units are equipped with bed linen and towels.
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Budget
Flat Creek Inn & Mart
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Free Wi-Fi is featured in each guest room at this Jackson hotel, located 1.9 mi from Grand Teton National Park Entrance Turnout.
Views of the National Elk Refuge are provided in each room at Flat Creek Inn. A cable TV, microwave, small fridge and coffee-making facilities are included.
A gas station and convenience store are located on site. A guest launderette is available at Jackson Hole Flat Creek Inn.
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Elk Country Inn
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Only 4 blocks from Jackson Hole's central Town Square, and close to top-rated ski resorts.
The Elk Country Inn is located in close proximity to many popular points of interest. Grand Teton National Park, boutiques, restaurants and the city's nightlife are moments away. The hotel is also on the city's shuttle line, offering access to all area ski resorts.
Guests at the Elk Inn can enjoy complimentary winter ski shuttle service, a large outdoor barbecue, complete with a picnic area as well as winter car plug-ins. A fitness center and laundry facilities are also available.
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Campgrounds
All park campground sites are available by advanced reservations only.Â
Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone National Park
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Yellowstone National Park is one of the most iconic and oldest national parks in the world, located primarily in the U.S. state of Wyoming, although it also extends into Montana and Idaho. Established in 1872, Yellowstone covers over 2.2 million acres and is renowned for its geothermal features, diverse ecosystems, and abundant wildlife.
Yellowstone is home to an extensive collection of geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. The most famous geyser in the park is Old Faithful, known for its predictable and impressive eruptions.
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Trails
Brink of Lower Falls
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The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone
Brink of the Lower Falls: 0.7 miles (moderate)
This is a short, steep hike leading own to an observation platform over the Yellowstone River. From this point you can see water crashing over the falls and the feel the spray of the cascading river.
The stunning canyon was carved by the Yellowstone River and is known for its vibrant yellow and orange hues. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone is a popular destination for hiking and offers breathtaking viewpoints like Artist Point.
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Mount Washburn
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Dunraven Pass to Mount Washburn: 6.8 miles (moderate)
One of the few mountain climbs in Yellowstone, this hike will grant you stunning views of the surrounding areas. Weather station at the top (with bathrooms!) and long-horned sheep are frequent visitors at the summit.
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Grand Prismatic Spring
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Grand Prismatic Hot Spring: 1.5 miles (easy)
The Grand Prismatic Hot Spring in the Midway Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park is the largest hot spring in the United States. It makes for a worthwhile stop to see for yourself the surreal colors and enormous size in person.
Best to go in the afternoon, when there are warmer temperatures and less steam to block your view.
For a closer view, try the Midway Geyser Basin trail (0.7 miles).
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Mystic Falls
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Mystic Falls: 2.4 miles (easy)
This relatively short and flat trail follows a small creek that wanders through a mixed conifer forest to Mystic Falls.
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Things to Do
Old Faithful
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Yellowstone is home to an extensive collection of geothermal features, including geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. The most famous geyser in the park is Old Faithful, known for its predictable and impressive eruptions.
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Old Faithful Inn
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One of the park's architectural gems, the Old Faithful Inn is a historic lodge located near the Old Faithful geyser. Built in the early 20th century, the inn is an impressive example of rustic architecture and offers accommodations for visitors.
Even if you are not staying at the Inn, this is a great spot to sit and recharge the batteries before venturing off again.
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Yellowstone Lake
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Covering over 130 square miles, Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-altitude lake in North America. It provides a picturesque setting for various recreational activities, including boating and fishing.
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Mammoth
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The Mammoth Hot Springs area features terraces of travertine formed by the precipitation of minerals from hot springs. The terraces are ever-changing and create unique and otherworldly landscapes.
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Lamar Valley
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Lamar Valley is often referred to as the "Serengeti of North America" due to its abundant wildlife. Visitors have the chance to see bison, elk, wolves, grizzly bears, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
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Norris Geyser Basin
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The Norris Geyser Basin is the hottest, oldest, and most dynamic of Yellowstone's thermal areas. It features a variety of geothermal features, including the impressive Steamboat Geyser, the world's tallest active geyser.
There are a lot of trails in this area, ranging from a few tenths of a mile to a few miles (just depending on which path you take).
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Places to Stay
Hotel Options
Comfort
Kelly Inn-West Yellowstone
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Just a 3-minute walk from the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, the Kelly Inn West Yellowstone is located in West Yellowstone, Montana. An indoor pool and hot tub, free WiFi, and complimentary breakfast are featured at this hotel.
The air-conditioned guest rooms here are equipped with a satellite flat-screen TV, a microwave and a refrigerator. The private bathrooms come with a bath, shower, and free toiletries.
A communal sauna and a business center can be found on site at Kelly Inn West Yellowstone. A 24-hour front desk, vending machine, and free parking are offered for added convenience.
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The Ridgeline Hotel at Yellowstone, Ascend Hotel Collection
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Offering an on-site restaurant, this Gardiner hotel serves a daily buffet breakfast. Free Wi-Fi is included in all rooms. Yellowstone National Park North Entrance is 1 mi away.
Showcasing river or mountain views, all rooms at The Ridgeline Hotel At Yellowstone feature a flat-screen TV with cable. A microwave, small refrigerator and coffee-making facilities are included.
Guests can take a swim in the heated indoor pool or relax in the sauna. A 24-hour reception is available. Other facilities offered include dry cleaning and coin-operated laundry facilities.
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Sawtelle Mountain Resort
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Offering views of the Sawtelle and Jefferson Mountains, this hotel is 30 minutes' drive from Yellowstone National Park. It offers a year-round indoor pool, a hot tub and rooms with free WiFi.
A microwave and refrigerator are included in all 100% nonsmoking guestrooms at Sawtelle Mountain Resort. Cable TV is provided.
Barbecue facilities are located on the property of this Island Park hotel. A volleyball net and 4 horseshoe pits are available.
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The Cody Hotel
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This Cody hotel is 45 minutes from Yellowstone National Park. It offers free WiFi in public areas and an indoor pool.
Every guest suite at The Cody features a microwave and refrigerator. They also are equipped with a flat-screen TV and DVD player. Deluxe suites offer a balcony.
Recreational facilities at the Cody hot tub and gym. Guests can also enjoy the business center and 24-hour front desk service.
Breakfast is offered every morning at the Cody.
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Budget
Yellowstone Valley Inn & RV Park
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Located adjacent to the Shoshone River and offering panoramic mountain views, this accommodations features a hot breakfast buffet and an on-site restaurant. Yellowstone National Park is 33 miles away.
A satellite TV and free WiFi are featured at the Yellowstone Valley Inn. Each simply-furnished room with rustic ambiance also offers an private bathroom and provides free toiletries.
In addition to rooms this property offers an RV pull-through site where guests can park their RV.
A seasonal outdoor pool and an indoor hot tub are available for guest relaxation. A gift shop is included at the Inn Yellowstone Valley. Laundry facilities is also offered.
The Western Saloon offers nightly beverages. The Café and Western Dining room features a dinner menu.
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Campgrounds
There are 12 campgrounds in Yellowstone, with over 2,000 established campsites. All sites must be reserved in advance, except Mammoth Campground which offers first-come, first-served sites from October 15 - April 1.
Campsites are reserved far in advance, so book as early as you can.
It is at least a 45-minute drive to get out of the park from the main loop, so I recommend that you camp or lodge inside the park, if possible.
Other Options
Yellowstone Park / West Gate KOA Holiday
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Variety of sites available, including no hook-up tent sites and full service RV sites.
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Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park
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West Yellowstone is situated within a short driving distance to many beautiful points of interest inside Yellowstone National Park and the nearby Gallatin National Forest. The numerous lakes, streams and rivers in the area offer some of the best fly fishing in the United States. Other outdoor activities in the area include horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, float trips and guided tours of Yellowstone Park. Come meet us in person and relax in our beautiful RV Park and Cabins!!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ani Danelz | National Park Guide
Available for hire
Welcome to my (and hopefully our) adventures! I have lived all over the United States, and I have a passion for the outdoors and budget-travel. My style of travel is easy-going, yet filled with adventure and excitement. I focus on connecting with people and community, as well as immersing myself in the outdoors as much as possible. Finding a balance between these two have led to some amazing memories, and I cannot wait to share them with you.
Most recently, I lived in my car for over seven months, while I visited every National Park in the lower 48. I hiked, camped, met amazing people, and hiked some more. I got to experience the parks like a local, because I had no timetable, no flights to catch, no rental car to return, etc. Some parks I stayed only for a few hours, and others for over a week. I chatted with park rangers, stayed with people that lived nearby, and camped with others at some amazing campsites. The travel guides I share give you an "insider" look at the national park, with tips for the best hikes, tricks for finding campsites (but I always include hotel options too), as well as information about the various aspects of the parks. I hope that you will use these guides as tools to fuel your next national park adventure!
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