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2 days in Yellowstone National Park Itinerary

Laura — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 23:40:00 +0000

2 Days in Yellowstone: Yellowstone National Park Sign

2 days in Yellowstone National Park

No matter where you are from in the world, odd’s are you have heard about the breathtaking beauty of Yellowstone National Park. Yellowstone is one of the most iconic landscapes on the planet, a natural playground for hikers, explorers and outdoor lovers. It is the perfect addition to a US Road Trip. It can be hard to see all of which Yellowstone has to offer in a short period of time, however, this itinerary will guide you through the highlights. So, if you are a little bit stuck for time but still dream about ticking Yellowstone National Park off your US Bucket List then keep on reading because this 2 Days in Yellowstone itinerary is perfect for you!

Yellowstone 2 Day Itinerary: Know Before You Go!

Yellowstone is unique, it is home to erupting geysers, beautiful flowing waterfalls and some of the most diverse natural landscapes in the world. Planning a trip to Yellowstone for the first time can be tricky. There is so much to see and do and it is easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why I have put together a quick guide on things you need to know before visiting Yellowstone National Park.

Getting to Yellowstone:

The easiest way to get to Yellowstone National Park is by driving. Unfortunately, Yellowstone is not really near any major towns or villages making it a little bit difficult to fly into. However, with that being said there are a few smaller airports within Yellowstone’s proximity, such as Yellowstone’s own airport located in the West of the Park and Jackson Hole Airport located near the neighbouring national park of Grand Teton.

Is it safe to drive around Yellowstone:

Yes, Yellowstone is completely safe to drive around, however, a motorist must be alert for any wildlife in the area. While travelling through Yellowstone it is common to see traffic congestion due to a Bison standing in the middle of the road. It’s important to take note of this for timing purposes too.

If you would prefer to avoid driving there are plenty of 2 days Yellowstone tours worth checking out.

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone:

Yellowstone National Park is open to the public all year round, however, it becomes increasingly harder to experience all the attractions in the winter months due to road closers. With that being said, the winter is a great time to experience cross country skiing, snowshoeing and other winter activities.

I’d recommend visiting Yellowstone in the Spring and Summer months, as the weather is much nicer and it is easy to access all the attractions. However, please note that the park is much busier at this time.

Yellowstone 2 Day Itinerary: Day 1

We are going to kick start our Yellowstone Itinerary by entering the National Park through a gateway town called Cody located in the state of Wyoming. This driving route takes just over 3 hours to complete, however, it is full of incredibly scenic viewpoints along the way. It may also be a good idea to take out that road trip playlist to have a listen to some epic tunes as your drive.

Old Faithful, Yellowstone National Park

First Stop: Old Faithful

The first stop on our 2 days in Yellowstone itinerary is one of Yellowstone’s most famous attractions, Old Faithful.

Old Faithful was the first of nearly 500 of Yellowstone’s Geysers to be named. The geysers typically erupt in intervals, ranging from 44 to 125 minutes, with an average of 90 minutes. The eruptions can reach anywhere between 90 to 184 feet. It is a truly magnificent thing to watch. Let’s just say, Old Faithful really knows how to put on a show.

I would recommend spending one to two hours in the Old Faithful area, depending on the predicted eruption time. Once you witness Old Faithful erupt in front of your own eyes, I’d recommend exploring the area some more. It is possible to walk around Old Faithful and see many more beautiful geysers along the Upper Geyser Basin Trail. Just be mindful of timing as the trail stretches for 4.5 miles. The visitor centre is also a great place to visit for some factual information about Yellowstone and specifically, Old Faithful.

The Black Basin, Yellowstone National Park

Stop 2: The Black Basin Trail

A short distance from Old Faithful lies the Black Basin Trail, offering views of some smaller geyser with regular eruption patterns. Highlights from the trail consist of Rainbow Pool, Sunset Lake and Emerald Pool.

The trail lasts for half a mile and is an easy flat walk. It is the ideal place to go for a nice leisurely stroll taking in the viewpoints along the way. I’d recommend spending half an hour to 40 minutes exploring this trail.

It is possible to walk from Old Faithful to the Black Basin on a 1 and a half mile trail, taking approximately a 30-minute to walk. Alternatively, It’s a 4 minutes to drive away, with parking on site.

Following your visit to the Black Basin, it would be a good idea to stop for a bite to eat. I’d suggest bringing a packed lunch as food can be rather expensive in Yellowstone. Just remember Yellowstone is part of Bear Country so always be careful with food and keep it locked up and stored when not in use.

Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park

Stop 3: Grand Prismatic Spring

The next stop on the Yellowstone itinerary is one with a truly spectacular view. The journey begins at the Fairy Falls Trailhead. The trail passes over the fire hole river and continues until it reaches a viewing platform of the Grand Prismatic Spring.

The Grand Prismatic Spring is one of the top spots at Yellowstone National Park. So much so, that the viewing platform and trail was built back in 2017, due to the number of visitors attempting to climb what was originally an unofficial trail. Just to catch a glimpse of the Grand Prismatic Spring from a height.

The Spring presents viewers with lovely orange, yellow and green tones. The crystal blue water can, at times, reach temperatures of 188 degrees. I’d suggest spending an hour to an hour and a half exploring the area, it is possible to hike to Fairy Falls from this trail.

Buffalo Eating Grass at Yellowstone National Park (Purchased Stock Photography)

Stop 4: Wild Life Spotting & Scenic Drive

The 4th stop of our Two Days in Yellowstone Itinerary has us driving along the Yellowstone Loop. This is a lovely scenic driving route and it the ideal places to spot some of Yellowstone’s captivating wildlife, such as Bears, Bison, Buffalo and Moose. Depending on time, it could be a good idea to stop at any scenic spots that catch your eye while driving. It’s time to relax and wind down for the night.

Night 1 in Yellowstone

After exploring the beautiful Yellowstone Loop it is time to head home for the night. On my trip to Yellowstone, I camped in Grant Village Campground, regardless of your accommodation style I’d recommend finding a spot to do a little bit of stargazing. I promise you will not regret it. It is also important to note that the food in Yellowstone can be rather expensive. It can be a good idea for those on a budget to bring their own food along with them. Just be mindful that Yellowstone is part of bear county and any unused food must be stored in appropriate containers.

2 days in Yellowstone National Park: Suggested Time Table for Day 1

Please note that this is a suggested timetable and may vary depending on time and flexibility. With this timetable, it is presumed that you will be arriving in Yellowstone on the first day our itinerary begins.

Stop/Attraction	Time Spent
Breakfast/Get Ready to Go	7:30 am
Drive to Yellowstone	8.30 am (3 hours from Cody)
Old Faithful	11.30 am (Spend 1/2 hours)
The Black Basin Trail	1.30 pm (Spend 1 hour)
Lunch	2.30pm (Spend 1 hour)
Grand Prismatic Springs	3.30 pm (Spend 2 hours)
Drive the Yellowstone Loop	5.30 pm (Spend 1 hour)
Dinner\Home for the Evening	6.30 pm

Sunrise, The West Thumb, Yellowstone National Park

2 Day Yellowstone Itinerary: Day 2

The second day of our 2 days in Yellowstone Itinerary has us waking up at the crack of dawn for a breathtakingly beautiful sunrise. We are then going to spend the day exploring some of the most scenic locations in the park.

Stop 1: The West Thumb

Rise and Shine! I’d recommend setting an alarm before sunrise and heading towards the West Thumb Geyser Basin. The Geyser faces Yellowstone Lake and is one of the best places to watch the sunrise at Yellowstone National Park.

It is magical watching the sun begin to rise as the steam from the thermal pools fills the air. Just be prepared and wrap up warm. Yellowstone tends to be FREEZING in the early hours of the morning.

Highlights in the area include Abyss Pool, the Fishing Cone and the view of Yellowstone Lake. It is a good idea to a little longer after sunrise to see some of these awesome geysers.

Mud Volcano, Yellowstone National Park

Stop 2: The Mud Volcano

A 40 minute drive from the West Thumb Geyser Basin lies Yellowstone’s Mud Volcano.

In the 19th century, the rumbles from the Mud Volcano could be heard from over half a mile away. When it erupted, it shook the ground and splattered mud all over the surrounding area.

Luckily today, the volcanos activity is a lot calmer and the eruption left some extremely interesting spots to explore along the trail.

The trail last for 3/4 of a miles, some points of interest include the Mud Caldron, the Sizzling Basin and the Dragons Mouth Spring. Just a little heads up the smell of sulphur is rather strong along this trail.

Stop 3: The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone

Following a walk around Yellowstone’s Mud Volcano head towards Artist Point. The scenic drive typically takes 20 minutes. Having the opportunity to see a 180 view of the Yellowstone Grand Canyon is an absolute must. The viewpoint is outstandingly beautiful. This an extremely popular spot in Yellowstone and can at times be quite crowded. The view, however, is worth the crowded battle.

Yellowstone’s Lower Falls is a truly magnificent waterfall. Once done exploring the startling viewpoint, have a lookout for a small wooden Ribbon Lake Sign. Walk on past the sign, from that point on a trail map will appear showing some further walking options.

If time allows, walk about 10 minutes up the Point Sublime Trail. The trails bring you through an uphill forest area. Not long into the trail, there is a stunning view of the Canyon. This particular trail is also a lot less popular, a great way to avoid the crowds and gear a little off the beaten path. Once reaching the viewpoint, it is possible to turn back around and return to the parking lot.

Calcite Springs, Yellowstone National Park

Stop 4: Calcite Springs Lookout

To get an alternative view of the Canyon of Yellowstone be sure to stop at the Calcite Springs Lookout Point. The view is located a 40-minute drive away from Artist Point and offers a beautiful view of Yellowstone River. The viewpoint is far less crowded and is a nice place to stop to stretch the legs while admiring the view.

After a morning of wonderful viewpoints, it is time to stop for a quick bite to eat. Calcite Springs Lookout is a great spot to doso.

Mammoth Hot Springs, Yellowstone National Park

Stop 5: Mammoth Hot Springs

Following some yummy lunch, the next stop on the itinerary is Mammoth Hot Springs. The springs are a 40 minutes drive from Calcite Springs Lookout Point.

I highly recommend visiting Mammoth Hots Springs as they are unbelievably unique to Yellowstone. I have never seen anything like it. The area has two designated boardwalks, the lower and upper with over 50 hot springs to view.

The Lower Boardwalk consists of highlights such as the Liberty Cap, Palette Spring and the Devils Thumb. While the Upper Boardwalk is popular for Orange Spring Mound, Bath Lake, Prospect, Angel and White Elephant Back Terrace.

2 Day Itinerary for Yellowstone – Day 2 Suggested Timetable

Stop/Location	Time Spent
Sunrise at West Thumb	6.00 am (Time of Year Depending)(Spend 1/2 hours)
Mud Volcano	9.30 am (Spend 1 1/2 Hours)
The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone	11.00 am (Spend 1 1.2 hours)
Calcite Springs	12.30 pm (Spend 1 1/2 Hours)
Lunch	2.00 pm (Spend 30 minutes)
Mammoth	3.30 pm (Spend 2 hours)
Dinner/Return Home	5.30 pm

Yellowstone National Park 2 Day Itinerary Map

I hope you enjoyed this 2 days in Yellowstone Itinerary. Above is a interactive map with all of the mentioned stops highlighted with a pin. I hope this comes in helpful when planning your trip to Yellowstone National Park.

Be Bear Aware, Keep Food in Storage

Tips before visiting Yellowstone National Park

Entrance Fee: To enter Yellowstone National Park costs $35 per private vehicle, $30 per motorcycle and $20 per individual.

Winter in Yellowstone: In the winter time, Yellowstone turns into a winter wonderland. Just be mindful that not all roads and facilities are open at this time. For more information check out the Yellowstone in Winter page.

Camping: For those wanting to camp in Yellowstone I’d recommend Grant Village Campground. The Summer rate for 2019 is $31. The camp grounds are near the West Thumb Geyser Basin and Yellowstone Lake.

Packing: Yellowstone can get extremely cold at night and then rather hot in the day time. I’d therefore recommend bringing some layered clothing. Making it easy to add or take off clothes when needed. Be sure to check out my road trip packing list.

Food Storage: Yogi Bear doesn’t only exist on the television screen. Yellowstone is the home to many grizzly and black bears. Therefore it is extremely important to store any food or personal items that smell in bear proof storage units.

DO NOT! Leave food or smelling items in your tent. Unless you are hoping to get up close and personal with Yogi in real life.

Bear Spray: Another way to avoid an encounter with Yogi, is bringing along some bear spray. It’s a good idea to always be prepared. Be Bear Aware!

Bug Spray: Those adored by mosquitos. I suggest bringing bug spray to avoid an itchy situation.

Sun Protection: It’s always important to protect your skin, particularly when spending regular time in the great outdoors.

Driving in Yellowstone National Park

The time frame between each stop on this itinerary may seem a little far fetched for those who have never visited Yellowstone before. However with that being said, it is almost 99% guaranteed that you will in-counter some wildlife trying to cross the road while driving in Yellowstone. Causing massive traffic jam. If this happens on your visit. Just take your time. It is all part of the experience.

See photoed above, a herd of Bison walking along Yellowstone’s roadside. We where easily held up for 30 minutes waiting for the herd to pass. It was however super cool to watch. There was easily 15 to 20 Bison.

Yellowstone is connected via two loops, all the stops on this itinerary are located on these loops or within proximity of one of the loops.

The Black Basin, Yellowstone National Park

1 Day in Yellowstone Itinerary

Are you wondering what to see in Yellowstone in just 1 day? Yellowstone is a wonderful place, a place where it is simply not possible to explore in just one day. However, with that being said, if you have the opportunity to stop by Yellowstone, even just for 24 hours. I’d 100% recommend it.

I have put together a bonus timetable for those a little stuck for time. Please be mindful, that this timetable will only allow quick stop offs in each location and further exploration may not be possible. It is also a very heavy itinerary, with a lot of driving, so be sure to get plenty of rest before attempting.

Before Sunrise: Wake Up\Breakfast

Sunrise (6.00am) – The West Thumb (Spend 45 minutes)

*30 minute drive to Old Faithful*

7.15am Old Faithful (spend 90 minutes)

8.45am The Black Basin Trail (Spend no more than 1 Hour)

9.45am Grand Prismatic Spring (Spend 1 hour)

*@ 11.00 1 Hour Drive to Mammoth*

12.00pm Mammoth Springs (Spend 1 hour)

1.00pm Small Packed Lunch

*@ 1.30pm 45 minute drive to Calcite Springs*

2.15pm Calcite Springs View (Spend 30 minutes)

*2.45pm 40 minute drive to Grand View*

3.30pm Grand View\The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone (Spend 40 minutes)

*4.10pm 20 minute drive to Mud Volcano*

4.30pm Mud Volcano (Spend 1 hour)

5.30pm Dinner Time

Disclaimer: I personally did not travel this route. It is just a suggested timetable. At times, the roads can get congested at Yellowstone due to wildlife and may cause a delay in schedule, resulting in missing some stops.

String Lake, Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park

Those on a road trip of the state of Wyoming. Yellowstone neighbouring National Park, Grand Teton is 100% worth the visit. Grand Teton is famous for it’s captivating scenery, beautiful wildlife and snow capped mountain tops.

While on my USA coast to coast road trip, I was lucky to visit Grand Teton after exploring Yellowstone. I was spent one day hiking both String and Jenny Lake. Please free to check out my Itinerary for hiking the Grand Tetons.

Thank you for reading my 2 Day Itinerary for Yellowstone

And… That’s a wrap. I hope this itinerary helped you decide things to do in Yellowstone for your 2 day trip. I hope you have the best time on your adventure and as always thanks for reading.

PIN ME FOR LATER

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How BEST to Spend 4 days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park

Laura — Sun, 21 Apr 2019 00:00:07 +0000

How Best to Spend 4 days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park

I was lucky to explore some of America’s most stunning spots on my coast to coast road trip with Trek America. Two amazing highlights of the trip was spending 4 days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. Both parks are only a short distance from one another, yet, seem worlds apart in terms of appearance. Yellowstone attracts over 6 million visitors each year with it’s beautiful thermal pool, hot springs and geysers. Whereas Grand Teton is famous for snow capped mountains and picturesque lakes. On my road trip with Trek America I spent four days exploring some of which both parks have to offer. In this post I have put together a step by step itinerary guide with all my favourite spots from Yellowstone to Grand Teton.

Day 1: Yellowstone National Park

Begin your Yellowstone to Grand Teton adventure by driving from Cody, Wyoming. Cody is a small American town famous for it’s Rodeo scene. The town is one of the gateways to Yellowstone National Park, a must on any US Road Trip. The drive presents road trippers with a stunning scenic route as they approach the park. From the East Entrance, take a 2 hour drive towards Yellowstone’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful. Take some time to explore the grounds of Old Faithful and see it erupt for your very eyes. Then hop back in the car and proceed 5 minutes down the road to the Black Sand Basin. Stroll along the black basins boardwalk and admire some of the trails most beautiful spots including the Rainbow Pool, the Sunset Lake and the Emerald Pool. The next stop, Grand Prismatic Spring is a further 10 minutes down the road. Walk along the Fairy Falls Trailhead until you reach the Grand Prismatic Spring viewing platform. The platform is the host to one of the most spectacular views in Yellowstone. Following visiting the Grand Prismatic Spring, I suggest heading to your accommodation for set up or check in. Those looking to camp, the Grant Village Campground is a lovely camping spot. That is local to many of Yellowstone’s top locations and ideal for those who enjoy star gazing.

Cody => Old Faithful => Black Sand Basin => Grand Prismatic Spring => Grant Village Campground

(Click on location names for Google Maps Directions)

Calcite Springs, Yellowstone National Park

Day 2: Yellowstone National Park

If you want to see as much of Yellowstone as possible in 2 days, then I’d suggest waking up super early. Start the day off by catching the sunrise at West Thumb Geyser Basin. Watch as the sun reflects on Yellowstone lake. Then a drive a further 40 minutes down the road towards Yellowstone’s Mud Volcano. The 3/4 of a mile trail offers views of the Mud Caldron, the Sizzling Basin and the Dragons Mouth Spring. Once you have explored all of which the mud volcano has to offer, hop back in the car and head towards Artist Point to catch a glimpse of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. This point offers one spectacular view. After an action packed morning, drive towards Canyon Lodge at Canyon Village for a slight rest and a bite to eat. The Canyon Lodge varies of fast food for a reasonable price, considering it is inside a national park. Once you feel rested and refreshed, get back in the car and drive towards Calcite Springs Lookout for an awesome view of Yellowstone river. The final stop of day two in Yellowstone is Mammoth Hot Springs, explore both the lower and upper boardwalk to catch a glimpse of Mammoth’s highlights.

West Thumb Geyser Basin => Yellowstone’s Mud Volcano => Artist Point => Canyon Village => Calcite Springs Lookout => Mammoth Hot Springs (Click on location names for Google Maps Directions)

Related Post: 2 days Yellowstone itinerary 

Featuring: for more photo's, information and a suggested timetable

Day 3: Grand Teton National Park

Once again start the day nice and early and begin to drive towards Grand Teton National Park. As you leave Yellowstone, don’t forget the to make a stop at the South Entrance Sign to capture one last pic! A further 10 minutes down the road lies the entrance into Grand Teton National Park, another great photo opportunity. The first scenic stop on day 3 is at Colter Bay Visitor Center. This spot offers an outstanding view of Jackson Lake and the Tetons (pictured above). Get there early, to see the mountains reflect onto the lake. Continue to drive along the Tetons Park Road. Don’t be afraid to stop and take pictures. There are many opportunities to pull in on the side of the road. This is one picture perfect drive! After capturing some stunning road side pictures, drive towards String Lake for the first hike of the day. Following the completion of the String Lake Trailhead jump into the freezing cold water for a refreshing swim. String Lake is also the ideal place for a packed lunch as there is a picnic area by the lake. Once you are feeling nice and refreshed, hop back in the car and drive towards Jenny Lake. Jenny Lake offers some breathtaking hiking opportunities, a shuttle boat and a stunning lake side view. After spending the day exploring some of which Grand Teton has to offer, drive towards Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The starting point for day 4.

South Entrance Sign => Grand Teton Entrance Sign => Bay Visitor Center => Tetons Park Road Picture Stop => String Lake => Jenny Lake => Jackson Hole, Wyoming (Click on location names for Google Maps Directions)

Day 4: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

On the final day of the Yellowstone to Grand Teton road trip it is time to explore Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Jackson Hole is a charming American town surrounded by the beautiful Teton mountain range. Start the day off by exploring the cute shops and restaurants in the town and maybe stop for some breakfast. After a bite to eat, it’s time for one big adventure, so pack so swim gear and get ready to white water raft down snake river. While at Jackson Hole I camped at the KOA campsite. Luckily for us, the KOA organised a fantastic rafting experience for us. I would 100% recommend this experience! Alternatively, if adventure sports isn’t your forte, why not visit the near by hot springs. The best part is, they’re FREE

After the adventurous day, head back to your campsite/hotel and get ready for a night full of entertainment. Throughout the summer months a cowboy shootout show is put on in the town, an experience not to be missed. The show starts at 6.00pm every night excluding Sundays. Following a good laugh and some excitement, finish the night off with some food and drinks. After food we went for drinks in the million dollar cowboy bar to celebrate four unforgettable days.