yellowstone & grand tetons must do’s!!
i got so very lucky to be able to experience a week in yellowstone and the grand tetons this summer. because yellowstone is MASSIVE, it’s always good to have some recommended stops in the park! here’s my top 5 places and why💖
1) grand prismatic springs:
-so unique and colorful
-one of HUNDREDS of thermal features in the park, but by far one of the most jaw dropping hot springs!!
-very short walk in the basin to reach the ground level view, short 1.75 mile (out&back) hike for overlook of springs
-crowded, so get there early!!
2) mystic falls trail:
-beautiful backcountry hike!! (mystic falls, fairy creek, and little firehole loop trail) 3.7 miles round trip
-provides beautiful views of biscuit basin on the way up, views of the valley, and of course a beautiful waterfall!
-not heavily traveled, only saw 1 other person
-bring food and have lunch at the base of the falls (beware of brave chipmunks lol, they will steal your food)
-bring bear spray!! this is not heavily traveled, so you may sneak up on a bear on accident!! chances are they don’t want anything to do with you either lol
3) jenny lake:
-grand tetons national park is not nearly as big as yellowstone, but this is a must do!
-beautiful icy blue lake at the base of enormous mountains
-can take a boat across the lake to the base of many trails or walk around! (entire trail around the lake 7 miles, about 2.5 miles to get to the base of trails)
-most crowded part of the national park by far, get there EARLY (very worth it though!)
4) lamar valley:
-my absolute FAVORITE part of yellowstone!!!
-you can see SO much wildlife here (bison, pronghorn, prairie dogs, elk, grizzly bears, badgers, etc.)
-the parking areas and overlooks are crowded, but the actual hikes not so much! (if you get far enough out)
-lamar valley trail (7.2 miles out&back) is a beautiful backcountry trail that leads you into the enormous valley. heavily traveled near the parking lot, not so much when you get roughly a mile or 2 out!
-BRING BEAR SPRAY on this hike. this valley is where many momma grizzlies call home, and they will do anything to protect their babies!! (ps don’t approach the bison either, they can be scarier than the bears lol)
5) yellowstone falls:
-beautiful waterfall that created the “grand canyon” of yellowstone
-known as “artists point”, these falls are inspiration to many painters world wide!!!
-you can visit both the upper and lower falls, but both offer gorgeous views & even some wildlife! we saw 2 marmots sitting at the top of the falls enjoying the view :)
and that concludes some of my most recommended stops!!! there are SO many to choose from though, so definitely check out some others. here’s a few more that i loved!!
-yellowstone lake
-mammoth hot springs
-old faithful
-fountain paint pots
-jackson lake
-madison river
just remember to be safe, as you are in the animals’ homes, not ours! and remember to leave no trace while visiting :)
Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are two of the most remarkable natural wonders in the U.S., attracting millions of visitors each year. Known for their vibrant geothermal features, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife, these parks offer a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and exploration. The Grand Prismatic Springs, famed for its vivid colors, is not only a geological marvel but also provides ideal photography spots. Reaching it is convenient with a short walk, but for those looking for panoramic views, the hike is well worth the effort. The Mystic Falls Trail, another gem in the region, allows you to immerse yourself in nature with scenes of pristine forests and cascading waterfalls. Wildlife spotting is a highlight along the way, making it an excellent route for nature enthusiasts. Jenny Lake is renowned for its striking turquoise waters, surrounded by the towering Teton mountains. The park offers boater options and trails that cater to all skill levels, allowing visitors to embrace the stunning views. Although it can be crowded, arriving early ensures an unobstructed experience of this natural beauty. Lamar Valley stands out as a premier wildlife viewing area, where visitors can see everything from bison to elk. The valley’s expansive landscape offers various trails, including a trail leading deep into the valley that showcases the rich biodiversity of the park. Finally, no visit is complete without witnessing the majestic Yellowstone Falls, where the backdrop of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone steals the show. Known as Artist Point, the area is often captured in photographs, further enhancing its reputation as a must-see destination. Visitors should always prioritize safety, especially when it comes to wildlife encounters. Carrying bear spray and observing recommended guidelines will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in these beautiful natural settings.
