Grand Teton and Yellowstone Adventure:

A 2-Day Road Trip from Jackson Hole to Big Sky 

This epic two-day road trip takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Rocky Mountains, including Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park. This flexible itinerary can be followed from Jackson Hole to Big Sky or vice versa. Buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable adventure! 

Day 1: Jackson Hole to Grant Village 

Fuel up for a day of exploration! Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Jackson Hole. 

• Stop 1: Grand Teton National Park (morning): Immerse yourself in the majestic beauty of Grand Teton National Park. Take the scenic drive along Teton Park Road and bring your camera. You will not want to miss capturing the beautiful landscapes along this drive including the Teton Glacier turnout and the Jenny Lake overlook.  

• Stop 2: Keep driving from Jenny Lake to the Colter Bay Village on Jackson Lake. Here, you can stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. Take a small hike on the Lakeshore trail and enjoy a picnic lunch with a view.  

• Stop 3: South Entrance of Yellowstone National Park (afternoon): Continue your journey to Yellowstone National Park, entering through the South Entrance. Stop and enjoy a quick hike to Lewis Falls before heading to Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-altitude lake in North America.  

• Stop 4: West Thumb (afternoon/evening): Near to your accommodations in Grant Village is West Thumb.  A perfect small excursion if you have extra time in the afternoon or evening to explore Thumb and Lakeshore geyser, and the Abyss Pool.  

• Stop 5: Grant Village (evening): Check in to your hotel or campground at Grant Village inside Yellowstone National Park. Enjoy dinner with a view of Yellowstone Lake at the Grant Village Lake House.  

Day 2: Grant Village to Big Sky 

• Stop 1: Old Faithful Geyser (morning): Rise early and head to the Upper Geyser Basin to witness the eruption of the iconic Old Faithful Geyser. Check the predicted eruption times at the park visitor center and explore the historic Old Faithful Inn. 

• Stop 2: Grand Prismatic Spring (morning): Make your way to the Lower Geyser Basin to see the Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the United States. Marvel at its vibrant colors caused by thermophilic bacteria.  

• Stop 3: Lunch in West Yellowstone (afternoon): Grab lunch in the town of West Yellowstone, located just outside the park's west entrance. Peruse the many shops and boutiques.  

• Stop 4: Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center (afternoon): After lunch, head to the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center to get up-close views of Montana’s wildlife. As a not-for-profit, the Discovery Center offers visitors an in-depth look at many of the iconic creatures of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. 

• Stop 5: Big Sky (evening): Arrive in Big Sky! Check into your accommodations and head to Big Sky’s town center to grab dinner.  

This itinerary provides a framework for your incredible journey. Please note that not all roads in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks are open year-round. We strongly recommend visiting their websites for up-to-date alerts and road closure information. Feel free to adjust this itinerary based on your pace and interests. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and geothermal wonders, this road trip promises to be an unforgettable adventure! 

Tips: 

• Purchase a National Park Pass online prior to entering.  

• Make reservations for your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season. 

• Be aware that internet and cell service is extremely limited once inside the park. Download any information you may need during your trip ahead of time. Download the Grand Teton National Park app and the Yellowstone National Park app for maps, information on sights, wildlife, and real-time road closures. 

• Be sure to dress in layers, as the weather in the mountains can change quickly. 

• Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven terrain. 

• Bring sunscreen and sunglasses, especially during the summer months. 

• Practice respectful wildlife viewing - maintain a safe distance from wild animals and never feed them. 

• Dispose of trash properly to help keep the parks clean. 

• Bring plenty of water and snacks as services within the park are limited.