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Even with just 2 days in Yellowstone, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world — one where water spurts from the earth and steam billows over the hills.
The challenge is that Yellowstone National Park draws millions of visitors every year (so it’s very crowded), and it’s one of the largest national parks in the U.S. (so there’s a lot to see).
How do you go about navigating across 3,000+ acres to see Yellowstone’s highlights in just 2 days?
After crisscrossing Yellowstone myself, I’ve mapped out a 2-day itinerary that follows the most efficient route to Yellowstone’s iconic sights — at a pace that lets you appreciate its otherworldly wonders.
About Yellowstone National Park
Yellowstone sits atop a supervolcano that erupted millions of years ago and some say may one day erupt again. It is known for its hydrothermal features — such as steam vents, hot springs, and geyser eruptions.
Did you know Yellowstone is home to over 500 geysers? And it actually holds 60% of the world’s geysers?
Aside from its volcanic elements, Yellowstone also offers canyons, acres of meadows and forests, and miles of trails.
It’s a one-of-a-kind national park that draws people from all over the world. Expect crowds. Lots of them. (On average, Yellowstone attracts 4 million visitors a year.)
But don’t be deterred by the busyness. Navigating through the hordes of people is absolutely worth it.
Tips to Escape Crowds at Yellowstone in the Summer
- Head out early. The earlier you wake up and arrive at Yellowstone, the better.
- Hike longer. The farther out you go on trails, the less people there will be. We saw the most crowds on the easy trails, especially near the beginning of them. If you’re okay with walking longer, you can escape a lot of the chaos.
- Visit the less popular parts of the park. Yellowstone is huge after all. There is so much more to see than Old Faithful. Once you get out of the main section, you won’t have to elbow your way through.
Where to Start Your Journey in Yellowstone
Wherever you begin your Yellowstone journey, get as early of a start as possible. The summer crowds are no joke.
Starting Point: South Entrance (West Thumb)
This itinerary starts from the West Thumb region of Yellowstone National Park, which is the southern entrance, closest to Grand Teton National Park. We first visited Grand Teton National Park before coming to Yellowstone, so this made sense for us.
Starting Point: West Entrance (West Yellowstone)
If you’re starting from the West Yellowstone entrance, you could drive out to West Thumb and work your way back, but it may be best to do the first day in reverse in order to make it to some of those hot spots before it gets too crowded.
Starting Point: North Entrance (Mammoth Hot Springs)
If you’re starting from the north, you may need to rearrange this itinerary doing day 2 first and possibly doing day 1 in reverse, as well.
Map and Suggested Route
The best way to efficiently see Yellowstone is to focus on one area at a time. Split your days between the north and west areas of the park and see as much as you can before moving on.
Plan out your must-sees now, so you don’t have to back-track during your visit.
Here’s how I split my time during my two days in Yellowstone. See if it would work for you, too.
Day 1: West Thumb, Old Faithful, and Grand Prismatic Spring
- Visit West Thumb Geyser Basin and walk the West Thumb Geyser Basin Loop Trail
- Visit Upper Geyser Basin (Old Faithful) and witness Old Faithful erupt
- Have lunch at Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria
- Explore Upper Geyser Basin and Geyser Hill
- Visit Midway Geyser Basin (Grand Prismatic Spring) and hike to Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook
- Visit Lower Geyser Basin (Fountain Paint Pots)
Day 2: Mammoth Hot Springs and Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
- Visit Mammoth Hot Springs
- Visit Norris Geyser Basin
- Visit Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and hike the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail
- Have lunch at Canyon Lodge Eatery
- Look for wildlife
Details of 2-Day Itinerary in Yellowstone National Park
Day 1: West Thumb, Old Faithful, and Grand Prismatic Spring
Visit West Thumb Geyser Basin
Your first stop in Yellowstone National Park will be in the West Thumb region, next to Yellowstone Lake. When we arrived in the morning, not many people were here, but it was starting to get crowded.
Walk the West Thumb Geyser Basin Loop Trail
There is a less-than-a-mile, flat loop trail through and around West Thumb Geyser Basin. There are boardwalks that take you over colorful hot springs and steamy pools. (Always stay ON the boardwalks.)
It’s a beautiful part of the park, and a great introduction to the unique hydrothermal features of Yellowstone National Park.
There are several other hiking trails in the West Thumb area, including one that goes to an overlook of Yellowstone Lake.
Dining Options in West Thumb
Have a meal by Yellowstone Lake at Grant Village Dining Room or Grant Village Lake House Restaurant.
Visit Grant Visitor Center
Head to Grant Visitor Center for park information, souvenirs, and more.
Visit Upper Geyser Basin (Old Faithful)
The Old Faithful region of Yellowstone National Park is the most popular area.
There is a large parking lot here, but all spots were taken when we showed up mid-to-late morning.
Parking can get a bit frustrating at Yellowstone, so bring your patience. You’ll get a spot eventually.
An alternative idea is parking over at Biscuit Basin and walking over (which could be six miles, round trip).
Witness Old Faithful Erupt
Old Faithful is Yellowstone’s most famous geyser. It’s not the largest or tallest, but it is the most predictable. It erupts about every 90 minutes.
Usually there will be a board somewhere nearby with the day’s expected eruption times.
There are rows of benches set up in front of Old Faithful for people to sit and watch the show.
We arrived as Old Faithful was erupting and got to see it from the back of the audience.
We ended up staying an additional 90 minutes, getting lunch to go from Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria, and eating it as we saved our seats in the very front row.
Seeing Old Faithful erupt again up close was a cool experience. If you’re willing to wait awhile, perhaps eating your lunch in the process like we did, it could be worth it.
If you’d like more of a bird’s eye view of the Old Faithful eruption, head up to Observation Point. It’s a half-mile trail with some switchbacks.
Explore Upper Geyser Basin and Geyser Hill
In Upper Geyser Basin, there are tons of colored pools and even more geysers. One square mile of Upper Geyser Basin has 150 geysers! And Geyser Hill contains 50 geysers.
So you’ll see quite a few here, including Lion Geyser (which erupted just as we were passing by! photo proof below), Beehive Geyser, Plume Geyser, Grand Geyser, and many, many more.
Geyser Hill gets most crowded after an Old Faithful eruption as everyone leaves to come up here. It thins out just before an eruption so if you’ve already seen Old Faithful erupt, that would be a good time to go.
You can definitely spend a few hours walking around Geyser Hill and Upper Geyser Basin, especially if you decide to walk out to Biscuit Basin. If you do, you’ll lose most of the crowds. However long you stay in Geyser Hill, be sure to stay on the boardwalks for your own safety.
If you’re wondering how many of these geysers you can see erupt, well, not many. Most are irregular, but a handful do erupt often. For example, Lion Geyser erupts every 60-90 minutes while Little Cub and Baby Daisy erupt every 30-55 minutes.
Visit Midway Geyser Basin (Grand Prismatic Spring)
Midway Geyser Basin is “midway” between the Upper and Lower Geyser Basins. It’s a small area but it has some of the largest and most beautifully colored springs and pools.
Grand Prismatic Spring is a sight to behold. Don’t miss this spot!
It was a bit hectic finding parking, but it’s definitely worth it. (It’s not really walkable from the Old Faithful parking lot, unfortunately.)
There aren’t many geysers and pools in Midway Geyser Basin. Four of the main, most accessible ones, include:
- Grand Prismatic Spring
- Excelsior Geyser
- Turquoise Pool
- Opal Pool
There’s a boardwalk that goes around these four main springs, and it doesn’t take long to see them all (20-30 minutes). Remember to always stay on the boardwalks, as these hot springs are hot enough to burn.
Hike to Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook
Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in Yellowstone.
When viewed from the ground, it’s hard to see just how large it is (bigger than a football field!).
If you’d like to get a bird’s eye view of it, head up to the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook. It’s a 0.6-mile hike (one way) from the Fairy Falls Parking Lot.
You can continue on the trail another mile to reach the Fairy Falls.
Visit Lower Geyser Basin (Fountain Paint Pots)
Full disclosure that we didn’t end up stopping in Lower Geyser Basin. We didn’t have the best stamina during our first trip to Yellowstone, and waking up at 5 a.m. every day, driving for hours, walking thousands of steps, really took a lot out of us.
After visiting West Thumb, Upper Geyser Basin, and Midway Geyser Basin, we felt that we had got our fill of basins, and were okay not to see anymore, preferring to head back to the hotel for dinner and rest.
That’s not to say there’s nothing worth stopping for in Lower Geyser Basin. In fact, it looks really amazing and would be a great first stop if you’re entering Yellowstone from the west entrance.
The Fountain Paint Pots Trail is a half-mile trail along a boardwalk that goes over and around several hot springs, pools, geysers, and other hydrothermal features in Lower Geyser Basin.
Some highlights to see here include:
- Clepsydra Geyser
- Fountain Geyser
- Celestine Pool
- Leather Pool
- Silex Spring
Remember to always stay on the trails and boardwalks for your own safety.
Day 2: Mammoth Hot Springs and Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Visit Mammoth Hot Springs
On your second day in Yellowstone, venture out of the most crowded places and see what else Yellowstone has to offer. Your first stop is Mammoth Hot Springs, and I’d suggest arriving bright and early before the crowds.
Mammoth Hot Springs contain amazing travertine terraces, which you can view from a boardwalk that goes around this area.
Prepare to spend over an hour here as there is a lot to see and this area is mesmerizing.
If you spent the night in West Yellowstone, like we did, it will be a little over an hour drive to reach Mammoth Hot Springs. But it is a beautiful drive — and an incredible destination.
Visit Norris Geyser Basin
Norris Geyser Basin is another hydrothermal area with a boardwalk trail in Yellowstone, featuring colorful pools and some of the hottest springs. It’s a great stopping point before heading to Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone (it’s on the way).
It could take anywhere from 30-90 minutes to explore this area, which includes such highlights as:
- Echinus Geyser
- Steamboat Geyser
- Crackling Lake
- Emerald Spring
- Pinwheel Geyser
Visit Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Lastly, don’t miss Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone for incredible canyon views. This was our last stop of the day, and the views of the canyon really are incredible.
You can walk along the canyon rim or hike down the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail (0.7 miles) to get up close and personal with a raging waterfall.
It’s one of my regrets that I didn’t do the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail. I really wanted to do this hike, but as we looked down the trail and at all of the people struggling to make it back up the steep climb, I knew I couldn’t do it. I should have gotten in better shape before coming to Yellowstone!
Ah well, there’s always next time.
Dining Options Near Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
We had lunch at the Canyon Lodge Eatery, a cafeteria in Canyon Village, near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. There were a lot of options here, even vegetarian options, so definitely check it out if you visit the canyon during or around lunchtime.
Also in Canyon Village is the Canyon Visitor Education Center.
Look for Wildlife
We drove all around beautiful Yellowstone National Park, and stopped several times to admire and photograph the wildlife.
We came across bison, deer, and even a bear!
Usually if you find several cars stopped on the side of the road, it’s a sign that wildlife is nearby.
While admiring and appreciating wildlife, always keep your distance. Never approach wild animals or feed them. Never block the road with your car, either.
Yellowstone is not a zoo, and the wildlife are wild, so show them proper respect by keeping your distance.
Read more wildlife safety guidelines on the national park’s website.
More Things to Do in Yellowstone
If you have more time to spend at Yellowstone, you should definitely do some hikes. The NPS site lists a bunch of the most popular and recommended hikes in Yellowstone which is sure to fill your extra time with incredible memories.
You can also spend some time looking for wildlife in Hayden Valley and/or Lamar Valley.
For even more ideas of what to do, see the Yellowstone NPS site’s recommendations.
Before You Go: Check Current Conditions
Always check the national park’s website for current road and weather conditions before setting off to Yellowstone National Park.
In 2022, there were record floods in Yellowstone that destroyed and shut down several roads for months.
Winter also brings lots of snow, so it’s important to stay updated on what’s going on at Yellowstone to be prepared and avoid disappointment.
Entry Fees
It costs $35 per vehicle to enter Yellowstone National Park, and your entry is valid for one week.
If you plan to visit more than three national parks in a year, definitely get an America the Beautiful pass to save money.
Do you need reservations to enter Yellowstone National Park? No, you do not need reservations to enter Yellowstone.
When does Yellowstone National Park close for the season? Yellowstone does not close. It is open 24 hours, every day of the year.
When to Visit: What Is the Weather Like in Yellowstone?
Summer: Sunny weather, but lots of crowds.
Summer temperatures in Yellowstone are warm, around 70s-80s ℉. There is a small chance of rain, but snow is unlikely.
You’re likely to get the best weather in summer, but it comes at a cost.
Summer receives the majority of visitors to Yellowstone. There are still ways to enjoy the crowded park, though.
I journeyed to Yellowstone in July, the most crowded month with nearly a million visitors in that month alone, according to visitor statistics. Despite this, I would go again even in July as the weather couldn’t be beat.
Shoulder Season (May and October): Less crowds, but risk of snow.
There are half as many Yellowstone visitors during shoulder season than in summer.
But there is more of a risk of snow. It snows a LOT in Yellowstone in the winter and even in the fall and spring.
If you plan to visit during May or October, keep up to date on current conditions and prepare for anything.
So, What’s the Best Month to Visit Yellowstone National Park?
“Best” is subjective, it depends on what your priorities are.
Are you looking for the best weather? Then the summer months (June-August) will be best.
Are you looking for the least crowds? Then November will be best.
Getting Around Yellowstone National Park: Will You Need a Car?
Yes, you will need a car to get around Yellowstone National Park. Sites are miles apart from each other (some even 20-50 miles apart).
There are also no public shuttle buses in Yellowstone National Park, at least none provided by the NPS.
Some private tour companies offer tours of Yellowstone and/or Grand Teton, which can be a good alternative if you’re not comfortable driving around the national parks.
Where to Stay Near Yellowstone National Park
Stay in Yellowstone National Park
Staying in Yellowstone National Park is the best option as you’ll be right in the middle of it all. Although, it can be very difficult to get a room in one of Yellowstone’s lodges unless you book months and months in advance.
I was planning my trip about five months out and couldn’t find any availability within the park for my summer dates. The competition is fierce.
I wish you best of luck in getting a room here!
View all of Yellowstone’s lodges and search for a room here.
You might have better luck with camping if that’s your thing.
Stay Outside the Park in West Yellowstone, MT
The next best option is to stay in West Yellowstone, MT, which is only one mile from the west entrance of Yellowstone.
There are a lot of different hotels in West Yellowstone, but most were booked when I was researching where to stay.
Recommended Hotels in West Yellowstone, MT:
- Yellowstone Lodge (where we stayed)
- Golden Stone Inn
- Holiday Inn West Yellowstone, an IHG Hotel
- Kelly Inn
- Evergreen Motel
- ClubHouse Inn West Yellowstone
Where we stayed: We ended up getting a room at Yellowstone Lodge in West Yellowstone, MT, and it was perfectly acceptable. I don’t recommend the breakfast here (the bagels were dusty and moldy), but the rooms were fine.
Things to Do in West Yellowstone, MT
West Yellowstone, MT, is a cute little town on the edge of the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park. It’s historically been the gateway to Yellowstone.
From 1908 to 1960, people traveled by train to West Yellowstone during summer months. Over the years, more and more shops and restaurants have been added.
We really enjoyed staying here, trying out different dinner restaurants, and walking about town.
Here are some things to do and restaurants to try in West Yellowstone:
- Running Bear Pancake House — Amazing breakfast spot
- Timberline Cafe — Try the huckleberry ice cream for dessert!
- The Branch Restaurant — Explore the historic train car on your way out.
- Smith & Chandler gift shop — Huge souvenir shop
Getting to Yellowstone National Park
If you’re not from the area, like us, and need to fly in, there are a few options. The closest airports are:
- The Yellowstone Airport in West Yellowstone, MT, 3 miles from west entrance
- The Jackson Hole Airport in Jackson Hole, WY, 60 miles from south entrance
- The Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport in Belgrade, MT, 90 miles from north entrance
Fly into Salt Lake City, UT
We ended up flying into the Salt Lake City International Airport, which is nearly 350 miles away from the west entrance of Yellowstone, a 6-hour drive. Why?
Well, we had never before been to Salt Lake City, so we liked the idea of staying a few days there, too. Also, we couldn’t find rental cars to reserve in Jackson Hole, which was probably due to the rental car shortage at the time (this was in 2021).
Driving from Salt Lake City through Idaho and parts of Wyoming was a beautiful drive, so I definitely don’t regret it.
Drive from Salt Lake City to West Yellowstone, MT
If you end up following our route, starting/ending in Salt Lake City and driving through Idaho, here are three must-stop places along the way:
- Idaho Falls River Walk in Idaho Falls, ID — This was a really pretty walk along man-made waterfalls (in the middle of the city) and a great way to stretch your legs during the long drive.
- Japanese Friendship Garden in Idaho Falls, ID — This was such a cool hidden gem right across from the falls.
- Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot, ID — It honestly inspired me to learn how a small, simple thing like the potato could change the world. A fun, little museum and you can even try an Idaho baked potato and/or potato ice cream (surprisingly good!) at the on-site cafe.
How to Combine Yellowstone National Park with Grand Teton National Park
Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park are so close together — I mean, they share a border — so it makes perfect sense to see both of these parks during the same trip. This is what we did, and I highly recommend it.
See my post “3 Day Itinerary for Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks” for a more detailed itinerary on combining these parks in one trip.
Is Yellowstone or Grand Teton better? Both national parks are incredibly beautiful. I honestly can’t choose between them!
What to Pack When Visiting Wyoming
Favorite travel essentials
- I really recommend these compression packing cubes. They’re very thick and durable and allow you to pack more than you expect.
- I also love this travel backpack that opens like a suitcase, fits almost as much as a carry-on, and has tons of pockets as well as a strap to attach to your luggage handle. It makes traveling so much easier and more organized. It also fits nicely under the airplane seats.
- I bring this AirFly receiver for AirPods with me on long-haul flights, so I can connect to the plane’s video screen with my own AirPods.
- I no longer hop on a flight without wearing my Sockwell compression socks because they really do help relieve/prevent leg cramps from sitting so long in one place. I have the lotus pattern, but there are other patterns to choose from, such as this cat pattern or this flower pattern. See all sock patterns in the Sockwell storefront.
Other Posts to Help Your Plan Your Trip to the American West
Wyoming
Montana
Utah
New Mexico
Traveling with a dog ( maltese) I think I read they are allowed in park.
Trying to decide on 1st of August or end of August. We’re driving from Indiana. Want to see yellowstone and Teton. I am figuring 12 days.
Any suggestions.
Wow I want to go back !! Your writing makes me feel like I’m there again! It was very interesting place