Yellowstone to Grand Teton Everything You Need To See

The American National Park System was created back in 1916 by an act signed by President Woodrow Wilson to protect American wild spaces. The national parks are some of the most visited tourist sites in the US with Yellowstone one of the most popular receiving upwards of 4.5 million visitors per year. Some popular airports or places to fly into to start your journey are Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport, Jackson Hole Airport or even Salt Lake City International Airport. A rental car with Auto Europe is the best way to see the parks as you can cruise through and stop at your leisure to admire the sights, hike the trails, or even do some shopping and eating in the restaurants and general store's. One of the most popular ways to see the national parks is from the luxury of an RV or Motorhome. Have all the amenities of a hotel room and the freedom of the open road with a fantastic deal on an RV or Motorhome with Auto Europe.

Itinerary for the journey

Map of Stops Along the Way

Yellowstone National Park "Idaho, Montana, Wyoming"

Ideally you will start your journey in Yellowstone as it is the larger of the two parks and has much more variety of things to do. From geothermal valleys, active geysers, hiking, waterfalls, and even award winning restaurants Yellowstone offers more than meets the eye.

1. Mammoth Hot Springs

Mammoth Hot Springs is one of the parks most recognizable sites, with its imposingly beautiful geothermal features it cannot be missed. The hot springs offer a look into a more prehistoric world. They were formed over thousands of years as hot water from the spring cooled and deposited calcium carbonate, These springs still are active and emit scalding hot steam and water so it is important you stay on the designated walk ways.

2. Lamar Valley

Located in the northeastern corner of the park, the Lamar Valley, is often called "America’s Serengeti" for its easy-to-see populations of large animals. Among its most famous inhabitants are the Junction Butte and Lamar Canyon wolf packs; wolf enthusiasts gather with spotting scopes most days hoping to see these impressive canines in action. In addition to wolves, other animals roaming the Lamar include large herds of Bison, Pronghorn, Badgers, Grizzly Bears, Bald Eagles, and many others. Many pullouts line the road, so keep your eyes peeled, drive carefully, and park in the nearest one if you see any active wildlife.

3. Grand Canyon Of The Yellowstone

Grand Canyon Of The Yellowstone was formed by a massive eruption and is still actively expanding today. Many trails around the canyon offer fantastic views of the multi hued rock features and jaw dropping falls formed by years of geothermal activity. Brink of the Lower Falls Trail and Red Rock Points Trail offer some of the best views but are considered strenuous and are not recommended for visitors with heart, lungs, or other health conditions.

4. Grand Prismatic Spring

The Grand Prismatic Spring is the largest hot spring in the US and third largest in the world. Named for its striking coloration, The bright, vivid colors in the spring are the result of microbial mats around the edges of the mineral-rich water and produce colors ranging from greens to reds. Walk ways and overlooking trails offer fantastic views of this incredible natural feature.

5. Old Faithful

Old Faithful is probably the first thing you think of when someone mentions Yellowstone. Named because its eruptions are able to be predicted within ten minutes, it is one of 500 geysers in the park but by far the most visited. You can view the geysers eruption from walk ways or from the "Old Faithful Viewing Platform" at the near by Old Faithful Inn.

Grand Teton "Wyoming"

Grand Teton's terrain is vastly different from Yellowstone. This park is named for the Teton Range, a jagged, rocky mountain range that runs through the heart of the park. Numerous lakes are located along this mountain range along with some of the nations most dynamic hiking trails. Grand Teton may be smaller but there is still a lot to see particularly if you are a big hiker.

1. Mormon Row Historic District

Mormon Row was established in the 1890's when Mormon leaders sent parties from the Salt Lake Valley to establish new communities and support their expanding population. Today, the picturesque Moulton Barns highlight Mormon Row. Settlers John and Thomas Alma (T.A.) Moulton built these barns over 30 years on adjacent homesteads. The most extensive historic complex remaining on Mormon Row is the Andy Chambers Homestead. Andy Chambers claimed land in 1912 and secured the title under the Homestead Act by building a log cabin and stable and clearing ground to grow grain, a backbreaking chore in the rocky soil. The homesteads windmill still remains intact.

2. Schwabacher Landing

Schwabacher Landing was once a boat landing but the shifting of the river has made it difficult to launch boats over the years. Now it is an easily accessible spot for wildlife viewing. A visit here allows you to take in beaver dams and see the beauty of the surrounding mountain range reflected in the mirror like water.

3. Jenny Lake

Jenny Lake is the most visited area in Grand Teton National Park. Tucked away at the base of the Teton Range, the lake is a centerpiece of the park. Several popular trails leave from Jenny Lake. Hikers can loop the lake and visit Hidden Falls plus Inspiration Point. See beautiful 100 ft cascading waterfalls and spectacular views of the Jackson Hole Valley when you explore this locale

4. Cascade Canyon

Cascade Canyon Trail is a great hiking route for visitors who want to take in the mountains without going too high up. The trail provides spectacular views of the surrounding peaks, and also provides an opportunity to spot wildlife like moose, bears, and even alpine species like pika. The trail also has many stopping points or good places to turn back meaning you can make the journey as long or short as you would like.

5. Oxbow Bend

Oxbow Bend is without a doubt one of the most photographed places in all of Grand Teton. Located where the Snake River starts to widen and with the majestic Mount Moran reflecting in the water and in its background, it is a fantastic place to spot various animal species in the early morning to mid afternoon.

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