5 Days in the Tetons & Yellowstone
Spend five days exploring the dramatic granite spires of Grand Teton and the geysers, canyons, and wildlife of Yellowstone. This is peak summer hiking and wildlife viewing—expect pristine backcountry trails, early morning elk, and the raw geology of the Yellowstone Caldera.
What to expect
- Hike Jenny Lake Loop for turquoise water and Teton reflections (7 mi).
- Watch Old Faithful erupt and walk Geyser Hill's steaming boardwalks.
- Drive the Grand Loop at dawn to spot bison, elk, and grizzly bears.
- Backpack or day-hike the Lamar Valley, home to the park's highest concentration of megafauna.
- Cool off in Jackson Lake or soak in Potts Hot Spring Basin after long days.
Day by day
Drive to Jackson; settle into lodging near the town square.
Scenic drive up Moose–Wilson Road; stop at Oxbow Bend for sunset reflections.
Dinner in downtown Jackson; early night to adjust to altitude.
Hike Jenny Lake Loop (7 mi, moderate); pristine subalpine lake with rock walls rising 4,000 ft.
Climb Inspiration Point (2-mi spur) for panoramic views of the Teton Range.
Rest in Jackson; casual dinner and pack for early start tomorrow.
Enter Yellowstone at West Thumb; hike Old Faithful Basin boardwalks (2 mi).
Drive to Grand Prismatic Spring; walk the overlook trail for the vibrant turquoise thermal pool.
Camp or lodge in Canyon Village; watch sunset at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Depart Canyon before 6 am; drive Lamar Valley spotting bison, elk, wolves, and grizzlies.
Day-hike Specimen Ridge Trail (up to 10 mi) for petrified forests and ridge views.
Return to Canyon; dinner at lodge overlooking the Lower Falls.
Scenic exit via the North Entrance; stop at Mammoth Hot Springs' travertine terraces.
Drive back to Jackson; last-minute shopping in town or visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art.
Depart or stay an extra night; reflect on five days of untrammeled wilderness.
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