Glacier, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Parks are three of America’s most valued treasures. And their proximity to one another makes combining a visit to all three the perfect national park road trip.

I planned a week-long itinerary to explore these magnificent wonders. It was my first visit to Glacier, and my second visit to Yellowstone and Grand Teton.

This road trip offers continual opportunities to spot wildlife. Especially at dawn or dusk, keep an eye out for herds of elk and other wildlife enjoying rivers and ponds. Throughout Montana and Wyoming, the yellows of grain fields, greens of alfalfa grass, and blues of the sky and flowing rivers form an incredible backdrop for photos.

I loved the adventure going from Glacier National Park to Yellowstone to Grand Teton. I think you will too.

Note: If you plan to rent a car, compare prices and book in advance to ensure availability.

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Glacier to Yellowstone to Grand Teton National Park: 7-Day Road Trip

Pro Tip: Exploring three national parks in one week requires a lot of walking and hiking. Changing between three styles of footwear (hiking shoes, running shoes, and flip flops) kept my feet happy. My regular rotation of footwear and socks include Ahnu hiking shoes with Darn Tough ankle socks for hiking, Asics running shoes with Smart Wool running socks for walking and paved trails, and Sanuk Yoga Mat flip flops for everything in between.

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Day One: Drive from Salt Lake City to Kalispell, Montana

I chose to get the hardest driving day out of the way with plans to reach Kalispell, a small town not far from Glacier National Park, soon after dark.

The drive time from Salt Lake City to Glacier National Park is 10 hours. Stopping in Missoula, Montana to explore the town broke up the drive, making it a most enjoyable day.

Missoula, Montana

Missoula is home to the University of Montana and has an active downtown with numerous restaurants and access to outdoor activities. Take a self-guided walking tour of buildings and establishments preserved to reflect their historic past. The downtown area is clean, neat, and architecturally pleasing, telling a story of pride and preservation.

The Clark Fork River runs through the town and offers some of the best opportunities for white water raftering in the region.

(The Idaho Falls Riverwalk and Butte, Montana are other great options for a stretch break.)

Where to Eat and Drink in Missoula

The Top Hat Lounge
A long-standing establishment in Missoula offering great music and a cool vibe.

Montgomery Distillery
Offering excellent craft cocktails and tasty gin and vodka. I loved the authentic Montana décor.

After stretching your legs and enjoying a great meal in Missoula, drive 2.5 hours to stay the night inside or near the park’s West entrance.

Where to Stay near Glacier National Park

Hampton Inn by Hilton in Kalispell
A 5-minute drive from the park entrance, offering free breakfast, and is most affordable.

West Glacier
About a 20-minute drive from the park so lodging here is a bit expensive.

Best Western Rocky Mountain Lodge in Whitefish
A 30-minute drive from the park entrance. Whitefish is a great town to explore. Accommodations here are fairly reasonable and book up quickly.

Lake McDonald Lodge inside the park
This is a great option though books up quickly and is expensive.

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Day Two: Glacier National Park

It is best to begin driving through the park as early as possible to avoid traffic and crowds. We reached the park around 7:45 am and enjoyed watching the sun begin illuminating streams, mountainsides, and glaciers. Reaching the park by 6 am is even better.

West Glacier Village

West Glacier Village is located at the entrance to the park and is a fantastic area for shopping, eating, drinking, mini-golf, and more. This is a coveted area for lodging and RV parking as well. See the West Glacier Village website for details and hours.

Going-to-the-Sun Road

If spending a single day in Glacier National Park, driving the 50-mile Going-to-the-Sun Road is the way to go. It is practically the ONLY way to go. Going-to-the-Sun Road is an engineering marvel of switchbacks passing through and to numerous trailheads, glacial pull-outs, and overlooks. If you have time to do nothing but drive Going-to-the-Sun Road, you will not be disappointed.

Apgar Visitor Center

Watch for signs to Apgar Visitor Center. The center offers clean restrooms, useful park information, and a gift shop. 

McDonald Lake Lodge and McDonald Lake

Built in 1914, McDonald Lake Lodge is worth a quick visit. Park in the large lot and walk to the back of the lodge. The lodge grounds are cozy and inviting. This is a great place to grab a snack and take in the relaxing view of McDonald Lake.

Trail of Cedars

Found along Going-to-the-Sun Road, just north of McDonald Lake is the Trail of Cedars. This 1-mile hike takes you through a cedar forest and leads to Avalanche Lake Trail.

The Avalanche Lake Trail

A 4.5-mile round-trip hike leading to wide-open views of the crystal-clear Avalanche Lake surrounded by mountains and waterfalls.

Logan Pass

Logan Pass is the highest point along Going-to-the-Sun Road and a site where the Continental Divide passes through. This visitor center parking lot fills up between 9 am and 4 pm so it is a good idea to arrive early. Logan Pass offers incredible views of glaciers and access to favored trails.

Hidden Lake / Hanging Gardens Trail

The most popular trail at Logan Pass leads to Hidden Lake and is accessed via the Hanging Gardens Trailhead. This trail is a 5.3-mile out and back hike. Mountain goats are common sightings. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep, and wolverines. Grizzly bears are seen occasionally as well. The trail leads to Hidden Lake, a beloved fishing destination.

Highline Trail (Difficult)

Also accessible at Logan Pass is Highline Trail, an 11.6-mile one-way hike. A bit terrifying and narrow in places but one of the most popular hikes in Glacier National Park. This hike offers incredible views, mountain goat sightings, and other wildlife. Taking this 11.6-mile trail for even a short distance will take you to spectacular views. 

Saint Mary Falls Trail

Saint Mary Falls trail is a 1.7-mile out and back hike. The trail is busy and narrow, good for families and children, ending at a crystal-clear turquoise waterfall. 

Wild Goose Island

Find Goose Island Viewpoint at a pullout along Going-to-the-Sun Road. The pullout is easily recognizable. Just watch for the crowd taking pictures.

Many Glacier (Optional for those extending time in the park)

Due to road construction in 2020, we were unable to visit the Many Glacier area. Check the Glacier National Park website for information on Many Glacier as well as planned closures.

Backtrack from East to West along Going-to-the-Sun Road

Having to backtrack from east to west along Going-to-the-Sun Road due to road construction was a blessing in disguise. Seeing the sights in reverse felt as if we were driving a completely different route. I would recommend it, especially during low-traffic seasons.

Where to Stay if extending time in Glacier National Park

Consider lodging at the East side of the park:
Many Glacier Hotel or Swiftcurrent Motor Lodge inside the park.
St. Mary Village or Travelers Rest Lodge in East Glacier.

Things to remember before visiting Glacier National Park

Gas: Not available inside the park.
Picnic areas: Apgar, Sprague Creek, Avalanche Creek, and Rising Sun.
Camping areas: Located throughout the park, including along the road at Apgar, Sprague Creek, Avalanche Creek, Rising Sun, and St. Mary.
Visitor centers: Apgar Visitor Center, Logan Pass Visitor Center, and St. Mary Visitor Center.

From Glacier National Park, drive 4 hours to Helena. The September drive offered stunning colors of wheat fields and purple mountains. Watch for deer at dawn and dusk resting in alfalfa fields.

Helena, Montana

Helena is another great college town and the capital of Montana. Stroll the Walking Mall Trolley Block, an active area offering art galleries, shops, great dining, micro-breweries, and entertainment.

Where to Eat and Drink in Helena

The Windbag Saloon
Serving burgers, seafood, steak, amazing mac and cheese, and more. And in a great atmosphere.

Blackfoot Taproom
A microbrewery and taproom featuring craft beers and live music. This place is alway hoppin’.

Where to Stay near Helena or Bozeman

Doubletree by Hilton in Helena, or drive 2 hours to stay in Bozeman or Livingston.

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Day Three: Bozeman, Montana

Bozeman is a fantastic town. I could live here. Like Missoula, Bozeman is spotless and its streets are lined with perfectly preserved historic buildings. Downtown Bozeman is full of great shops packed full of quality inventory. Schnee’s Boots, Shoes, and Outdoors is one of my favorite.

Explore the hidden park and trails behind the public library. Funky art installations are scattered throughout this expansive trail system.    

Where to Eat and Drink in Bozeman

Open Range
The steak is exquisite! Pricey, but exquisite.

Shine Beer Sanctuary
An open-air fun place with a taco bar. For a fun (disturbing) time, visit the Shine Beer Sanctuary restroom area and choose the first door on the right.

Ted’s Montana Grill
A local favorite.

Western Cafe’
Another local favorite.   

(Avid anglers will love spending a day fly fishing the Yellowstone River in Livingston, Montana. Book a trip with one of Yellowstone Angler’s fishing guides. Guided offerings include floating the Yellowstone River, wade fishing in Paradise Valley Spring Creeks, hiking and fishing in Yellowstone National Park, and more.)

Drive south 1 hour to Gardiner, Montana.

Where to Stay near the North entrance of Yellowstone National Park

Gardiner, Montana is an Old West town near the Yellowstone north entrance, the only year-round entrance to the park. Gardiner has several restaurants and shops as well as lodging options. I chose the Comfort Inn Yellowstone North. It was comfortable and affordable.

While in Gardiner, watch for elk roaming around EVERYWHERE at dawn and dusk. 

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Day Four: Yellowstone National Park

This was my second visit to Yellowstone. I loved the park just as much this time as I had the first. There is so much to see and explore.

(See the park website for 2020-2022 planned road closures.)

Note: For those who prefer a guided tour, the Full-Day Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour from Jackson, Wyoming is a great option. This tour hits highpoints including the Old Faithful area, Midway Geyser Basin, Fountain Paint Pots, the Canyon Area, Hayden Valley, as well as short hikes to geyser basins and waterfalls.

Roosevelt Arch

Roosevelt Arch was built in 1903 and was dedicated by President Teddy Roosevelt who laid the arch’s cornerstone. The arch is located at the North entrance of Yellowstone. I loved entering the park here.

Drive south 5 miles to Mammoth Hot Springs.

Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces

Of all the natural wonders in Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs is among my favorites. The terraces can be accessed by lower and upper boardwalks and are very different from most other thermals in the area.   

The park headquarters is located in this area as well as Albright Visitor Center and Museum, lodging, campgrounds, a grill, and more. Watch for a majestic bull elk resting in the grass keeping watch over his lady-herd.

Drive 21 miles south to Norris Geyser Basin.

Norris Geyser Basin

Norris Geyser Basin is the hottest geyser basin in Yellowstone. The heavily trafficked 2.9-mile loop offers close-up views of Hot springs and fumaroles with temperatures as high as 200ºF.

Drive 4 miles south to Artist Paint Pot Trail

Artist Paint Pot Trail and Paint Pot Hill

Don’t skip this 1-mile trail loop. At the highpoint of the trail, along Paint Pot Hill, is an active mudpot. A mudpot, or mud pool, has limited water resulting in a pool of bubbling mud. Along the trail are milky blue pools and rusty red geothermal crusts. Notice the strong sulfur odor here. Similar to fireworks and rotten eggs.

Drive 17 miles south to visit Fountain Paint Pots or 2.5 miles further to Grand Prismatic Spring.

The long stretches of road are beautiful and often filled with bison. We enjoyed witnessing bison being herded by a Yellowstone Park Ambulance.

Grand Prismatic Spring

This area is mesmerizing. And crowded. Plan to park along the roadside and walk a distance.

Grand Prismatic Spring has bright colors of orange, yellow, and green with deep blue waters. Multicolored layers get their hues from heat-loving bacteria. This beautiful guy is bigger than a football field in diameter. If time allows, take the hike to the overlook to view from above. From the overlook, look for Fairy Falls in the distance.  

A boardwalk loops through other incredible hot springs as well as a wonder-inducing pool and dormant geyser, the Excelsior Geyser Crater. 

Drive 9 miles to Old Faithful Village.

Old Faithful Geyser

The most beloved of Yellowstone’s geysers is Old Faithful. No other geyser is more dependable, erupting at least every two hours. Eruption schedules can be found at the Old Faithful Visitor Education Center, park lodges, the NPS Yellowstone Geysers app, and on Twitter.

Old Faithful Inn

Don’t miss the Old Faithful Inn. Opened in 1904, using local lodgepole pine and gnarled wood embellishments, many original fixtures and furnishings are still in use. Notice the front door and impressive lock, lobby mission-style furniture, candelabra-style light fixtures, and massive wrought iron and brass lobby clock, and dining room hickory chairs and chandeliers.

Morning Glory Pool Trail

Morning Glory Pool, named in the 1880s for its likeness to the flower of the same name, is a favorite stop for visitors. Located in the North Section of Upper Geyser Basin / Old Faithful area, follow the easy 2.8-mile round-trip trail passing by several geysers along the way.

Drive 20 miles to West Thumb Geyser Basin

West Thumb Geyser Basin

West Thumb Geyser Basin is one of the most overlooked areas of the park. I love this area so much. Take the boardwalk to Yellowstone Lake, the backdrop to unique geysers and pools as well as peculiar fishing cones.

I was spellbound every few feet as I walked the boardwalk around the massive Black Pool. The changing colors of blues and blacks reveal the depth of this fascinating pool.

The Abyss Pool is equally mesmerizing. I spent an extended time here transfixed in wonder.

Where to Eat and Drink in Yellowstone

There are several restaurants and cafeterias throughout the park. You will not go hungry. Among the most popular are:
Old Faithful Snow Lodge Obsidian Dining Room
Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria
Mammoth Dining Room
Grant Village Dining Room
Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room
Canyon Eatery in the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone area. (Check the park website as most dining options are closed during the offseason.)

From West Thumb drive 1.25 hours to Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Where to Stay in Jackson

Lexington at Jackson Hole Hotel & Suites
I stayed here during my most recent visit. An affordable hotel near the town square restaurants and shops.

Cowboy Village Resort
I stayed here in 2016, during my first visit to Jackson. Kids will love this place. Western-style cabins with kitchenettes.

The Wort Hotel
An upscale experience near town square restaurants and shops.

Teton Village
What a happy ski resort area. The area offers hotels as well as gondolas, and a cable car with views of the Tetons.

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Day Five: Grand Teton National Park

Note: For those interested in increasing their chances to spot moose, bison, grizzly and black bears, wolves, elk, and eagles, consider taking a Grand Teton 4-Hour Wildlife Tour.

Moose-Wilson Road

Take the backroad, Moose-Wilson Road, at dawn and dusk. I chose to drive up and down this road several times in the early morning to watch for wildlife. Sitting quietly along the road with windows down listening for rustling in the tall grass, I heard a snort. I was stunned by a little bear who emerged from the tall grass and sauntered across the road to scale a tree.

42-Mile Scenic Loop

The 42-mile scenic drive loop is a great way to see highlights of the park or choose between any of the following stops and turn-outs along the way. 

Chapel of the Transfiguration
A picturesque little church with views of the Tetons.

Menors Ferry Historic District
Take a short ride on a replica of a historic ferry.

Jenny Lake
Stroll through this busy lake-park area for stunning views of the Tetons and access to trails. Take a boat ride across the lake to hike to Hidden Falls. Schedule plenty of time to enjoy Jenny Lake. Maybe even the entire day.

Signal Mountain Summit Road
Drive to the peak of Signal Mountain Road to find two overlooks offering panoramic views of the Tetons and Jackson Lake.

Oxbow Bend and Snake River Overlook
A beautiful drive with views of the Snake River. Watch for wildlife drawn to the river.

Schwabacher Landing
A great place to capture photos of mountains reflecting on the water.

Mormon Row
Tour historic barns and homesteads and watch for deer, bison, and moose.

10-15 Mile Hikes

Static Peak Divide
A difficult hike with epic alpine scenery.

Lake Solitude
A difficult hike offering a subalpine lake and the largest waterfall in the park.

Cascade Canyon
One of the most popular hikes in the park with views of Teewinot Mountain.

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Day Six: Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson is a sweet ski resort town and the perfect “base camp” for exploring Grand Teton National Park. The iconic town square features antler arches collected from the nearby National Elk Refuge, numerous shops, and restaurants, bronze art, and galleries.

Once you visit Jackson, you will not want to leave.

Where to Eat and Drink in Jackson

Gather Restaurant
An upscale restaurant serving tasty small portions.

Liberty Burger
Serving great burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, and more.

The Bunnery Bakery and Restaurant
A local favorite serving traditional breakfasts, sandwiches, baked goods, and desserts.

Snake River Brewing
Refined comfort food and certified organic brews served in a chill atmosphere.

Drive south 5 hours to Salt Lake City

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City

There are numerous great options for lodging in Salt Lake City. My favorites are those near public transportation to Salt Lake City International Airport and close to downtown. I recommend:

The Little America Hotel
An affordable 4-star hotel great for families and with a touch of elegance.

The Grand America Hotel
THE top-rated hotel in Salt Lake City. This elegant hotel offers Victorian-style architecture and décor.

For Airbnb lovers, try one of the Warehouse Condominium lofts on the west side of downtown Salt Lake City, an up-and-coming area for great food and nightlife. This historic warehouse building has been renovated with several warehouse-style rentals available on Airbnb. In June, my family loved staying in Dane’s “Newly Renovated Industrial Modern Downtown Loft.”

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Day Seven: Explore Salt Lake City and/or Travel Day

Watch for my upcoming Salt Lake City Travel Guide.

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I chose to explore the parks in order from Glacier National Park to Yellowstone to Grand Teton. But the options are endless.

Optional 4 Day Road Trip: Grand Teton to Yellowstone to Glacier National Park

In 2016 I planned a 4 day road trip with the expectation to do a quick driving tour of Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Park. I spent so much time enjoying Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks that there was no time to make the drive from Yellowstone to Glacier National Park.

If you have less than a week to explore, consider flying into Jackson Hole Airport. Since Jackson Hole Airport is only 5 miles from Grand Teton National Park, it is possible to do a driving tour the same day you arrive. Take the drive from Grand Teton to the Yellowstone area on the evening of day 1 or the morning of day 2. Spend day 2 exploring Yellowstone National Park. Take the drive from Yellowstone to Glacier National Park on the evening of day 2 or morning of day 3. Spend day 3 touring Glacier National Park. Fly out of Glacier Park International Airport on day 4.

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Optional 10 Day Road Trip: Grand Teton to Yellowstone to Glacier National Park

For those traveling with children or wanting more time to explore and hike, consider a 10 Day road trip itinerary. Simply use my 7 Day Road Trip Itinerary and allow an extra day in each of the parks.

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Things to Consider When Planning Your Itinerary

Airport Options:
Salt Lake City International Airport
Jackson Hole Airport
Glacier Park International Airport
Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport
Idaho Falls Regional Airport

Drive Times to Consider When Planning Your Itinerary:
Salt Lake City to Grand Teton National Park: 5 Hours
Grand Teton to Yellowstone National Park: 3.5 Hours
Yellowstone to Glacier National Park: 6.5 Hours

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America the Beautiful National Park Pass – $80

The America the Beautiful National Park Pass can be purchased at any of the parks. It is valid for one year for admission to any national park or federal recreation site, including Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Park.

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Getting Around the Parks

Rental Car or Personal Car
If you plan to rent a car, compare prices and book in advance to ensure availability.

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Guided Tours

Guided tours are a great option when exploring a new area or traveling solo. Below are tour offerings for the fearless as well as reluctant, fearful or solo traveler.

Full-Day Yellowstone Lower Loop Tour from Jackson, Wyoming
Spend a day touring Yellowstone’s Lower Loop, departing and returning from Jackson, Wyoming. Visit the Old Faithful Area, Midway Geyser Basin, Fountain Paint Pots, the Canyon Area, Hayden Valley, and more! Take short hikes to geyser basins and waterfalls.

Grand Teton National Park: 4-Hour Wildlife Tour
Enjoy this excursion in the morning or evening to increase the likelihood of spotting moose, bison, grizzly and black bears, wolves, elk, eagles, and more.

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Now, just a few things to remember

Check the weather before you go. During my September visit to Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Park, the days were sunny with lows around 40°F and highs between 60°F and 75°F.

During my time in the parks, I got a lot of use out of my Ahnu hiking shoes.

When exploring I often take short 1-3 mile hikes. I prefer hiking shoes over hiking boots and certainly for easy and short hikes. I wear only quality shoes with good arch support to avoid plantar fasciitis flare-ups and my Ahnu hiking shoes are perfect. They are lightweight for everyday use as well which is helpful when I want to travel with only a few pairs of shoes. I have had my Ahnu’s for 2-3 years now and they have many miles left in them.

Travel insurance covers unexpected events such as re-booking flights due to airline cancellations, replacement of belongings when luggage is lost, replacement of stolen items, or emergency travel home due to accident or illness. I recommend World Nomads, an insurance provider trusted by seasoned travelers worldwide.

Also, check out my road trip packing list.

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Be prepared and be safe out there!

Trust your senses.
Trust your gut.
If you’ve planned well and it feels right, do it!
If it doesn’t feel right, don’t.

I would love to hear about your experiences in Glacier, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Park!

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Not Ready to Leave the American Northwest?

Seattle, Washington is a mere 1.5-hour direct flight from Glacier Park International Airport. And a 2-hour direct flight from Salt Lake City International Airport. See my Seattle Travel Guide and Washington State Travel Guide for all things Seattle and Washington State.

Once you have explored Seattle and want to see more of the Pacific Northwest, take a 1-hour flight from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to Portland International Airport. You will love the Portland area. See my Oregon Travel Guide for all things Portland and Oregon State.

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Expand Your Adventure Into Utah

See my Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary.
Coming soon: Top Things to Do in Salt Lake City and Park City.

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