Upon arrival in Jackson, check-in at your hotel and take some time to rest and settle in.
Overnight at a hotel in Jackson
After breakfast, Explore the charming town of Jackson, known for its Old West atmosphere and beautiful scenery. Visit the Jackson Town Square, which features unique arches made of elk antlers head to Grand Teton National Park, located just north of Jackson. Explore the stunning natural beauty of the park, including the towering peaks of the Teton Range, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Take a scenic hike along one of the park's many trails, such as the Jenny Lake Trail or the Taggart Lake Loop. In the afternoon, drive from Grand Teton National Park to Yellowstone National Park. Check-in at your accommodation near Yellowstone and spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the surrounding wilderness.
Overnight at a hotel in Yellowstone
Start your day early at the Old Faithful area to watch the geyser erupt, then explore the nearby Upper Geyser Basin with its colorful hot springs and unique geysers. Next, head to the Grand Prismatic Spring and take a short hike to the overlook for a stunning view of its vibrant colors. In the afternoon, visit the Fountain Paint Pot area, where you’ll see bubbling mud pots, hot springs, and geysers. Drive along the scenic Lake Firehole Drive to see more geothermal features like the Great Fountain Geyser. In the evening, head to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Visit the Upper and Lower Falls viewpoints for breathtaking views and take the Brink of the Lower Falls Trail for a closer look. Finish with a hike along the Rim Trail, stop at Artist Point for one last incredible view before heading back to your accommodation.
Today, immerse yourself in the fascinating geothermal and natural wonders of Yellowstone, starting with a visit to Norris Geyser Basin. Known for its dynamic geothermal features, this basin is home to the tallest active geyser in the world, Steamboat Geyser, and a variety of colorful hot springs. Wander along the boardwalks, marveling at the steaming vents, bubbling pools, and striking colors created by heat-loving bacteria. Next, head over to Mammoth Hot Springs, where the unique terraces of white and golden travertine form a dramatic landscape shaped by constantly shifting geothermal activity. Take a leisurely walk along the boardwalks that wind through the terraces, allowing you to see these natural limestone formations up close. Afterward, embark on a scenic drive to Lamar Valley, renowned for its wide-open spaces and abundant wildlife. This is one of the best areas in the park for spotting animals, so keep an eye out for bison, elk, and the elusive wolves and grizzly bears that roam this beautiful valley. If you’re up for some hiking, consider the Mystic Falls Trail or the Yellowstone River Picnic Area Trail—both offer rewarding views and a chance to connect with the park’s natural beauty on foot. As the day draws to a close, return to your accommodation, unwind, and reflect on the incredible sights and experiences that Yellowstone has offered.
Start your morning with a visit to the Norris Geyser Basin, one of the most active geothermal areas in Yellowstone. Wander through the basin's boardwalks and trails to experience a diverse array of geothermal features, from the steaming Porcelain Basin to the sizzling Back Basin. The highlight here is the impressive Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser, capable of erupting up to 300 feet into the air. While eruptions are unpredictable, witnessing even minor eruptions is an unforgettable experience. Continue exploring the area to discover vividly colored hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and steaming fumaroles that showcase Yellowstone’s dynamic volcanic landscape. In the afternoon, take a leisurely drive through Hayden Valley, a beautiful area known for its abundant wildlife. This vast valley is prime territory for spotting grazing herds of bison, elk, and occasionally, grizzly bears and wolves. Pull over at one of the many scenic viewpoints, where you can watch bison roam freely across the plains and see birds like bald eagles and sandhill cranes. Don’t forget your binoculars or camera, as Hayden Valley offers fantastic wildlife photography opportunities against a backdrop of rolling hills and the meandering Yellowstone River. As the day transitions to evening, drive along the shores of Yellowstone Lake, North America’s largest high-elevation lake. The road follows the lake’s western edge, providing stunning views of the vast, shimmering waters framed by snow-capped mountains. Stop at one of the many pullouts along the way to fully appreciate the peaceful beauty of the lake, or if time permits, consider a boat tour for a unique perspective on the lake’s size and natural surroundings. You may also choose to try your hand at fishing from designated areas or simply relax and take in the tranquil scenery. As the sun begins to set, the lake reflects the soft hues of the evening sky, creating a perfect ending to a day filled with Yellowstone’s natural wonders.
After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and begin your journey to Glacier National Park. Enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning landscapes of Montana as you make your way to the park. Arrive at your accommodation near Glacier National Park and take some time to rest and rejuvenate. In the evening, explore the surrounding area or relax at the lodge, preparing for the adventures that await Glacier National Park.
Overnight at a hotel in Glacier National Park
Today, immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Glacier National Park, often celebrated as the "Crown of the Continent." Begin your day by driving along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road, a scenic 50-mile highway that winds through the heart of the park, showcasing stunning vistas of rugged mountains, vast glaciers, and lush alpine meadows. This winding route offers numerous pullouts and viewpoints, allowing you to stop and take in panoramic views, such as the iconic Logan Pass and the striking Weeping Wall. For a more intimate experience of the park’s wilderness, consider joining a guided hike or boat tour, which will bring you closer to the unique flora, fauna, and geological features that define Glacier. Next, make your way to the Many Glaciers area, a region known for its dramatic landscape of crystal-clear lakes, towering peaks, and an abundance of wildlife, including grizzly bears, moose, and mountain goats. Here, you can hike along scenic trails like the Swift current Lake Trail, which offers tranquil lake views framed by mountain backdrops. For a memorable experience on the water, opt for an optional boat trip on one of Glacier's iconic lakes, such as the serene Lake McDonald or the striking Saint Mary Lake, both of which offer pristine waters reflecting the towering cliffs and forests that surround them. As the sun begins to set, the soft light transforms the landscape, enhancing the park's natural beauty and providing a peaceful end to a day filled with adventure. Head back to your accommodation, feeling both inspired and refreshed by the park’s grandeur, and rest for another day in this extraordinarily natural wonder.
On your last day, check out of your accommodation and transfer to the airport, Transfer to Glacier Airport for Flight Home.
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