Embarking on a Yellowstone adventure is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also feel a little overwhelming. With 2.2 million acres of wilderness, hundreds of miles of road, and more geysers than anywhere else on Earth, it’s hard to know where to begin. Add in unpredictable wildlife sightings, shifting weather, and crowds at the big-name spots, and suddenly you're asking: Can I really do this in three days?

Good news: Yes, you can.

While you won’t see everything (unless you’ve cracked the space-time continuum), you can absolutely hit the highlights, soak in the scenery, and walk away with a sense of what Yellowston'es all about—and you can do it all in just three days. The trick? Smart planning, a little flexibility, and knowing which spots are truly worth your time.

From steamy basins and thundering waterfalls to bison jams and backroad gems, this 3-day Yellowstone itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your visit without feeling overly rushed. We’ve balanced the must-sees with a few quieter moments, and we’ll even let you in on some insider tips along the way.

Ready to explore? Let’s dive in.

About This Yellowstone 3-Day Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on the major park highlights, including:

• Grand Prismatic Spring
• Old Faithful
• Mammoth Hot Springs
• Norris Geyser Basin
• Lamar Valley
• and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

To add more days and activities to this itinerary, check out our one-week Yellowstone Itinerary.

In addition to stops, we'll also cover:

When to Visit

How to Get There

Where to Stay

What to Bring

and How to Stay Safe

Best Time to Visit Yellowstone National Park

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Yellowstone National Park offers a completely different experience with each season—each one magical in its own way.

Summer brings long, sunny days, active wildlife, and full access to roads, lodges, and amenities. It’s the most popular time to visit—and the busiest—so expect crowds at top sights.

Fall is Yellowstone in golden tones. Elk are bugling, trees are turning, and the pace begins to slow. You’ll still enjoy many of the same highlights as summer, but with fewer people and cooler temps.

Spring is a season of renewal. Bison calves wobble across meadows, waterfalls roar with snowmelt, and wildflowers start to bloom. Like fall, it offers a quieter alternative to peak season—though some roads and facilities may still be opening up.

Winter transforms the park into a snow-covered wonderland. While most roads close to regular traffic, guided snowcoach and snowmobile tours offer access to select areas. If you’re craving solitude and don’t mind the chill, Yellowstone in winter can be quite magical.

How to Get to Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is surprisingly accessible, with several airports located within a 1.5 to 3-hour drive of the park. To make the most of your visit, it helps to plan your arrival around which entrance you’ll use first—especially since each one offers a different vibe and nearby attractions.

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best airport based on your Yellowstone game plan:

Yellowstone’s North Entrance-

Near: Mammoth Hot Springs; Fort Yellowstone

• Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport: Bozeman, MT 

1 ½ hours from Yellowstone (88 miles)

Pros: Great for wildlife watchers.

Yellowstone’s West Entrance-

Near: Grand Prismatic Spring; Old Faithful

• West Yellowstone Airport: West Yellowstone, MT

 7 minutes from Yellowstone (3.2 miles)

• Idaho Falls Regional Airport: Idaho Falls, ID

1 hr 50 min (109 miles)

Pros: More car rentals, restaurants, and flight availability (West Yellowstone Airport)

Yellowstone’s Northeast Entrance-

Near: Lamar Valley; Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

• Billings International Airport, Billings, MT

2 hrs 59 min (154 miles)

Pros: Scenic Beartooth Highway access, wildlife viewing, and backcountry adventures

Yellowstone’s East Entrance-

Near: Yellowstone Lake; West Thumb Geyser Basin

• Yellowstone Regional Airport, Cody, WY

1 hr 5 min (55 miles)

Pros: Small-town charm and convenient access from Cody

Yellowstone’s South Entrance-

Near: Lewis Lake; West Thumb Geyser Basin; Old Faithful; Grand Teton National Park

• Jackson Hole Airport, Jackson Hole, WY

1 hr 5 min (49.3 miles)

Pros: Great for visitors planning to explore both Yellowstone and Grand Teton

Where to Stay in Yellowstone

Lodging Inside the Park

There are plenty of places to stay inside Yellowstone National Park, but they often fill up several months to a year in advance.

If you can, try to book these at least 6 months in advance.

North Entrance

• Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins: U.S. 89, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

(307) 344-7311

Northeast Entrance

• Roosevelt Lodge: 100 Roosevelt Lodge Road, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

 (307) 344-7311

• Canyon Lodge and Cabins: 41 Clover Lane, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190 

 (307) 344-7311

West Entrance

• Old Faithful Inn: 300 Old Faithful Inn Road, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

(307) 344-7311

• Old Faithful Snow Lodge and Cabins: 2051 Snow Lodge Avenue, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

(307) 344-7311

East Entrance

• Lake Yellowstone Hotel and Cabins: 235 Lake Yellowstone Drive, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

(307) 344-7311

South Entrance

• Grant Village: 24 Rainbow Loop, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190

(307) 344-7311

Lodging Outside the Park

There are so many places to stay near Yellowstone that it would be impossible to list them all.

To help you get started, here are some locally-owned and highly-rated hotels and lodges located near each park entrance.

For more detailed suggestions, check out our Know-Before-You-Go guide.

West Yellowstone, MT (Yellowstone West Entrance)

• 1872 Inn- This adult-exclusive boutique inn offers a premium personalized experience.
• Three Bear Lodge- Three Bear Lodge is a hotel with rustic charm and modern amenities.
• Brandin' Iron Inn- A family-owned inn with a Western theme.
• Kelly Inn West Yellowstone- This hotel is conveniently located near the entrance to Yellowstone National Park.
• Gray Wolf Inn and Suites- While part of a small regional chain, this hotel has a local touch and is family-operated.
• Stage Coach Inn- This historic hotel recently celebrated its 75th anniversary.

Cody, WY (Yellowstone East Entrance)

• The Cody Hotel- This boutique hotel in Cody is known for its Western hospitality.
• Cody Cowboy Village- A lodge with a Western theme and comfortable cabins.
• The Irma Hotel- The Irma Hotel is a historic hotel in Cody, Wyoming with strong ties to the local community.
• K3 Guest Ranch Bed & Breakfast- A ranch-style bed and breakfast providing a unique Western experience.
• Cody Legacy Inn & Suites-  A welcoming, western-themed hotel in the heart of Cody.

Wapiti, WY (Yellowstone East Entrance)

• Wapiti Lodge- A family-owned lodge with a scenic location along the Shoshone River.
• Green Creek Inn and RV Park- A newly remodeled motel with mountain views and RV sites.
• Pahaska Tepee Resort- Located just outside of Wapiti, this historic lodge was originally built by Buffalo Bill Cody.

Jackson Hole, WY (Yellowstone South Entrance)

• The Wort Hotel- A historic boutique hotel located in downtown Jackson, known for its Western charm and hospitality. 
• Rustic Inn Creekside Resort and Spa- This resort offers rustic elegance and a beautiful creekside setting.
• Cowboy Village Resort- A resort with log cabins, offering a Western-style stay.
• The Alpine House Lodge & Cottages- A charming bed and breakfast with cozy cottages.
• Anvil Hotel- A boutique hotel located in downtown Jackson with a focus on modern comfort and style.
• Hotel Jackson- A luxury boutique hotel with a strong commitment to local sustainability.
• Elk Country Inn- A locally owned and operated inn offering comfortable accommodations in a picturesque setting.
• The Lodge at Jackson Hole- This lodge is known for its cozy ambiance and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Gardiner, MT (Yellowstone North Entrance)

• Yellowstone Basin Inn- A locally owned and operated bed and breakfast offering scenic views of the surrounding mountains and a peaceful atmosphere.
• Absaroka Lodge- A family-owned lodge with a rustic charm and proximity to the Yellowstone River.
• North Yellowstone Lodge & Hostel- A locally owned lodge and hostel that offers both private and shared accommodations.

Cooke City, MT (Yellowstone Northeast Entrance)

• Alpine Motel- A locally owned and operated motel offering comfortable accommodations and a convenient location.
• High Country Motel and Cabins- A family-owned motel with cozy cabins and a mountain atmosphere.
• Skyline Guest Ranch- This rustic ranch offers many guided tours and adventures.
• Soda Butte Lodge- A locally owned and operated lodge with a focus on outdoor adventures and hospitality.
• Elk Horn Lodge- A cozy, family-owned lodge with a friendly atmosphere and proximity to the natural beauty of the area.

3 Days, Countless Wonders

Yellowstone Day 1

Major Stops: Prismatic Springs and Old Faithful

1. Begin the Tour From Outside West Yellowstone

Just minutes outside of the town of West Yellowstone, your Yellowstone adventure begins.

Whether you’re coming in from WYS Airport or off the Targhee Pass Highway, Shaka Guide will help you get acclimated with some quick tour instructions.

2. See Scenic West Yellowstone

Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 1 hour

Start your adventure by driving along the crystal-clear Madison River.

As one of the best rivers in the nation for fly fishing, it holds the honorable distinction of being a Blue Ribbon Fishery.

The drive down and back will take about an hour, but you will need about two hours to enjoy all of the stops.

3. Explore Fountain Paint Pots 

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Approximate Time: 30 minutes

As you drive to Fountain Paint Pots, you’ll pass a few roadside hot springs, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled.

You’ll definitely want to make time to walk the 0.6-mile Fountain Paint Pots boardwalk trail.

There are several lesser-known geysers and hot springs here, such as Celestone Pool and Spasm Geyser.

4. Meander through Midway Geyser Basin (and optional hike)

Image from Flickr by Yellowstone National Park

Approximate Time: 1-4 hours

The Midway Geyser Basin may just end up being your favorite stop in the park.

Along the short boardwalk trail that encircles the gigantic, 370' Grand Prismatic Spring, you'll also witness a number of other smaller hot springs. 

If you have time, be sure to pull into Fairy Falls Trailhead and take the 0.6-mile one-way hike to Grand Prismatic Overlook.

If you’re feeling adventurous, this trail continues for another 1 mile each way to Fairy Falls, one of the park’s most spectacular waterfalls.

5. Black Sand Basin

Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 30 minutes

Named for its rare obsidian black sand, Black Sand Basin has some of the most colorful but overlooked hot springs in the park.

Be sure to see the Emerald Pool, Opalescent Pool, and Sunset Lake along this short, half-mile boardwalk.

6. Say Hello to Old Faithful

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Approximate Time: 1-3 hours

It’s not a trip to Yellowstone without visiting the iconic and reliable Old Faithful.

The big geyser itself erupts about every 60–110 minutes, but if you get there early, don’t fret.

There’s lots to see and do nearby, including checking out the Visitor Center, the Tribal Heritage Center, or the surrounding hydrothermal features along the Geyser Loop Trail.

If you need a snack, coffee, or restroom break, be sure to stop by the historic Old Faithful Lodge. That’s also where you’ll find the gift shop.

7. Return to West Yellowstone

Approximate Time: 40 minutes

It’s probably time to head back towards Madison Junction and the West Entrance.

If you have some more time and energy to spare, feel free to stop at any of the stops you passed along the way such as:

• Firehole Canyon Road
• Talus Mountain
• the Two-Ribbons Trail
• or Fountain Flats Drive

Yellowstone Day 2

Major Stops: Mammoth Hot Springs and Norris Geyser Basin

1. Begin Your Drive To the North of Yellowstone

Approximate Time: 1 hour

Just as before, you’ll drive through the west entrance, but this time, you’ll head north at Mammoth Junction.

The drive to Gardiner will be full of hot springs, pine forests, and no shortage of exciting stops.

2. Gibbon Picnic Area and Falls

Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 20 minutes

Want to enjoy the music of the Gibbon River while having lunch? Swing by the Gibbon Picnic Area!

After you’re done, it’s less than a half-mile drive to Gibbon Falls, named for early Yellowstone explorer Colonel Gibbon.

3. Beryl Spring

Image from Flickr by Penny Higgins

Approximate Time: 10 minutes

This is one of the most radiant hot springs in the park, with a striking blue color like that of a beryl stone.

It’s just on the side of the road, so it’s more than worth the stop.

4. Critique the Artist’s Paint Pots

Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 45 minutes

Artists’ Paintpots 0.6-mile boardwalk begins in pine woods and emerges into a basin full of colorful mud pots.

It's one of Shaka's top spots for avoiding the crowds while enjoying the park's unique, bubbly, gurgly hydrothermal.

5. Norris Geyser Basin

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Approximate Time: 1-2 hours

You’re not “geysered out” yet, are you? Because there is one more major basin to see before you head on up to Mammoth Hot Springs.

The Norris Geyser Basin is Yellowstone’s hottest and oldest geyser basin, featuring the tallest geyser in the world!

You won’t want to miss this 2.9-mile looping boardwalk trail. 

6. Hear the Roaring Mountain

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Approximate Time: 15 minutes

You’ve seen them, you’ve smelled them. Now, let’s hear them.

Roaring Mountain is pocked with fumaroles, super-hot chasms that “roar” and hiss with steam.

The ash-gray color of this mountain is caused by sulfur-reducing bacteria that dissolve the lava stone over time.

7. Obsidian Cliff and Exhibit 

Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 15 minutes

Because of some extra-handsy tourists (shame!), you aren’t allowed to walk directly to the Obsidian Cliff.

But, we’ll get a great view as you drive past, and then we’ll stop off at the exhibit.

Then, take a short 5-minute walk to get another view of the cliff, black glass shining and shimmering in the sun.

8. Sheepeater Cliff (with optional hike)

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Approximate Time: 30 minutes-2 hours

Pull in to see Sheepeater Cliff, a geometric basaltic wall that was named for the Sheepeater people, one of the few Native American tribes to live in Yellowstone year-round.

These hexagonal columns formed naturally over 1.3 million years ago and cooled into the unique shape you see today.

Its short, 1-mile there-and hike leads to a second basalt cliff and then the chutes of the Gardner River. 

9. Drive the Upper Terrace

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Approximate Time: 20 minutes

It’s the moment we’ve been waiting for—Mammoth Hot Springs! Some big highlights on this 1.5-mile drive are:

• the Orange Spring Mound
• Angel Terrace
• and Aphrodite Terrace

You won’t want to miss this iconic drive around Yellowstone’s white travertine terraces.

10. Walk the Lower Terrace

Image from Flickr by Bernt Rostad

Approximate Time: 1 hour

Now that you’ve explored the Upper Terrace, it’s time to check out the Lower Terrace.

Those instantly recognizable photos of snow-white terraces you see online? Most of those happened down here.

Minerva Terrace, Jupiter Terrace, and all of these park icons are sure to enchant you.

If you have time, I suggest you walk the entire 2.2-mile boardwalk.

Don’t forget to stop by Liberty Cap before heading out!

11. Check out Mammoth Village

Image from Flickr by Ken Lund

Approximate Time: 1 hour

If you’re here before about 4 p.m., consider checking out Mammoth Village. There’s the:

• Historical Fort Yellowstone
• the Albright Visitor Center
• and the Mammoth General Store

If you’re hungry, consider stopping by the Mammoth Dining Room.

12. Return to West Yellowstone

Approximate Time: 40 minutes

If you have time, you might want to stop at any of these attractions we skipped:

• Rustic Falls
• Terrace Spring
• Tuff Cliff
• Hoodoos Circle
• Bunsen Peak Trail
• Apollinaris Spring
• Nymph Lake
• Frying Pan Spring
• the Museum of the National Park Ranger
• and Chocolate Spring

Yellowstone Day 3

1. Head Down Norris Canyon Road

Approximate Time: 35 minutes

Turn left at the Canyon Village intersection to drive the final stretch of Yellowstone you have yet to see.

Norris Canyon Road takes you through thick Lodgepole pine forests and bear country to the west entrance.

2. Take a Diversion By the Virginia Cascades

Image by Rachel Ennis

Approximate Time: 15 minutes

This is a scenic, high, and narrow one-way road that leads to the Virginia Cascades, the 60-foot roaring falls of the Gibbon River.

There are two overlooks on this road to let you admire the falls from outside the car.

3. Explore the North Rim

Approximate Time: 1 hour

Your epic Grand Canyon adventure begins with a turn right onto North Rim Drive.

The Brink of the Lower Falls has one scenic stop after another, including:

• the Brink of the Lower Falls
• Lookout Point
• Grand View
• and Inspiration Point

Most of these lookouts are roadside or accessed by a short walk. Be sure to stop by every point on your way up.

If you have time, check out these optional hikes as well:

4. Get Refreshed in Grand Canyon Village

Approximate Time: 1 hour

Canyon Village has a restaurant, a lodge, several shops, and a visitor center.

If you do nothing else, be sure to stop by the visitor center—the displays, including one lit diorama of Yellowstone, are informative.

They really help to visualize complex geological processes like the formation of the canyon and caldera.

5. Brink of the Upper Falls

Image from Unsplash by Miles Farnsworth

Approximate Time: 20 minutes

After you circle around, turn right just past the North Rim Drive to get one final look at the Upper Falls.

This viewpoint, right at the brink of the falls, is one of the best in the park.

You’ll need to walk just over a quarter mile on an easy trail to enjoy its viewing platform.

6. Head Down the South Rim

Approximate Time: 1 hour

This drive leads to two more fantastic canyon viewpoints—the Upper Falls View and Artist Point—along with some optional hikes.

I recommend Uncle Tom’s Trail. Take one last look at this geological wonder: the eras of rock carved through by the Yellowstone River's awesome power are truly breathtaking.

7. Uncle Tom’s Trail (optional hike)

Approximate Time: 1 hour

There used to be a series of thrilling rope bridges that connected this historic trail. No fear now.

To reach its viewing platform, hugging the side of the canyon, you’ll just need to take the 300 stairs down. And then…up.

8. Overlook the Tower Falls

Image from Flickr by Zechariah Judy

Approximate Time: 30 minutes- 1 hour

Tower Falls has a general store and, as you may have guessed, a waterfall.

A short boardwalk leads to several breathtaking overlooks of the plunging 132-foot falls.

There is also a one-mile there-and-back trail that leads to the river and past a few bubbling cauldrons.

9. Take in the Sights at Lamar Valley

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Approximate Time: 40 minutes

As you drive through this wildlife mecca, keep on the lookout for bison, bears, antelope, foxes, and all of the wildlife that frequents the area.

Your tour will point out glacial erratic boulders and notable Absaroka mountain peaks, and, as always, you’ll hear several exciting stories about the area and its history.

Writer's Tip: Personally, this was my favorite part of the park. There's fewer crowds, and way more wildlife. If that sounds like something you'd be interested in, know that you can easily spend a day or two exploring the trails of Lamar Valley alone.

10. Head Back to West Yellowstone

Approximate Time: 1:30

It’s a long, final drive back. If you have extra time, stop by some of the stops we skipped:

• Washburn Hot Springs
• Silver Chords Cascades
• Chittenden Road
• Calcite Spring
• Petrified Forest Trail
• and Ice Lake Trailhead

Map of the 3-Day Itinerary in Yellowstone National Park

Things To Pack

• Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Yellowstone's weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers, including a waterproof jacket, regardless of the season.
• Comfortable Footwear: Sturdy and comfortable hiking boots or shoes for exploring the park's trails.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against sunburn.
• Insect Repellent: This is especially important during the summer months when mosquitoes and other insects can be active.
• Water and Reusable Bottle: Stay hydrated by carrying a refillable water bottle and drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Snacks and Food: Pack snacks and a picnic lunch, as dining options within the park can be limited, especially in remote areas.
• Bear Spray: If you plan on hiking in bear country, carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it is crucial for safety.
• Binoculars and Camera: Yellowstone offers excellent wildlife viewing, so bring binoculars and a camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
• Backpack: A small daypack to carry your essentials, including water, snacks, and extra layers.
• First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit with essentials like bandages, pain relievers, and any necessary personal medications.
• Personal Identification and Park Pass: Carry your ID, and if you have a National Park Pass, make sure it's with you.
• Cash: Some places within the park may not accept credit cards, so having some cash on hand can be helpful.
• Garbage Bags: Pack out all your trash to help keep the park clean and protect its wildlife.
• Camping Gear (if applicable): If you're camping in the park, bring your camping equipment, including a tent, sleeping bag, and camping stove.
• Hiking Essentials: For longer hikes, bring a map, compass or GPS, trekking poles, and a whistle for safety.
• Cell Phone and Charger: You can’t take your Shaka Guide tour without them!

Staying Safe in Yellowstone

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Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places in the U.S. to see wildlife in their natural habitat—but with that beauty comes responsibility. Here’s how to enjoy the park safely and respectfully:

Wildlife Safety

• Do not approach, feed, or harass wildlife—no matter how calm they seem.
• Always maintain a safe distance: at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from all other animals.
• Use binoculars or a zoom lens for a close-up view.

Geothermal Area Caution

• Yellowstone’s geysers, hot springs, and mud pots may look inviting, but they can be dangerously hot and the ground around them is often fragile and unstable.
• Stay on marked trails and boardwalks at all times.
• Keep a close watch on children—there are no guardrails in many spots.

Pets in the Park

• Dogs are not allowed on hiking trails, boardwalks, or in the backcountry.
• They’re allowed in developed areas, campgrounds, and parking lots, but must remain on a leash at all times.
• For up-to-date pet regulations, visit the NPS website before your visit.

Leave No Trace

• Do not take, mar, or damage anything in the park—whether it’s a wildflower, a rock, or a piece of history.
• Follow Leave No Trace principles to help protect these landscapes for the next generation.

For more information, check out Shaka Guide’s Know-Before-You-Go guide.

Explore with Shaka Guide

Shaka Guide’s Yellowstone National Park Tour features over 100 stops in the park. Access Yellowstone from any of the park’s entrances and the app with guide you along easy-to-navigate routes with stories and music as you explore.

Meet the Writer:

Rachel Ennis is a storyteller, nature nerd, and park enthusiast who believes every trail has a tale. When she first visited Yellowstone, she was captivated by the steaming geysers, thundering waterfalls, and wild, wide-open spaces. Now, she’s on a mission to share the stories that live in the land—and the places that make us feel small in the best way.

We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.

For more detailed information to help you plan, check out our Yellowstone National Park Itinerary and Know Before You Go article.

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