Yellowstone National Park, America’s very first national park, is unlike anywhere else on earth. It’s home to nearly half of the world’s active geysers—yes, half!—and after Death Valley, it’s also the second-largest national park in the contiguous U.S. But Yellowstone isn’t just about size—it’s about raw, unfiltered nature. Think bubbling mud pots, steaming hot springs in surreal colors, epic canyons, and wildlife galore. From bison casually crossing the road to wolves howling in the distance, every day here feels like a scene straight out of a documentary. This guide lays out a perfectly balanced 4 Day Yellowstone Itinerary that hits the park’s iconic landmarks while leaving space for those unexpected moments that make travel truly memorable.

So, Where Exactly Is Yellowstone National Park?

Yellowstone National Park stretches across three U.S. states—Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho—with the majority of the park located in Wyoming. It’s massive, and with five different entrances, getting from one side to the other can take hours. That means choosing your entry point carefully is key to making the most of your time. Keep in mind that some entrances close seasonally due to weather, so be sure to check the National Park Service website before finalizing your 4 Day Yellowstone Itinerary.

How to Get to Yellowstone National Park?

The easiest way to reach Yellowstone is by flying into one of the nearby regional airports and then driving to the park. Some of the closest airports include Cody and Jackson in Wyoming, Bozeman and Billings in Montana, and Idaho Falls in Idaho. For our trip, we flew in and out of Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport in Montana—it was convenient and had great flight options that worked well with our itinerary.

Best Times to Visit Yellowstone National Park

The best time to visit Yellowstone really depends on what kind of experience you’re after—whether it’s solitude, wildlife watching, or long sunny days on the trails. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect each season when planning your 4 Day Yellowstone Itinerary:

• Winter (Dec–Feb): If you’re looking for solitude and snowy landscapes, this is it. Visitor numbers are low, but most park roads and lodges are closed. Access is limited to guided snowcoach or snowmobile tours.
• Spring (Mar–May): Wildlife starts to reappear, and while some roads begin opening in April, full access usually isn’t available until Memorial Day weekend. Crowds are moderate, and conditions can still be a bit unpredictable.
• Summer (Jun–Aug): This is Yellowstone’s peak season—expect warm weather, fully open roads, and lots of fellow visitors. It’s a great time for families and first-timers, but be prepared for crowds, especially at major sights.
• Fall (Sep–Nov): Cooler temps and thinning crowds make early fall a sweet spot for many travelers. By mid-October, though, roads begin to close in preparation for winter.

For our trip, we visited at the end of May over Memorial Day weekend, and it turned out to be a great time. The weather was mild, most roads were open, and while it was busy, it wasn’t overwhelming.

Places to Visit in Yellowstone National Park

If you’re looking for a quick-hit list of Yellowstone’s must-see spots, you’re in the right place. These are the iconic (and some underrated!) stops that we recommend including in your 4 Day Yellowstone Itinerary. For a detailed, day-by-day breakdown and tips from our trip, keep reading the rest of this blog post.

4 day Yellowstone Itinerary: Day 1

Grand Prismatic Spring

Start your Yellowstone adventure with a bang by heading straight to the Grand Prismatic Spring—arguably one of the park’s most stunning and surreal sights. This massive, vividly colored hot spring is the largest in the U.S., measuring about 370 feet (113 meters) across and over 121 feet (37 meters) deep. The colors are otherworldly, and you’ll literally feel the heat rising from the earth beneath you.

Take a stroll along the boardwalk loop that winds around the spring, letting you get up close to its vibrant pools and surrounding geothermal features. If you’re up for a bit of hiking, head to the nearby Grand Prismatic Overlook for an amazing panoramic view of the entire spring from above. It’s a short, 1.6-mile round-trip hike with a moderate incline, but the view is absolutely worth it.

Did You Know?
The vibrant yellow, orange, and brown colors surrounding the hot spring are caused by thermophiles—heat-loving microbes that thrive in the extreme conditions of hot springs. They give the spring its signature rainbow-like hues!

Biscuit Basin

After your hike, head further north to Biscuit Basin, named for its unique geyserite formations that resemble biscuits. As you explore, you’ll come across a variety of fascinating geothermal features, but my personal favorite is Sapphire Pool. This beautiful, deep-blue pool wasn’t always this stunning. Before the 1959 earthquake, it was an active geyser, filled with muddy water. Over the years, however, the water cleared up, revealing the vibrant blue hues we see today—a true natural transformation.

Take some time to wander along the boardwalk, enjoying the stunning views of the pool and nearby geysers. It’s quieter here than other more popular areas, making it a perfect spot to soak in the beauty without the crowds.

Old Faithful Geyser

A visit to Yellowstone wouldn’t be complete without witnessing Old Faithful Geyser—one of the park’s most iconic and reliable attractions. For over 30 years, this famous geyser has erupted approximately every 30 minutes, earning it the nickname “Old Faithful.” Whether you watch the eruption from the dedicated Old Faithful viewing area or stroll along the boardwalks that wind through the Upper Geyser Basin, you’re in for a show.

This area is home to many of Yellowstone’s other geysers, so after you catch Old Faithful in action, take your time to explore the surrounding geothermal wonders. The Upper Geyser Basin is expansive, with plenty of spots to discover, so pace yourself and enjoy the natural beauty at your own speed.

4 day Yellowstone Itinerary: Day 2

West Thumb Geyser

Begin Day 2 by heading to West Thumb Geyser Basin, located on the serene shores of Yellowstone Lake. This basin is unique because its heat source is relatively shallow, sitting just 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) below the surface—quite different from many of Yellowstone’s other geothermal features.

As you explore the area, you’ll come across some fascinating hot springs and geysers, including the striking Abyss Pool, one of the deepest pools in the park. Another highlight is the Fishing Cone, a hot spring right on the lake’s edge. Take your time here to stroll along the boardwalks, soaking in the lake views and the mesmerizing geothermal activity.

Mud Volcano

From West Thumb, continue your journey to Mud Volcano, a unique and somewhat eerie hydrothermal area. The volcanic activity here creates an acidic environment with a limited water supply, giving the area an otherworldly vibe. While exploring, don’t miss the Dragon’s Mouth Hot Spring—a deep cave that releases a constant flow of gas and steam. The sound it creates is reminiscent of a dragon’s growl, making it easy to see how it got its name.

I had to chuckle when a kid nearby was so convinced there was a dragon inside the cave that he actually asked it to come out! 😂 It’s moments like these that make the park even more fun.

Before reaching Mud Volcano, be sure to stop at Fishing Bridge to enjoy the stunning scenery—if you’re lucky, you might even spot a grizzly bear! It’s one of the best wildlife-watching spots in the park.

Hayden Valley

Next, head to Hayden Valley, which sits right in the heart of Yellowstone and is one of the best places for wildlife watching. The valley is home to an impressive variety of animals, including bison, elk, and, if you’re lucky, wolves or bears.

On our way to Hayden Valley, we made a quick stop along the road that runs by the shoreline of Yellowstone Lake—and that’s where we had our first wolf sighting. It was one of those magical moments when everything slows down, and you realize how lucky you are to witness these majestic animals in the wild.

Following that, we encountered numerous bison grazing peacefully in the grasslands. The real highlight, though, was spotting a mother bear with her cub, a truly unforgettable experience. Moments like these make Yellowstone feel like a living, breathing wildlife sanctuary.

Take your time here, as Hayden Valley offers plenty of opportunities for sightings, especially at dawn and dusk when the animals are most active.

4 day Yellowstone Itinerary: Day 3

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River

Start your day with one of Yellowstone’s most iconic and awe-inspiring sights: the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. Head straight to Artist Point, where you’ll get an unforgettable view of the canyon’s vibrant, multi-colored walls. This dramatic landscape was shaped by erosion over thousands of years, creating deep gorges and towering cliffs that are a photographer’s dream.

Throughout the day, visit various viewpoints, including:

• Upper Falls View – A stunning spot to witness the powerful Upper Falls.
• Brink of Upper Falls – Get up close to the roaring waterfall at the base.
• Brink of Lower Falls – An equally impressive view of the Lower Falls.
• Inspiration Point – A panoramic overlook offering sweeping views of the entire canyon.
• Lookout Point – Another breathtaking viewpoint to take in the full scale of this dramatic landscape.

Each of these spots gives you a different perspective of the canyon and the Yellowstone River, and each one is truly majestic, so take your time to soak in the scenery.

Norris Geyser Basin

After exploring the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River, make your way to Norris Geyser Basin, the hottest, oldest, and most dynamic geothermal area in Yellowstone. This basin is a fascinating and ever-changing landscape, known for having recorded the highest temperatures of any thermal area in the park.

As you stroll along the boardwalks, you’ll encounter a variety of geothermal features, including bubbling hot springs and steaming fumaroles. One of the main highlights is Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world. While eruptions are rare, when Steamboat goes off, it’s a spectacular sight to behold!

Take your time to explore the basin and watch the unique geothermal activity unfold around you—each step in this area feels like a glimpse into the planet’s raw, untamed power.

Roaring Mountain

Conclude your day with a visit to Roaring Mountain, a fascinating and significant acidic thermal area in Yellowstone. Known for its numerous fumaroles and steam vents, this spot lives up to its name, as the constant hissing and roaring sounds from the vents create an eerie, almost otherworldly atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot to reflect on the geothermal wonders you’ve experienced throughout the day.

4 day Yellowstone Itinerary: Day 4

Mammoth Hot Springs

Start your final day in Yellowstone by exploring the stunning Mammoth Hot Springs, where vibrant travertine terraces create a unique and otherworldly landscape. As the hot spring water flows over the edges of the terraces, it leaves behind mineral deposits that form these beautiful, intricate formations. The soft, pastel colors of the terraces, along with the steam rising from the pools, make this a must-see area of the park.

Lamar Valley

On your way to Lamar Valley, make quick stops at Tower Falls and Dunraven Pass—both offering breathtaking views of the park’s rugged beauty. Once you reach Lamar Valley, prepare for some of the best wildlife viewing in Yellowstone.

We spent hours here watching herds of bison, grazing peacefully in the valley, and we were lucky enough to spot moose, grizzly bears with three cubs, deer, pronghorns, and even some small red foxes. The valley is teeming with wildlife, making it a prime spot for animal lovers and photographers alike.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring binoculars to get the best views of the animals in the distance. Early mornings or late evenings are the best times for spotting the most wildlife.

Safety Reminder: Always remember to prioritize safety while observing Yellowstone’s wildlife—they are WILD and DANGEROUS. Keep a safe distance, and never approach animals, especially bears and bison. The park’s wildlife may look docile, but they can be unpredictable.

Stargazing

A perfect way to cap off your Yellowstone adventure is with some stargazing. After a full day of exploring, we drove up to a small mountain in Jardine, Montana, and were treated to a stunning, star-filled sky. The lack of light pollution in the area allows the stars to truly shine, creating a breathtaking view of the night sky. It was the perfect way to reflect on the beauty of the park and wrap up our final day.

If you have the time, find a quiet spot away from the park’s main areas and enjoy the tranquility of the night. Yellowstone’s vast, open spaces are ideal for stargazing, offering a clear and unobstructed view of the stars.

Where to Stay in Yellowstone National Park

Here are some lodging suggestions drawn from our own experiences

• Day 0 & 1: Old Faithful Snow Lodge – Stay close to the iconic Old Faithful Geyser, with comfortable accommodations right in the heart of the park. It’s a great spot to rest before and after your first day of exploration.
• Day 2 & 3: Canyon Lodge and Cabins – For the next two nights, we recommend Canyon Lodge and Cabins, located near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. It’s a perfect base for exploring the stunning canyon and surrounding geothermal areas.
• Day 4: Mammoth Hot Springs and Cabins – For the final night, settle into Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel and Cabins, where you can enjoy a peaceful stay while surrounded by the unique geothermal terraces.

Tip: Yellowstone has limited accommodations within the park, so be sure to book your lodging well in advance to secure the best options.

Where to Eat in Yellowstone National Park?

Here are some restaurant recommendations based on our dining experiences during the trip:

• Day 1: Old Faithful Snow Lodge Restaurant & Old Faithful Inn Restaurant – Both of these dining spots offer great meals with the convenience of being close to the iconic Old Faithful geyser. The Old Faithful Snow Lodge Restaurant has a cozy vibe, while the Old Faithful Inn Restaurant offers a historic setting with rustic charm.
• Day 2 & 3: Canyon Lodge Eatery & Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room – While staying near the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, the Canyon Lodge Eatery offers casual and satisfying meals. For a more elegant dining experience, head to the Lake Yellowstone Hotel Dining Room, where you can enjoy fine dining with a beautiful view of the lake.
• Day 4: Wonderland Cafe and Lodge – For your final day, the Wonderland Cafe and Lodge offers a relaxed atmosphere and hearty meals—perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.

Need Help with Exploring Yellowstone?

We explored Yellowstone National Park over the course of four days on our own, but if you prefer a guided experience, there are plenty of tours available to help you get the most out of this incredible destination.

If you’re starting to plan your own Yellowstone adventure, be sure to pin this guide to your Pinterest board. It’s a great way to keep track of travel tips, tour recommendations, and must-see attractions. Pin it now so you can easily return to it whenever you’re ready to plan your ultimate Yellowstone adventure.