Family Guide to Yellowstone & Grand Tetons National Parks
This summer, our family vacation was spent exploring two of America’s most iconic national parks: Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons National Park.
We discovered that Grand Teton and Yellowstone are like two incredible neighbors you’ve just got to visit together. They’re literally right next to each other, with just a short drive between them, so it’s super easy to hit both parks in one trip. Visiting them in tandem lets you experience two of the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the U.S., all in one go!
How to Get to Yellowstone
Getting to Yellowstone National Park is an exciting adventure in itself. First, figure out the best route to the park based on your starting location.
If you’re flying, you can book a flight to one of the nearby airports, such as Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport in Montana, Jackson Hole Airport in Wyoming, or Yellowstone Airport in Montana.
Once you land, you can rent a car at the airport. If you’re driving, set your GPS to Yellowstone National Park and choose the entrance that works best for your route.
There are five main entrances: North, South, East, West, and Northeast, with each offering a unique drive through beautiful landscapes.
(Make sure to check road conditions and park entrance hours, as these can vary depending on the season.)
Before you leave, pack all the essentials, including a map, snacks, water, and a camera. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast so you can dress appropriately. As you get closer, follow the signs for Yellowstone National Park, and soon enough, you’ll arrive at one of the park’s entrances, ready to explore geysers, wildlife, and breathtaking views with your family!
How to Enter Yellowstone National Park
To purchase entry tickets for Yellowstone National Park, parents have a few convenient options. You can buy your tickets online in advance through the National Park Service's website, which is recommended during peak seasons to avoid long lines at the entrance.
Choose from several pass options, such as a single-vehicle pass, which covers everyone in your car for seven days, or an annual pass if you plan on visiting multiple times or other national parks.
If you prefer to purchase tickets upon arrival, you can do so at any of the park's entrance stations. Be sure to have your payment ready, as many locations accept both cash and cards.
Additionally, if you have a fourth grader, you may be eligible for a free pass through the "Every Kid Outdoors" program, so don’t forget to check that out! Keep your entry pass visible in your vehicle while in the park, and you're all set to enjoy your Yellowstone adventure with peace of mind.
8 Wonders at Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons National Park
Now that you’ve arrived, what should your family see first? Check out our list of 8 Wonders at Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons National Park!
Yellowstone National Park
Old Faithful
Old Faithful is one of Yellowstone’s most famous attractions—a geyser that shoots boiling water up to 180 feet in the air! It’s called "Old Faithful" because it erupts pretty regularly, about every 90 minutes. To catch an eruption, just head to the Old Faithful area and check the visitor center or park app for the next predicted time. Get there a bit early to grab a good spot and watch the show!
2. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
The Yellowstone Grand Canyon, or the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, is a stunning 20-mile-long canyon in Yellowstone National Park. It was carved by the Yellowstone River and is known for its colorful walls in shades of yellow, red, and orange. The canyon features two impressive waterfalls, the Upper Falls (109 feet) and the Lower Falls (308 feet), which are a must-see. You can enjoy incredible views from several spots, especially Artist Point, which offers a perfect look at the Lower Falls and the canyon’s beauty. It’s a must-visit when you're in the park!
3. The Pristine Pools
The pristine pools at Yellowstone are like nature’s version of a gemstone collection. These hot springs are crystal-clear and come in the most vibrant colors, from deep blues and greens to fiery oranges and yellows. Spots like the Grand Prismatic Spring are just mind-blowing, with their swirling rainbow colors that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. The water is super hot, so no swimming, but they’re amazing to look at and definitely worth a stop while exploring the park!
4. The Mud Volcanoes
The Mud Volcanoes at Yellowstone are super cool and a bit eerie! They're basically hot, bubbling pools of mud that smell like rotten eggs due to the sulfur in the area. The heat from underground mixes with water and turns the earth into this thick, bubbling mud that gurgles and hisses. Some spots even have small, muddy geysers that splatter and pop. It's a unique part of Yellowstone where you can really see the park’s geothermal power in action!
5. Wildlife Sightings
Yellowstone is a wildlife wonderland, and there are a few spots that are especially great for animal sightings. Lamar Valley, often called the "Serengeti of North America," is your best bet for spotting wolves, bison, and bears, especially early in the morning or around sunset. Hayden Valley is another prime spot, where you can catch sight of bison, elk, and sometimes even grizzly bears. Around the park’s rivers and lakes, like Yellowstone Lake and the Madison River, you might see moose, otters, and a variety of birds. Just remember to keep your distance and bring binoculars for the best views!
The Grand Tetons
6. Colter Bay
Colter Bay is a chill spot in Grand Teton National Park, right on the shores of Jackson Lake. It's a perfect base for outdoor adventures, with easy access to hiking trails, kayaking, and swimming in the lake. The bay has a marina, a horse ranch for horseback riding, and a campground with some cozy cabins if you want to stay overnight. Plus, the views of the Tetons across the water are absolutely stunning, making it a great place to relax and soak in the scenery!
7. Lakes
The lakes in Grand Teton National Park are absolutely gorgeous and give you that perfect mix of calm and adventure. Jackson Lake is the biggest, great for kayaking, boating, or just chilling by the shore with those jaw-dropping mountain views. Then there’s Jenny Lake, which is super popular for hiking around or taking a boat across to hit some cool trails. String Lake and Leigh Lake are quieter spots where you can paddle around or have a peaceful picnic. Each lake has its own vibe, but they’re all surrounded by the stunning Teton peaks, making every moment picture-perfect!
8. Mormon Row
Mormon Row in Grand Teton National Park is a super photogenic spot where you’ll find a few historic barns and old homesteads set against the backdrop of the Teton mountains. These buildings were part of a small community of Mormon settlers back in the late 1800s. The most famous barn, known as the Moulton Barn, is probably one of the most photographed barns in the world, thanks to the amazing mountain views behind it. It’s a cool place to stop, snap some photos, and imagine what life was like out here in the wild west!
The Perfect Family Adventure at Yellowstone and Grand Tetons
If you’re looking for the ultimate family adventure, Yellowstone is where it’s at! It’s packed with natural wonders that’ll wow both kids and adults—think geysers shooting high into the sky, colorful hot springs, and tons of wildlife. Plus, with so many trails, lakes, and scenic spots, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into hiking, picnicking, or just soaking in the views. It’s the kind of place where you can create unforgettable memories together, so pack up the family and get ready for an epic trip to Yellowstone!
