So you are coming to Yellowstone! What should we do, you ask?
You may be surprised to know that there is no one answer that fits all visitors.
This page is designed to help you plan your unique spring, summer, or fall Yellowstone experience from your home to the Park. In order to most effectively use the Yellowstone Trip Planner, we recommend you bookmark this page so you can refer to it later.
USING THE YELLOWSTONE VACATION PLANNER
Below you will find the Table of Contents. Simply choose a section from the Table of Contents below and begin. For first-time visitors to Yellowstone, we recommend working your way top to bottom through the Table of Contents.
PART 1: LEARN ABOUT YELLOWSTONE — AN OVERVIEW
Most The first step in planning your vacation is learning enough about Yellowstone to know what you would like to do and see. Read through the information below, following the pages that most interest you.
Introduction to the Park — a basic overview, including rules/regulations
Fast Facts About Yellowstone — put the Park in perspective
Top Ten Sights — as recommended by Yellowstone Net
Photos of Yellowstone — great photographs from various photographers
PART 2: DECIDE WHICH DRIVING ROUTES IS BEST
Most visitors drive to Yellowstone from over 1000 miles away. Knowing the best route to the Park is an important step of planning your vacation, and should be considered before making your lodging and activity reservations.
Get Directions Map — a good starting point
Highways Leading into Yellowstone — which entrance will you use?
Learn about Weather and Road Conditions — helpful information
PART 3: MAKE YOUR LODGING RESERVATIONS
We recommend one of two options when it comes to making your reservations: do your own research and make your own reservations, or work through a travel agent located near Yellowstone. The information below will be helpful regardless of which option you choose.
Learn About Hotels in and Near the Park — photos, descriptions, dates
Inside the Park or Near the Park? Your Choice — compare your options
PART 4: LEARN ABOUT YELLOWSTONE — IN DEPTH
You’ve learned the basics about Yellowstone, established your driving route, and made your lodging reservations. Now it’s time to learn more about Yellowstone.
Dining in Yellowstone — a guide to the Park’s various dining options
The History of Yellowstone — timeline introduction to the Park’s history
Hiking in Yellowstone — a thousand miles of trails awaits you
Camping in Yellowstone — a guide to Yellowstone’s campgrounds
Yellowstone’s Backcountry — camping in the backcountry
Fishing in Yellowstone — great trout fishing awaits you!
Visitor Centers — choose the Visitor Centers you want to visit
PART 5: ONE MONTH BEFORE YOUR TRIP
Your trip to Yellowstone is one month away. There is planning left to do.
Check for Park Road Updates — closings, openings and construction
PART 6: ONE WEEK BEFORE YOUR TRIP
One more week and you’ll be in Yellowstone! Here’s a last week checklist of tasks.
Keep an Eye on Yellowstone’s Weather — it can snow anytime!
Double Check Driving Routes — print out instructions if need be
Have your Automobile Serviced — fluids, tires, brakes, etc.
Pack Appropriate Clothing — remember: it gets cool at night in the Park