Yellowstone Grand Loop Road Itinerary
The Yellowstone Grand Loop Road is a 249 km journey that starts and ends in Grant Village, United States. Along the route, you will pass through the Old Faithful Visitor Center, Madison Junction, Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Junction, and Canyon Village. Each of these locations has its own unique attractions that you can take in.
The best time of the year to take the road trip is during the summer months. You will be able to take in the stunning landscapes and nature along the route. The roads are generally in excellent condition, though there may be some parts that are narrow and curvy. Additionally, some sections may be closed off due to seasonal weather conditions.
This road trip offers an unparalleled experience that will stay with you for a long time. It is suitable for all drivers and can be managed within a reasonable budget.
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number of days
249 km
route length
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START
Grant Village
Distance 249 km
Driving time 4.4 h
Pace: modest
64.8 kWh
Airports
WYS
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JAC
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Grant Village in United States is the perfect starting point for your road trip of the renowned Yellowstone Grand Loop Road. As the largest of all the six lodging complexes in Yellowstone National Park, Grant Village offers a wide array of amenities and services to make your journey a memorable one. You can stay in cozy lodges, cabins, and campsites, and enjoy the best of Yellowstone.
If you’re visiting by air, the closest international airport to Grant Village is Jackson Hole Airport (JAC). Car rentals are also available at the airport, making it easier for you to explore Grant Village and the surrounding area.
Grant Village is home to some of the most spectacular views in the park. From the majestic Lewis Lake and the serene Yellowstone Lake, to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and the magnificent Upper and Lower Falls, you’re sure to be mesmerized by the beauty of this stunning landscape. You can also take a walk along the Firehole River and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
For a unique experience, you can take a guided tour of the historic Fort Yellowstone, or explore the many trails that meander through the area. You can also visit the Old Faithful Geyser, the most famous geyser in the world, or take a boat ride on Yellowstone Lake.
From its breathtaking views to its many attractions, Grant Village is the perfect starting point for your Yellowstone Grand Loop Road trip. With its beautiful landscapes and range of amenities, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
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Grant Village
- Old Faithful Visitor Center
Distance 35 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: modest
9.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Grant Village to Old Faithful Visitor Center road trip! This 22 mile journey will take you less than an hour and will feature some of the most stunning scenery in the area. As you travel, be sure to take in the picturesque views of the rolling hills, lush forests, and crystal-clear lakes. Some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, so please check ahead of time. This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Grant Village and Old Faithful Visitor Center offer a variety of activities for all ages. In Grant Village, be sure to visit the Grant Village Visitor Center for information about the park and the surrounding area. Old Faithful Visitor Center is home to the iconic Old Faithful Geyser, as well as a variety of other geysers, hot springs, and wildlife. Enjoy your journey and make sure to take lots of pictures!
Old Faithful Visitor Center - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pixabay
Old Faithful Visitor Center - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - CMS-media-panel
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2
Old Faithful Visitor Center
- Madison Junction
Distance 34 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: modest
8.8 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you looking for an exciting road trip? Then you should take a drive from the Old Faithful Visitor Center to Madison Junction. This 21-mile journey takes less than an hour and is filled with breathtaking scenery. As you drive, keep an eye out for the geyser basins, waterfalls, and other natural wonders. Some sections of the road may be closed seasonally, so make sure to check the conditions before you leave. Along the way, you'll pass by the beautiful Madison River, and you can make a stop at the Madison Campground to take in the views. At Madison Junction, you can explore the historic buildings and take a stroll along the boardwalk. Be sure to take lots of photos and make some great memories! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage.
Madison Junction - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pixabay
Madison Junction - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pixabay
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3
Madison Junction
- Mammoth Hot Springs
Distance 55 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: modest
14.4 kWh
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Are you looking for an exciting road trip from Madison Junction to Mammoth Hot Springs? This 34-mile drive will take you less than an hour and will offer plenty of scenic views along the way. Be aware that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, and the road is very winding in some sections. On this trip, you will be able to explore some of the most interesting places, such as the Madison Valley, the Madison River, and the Madison Canyon. You can also take a tour of the Mammoth Hot Springs, which is one of the most spectacular thermal features in Yellowstone National Park. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Mammoth Hot Springs - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pixabay
Mammoth Hot Springs - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pixabay
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4
Mammoth Hot Springs
- Tower Junction
Distance 29 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: modest
7.6 kWh
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Embark on an 18 mi road trip from Mammoth Hot Springs to Tower Junction and experience the best of the Yellowstone National Park. Start by visiting the geothermal features of Mammoth Hot Springs, including the terraces and the travertine formations. Then, drive along the Grand Loop Road and admire the scenic views of the Lamar Valley, before reaching Tower Junction. On the way, make sure to explore the Norris Geyser Basin, the largest and hottest geyser basin in the park, and the Obsidian Cliff, a unique obsidian lava flow. Some sections of the route may be closed seasonally, so make sure to check the road conditions before you start your trip. At the end of your journey, you will reach Tower Junction, where you can explore the petrified trees and the Roosevelt Lodge. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Tower Junction - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pixabay
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5
Tower Junction
- Canyon Village
Distance 29 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
7.7 kWh
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Embark on an exciting adventure and discover the beauty of Tower Junction and Canyon Village! This 18mi journey will take you less than an hour, but be sure to take your time and enjoy the scenic road. As you drive, be aware that some sections may be closed seasonally, and some sections may be winding and narrow. Along the way, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views of Tower Junction and Canyon Village. Be sure to take plenty of pictures! When you arrive in Canyon Village, you can explore the area and find out more about the history and culture of the area. You can also search for restaurants, accommodation options, and campsites. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the “Itinerary” section of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Canyon Village - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pixabay
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Canyon Village
- Lake Village
Distance 27 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
7.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Canyon Village - Lake Village road trip! This scenic 17mi route will take you less than an hour to complete and is sure to be a memorable experience. Along the way, you'll be treated to picturesque landscapes and a winding road that will take you through the majestic beauty of this region. Be sure to keep an eye out for some of the seasonal closures that may be in effect on certain sections of the route. Once you arrive in Lake Village, you'll be able to explore the area further and find accommodation, restaurants, and campsites. Don't forget to check out the "Itinerary" for this stage for more information about attractions and other points of interest. Enjoy your journey!
Lake Village - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pixabay
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7
Lake Village
- Grant Village
Distance 40 km
Driving time 0.7 h
Pace: fast
11.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for a road trip from Lake Village to Grant Village? This 25 mile journey offers a stunning view of the countryside and takes less than an hour to complete. During the drive, you will be able to take in the beauty of the landscape and enjoy the winding roads. Please be aware that some sections of the route may be closed seasonally and that the road may be narrow in some sections. So be sure to pay attention to the road while taking in the scenery. On your way, you will be able to stop and explore both Lake Village and Grant Village. In Lake Village, you can visit the historic museum, or go for a walk in the botanical gardens. In Grant Village, you can explore the local shops, or take a stroll along the lake. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please see the “Itinerary” of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Grant Village - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pixabay
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Grant Village
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Grant Village is the perfect ending point for your Yellowstone Grand Loop Road trip. Located in the southwest corner of Yellowstone National Park, Grant Village offers visitors a variety of activities to explore the natural beauty of the park. From hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter to fishing, boating and kayaking in the summer, Grant Village is a great place to explore and relax.
The Grant Visitor Center is a great place to start your explorations. Here you can pick up maps and get information about the park's history, geology and wildlife. After that, you can explore the Grant Village area and see the many lakes, rivers and other natural features. Boating, fishing, and kayaking are all popular activities on Grant Lake and the surrounding area. For those who are more adventurous, there are numerous trails to explore on foot or on bike.
If you're looking for a little more creature comforts, Grant Village also offers some unique accommodations. From rustic cabins to modern hotel rooms, there's something for everyone. In addition, you can find plenty of restaurants and stores in the village, making it a great place to spend the night.
For those coming from abroad, the closest international airport is the Yellowstone Airport in Cody, Wyoming (COD). From there, it's just a short drive to the Grant Village area of Yellowstone National Park.
So if you're looking for a great way to end your Yellowstone Grand Loop Road trip, Grant Village is the perfect destination. From fishing, hiking and boating to restaurants, stores and accommodations, Grant Village has something for everyone.
Grant Village - United States - North America - Scenic Drive - pixabay
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Yellowstone Grand Loop Road at a glance
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Start:
Grant Village
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End:
Grant Village
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Distance:
249 km
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Stay:
2 days
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Getting there:
Yellowstone Airport (WYS),
Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Yellowstone Grand Loop Road is an iconic 249 km (154 miles) circular route within Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, USA. This thoroughfare traces a figure-eight pattern and serves as the main method of accessing the park's major features. Beginning and ending at Grant Village, the Road winds through a diverse array of ecosystems and geological formations that are unique to Yellowstone, the world's first national park.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Old Faithful Visitor Education Center: Not only can you witness the predictable eruptions of the world-famous Old Faithful geyser, but you can also learn about geothermal features through interactive exhibits.
- Madison Junction: This area offers serene landscapes for wildlife watching, where elk and bison are commonly seen, and is also a popular starting point for fly fishing enthusiasts in the nearby rivers.
- Mammoth Hot Springs: Marvel at the complex terraced hot springs, which are a stunning example of hydrothermal activity, with water bubbling up through limestone to create this natural wonder.
- Tower-Roosevelt Area: Here you'll find the dramatic Tower Fall, and the area is known as a habitat for Yellowstone's iconic wildlife, including bears and wolves, which may be observed in their natural environment.
- Canyon Village: This is the gateway to Yellowstone's Grand Canyon, where you can take in the awe-inspiring vistas of the canyon's colorful walls and the thunderous Lower Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the U.S. at 308 feet (94 meters).
Best Time to Go:
The prime time for exploring the Grand Loop Road is from late spring to early fall (May to October), with July and August being the peak tourist months. During this period, all the park's facilities and Roads are typically open, and the weather is most favorable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Potential Risks:
- The mountainous terrain means some sections of the Road are narrow and winding, requiring careful driving.
- Sudden changes in weather, particularly in spring and fall, can result in temporary Road closures.
- Encounters with wildlife crossing or wandering onto Roadways can create dangerous situations if not approached with caution.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
Yellowstone's Grand Loop Road traverses one of the world's largest active volcanic systems, and the park sits atop a massive caldera. There are over 10,000 hydrothermal features along the route, including geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. Accommodations and dining in Yellowstone range from campgrounds and picnic areas to full-service hotels and restaurants, catering to a variety of travel budgets. The park's Road system is designed to have pullouts and parking areas that allow travelers to stop safely for wildlife viewing and photography.
A good choice for:
Traversing the Yellowstone Grand Loop Road is a journey that appeals to nature lovers, geology buffs, and adventurers. With its vast array of natural and geological wonders, the Trip provides an exceptional opportunity to witness the raw beauty and dynamic processes of a living, breathing volcanic landscape. Whether you're a seasoned Road Tripper or a first-time visitor, Yellowstone's Grand Loop promises a memorable expedition into the heart of America's wilderness.
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