How to Plan a Trip to Yellowstone National Park in Seven Steps

Yellowstone National Park is a family adventure like no other, brimming with natural wonders, geothermal marvels, and wildlife encounters that will leave everyone—from toddlers to grandparents—in awe. Our family went on this unforgettable journey during the summer of 2023, right after a historic flood reshaped parts of the park. Despite initial worries about road closures and delays, we were thrilled we didn’t postpone. What we discovered was a place so vast and diverse that every turn revealed something magical, from bubbling geysers to bison lounging on the road.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through seven practical steps to help your family plan a seamless trip to Yellowstone. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re looking to make the most of your next visit, I’ll share everything we learned, including tips to keep the kids entertained on long drives and how to balance adventure with relaxation. Let’s dive in and start planning your dream trip to Yellowstone National Park!

Step 1: Check for Closures and Plan Your Timing

Before hitting the road, check for updates on park closures, road construction, and seasonal conditions. The National Park Service website is your go-to source for current alerts. Yellowstone is massive, with over 2.2 million acres, and conditions can change quickly, especially in peak seasons like summer.

When we visited, one of the entrances was closed due to flood damage. Thankfully, we checked ahead, which allowed us to adjust our plans and still experience the park fully. Pro tip: Use Yellowstone’s live webcams to gauge entrance traffic and get an idea of real-time conditions.

Best Time to Visit: While summer months are most popular, visiting in early June or late September can offer smaller crowds and milder weather. Families with school-aged kids may need to stick to peak seasons, so start your days early to avoid congestion at major attractions.

From breathtaking geysers to unforgettable wildlife encounters, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Step 2: Choose Your Entrance and Route

Yellowstone has five main entrances—North, South, East, West, and Northeast—and the one you choose can shape your trip. For families, the West Entrance near West Yellowstone, Montana, is a popular choice due to its proximity to services like grocery stores and family-friendly accommodations.

Once inside, Yellowstone’s road system is designed as a giant figure-eight known as the Grand Loop Road, with the Upper Loop and Lower Loop offering different highlights. We split our trip into two main driving days:

• Day 1: Lower Loop highlights, including Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Mud Volcano (a hit with our kids!).

• Day 2: Upper Loop attractions like the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Lamar Valley for wildlife spotting.

Tip: Driving in Yellowstone can be time-consuming. Pack a car bucket with screen-free activities, like coloring books and puzzles, to keep the kids entertained. The Junior Ranger booklet is also a fantastic option to engage them during downtime.

Read More: How to Yellowstone with Kids: Your Ultimate Guide

Step 3: Pack Essentials for the Whole Family

Yellowstone is remote, and services are sparse once you’re in the park. A little preparation goes a long way:

Must-Have Items:

• Snacks and Water: Keep everyone fueled for long drives. A well-stocked cooler with easy-to-grab options is a lifesaver.

• Comfortable Clothing and Layers: Weather can shift quickly, even in summer. Pack jackets for cooler mornings and evenings.

• Bear Spray: This is a non-negotiable safety item for hiking. Most visitor centers and gateway towns rent or sell bear spray.

• Stroller or Baby Carrier: Many attractions, like Old Faithful and West Thumb Geyser Basin, have paved paths suitable for strollers. For trails, a baby carrier might be more practical.

Step 4: Create a Flexible Itinerary

Flexibility is key when visiting Yellowstone. Plan to spend full days exploring but allow for spontaneous stops at lookouts, picnic areas, or unexpected wildlife sightings.

Sample Itinerary:

• Morning: Start early to beat the crowds. Head to major attractions like Old Faithful or Grand Prismatic Spring first.

• Midday: Break for lunch at one of the many picnic tables or visitor centers. Don’t forget to stretch your legs with a short walk to a scenic viewpoint.

• Afternoon: Focus on smaller, less crowded spots like Norris Geyser Basin or Hayden Valley for a chance to see wildlife.

• Evening: Wind down with a scenic drive or a relaxing meal back at your lodge or RV.

Step 5: Take Advantage of Family-Friendly Programs

Yellowstone offers several programs designed to engage kids and families:

• Junior Ranger Program: For $5, kids can pick up a booklet at any visitor center, complete fun activities, and earn a badge. Ours loved learning about geysers and animals while checking off tasks during drives.

• Visitor Centers: These are great places to take a break, explore interactive exhibits, and learn about Yellowstone’s history and geology.

Read More: 6 Takeaways From Our Latest Glacier National Park Trip

Step 6: Make the Most of Scenic Drives and Stops

Yellowstone’s beauty is in its diversity, from geothermal wonders to sweeping valleys. Use scenic drives to break up long stretches and keep kids engaged:

• Lamar Valley: Often called the Serengeti of North America, this is the best place to spot wildlife like bison, elk, and maybe even wolves.

• Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone: Don’t miss Lookout Point and Inspiration Point for jaw-dropping views.

• West Thumb Geyser Basin: A stroller-friendly stop with colorful hot springs right by Yellowstone Lake.

Step 7: Stay Safe and Respect Wildlife

Yellowstone’s wildlife and geothermal features are incredible but come with risks. Teach kids about keeping a safe distance from animals (at least 25 yards for bison and elk, 100 yards for bears and wolves). Always stay on marked trails near geysers and hot springs to avoid accidents.

Quick Safety Tips:

• Keep bear spray accessible and know how to use it.

• Drive cautiously, as animals often wander onto roads.

• Remind kids to stay with the group and follow posted signs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best entrance for first-time visitors?
A: The West Entrance is a great place to start due to its accessibility and nearby amenities. From there, you can easily access the Lower Loop’s major attractions.

Q: Is Yellowstone stroller-friendly?
A: Yes! Many paved paths, like those at Old Faithful and Midway Geyser Basin, are perfect for strollers. For rougher trails, consider a baby carrier.

Q: How much time should we spend in Yellowstone?
A: Plan for at least 3-4 full days to explore both loops and enjoy stops without feeling rushed.

Q: What’s the best way to spot wildlife?
A: Early mornings and late afternoons in areas like Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley offer the best chances. Bring binoculars for a closer look!

Planning a trip to Yellowstone National Park can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it’s an adventure your family will cherish forever. From breathtaking geysers to unforgettable wildlife encounters, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Have you visited Yellowstone? Share your favorite memories or let us know what you’re most excited to see! Don’t forget to check out our recommended products to make your trip even smoother. Happy exploring!

Happy trails, and may your Yellowstone adventure be everything you dreamed of and more!