montana wyoming utah road trip

The Ultimate 2 Week National Park Road Trip: Colorado, Montana, Wyoming, and Utah 

So you’re looking for an epic, once-in-a-lifetime road trip? One filled with the perfect mix…

So you’re looking for an epic, once-in-a-lifetime road trip? One filled with the perfect mix of awe-inspiring mountain peaks, vast desert landscapes, and crystal clear lakes? You’ve come to the right place. This route kicks off in Denver, Colorado, VanCraft’s newest depot location, and takes you through some of the country’s most photo-worthy scenery and diverse terrain. Explore five National Parks, ranging from Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons to Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon, before closing the loop via Lake Powell and Arches National Park, and returning to the Mile High City.

The ideal length for this route would be two to three weeks to really soak up everything it has to offer (which–spoiler–is a lot).

Day 1: Denver, Colorado → Yellowstone National Park

Denver is the ideal spot to kick start this adventure. You’ll fly into Denver International Airport and take the quick 20-minute uber ride (approx. $20) to the  Denver VanCraft depot . The office opens at 9am making it easy to get a morning flight in and pick up your VanCraft van just in time for a late breakfast in Denver (check out Rosenberg’s Bagels & Delicatessen in Five Points near I-25) before hitting the wide open road due north.

With eyes on the prize, it’s time to crank out some miles to get up to Yellowstone National Park. A quick disclaimer: Doing this trip in 10 days is not for the faint of heart. We’d recommend baking in a few extra days on the front end to explore the 9-hour stretch up to the northern entrance to Yellowstone. If you are cranking out the drive though, don’t forget to slow down for a commemorative shot with the Wyoming state sign to mark the official start of the multi-state road trip. And if you’re itching to get the tires a little dusty, be sure to check out Chugwater Basin Road (41.785533, -104.811882) to quench your thirst for dirt and get you amped for what’s to come on this route.

Want to ease into vacation mode and experience the greater Denver before hitting the road?

● Book an extra day in Denver to take in the plethora of breweries, local hikes, and unparalleled bites before starting your journey North ● Looking for a thrill to kickstart the trip? Give rafting a go ● See who’s playing at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre ● Head to Coors Field for a game ● Explore Rocky Mountain National Park.  See here  for more information on Colorado’s National Parks

Day 2: Yellowstone National Park

Start your day at camp (campsite options below!), coffee in hand, overlooking the mountains of Yellowstone National Park. After whipping up a hearty breakfast on the VanCraft two-burner stove, hit the happy trails and head out for your first taste of what Yellowstone has to offer.

First up is Mammoth Hot Springs, a martian-like terrain boasting terraces of steaming travertine pools. This boardwalk trail is just the warm-up you’ll need for today’s adventure.

Once you’ve taken in every last drop of the springs, start the journey to Canyon Village, stopping to stretch your legs for the quick 100-yard walk to the Tower Fall Overlook to take in one of the most popular waterfalls in the park, cascading down 132 feet.

Next stop was a hike down to the top of Lower Falls. A few must-see vantage points to fully appreciate the scale of these falls are:

● The Brink of Lower Falls ● Red Rock Point Yellowstone ● Inspiration Point

Pro Tip:  While you’re in Canyon Village, near Lower Falls, stop by the village store and grab yourself a mix of local beers for camp later.

Round off the day with a drive through Hayden Valley, one of the most popular spots for spotting Yellowstone’s infamous Bison, Elk and Deer, and a scenic snack spot at Yellowstone Lake, before heading back to camp.

Wind down with tacos (a camp favorite), a well-deserved ice cold beer, and a shower off the back of the van before curling up for the night.

Yellowstone Campsites:

● Epic wild-camp spot just outside of Gardiner, MT. (GPS Coordinates 45.07225, 110.67154) ● Eagle Creek Campground: First come, first serve. ● Rocky Mountain RV & Campground. Great showers! (Gardiner, Montana) ● For the latest information on Campgrounds inside Yellowstone check out  this page

Pro Tip:  Want to stay inside Yellowstone National Park but don’t have a reservation? Check out Indian Creek Campground first thing in the morning to nab a first come, first serve spot if there’s any available, or pop by other reservation-only campgrounds in the early morning to see if there’s been any day-of cancellations.

Day 3: Yellowstone National Park → Grand Teton National Park

Today you’re officially starting to make your way south, winding and trekking your way through the remaining must-sees of Yellowstone, on your way to Grand Teton National Park.

As you head South, take in these noteworthy hikes and iconic Yellowstone sights:

● Norris Geyser Basin ● Artists Paintpots ● Grand Prismatic Spring ● Fairy Falls hike to see it from above ● And last, but certainly not least, Old Faithful (be sure to look into the  time predictions )

After catching the show at Old Faithful, take in the sunset next to Jackson Lake with the Grand Tetons towering in the background, before heading to camp for the night.

Grand Teton National Park Campgrounds:

● Colter Bay Campground ● Jenny Lake Campground ● Gros Ventre Campground (our team stayed here and loved it!) ● Kudar Log Cabins and RV in Jackson, Wyoming

For more camping information,  click here .

Heads Up:  Keep an eye out for bison, elk, and deer! If you’re lucky, you may even see an entire herd traveling up the road like the VanCraft team did.

Day 4: Grand Teton National Park

Wake up and take in the view of the Grand Tetons peeking through the trees of the campground. You’ve been pounding pavement and cranking out the miles on foot and deserve a relaxing morning among the trees. Today’s going to be low-key, with scenic drives and short overlook strolls at the heart of it. Here’s what’s on the to-do:

● Roadside breakfast/lunch at Glacier View Turnout ● The Moulton Barn on Mormon Row: An infamous spot for photographers ● Jenny Lake Scenic Drive: A favorite for it’s close proximity to the Tetons and expansive lake with jumping rocks for those who fancy a dip. ● Signal Mountain drive with panoramic views at the top ● National Museum of Wildlife Art on the way into Jackson Hole ● Shopping, a bite and brews in Jackson Hole ● Set alarm for sunrise in the Tetons

Interested in staying in town instead of in the park? Check out Kudar Log Cabins and RV in Jackson to be in walking distance from the shops and restaurants.

Day 5: Grand Teton National Park → Zion National Park

Sunrise in the Grand Tetons is something everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. If you’re not an early riser, fear not! The beautiful thing about having a van is you can quite literally roll out of bed and drive to your viewpoint of choice in your pjs, before coffee and breakfast even enter your mind.

Here’s some of the best places to watch the sunrise in the Grand Tetons:

● The Moulton Barn: If you’re into photography, you’ll probably recognize the barns of Mormon Row, known as one of the best places to take in the sunrise of the Tetons. ● Snake River Overlook ● Schwabacher’s Landing ● Turnouts along Teton Park Road

After taking in the sunrise, sipping on freshly-brewed coffee, and enjoying a home cooked breakfast in the fresh morning air, it’s time to start the journey south to Zion National Park.

Optional Detours (If you have time):

● Park City is worth a detour. Grab a bite on Main Street, spend a day on the mountain (Lake Catherine Via Brighton Lakes Trail is a great 4 mile hike and worth the drive), and stay on any of the surrounding BLM land (queue iOverlander). ● Bryce Canyon: You’ll thank us later!

When you make it into Springdale (the town at the entrance to Zion), treat yourself to a meal at King’s Landing. A classy, yet casual, spot with come-as-you-are vibes, mountain views, and outdoor seating. A perfect place to take in the sunset with Zion’s signature red peaks in the background.

● BLM land: There’s no shortage of free camp options around Zion, with miles and miles of BLM land surrounding the park. Check out iOverlander, and take your pick. A favorite of mine was at the top of the Smithsonian Butte pass. It’s one of those spots that makes you truly thankful for public land. ● Watchman Campground (in Zion) ● South Campground (in Zion)

Need a night to refresh after the drive or a place to escape the heat if it’s the heart of summer? There’s plenty of hotel options in Springdale and surrounding areas that hit every price point and taste (the Driftwood Lodge definitely lived up to the hype).

Day 6: Zion National Park

Today’s the day to see what Zion is all about! It’s time to stretch the ol’ legs and hit the happy trails again, but this time with a twist. You’ll be hiking through water. The Narrows is one of those must-do bucket-list hikes. Pack a lunch and get ready for a one-of-a-kind, out-and-back, trail!

Other hikes that are worth the effort:

● Angel’s Landing: If you’re feeling adventurous and up for the challenge ● Canyon Overlook Trail (see Day 7)

Post hike head over to Zion Canyon Brew Pub for some locally brewed craft beers and classic pub food.

Pro Tip:  In the warmer months most people arrive at the park around 8am attempting to beat the crowds and the heat…if you want to feel a little more “out there” and a little less like you’re in Disneyland, you’ll either need to be at the Zion Shuttle 30 minutes before the first shuttle heads out, or hold off on heading out until early afternoon when everyone else is calling it quits for the day.

Day 7: Zion National Park → Grand Canyon National Park

Today you’re headed to the Grand Canyon! Whip yourself up another homemade feast or start the morning with a to-go breakfast from Oscar’s in Springdale as you make your way out of town. Your morning drive will take you through Zion, giving you a whole new appreciation for the park as you climb in elevation to the trailhead of the Canyon Overlook Trail. This quick 1-mile out and back trail is the perfect way to end your time in Zion as you charge on towards Grand Canyon National Park.

Along the way consider stopping off at some of these:

● Moqui Cave. A quick 1-mile round trip hike up to the caves is a great pitstop. ● The Wave: 6.7 mile out and back trail to sandstone feature known as “The Wave” ● Wire Pass to Buckskin Gulch Trail: 5.6 mile trail to Slot Canyons ● Cameron Trading Post – a Grand Canyon classic for souvenirs

You’re camping at Desert View Campground tonight, mere steps away from the southern rim of the Grand Canyon. On your drive down, stop at Walmart in Page, AZ to restock and treat yourself to something sweet for a sunset picnic. Once you’ve settled into camp and cooked up a feast, head on over to the Watch Tower parking lot with a bottle of wine and dessert. Follow the rim all the way to the left until the crowds disperse, and pick your favorite secluded spot to take in the sunset and enjoy your treat.

Enjoy a campfire back at Desert View Campground before hitting the hay for the night.

Day 8: Grand Canyon National Park → Lake Powell

Much like the Grand Tetons, a sunrise over the Grand Canyon is also a must-see at least once in your life. There’s a .25-mile trail from the campground that leads straight to the edge, close enough to bring your coffee with you for the trek. Soak it up and take it all in, before heading back to camp for an early breakfast.

If you have an extra day it’s definitely worth heading to the Grand Canyon Village to hike down into the canyon, but if you’re strapped for time pack up and head to Lake Powell. Today you’re going kayaking. This ain’t your average summer-camp paddle. This 7-mile round trip paddle will take you from Antelope Point Marina to Antelope Canyon, one of the area’s most impressive slot canyons, where you’ll be able to explore on foot before returning to the water.

For kayak rentals checkout :  https://lakepowellxperience.com/  and/or  https://lakepowellpaddleboards.com/

If you have time, check out Horseshoe bend while you’re in the area as well!

• Beehive Campsites, 6 established sites for $14/night, overlooking Lake Powell. First come, first serve. (GPS Coordinates: 36.936710, -111.497730)
• Wahweap RV & Campground
• Plenty of off-grid spots as well around the lake (see iOverlander)

Day 9: Lake Powell → Arches National Park

Day nine is all about detours and deserts. As you head north, take some time to take it all in:

● Grey Mesa: Fun network of dirt trails to break up the drive. ● Monument Valley: A must! ● Valley of the Gods: Great network of dirt trails for lunch.

In Arches National Park there’s countless must-sees, but if time is limited pick a few of these to take in:

● North Window, South Window and Turret Arch – 1.0 round trip ● Double Arch – 0.5 miles roundtrip ● Delicate Arch – 3.0 miles roundtrip ● Park Avenue Overlook – 20 yards from parking lot

More time? Check out Moab and Canyonlands while you’re in the area.

There are plenty of options around Moab and Arches, but if you’re interested in starting the journey back to Denver today, head to “A Trail Through Time” (GPS coordinates: 39.196220, -109.027600) for an awesome mountaintop campsite, with mesa and mountain views, to ring in your last night on the road.

Day 10: Arches National Park → Denver

It’s that time, but the adventure isn’t quite over. As you wind your way back to Denver, take in the mountainscapes and rushing rivers as your cruise down I-70 through Vail, Breckenridge, and Idaho Springs, before cruising into the Denver VanCraft depot.

Have a little time to kill before your flight? Check out Station 26, just around the corner from the VanCraft depot, for some local beers to cap off this trip of a lifetime!

We said it, and we’ll say it again. This route is one for the books. And there’s nothing quite like having the comforts of home and the peace of mind that a VanCraft provides, as you hit the road for this 2,500-mile, jam-packed, adventure.

Happy adventuring and don’t forget to tag #vancraft on your own epic adventure. We can’t wait to see where it’ll take you!

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America's Most Scenic Road Trip

Tour seven National Parks, fourteen National Monuments and three Heritage Areas all on one road—US Route 89. From Canada to Mexico through Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, Utah and Arizona you will behold the West’s most spectacular scenery. Named the #1 Drivers’ Drive in the World by National Geographic, you will also visit 150 towns, cities and reservations to learn about the history and culture of Native Americans, Spanish explorers, mountain men, Mormon pioneers, prospectors and cowboys. Recreational opportunities abound to suit every taste. Climb a mountain, raft a river or relax in a luxurious spa. Plan your next road trip here.

WYOMING + UTAH ROAD TRIP ITINERARY :: 10 DAYS

The road trip of my dreams — Grand Tetons, Yellowstone, Arches, Canyonlands. Hitting 4 national parks and multiple state parks. Exploring Wyoming + Utah the best we can in 10 days. Here is our WYOMING + UTAH ROAD TRIP ITINERARY.

The positive in all of this pandemic chaos is the fact that it slowed international travel and forced my lens back on my home country. Sometimes I forget just how huge the USA is and how driving state to state everything from the scenery to the culture changes. Now I have a goal of visiting every one of the 50 states.

This specific route is heavy on driving, so if you rather only drive shorter legs, you’ll need more days! We started in Denver, Colorado since Hannah lives there but you can save some driving by flying in closer to the Grand Tetons.

DENVER,CO >>> DUBOIS, WY .

6 hours 38 minutes — 7.5 hours with stops.

The majority of campsites in//around National Parks are first come, first serve so we knew we wouldn’t make it to Grand Tetons or Yellowstone and find a spot so we stay 1 night in Dubois, Wyoming at the KOA campsite .

Make sure to stop at a Walmart before getting too deep into the mountains to stock up on reasonably prices food + gear. This is where we got our air mattresses for the tents, all groceries, and extra hiking gear. This was perfect because we packed up at 6am and caught sunrise on the way into Grand Tetons National Park…

DUBOIS, WY >>> MORAN, WY .

1 hour 14 minutes.

… AND scored the best camping spot we’d camp in this entire trip :: spot 38 @ Signal Mountain . We spent two nights at this campsite and explored Yellowstone and hiked Delta Lake over those two days. Day 1:: We drove through Yellowstone, saw Old Faithful — and to be honest it felt like Disney. It was a one & done type of attraction. Checked off the Bucketlist. BUT the next day, we headed to Delta Lake via Lupine Meadows access. One of the highlights of this trip.

Hiking up to Delta Lake is the #1 thing to do in the Grand Tetons, imo. ProTip:: buy bear spray before getting into the National Parks because it was sold over e v e r y w h e r e and we ended up with none until at the top of Delta Lake a really nice older lady gave us one of her three canisters after overhearing us saying we have none.

TETON COUNTY, WY >>> JACKSON HOLE, WY >>> SALT LAKE CITY, UT

1 hour >>> 4 hours 37 minutes. 6 hours 15 min with stops.

We left early to go grab breakfast at Cowboy Coffee Co. in Jackson Hole. First, one of the best breakfasts we had the trip ((tied with Garage Moab)). Second, I wish we had at least a full day in Jackson Hole. It is the most charming town nestled in between the Teton and Gros Ventre mountain ranges. If you have more time than we did on this leg of the trip, definitely spend a full day or two there. There is so much to explore.

We ended up driving right through Salt Lake City to head to the Bonneville Salt Flats for sunset. Worth it. But was another hour and a half of driving! So get your road trip playlist ready.

+ 1 hour 31 minutes.

After watching one of the most beautiful sunsets in the Bonneville Salt Flats we took a break from our tent and stayed in a hotel in Salt Lake. Met up with soem friends for breakfast the next day before heading to Zion.

SALT LAKE CITY, UT >>> ZION NATIONAL PARK , UT

4 hours 24 minutes. 5 hours with stops.

Under Canvas Zion was my first experience gaming and I am in love . Don’t get me wrong, I love true camping ((with our air mattresses)) and being in nature. But Under Canvas was dreamy. Tucked away in a secluded red rock valley in Virgin, Utah — this was the best stargazing of the entire trip. ALSO, the food was incredible and there were even complementary s’mores at night. We all know good food + sugar wins me over.

We were here for two nights and would wake up before sunrise to get into Zion National Park early. Some musts:: hike the Narrows . Rent canyoneering boots + neoprene socks + trekking poles. It made all the difference. They also have a shuttle that gets you into the park earlier than the regular park shuttle so you can enjoy the Narrows before droves of people are trekking with you. It will be crowded either way, but our way back was significantly more crowded than our way up the canyon.

&& YES there is a cyanobacteria boom in the Virgin River — but we did it, and lived. Ceara and I even got some of that toxic water in our eyeballs. HOT TAKE:: Angles Landing is the most overrated hike. Pretty. But Overrated. Granted, we were there when the chain portion was closed so that may be why we felt this way.

We all know I’m a crazy foodie so… in Zion there are a few places you must eat. First, Oscar’s Cafe in Sprindale right outside of Zion Nat. Park. INSANELY good + large portions of Mexican//American. Possibly the best burrito I’ve ever had. Could’ve been shared. Easily. Next up, River Rock Roasting Company . Great views, free wi-fi and THE best cinnamon roll you’ll ever have in your life. And an honorable mention to FeelLove Coffee right near the entrance of the park. They have imaginative lattes that are worth then money.

ZION, UT >>> MOAB, UT

5 hours. 5 hours and 30 minutes with stops.

We hiked the Narrows this morning super early, grabbed lunch then drove to Moab, Utah. We stayed at another KOA campground, but there are so many accommodations in Moab so you’ll have options. Moab is situated in the middle of the triangle of beautiful parks:: Arches, Canyonlands, Mount Waas. Arches National Park was spectacular, but then again each day of this trip just got better and better so it’s really hard to play favorites. Arches is a park you drive through to explore and we didn’t even get to see all of it during our two days there.

We hiked up to Delicate Arche which is a must . A hike that is 100% worth the hype. You feel as if you’re hiking around Mars. Our start time was 5am since we ended up having the worst nights sleep due to wind and our tent overheating… Still one of the best days. Hiking up in the pitch black and having the sunrise reveal the new scenery made if one of the best hikes I’ve ever done.

Make sure to catch sunset at Dead Horse State Park which is a 40 minute drive from our campsite. Also, make sure to grab coffee + food at Moab Garage Co. I miss it already. Pasta Jay’s was also a great spot for dinner in Moab if you’re looking to carb load for your hikes. Hannah wanted to stop at the Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage and I am so grateful she wanted to because that is the only reason we ended up at Red Cliffs Lodge . Right on a bend of the Colorado River, this lodge also has their own horse stable. My only regret is not horseback riding while there. But I will be back!

MOAB, UT >>> DENVER, CO

5 hours and 27 minutes. 6 hours with stops.

Our road trip was a full circle but you can save some driving by scheduling your flight home out of Moab! Let me know if you use this itinerary!! It was truly one of the best trips I’ve been on and made me realize I need to explore more of our own beautiful country before hopping back in to International trav e l .

If you use our itinerary please let me know and tag me on instagram because I would love to see/hear your thoughts on it. I loved this trip so damn much and it was so nice to take a break from being surrounded by so many people all the time and be out in nature. Shoutout to Ceara because she truly put together this entire WYOMING + UTAH ROAD TRIP ITINERARY. I also vlogged daily on this trip do if you want even more detail on one of my favorite road trips, check out my youtube channel! youtube.com/laynefable

CLICK HERE FOR MORE STRAIGHTFORWARD WYOMING + UTAH ROAD TRIP ITINERARY. ((we did not follow this to a T))

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Out west road trip film ….

You have great writing skills(the way you write it is very engaging and exciting). Great photos by the way I can’t wait to see Delta Lake on your vlog and those out of this world rock formation(you guys rocking the view with those edgy poses). Mama Tyra Banks will sure approve it. 👍👍👍

Thank you so much Bern!! : )

Wow layne you girls did so much in 10 days😃after reading it icant wait to see vlog..thats so sweet of that lady helping u on delta lake😊delta lake looks so amazing in photos. Salt lake and zion national park looks so amazing too i love all photo isaw here and delicate arc truly mars feel🤩📸

One of my favorite trips to date! : )

Wow layne you girls did so much in 10 days😃after reading it icant wait to see vlog..thats so sweet of that lady helping u on delta lake😊. Salt lake & zion national park looks amazing too every view you capture is soo beautiful 😊 delicate arc is truely a beautifull Mars feel😃📸

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6 Days 726 Miles

The Montana & Wyoming Road Trip You’ve Been Dreaming Of

The Rockies

An Unforgettable Rocky Mountain Itinerary

Looking for more time with nature, moments of spectacular grandeur, and some of the most incredible scenery America has to offer? Montana and Wyoming are ready to deliver all of that and then some. Step away from virtual calls and the constant ding of incoming email — and step into one of the world’s most beautiful places. This is a trip you’ll never forget. There’s a lot to see, so we’ve mapped out the perfect itinerary to hit three National Parks, each offering distinct and unique landscapes, wildlife and experiences. We’ll start out with Glacier National Park and neighboring Whitefish, Montana. We then head down to Yellowstone National Park with visits to Gardiner and West Yellowstone, Montana. To close out this road trip of a lifetime, we’ll end with Grand Teton National Park.

Wintertime in Montana is a whole different experience, so this trip is best taken between June and September. Our ideal visit is right after Labor Day — the crowds diminish with school back in session, but the weather is still pleasant for hiking. The bison and elk ruts this time of year make September as good as it gets. Traveling with the family in the summer? The trip is still phenomenal, but it might require a little extra planning and flexibility.

Buckle up, we’re heading to Montana!

Day 1 & 2 – Glacier National Park

The beauty of Glacier National Park will leave you speechless. Glacier-fed turquoise lakes, ice-capped mountain peaks, roaring waterfalls, and northern wildlife are all pieces of this magical place — but it’s the fresh mountain air that stays with you. Breathe it in and enjoy every second.

Fly into Glacier Park International Airport in Kalispell, and rent your car from there. An SUV is great, especially if you’re traveling with a family, but a standard car makes parking a breeze and should also get you up and down the mountains just fine.

Glacier National Park sometimes feels like a combination of several epic national parks. Called the “crown of the continent,” it’s the type of experience that will stay with you forever. Ice rivers slowly carved this section of the Canadian Rockies, from mossy old-growth forests to glistening alpine meadows. With glaciers , lakes, and rivers in sparkling shades of blue surrounded by rugged mountains in every direction and over 700 miles of trails — it’s a hiker’s paradise.

Not a hiker? Not to worry. Take a scenic drive up Going-to-the-Sun Road . This spectacular 50-mile road spans the width of Glacier National Park, giving you a view of the park’s interior. Endless picturesque pullouts and viewpoints sit along the road, crossing the Continental Divide at Logan Pass . You’ll see large, crystal-clear glacial lakes, gorgeous forests, and alpine meadows — and on a good day even spot mountain goats, moose, and bears.

You need at least two days to really experience all Glacier has to offer. Take one day to explore Going-to-the-Sun Road from end to end, stopping to hike, grab lunch, and enjoy the beauty of this magnificent park.

On the second day, check out Two Medicine—take a boat trip around the lake with Glacier Park Boat Company or hit the trails on one of the area’s 14 hikes. When you’re done exploring this gorgeous section, head up to Many Glacier or the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 1932, Glacier National Park partnered with Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada, to create the world’s first International Peace Park. (Bring your passport if you plan to cross into the Canadian side.)

Glacier National Park will take your breath away with stunning views and out-of-this-world vistas. It’s the ultimate first stop on an epic exploration of Montana and Wyoming.

Where to Stay Near Glacier National Park

The quintessential small mountain town, Whitefish offers restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, live music, shopping and nightlife year-round. If you don’t want to fly in, Amtrak’s daily Whitefish stop brings you right into the heart of the action of this perfect Glacier home base.

Among ample lodging in Whitefish, the Pine Lodge on Whitefish River has cozy rooms and tons of complimentary amenities with your stay.

Need a shuttle to downtown Whitefish? It’s included. Want to kayak the Whitefish River? That’s also included. Need to fill up with breakfast before you head into the park? Included. Looking to beat your travel partner at pool or shuffleboard? You guessed it — included. You get the point; there’s plenty to do at the Pine Lodge, and it all comes with your stay!

However, please be aware that there is a daily amenity fee required for certain activities during the summer months.

Day 3 – Gardiner, Montana

Now let’s head to Yellowstone! There’s some serious drive time between Glacier and Yellowstone, but plenty of amazing Montana locations to stop at along the way. Here are some of our favorite places to grab lunch, hit the trails, or just take in the scenery of Big Sky country.

Butte, Montana

Originally a gold and silver mining camp in the 1800s, Butte became the “richest hill on earth” when its copper deposits were discovered at the turn of the century. Butte is a charming city nestled in the Rocky Mountains of Southwest Montana, with natural hot springs, boating, fishing, trolley tours, and more. Don’t miss the Our Lady of the Rockies statue, standing 90 feet tall on the ridge overlooking Butte.

Bozeman, Montana

Whether you’re looking for dramatic mountains for hiking, rock climbing, and fly-fishing or a flourishing arts community featuring festivals, art galleries, live music, and farmers markets, Bozeman shines as America’s “most livable place.” Enjoy rooftop dining in what many call a foodie paradise, check out one of Bozeman’s many museums, or take a river rafting tour — there’s something for everyone in Bozeman.

Lewis & Clark Caverns

Montana’s first and best-known state park is Lewis & Clark Caverns. These unbelievable limestone caverns are filled with stalactites, helictites, and stalagmites; electrically lighted; and naturally air-conditioned. Informative and fun guided tours are available May through September. This is a super fascinating spot to view incredible underground scenery and cool off on a hot day.

Where to Stay Near Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is huge with multiple areas to explore (better), which is why this trip is best made over a few days in different locations. Let’s start with the wildlife (bison, wolves, and bears — oh my!) that make Gardiner a great spot to hunker down for the night before hitting the road early in the morning. Gardiner sits at the original entrance to Yellowstone, nestled between the Absaroka–Beartooth Wilderness and Gallatin Range. With no big-box stores and lots of local merchants, this full-service town has an Old West feel. Gardiner offers the easiest access to Lamar Valley (wildlife central) in Yellowstone, so you’ll want to rise early and catch the park’s most famous inhabitants.

There are a number of lodging options in Gardiner, but one of our favorite spots is The Ridgeline Hotel® at Yellowstone . Ideally located just minutes from the North Entrance (and the Roosevelt Arch), this hotel sits directly on the Yellowstone River.

It has an on-site restaurant, heated indoor pool and hot tub, casino/bar area, and Wi-Fi (to update your social media with photos from the trip). Super comfortable accommodations and instant access to the park equals a win for us!

Day 4 – Yellowstone National Park

Your first day starts with ALL the wildlife in Lamar Valley. The secret to seeing the most wildlife is driving in at dawn. Grab your continental breakfast to go from the hotel and jump in the car — don’t forget your binoculars.

Before heading through Yellowstone’s North Entrance, take a drive (or walk) through the Roosevelt Arch for a FOMO-inducing photo by the park sign. Yellowstone is America’s first National Park and the North Entrance is the original entrance, so take a minute to appreciate all the history that took place here.

The drive from the North Entrance into Lamar Valley is beautiful, and it usually doesn’t take long to encounter wildlife of some sort. Bison seem to be everywhere up here, and it’s a true thrill to get caught in a bison jam (which we’d take over a traffic jam any day)!

A fan favorite in Lamar Valley is Yellowstone’s wolf packs, and the best times to glimpse these beautiful predators is dawn and dusk. Keep your eyes peeled — it’s a rare and special moment to get to see wolves in the valley.

After taking Lamar in for the morning, head back toward the entrance and over to Mammoth. This section of the park has NPS Visitor Centers, a restaurant, an awesome gift shop, and more, so it’s a great place to stop for lunch and souvenirs before checking out Mammoth Hot Springs .

Take the afternoon to check out Mammoth, Norris Geyser Basin, and Artists Paintpots as you travel toward the West Yellowstone Entrance to the park. Want a full breakdown of our favorite locations? Click here.

When you’ve explored to your heart’s extent, exit into West Yellowstone, Montana… this is where we’ll be spending night two of our Yellowstone adventure.

West Yellowstone is a gateway community filled with fun things to do — tons of restaurants, a ropes and ziplining course, and our favorite, Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center . The Discovery Center offers visitors an opportunity to observe, understand, and appreciate grizzly bears and gray wolves that are unable to survive in the wild. A fascinating, up-close look at some of Montana’s most incredible animals, it’s definitely worth a stop.

West Yellowstone has tons of lodging options for every type of traveler. Two of our favorites are the Explorer Cabins at Yellowstone and Yellowstone Park Hotel . The Explorer Cabins combine the charm of cabin lodging (CABINEERING™) with the joys of generational and dog-friendly travel. They’re ideal for family and friends traveling together or a romantic getaway. Each private cabin boasts stylish décor, fine linens, a flat-screen TV, and a kitchenette for whipping up your favorite meals. Wi-Fi is available in the cabins and throughout the property. Trust us, s’mores by the campfire at the Explorer Cabins will be a favorite road trip moment.

Yellowstone Park Hotel features well-appointed rooms, free Wi-Fi, a heated indoor swimming pool, and a hot tub, for the perfect opportunity to relax after a long day of exploring. Other rooms may include fireplaces and whirlpool tubs.

Day 5 – Yellowstone National Park

Our stars of the day are the geysers, springs, and thermal features Yellowstone is famous for. The West Yellowstone entrance can get backed up in the summer, so plan to hit the road early again. Sunrise in this section of the park is also spectacular, and you won’t be sorry you got up before the sun as you watch it peek over the mountains and fill the valleys below with golden light.

Today is all about Yellowstone’s lower loop. The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Old Faithful , and Grand Prismatic are some of the scenic spots you’ll be seeing, and we promise you… every stop is even more spectacular than the last.

Try to hit Grand Prismatic when the sun is high in the sky for the best view of the colors, and take the Fairy Falls trail to see it from above. It’s a relatively easy hike and the payoff after the short climb is worth every breath on the way up. Old Faithful goes off like clockwork and park rangers pinpoint when it’s expected, so you can time your arrival at Old Faithful Inn perfectly to grab lunch and then watch an eruption. The Upper Geyser Basin here is home to over 150 hydrothermal wonders you won’t want to miss exploring.

As you go along, one thing you’ll notice about Yellowstone is the phenomenal variety of destinations in the park. Every location is a different world and there’s so much to discover in this magical place.

At the end of the day, head back into West Yellowstone for one more night before heading down to Grand Teton first thing in the morning.

Day 6 – Grand Teton National Park

Dramatic scenery, stunning snow-covered peaks, and rivers meandering through unbelievable vistas — welcome to Grand Teton National Park . Coming from West Yellowstone, you’ll want to leave early (we know, this trip is full of early wake-up calls), and head south to the Yellowstone South Entrance. These two majestic parks are only 31 miles apart, so it’s only about half an hour from the South Entrance of Yellowstone to Grand Teton National Park. Coming this way, there’s actually no formal entrance station into Grand Teton.

On your way in, we highly recommend stopping at the Jackson Lake Overlook , an idyllic welcome into the park. Beautiful lake views and stunning rocky peaks offer a great taste of what’s to come in Grand Teton. As you explore, you’ll find endless spots to take in the views. Oxbow Bend is stunning every day, but catch it when the mountains and sky reflect off the river and you’ll get the photo of a lifetime.

Jenny Lake is a must-see location, with incredible hiking, water rentals, a store and visitor center, and more. We also recommend renting a canoe to experience this beautiful area from the vantage point of the water.

Take the day to discover this stunning park before heading into Jackson, Wyoming, for your last overnight stay.

On your second day in Grand Teton, explore the park further and hit some of the many photo-worthy scenic spots — there’s no shortage. Mormon Row and Moulton Barn on Antelope Flats is the most photographed barn in Wyoming and quite possibly the world. This place feels a little bit like stepping into a movie, so keep an eye out for Tristan from Legends of the Fall.

We’re willing to bet this week-long Montana and Wyoming road trip is one you’ll never forget. Drop your rental car in Jackson and fly out of the Jackson Hole airport to start your trip home (and start planning your next epic adventure).

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Your Guide to a Western United States Road Trip (Montana, Idaho, Wyoming & More!)

This summer, we took a 10-day road trip through the Western United States, hitting Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, and briefly passing through Utah and Nevada on the way back to San Francisco. This part of the country is famously beautiful, characterized by lush green alpine landscapes and snow-capped peaks, winding rivers, and countless small towns dripping with old western charm. We rode horses and ate beef, as one must, and went on some of the most scenic hikes anywhere.

Our itinerary included three out of the five most conservative states in America — Wyoming, Utah, and Idaho — and I now know what it feels like to experience culture shock in my own country. People live in isolated rural areas hours away from the nearest grocery store. Trump 2020 banners hang proudly in front of houses and wave in windy fields and farmland. At local businesses and restaurants, taxidermy animal mounts outnumber patrons. A waitress showed us a photo of herself at four months old next to a bear her father had just killed. Locals openly carry guns at family-friendly tourist destinations, and, I assume, elsewhere.

At a restaurant in small-town Idaho, we had a lengthy conversation with a man about his stockpile of 100 guns, the 300+ gophers he killed with his 5-year-old grandson on a recent hunt, and his belief that the standoff between liberals and conservatives will end in a bloody civil war. While his convictions differ significantly from mine (I’ve lived in liberal cities my entire life and have never handled a gun), it was eye-opening to hear an opposite perspective on familiar issues. It hits different when you are talking to a flesh-and-blood human rather than working yourself up over the contents of a Facebook comment.

We took our road trip at the height of summer, and I highly recommend anyone considering a visit to this region to travel during this time. In Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, sunsets are well after 9 pm each day. You’ll be able to do and see so much more compared to the rest of the year. In this guide, I divulge essential tips and tricks for a successful road trip, share a 10-day itinerary, and outline detailed guides to every destination we visited, including where to stay and places to eat. I hope you find it useful when planning your own road trip through the Western United States!

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Table of Contents

• Road Trip Tips & Tricks
• 10-Day Western US Road Trip Itinerary
• Destination Guide Stanley, Idaho Salmon, Idaho Missoula, Montana Big Sky, Montana Livingston, Montana Beartooth Highway Yellowstone National Park Grand Teton National Park Escalante, Utah Las Vegas, Nevada

Western United States Road Trip: Tips & Tricks

Consider your accommodation budget.

We mainly used Booking.com to book low-cost motels located on our route. However, because we road-tripped in the summer and stayed near well-known US national parks, these cost about $100 an average each night — not the cheapest option for accommodation. Alternatively, you can rent an RV or campervan and have your shelter conveniently on wheels. Outdoorsy has a diverse selection of road trip vehicles ranging from no-frills campervans to glamping-ready RVs that fit any budget. If we could redo our trip, I would have gone this route. If you are on a tighter budget, you can do a mix of motels and camping, or even camp the whole time. Find and book campsites wherever you are with ReserveAmerica or Campendium (roughly $30 a night) or use an app like Free Roam to locate Forest Service and BLM land where you can legally boondock.

Bring Snacks & Lots of Water!

We brought a cooler from home to use during our trip and bought groceries along the away. Doing this will spare you both money and time during long stretches of driving and help you eat a little healthier. For water, we purchased a few 1.5-liter bottles and refilled them at gas stations throughout our trip.

Aim for a Good Balance of Driving vs. Sightseeing

I’ve made the common road trip mistake of trying to pack too many stops into a short time period. This time around, we tried to keep driving at a minimum outside of a few necessary travel days. A good rule of thumb is to aim for under four hours of driving per day so you have time to enjoy your destination. It’s always better to see fewer destinations more completely than more destinations incompletely .

When planning your itinerary, keep in mind that the estimated driving time on Google Maps is often longer when you factor in bathroom and restaurant stops.

Get the AllTrails App

If you plan on hiking — a must on any Western US road trip — AllTrails is a great resource for locating the best trails in your area. The app provides route maps, difficulty levels, trail photos, user reviews, and more.

Buy a National Park Pass

If you plan to go to more than one national park, opt to buy an annual pass for $80 instead of individual day passes at $35 a pop. The pass also gets you free parking at all federal recreation areas.

Download Offline Maps & Media

The United States is an enormous country, and there are large swaths of sparsely populated land without cell service. Download offline maps on Google to ensure that you will never get lost and your favorite playlists and podcasts on Spotify to stay entertained.

Our 10-Day Western United States Road Trip Itinerary

Here is our exact day-to-day road trip itinerary from San Francisco:

Day 1: Drive from San Francisco to Stanley, Idaho (~12 hours) Day 2: Stanley, Idaho Day 3: Salmon, Idaho & Missoula, Montana Day 4: Drive from Missoula to Big Sky, Montana Day 5: Big Sky, Montana & Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming Day 6 : Livingston, Montana Day 7: Beartooth Highway and Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming Day 8: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming Day 9: Escalante, Utah Day 10: Las Vegas, Nevada Day 11: Drive from Las Vegas to San Francisco (~8 hours)

We had a rough plan in place prior to our trip but gave ourselves the leeway to make unexpected stops the way — hence why we hit Yellowstone twice! In the next section, I’ll dive deeper into what we did in each destination.

Western United States Road Trip Destination Guide

Stanley, idaho.

Stanley, population ~60, is located in Central Idaho, about 130 miles from Boise. With rustic log cabins, winding rivers, and rolling green meadows — all framed by the snow-capped the Sawtooth mountains — the town looks straight out of a fairy tale. Minus the ostentatious Trump 2020 banners hanging on some of the houses, of course.

In all seriousness, I had no idea Idaho was this beautiful. The entire state is a paradise for anyone who loves hiking, swimming, or anything outdoorsy. Here’s what we did in Stanley:

• Hike! We did the Iron Creek trail to Alpine Lake , a moderate seven miles out-and-back. You can go further to Sawtooth Lake, which adds an additional three miles. The hike is lovely, with wildflowers and sweeping views of Sawtooth’s jagged peaks along the way. The AllTrails app can guide you to even more hiking options in the Stanley area.
• Swim, raft, SUP, boat, or fish. It seems like you are never far from a river, creek, or lake in Idaho. Stanley is located on the banks of the Salmon River, and Redfish Lake is right nearby in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. There are numerous shops that offer equipment rentals and guided rafting adventures in the area—just give it a quick Google search once you arrive.
• Horseback riding. Mystic Saddle Ranch offers trail ride in the Sawtooth mountains and near Redfish Lake.

Stay: The Sawtooth Hotel is a charming and relatively budget-friendly option.

Eat: Sawtooth Luce’s serves up cold local beer and a mean Idaho Kobe beef burger, and we had a delicious breakfast at Stanley Baking Company. The oatmeal pancake is a must-try!

Salmon, Idaho

Salmon, two hours north of Stanley, is another small Idaho town of 3000+ residents.

Our main activity was a visit to the Goldbug Hot Springs in the Salmon-Challis National Forest. The springs, located at the top of a mountain, are reachable via a relatively short but steep hike. Once you complete the hike, you are rewarded with six warm pools, a waterfall, and sweeping views of the scenery below.

Stay : Super 8 by Wyndham Salmon.

Eat: We ate at Last Chance Pizza & Pasta in town. The artichoke spinach dip and conversation with local patrons were to die for. Ponderosa Pies is a food truck in Salmon that I wish we tried (they were sold out when we went). Their pizza is cooked in a wood fire oven installed directly in the truck.

Missoula, Montana

After Salmon, we drove to Missoula, a funky college town of 75,000 that we loved.

We arrived in the evening, so we watched the sunset at Higgins Street Bridge, took a walk downtown, and had a few drinks at The Rhino Bar , a proper dive with yummy beers on tap (this part of the country has consistently incredible beer). Though Missoula is pretty small, the nightlife is young and lively and there were a lot of people out and about. We had many “hmmm….should we move here?” moments during our visit.

On Saturday morning, we checked out the city’s weekly farmers’ market , which we read is a must during any visit to Missoula. It was cute, and we picked up some locally grown cherries and bison pepperoni for the road.

Stay: Econo Lodge Eat : The Hob Nob on South Higgins Street has good coffee and very filling, all-American brunch fare — all at a very reasonable price.

Detour to Garnet Ghost Town On our way to Big Sky from Missoula, we stopped at Garnet Ghost Town, a former mining town active from the late 1800s to the end of World War I. The town was apparently poppin’ in its heyday and had no less than thirteen saloons. I guess when you live in the middle of nowhere you’ve got to entertain yourself somehow. Because of its recent history and remote destination in the mountains, the buildings are well-preserved and worth a quick stop if you have time.

Big Sky, Montana

Big Sky, like so much of Montana, is absolutely stunning, with wide-open skies, winding rivers, and purple-hued mountains in the distance. Here are the top things to do in the area:

• Horseback riding . We went horseback riding in Big Sky with Jake’s Horses . The horses are gentle and well-trained, and in an hour-long ride you’ll cross creeks and scale a hill for sweeping views of the valley below. At $50 per person, it is 100% worth it!
• Take in the scenery on Taylor Fork Road. Our horseback riding guide told us to visit Taylor Fork Road if we were interested in seeing bears, moose, and other wildlife. While we didn’t see any animals (much to Lenza’s dismay), the views and photography opportunities made the trip worth it. If you are looking for a free place to camp, there are many options, but be warned that Taylor Fork is a dirt road where an off-roading vehicle is ideal. Bear spray is also a must.
• Hike. Beehive Basin Trail No. 40 is a popular 7.1-mile hike with spectacular views, meadows, creeks, waterfalls, and wildflowers. Use the AllTrails app to find even more options in the area that fit your hiking level.
• Visit Yellowstone National Park. Big Sky is a scenic hour away from the West entrance of Yellowstone. We ended up driving through the park en route to Livingston and visited a few iconic attractions along the way.

Livingston, Montana

Livingston is a historical railroad and ranching town in Southwestern Montana, a short distance north from Yellowstone National Park. Downtown Livingston, pictured above, looks like an idyllic old western town, though vintage shops and cafes now line the street instead of saloons. Like everywhere we stopped in Montana, mountains frame the city in the distance.

The highlight of our Livingston visit was Pine Creek Lake , a 12-mile out-and-back trail to not one, not two, but three alpine lakes (AllTrails says this trail is nine miles, but don’t believe it). The scenery at Pine Creek Lake is stunning, but boy, do you have to work for it. The hike consists of six unforgiving miles straight uphill, covering 3653 feet of elevation.

I almost gave up and turned around halfway through but persisted with the encouragement of Lenza and a one-pound bag of Tillamook beef jerky. When we reached the first lake, I came close to tears because we had worked so hard for the beautiful views.

Be warned—this trail is not for the faint of heart, but you will be rewarded with some of the best views Montana has to offer. If you choose to take on the task, make sure to bring sunblock, plenty of water, and snacks to fuel you along the way.

Stay: Country Motor Inn is a budget motel in town. And it actually feels homey!

Eat: Tru North Cafe , owned by a recent Los Angeles transplant who came to Livingston on vacation and “accidentally bought a coffee shop,” serves a mindblowing Maple Mountain Cloud latte and blueberry jam breakfast sandwich. All around high-quality food in a rustic but modern wild west ambiance.

Detour to The Old Saloon in Emigrant, Montana 20 minutes away from Livingston is The Old Saloon , an old western restaurant and bar established in 1902. The menu is creative and modern, with local twists like elk meatballs and a bison burger. We really enjoyed our chicken fried steak and roasted pork tenderloin with rosemary and huckleberry demi-glace.

The venue is an experience in itself, with wild game taxidermy lining the walls, a sturdy wooden bar, and a vintage piano in the corner. There is a stage and ample seating outside where live shows are hosted in the summertime, and guests flock in from Bozeman, Livingston, and other nearby towns for the experience.

Beartooth Highway

From Livingston, we took a two-hour drive to Red Lodge to enter Yellowstone via the 68-mile Beartooth Highway. This excursion — essentially a big loop back to where we started — took almost the entire day, but I really wanted to see what is considered one of the most beautiful and treacherous roads in America.

If you choose to explore Beartooth, I would budget at least 3-5 hours so you can get out and explore. There are lots of unique views and hiking opportunities along the way.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

So much has been said about Yellowstone already, so I’ll just share a list of attractions we visited in the park:

• Mammoth Hot Springs
• Norris Geysers
• Grand Prismatic Springs
• Old Faithful
• Lamar Valley (to see all the bison!)

Detour to Ashton, Idaho It is impossible to find a campsite in Yellowstone in the summertime. Jackson, the closest town, is crowded and expensive. So, we made the hour and a half drive to Ashton for affordable lodging, which we found at the Eagle Peak Lodge . In the morning, we had a gluttonous, all-American breakfast at Trails Inn Restaurant in town, which was just amazing. I’d never seen so many taxidermy animals in one place, and near the counter, a sign read “gun safety rule #1: carry one.” Seriously, look at this place:

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

We walked 7.7 miles around Jenny Lake , one of the many hiking trails in Grand Teton. It was flat and easy, with gorgeous views of the lake and the Tetons. Still, I’m not sure I would choose this trail again as it was crowded and there is a large portion that runs alongside a road.

Again, a quick search on AllTrails will present you with a list of trails within the park that you can choose from based on scenery, difficulty level, and user reviews. If I return to Teton in the future, I would try the more difficult Delta Lake vis Amphitheater Lake Trail .

Escalante, Utah

After Teton, we embarked on the 8-hour drive towards Escalante, Utah, stopping at Salt Lake City to sleep overnight. In the morning, we arrived to these views:

Utah is home to Bryce Canyon, Zion, Arches, and other majestic but crowded national parks. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, on the other hand, is just as impressive and a true hidden gem.

Never heard of it? Me either. But fun fact: designated in 1996, Escalante was the last part of the continental U.S. to be mapped .

We spent our afternoon hiking to the Escalante Natural Bridge , which we had all to ourselves. It is an easy walk on soft sand with multiple river crossings. The trail is so gentle on the feet that we actually did it barefoot!

Eat: Circle D Eatery has yummy BBQ ribs and a buttered trout plate. Georgie’s Outdoor Mexican Cafe has a quesadilla bursting with melted cheese and generously portioned fish tacos.

Stay: We slept at our friend’s quaint and reasonably priced Airbnb, though there are also a few motel options in town.

Detour to Capitol Reef or Bryce Canyon National Park Capitol Reef National Park is an hour and a half north of Escalante, and Bryce Canyon is about an hour South.

Bryce Canyon is obviously more famous — we’ve all seen photos of the park’s breathtaking Sunrise Point — but Capitol Reef received raving reviews from our friends and is far less crowded.

Whichever you decide, they are both great stops for your Western United States road trip!

Las Vegas, Nevada

I would write about Las Vegas, but really, what hasn’t been said about it already? The strip is obnoxious and ostentatious, crowded with symbols of American capitalism, casinos, wedding chapels, and strip clubs. Visitors range from overweight midwestern American families on their annual vacation to scantily-clad young girls ready for a night at the Marquee. People have a lot to say about Vegas, but in my opinion, you just gotta enjoy it for what it is: a tacky fabulous adult Disneyland.

Eat: Vegas is a food destination that I hope to explore more in the future. We had all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ at Ginseng BBQ on the strip and authentic, mouthwatering Shanxi beef noodle soup at Shang Artisan Noodle. I had an “I love America” moment at Shang’s because only here will you see a Hispanic person hand-pulling noodles in the Northern Chinese tradition. So good! If you are a Chinese food enthusiast and find yourself in Vegas, I highly recommend this place.

Stay: We loved our stay at Luxor, the Egyptian-themed, pyramid-shaped casino hotel located right on the strip. Obviously, there are many other options at all price ranges.

Few things are more romanticized than an all-American road trip, and I’m happy to report that they do indeed live up to the hype.

If you have any questions about this Western United States road trip guide, leave a comment below. I am always happy to help!

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Dottie is a travel blogger and YouTuber, and one part of Dots on a Map. Check out her YouTube at www.youtube.com/dotsonamap, where she tells stories about travel, food, and local cultures around the world.

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Montana Wyoming road trip – 6 day travel guide

We packed our bags, loaded up the kid, the pup, and started our Montana Wyoming road trip early on Friday this past Labor Day weekend.

From Colorado, we drove through Wyoming, then visited Glacier National Park in Montana. On our way back, we drove through Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. And concluded the trip at home in Colorado.

Here is our 6-day road trip guide for your next Montana family vacations, including our suggestions for what to see in Montana, and in Wyoming. And where we stayed (mixed hotel and camping spots), and picture guide for each location.

On map above:

• A – Hotel for the night 1 – Townplace Suites Billings (Billings, Montana)
• B – Camp site for night 2 – Big Larch Campground in Montana
• C – Camp site for night 3 – Lost Johnny Point Campground in Montana
• D – Glacier National Park in Montana – Logan Pass
• E – Hotel for night 4 – SpringHill Suites By Marriot Island Park Yellowstone (Island Park, Idaho). Where my location was, at the time I took the screenshot of the route
• F – Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
• G – Home – Denver, Colorado

Our 6-day Montana and Wyoming road trip timeline from Colorado

There are so many ways to explore Montana, and Wyoming, specifically Glacier National Park, and Yellowstone National Park. This is one way that we did, starting from Denver, Colorado.

Day 1 – Driving 8.5h from Denver, CO to Billings, MT

We started driving from Denver, Colorado around noon on Friday.

We made it to Billings, Montana late evening. It’s about an 8.5h drive from Denver. We stayed at Townplace Suites Billings for the night.

Day 2 – Driving 5h and setting up camp near Seeley Lake, MT

We had breakfast at the hotel, and did some shopping in Billings in the morning. Then we started heading towards the north-western part of Montana.

If you decide to go camping in Montana (or anywhere), I recommend finding a campground and setting up camp in the afternoon as soon as the check-in time allows. This gives you plenty of time to set up, pay the fee, find firewood, and get all your camping gear situated. Ideally, you want to do all of this before the sun goes down and the temperature drops. We were in a little bit of a rush trying to find an available campsite, but luckily were able to get set up before there was no more sunlight.

Day 3 – Glacier National Park and camping in Hungry Horse, MT

We packed up in the morning, and headed back to Seeley Lake town for coffee and breakfast. It’s just a quick drive back into town and I needed before the big day, so it’s worth the detour! We started driving north again towards West Glacier National Park for the day.

Before hitting the actual Glacier National Park, we wanted to find a spot for camping and set up the tent first, so we could just come “home” to a nicely set up tent in the evening.

If you can find a camp site inside of Glacier National Park, some suggested campgrounds are Apgar Village and Two Medicine . However, we knew to not even try during the busy holiday weekend.

We decided to find something close by instead. So we ended up passing Hungry Horse Dam, and found our spot at Lost Johnny Point Campground .

Now that our “home” for the night is set up and situated, we headed for West Glacier National Park at around 430pm, perfect timing to hit all the scenic spots at sunset. The rest of the evening was spent in Glacier National Park, sight seeing and exploring the park.

Day 4 – Driving 6h from Hungry Horse, MT to Island Park, ID

We are now on the second half of our trip, but we have big plans to hit one more national park to visit before heading back home. And you guessed it, we’re heading south towards Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. But the hotel we booked was in Island Park, ID. So most of day 4 was spent driving to from Hungry Horse to the next hotel in Island Park, ID.

We stayed at Springhill Suites By Marriot . A hot shower at the hotel after 2 nights camping was in order. We had dinner at Cafe Sabor just across the river from the hotel and it was such a lovely evening.

D ay 5 – Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Teton National Park

Today is the big day for visiting the national parks in Wyoming! Driving from Island Park, ID, we headed to West Yellowstone. We drove by West Thumb, and decided to stop to see the Old Faithful Geyser. We took our time driving through the park, snapped pictures, and stopped to see buffalos crossing the street.

After that, we drove into Grand Teton National Park. Here, not too many pictures were taken because the view was obstructed by smoke from the forest fires on the day we visited. I could somewhat make out the mountain views, but on camera, it doesn’t show.

After the Teton range, we visited Jackson Hole, WY for a quick lunch. My husband also wanted to stop at a spot just outside of the town to visit with a friend and go fishing.

Our last hotel on this trip was in Green River, Wyoming. We stayed at the Hampton Inn & Suites Green River for the night.

Day 6 – Driving 5.5h home from Green River, WY to Denver, CO

The title says it all. We took some time on our last day to wake up, have breakfast at the hotel. And headed home.

We got to Denver at a decent hour in the afternoon. I still had time to unpack, do laundry and prepare to settle back into our usual routine.

And that concludes our 6-day road trip.

What to see in Montana – locations that you can get to by car

We were able to visit the below Montana vacation spots by car. We had limited amount of time spent here, so we drove through these places and stopped for pictures or very short sight-seeing hikes. If we have an opportunity to come back, there are tons of other fun activities for the whole family that we’d like to do. Maybe that’s for another trip (and another blog post) later.

These are some of the must see in Montana. We highly recommend if you visit to check out:

Lake Alva, Montana and other lakes along highway US-83

There are multiple lakes along highway US-83. I recommend checking out Seeley Lake, Lake Inez, and Lake Alva. These photos below were taken at Lake Alva.

If you have a state park pass, or would like to check out Salmon State Park for the day, that’s another beautiful option along this highway just right after the turn from Highway US-200.

Lake McDonald – Glacier National Park

Lake McDonald is inside Glacier National Park. It’s the first thing you will see after you enter the park via the West Entrance Station. The lake is huge, you can walk down to the shore, go for a stroll, and take in the breath taking views.

If you keep driving up the road a little, you will see many water falls, as well as cascades. We stopped at Sacred Dancing Cascade, for sure one of the popular spots. Pictures to follow below.

Going-to-the-Sun Rd

I highly recommend going through Glacier National Park via this scenic drive. The road is called Going-to-the-Sun Rd. This path takes you to the entrance of Glacier National Park, and to Lake McDonald. If you follow the road, you will also see some of the most beautiful mountain and valley views you’ve ever seen. There are many pull-outs on the sides of the road for you to park, come out and enjoy the views. Be sure to safely pull over, look both ways before crossing the road, and respect park rules and other park patrons.

Here are various photos along Going-to-the-Sun Rd in Glacier National Park (I changed outfits for blog outfit photoshoots, but this was all in one drive):

Logan Pass – Glacier National Park

We made it to Logan Pass in Glacier National Park. Unfortunately we were reaching the end of the day by the time we made it here, so we turned around after this. The view here was spectacular. We wish we could have kept going further up into Glacier National Park. Maybe next time!

Some photos of Logan Pass:

What to see in western Wyoming on a road trip

Old faithful geyser – yellowstone national park.

This is one of the most famous attractions known to Yellowstone National Park. Old Faithful is one geyser (of the nearly 500 geysers in Yellowstone) that erupts hot water from the ground into the air. The name Old Faithful is because it has not been common to be able to predict the eruption schedule of a geyser, but this one has lived up to its name.

When we were there, park rangers predicted the time of eruption time down to the minute, and we were able to catch a seat and watch the whole thing. It’s such a cool experience, and highly recommended.

Lewis Lake – Yellowstone National Park

Heading south on Highway US-191, passed Old Faithful Geyser you will see Lewis Lake and its river running alongside the road.

Our hotel and camping spots recommendations

We stayed a total of 5 nights on the trip, with a mix of hotels and camp spots located in various spots of Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming.

Night 1 – Townplace Suites Billings (Billings, Montana)

There are tons of hotels in Billings to pick from. Townplace Suites Billings is pet-friendly with a pet fee of $50 and there’s no pet weight restrictions. Their check out time is 12PM, amazing should we need to check out late. They also offer complimentary breakfast up till 10AM which is convenient when you’re on the road and need to get going quickly, so we went with this hotel.

Night 2 – Big Larch Campground (near Seeley Lake, Montana)

Big Larch Campground is about 5.5h driving from Billings, MT. Site fee was $20/night.

We actually weren’t sure where we were going to set up camp, we just know in the general direction, more north and more west from where we were of the state.

We asked a local what they’d suggest a good camping spot. Clearwater, Montana was the recommended spot. Once we got to Clearwater, we took US-83 North.

There are various camp grounds along the highway right after the turn. We were not able to find any vacancy due to busy Labor Day weekend here. But luckily Big Larch Campground further up the road, right after we passed Seeley Lake, had a few vacant camp sites.

This campground is close enough to the town, I had cell service while in my tent. It’s not a bad idea when you want to send friends and family beautiful pics of your trip. The campsite fee was $20 here (the fees may change, so this is meant to be a reference, not an exact number).

• Nearby suggestions for campgrounds: Salmon Lake State Park Campground
• Nearby suggestions for hotels: The Lodges on Seeley Lake , Double Arrow Lodge , and further distance but beautiful luxury resort The Resort at Paws Up

Night 3 – Lost Johnny Point Campground.

This campground Lost Johnny Point is only a 2h drive from Big Larch Campground. Site fee was $18 here.

From Highway US-2, take a turn onto West Side Road / NF-895. There are several campgrounds along this road. Lost Johnny Point Campground was ~20 minutes (10 miles) from the turn.

Photos of our camp setup at Lost Johnny Point:

• Nearby suggestions for similar campgrounds: Doris Creek Campground , Lost Johnny Campground (to be different from Lost Johnny Point Campground where we stayed, they’re close by each other)
• Nearby suggestions for hotels: Silverwolf Log Chalets Resort (no pet), Under Canvas Glacier (Safari-style tents)

Night 4 – SpringHill Suites By Marriot Island Park Yellowstone (Island Park, Idaho)

This hotel is a 6.5h drive from our previous night’s campground. It is pet-friendly, and offers complimentary breakfast. They only offer suites here (no room), and the suites are so spacious with a nice size walk-in closet. Pet fee is $75 per pet, and check out time is 11AM.

Night 5 – Hampton Inn & Suites Green River (Green River, Wyoming)

The Hampton Inn & Suites Green River is a 5h drive from Island Park, and perfect mid-way point before home. Also pet friendly, with a pet fee of only $25. And it also offers complimentary breakfast.

I also suggest staying at Rock Springs, WY which is another town nearby. Some hotels great for travelers include Hampton Inn Rock Springs , and Holiday Inn Rock Springs .

And that is our Montana road trip guide, with a detour through Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming. And by no means that I’m saying this is the only way (or the best way) for anyone to do Montana Wyoming road trips. I wanted to give you a reference guide on how we did it. But feel free to make as many changes as you need to suit your trip and family. If we (a family of four including a young child and a dog) could have this Montana Wyoming road trip, and had so much fun doing it, then anyone could do it! I encourage you to go out there and explore America, the beautiful. Hope I get to see you on your next trip, tag me on Instagram if you visit one of these spots I suggested!

Note : suggested time to visit is July-August. Actual time of visit was early September during Labor Day weekend.

Other trips we took:

• Spring Break in Colorado with the Ritz-Carlton hotels
• Colorado, Utah, and Arizona 5-day road trip in the winter
• New Mexico and Taos family trip with Toyota Tacoma

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Best Road Trips in the Northern Rockies: Montana, Wyoming and Idaho

Updated : April 19, 2023

AAA Travel Editor, Katie Broome

Bkamprath/iStockphoto.com

Best Montana Road Trips

The scenery in Montana is as impressive as it is varied. Thick forests, towering mountains, deep valleys and pristine lakes characterize the western part of the state, which includes the northern Rocky Mountains and the Continental Divide. It’s the topography of Montana’s west that inspired the name montaña, the Spanish word for “mountain” or “mountainous region.” Of all Montana road trips, this one is perhaps the most popular (and is sometimes referred to as Glacier National Park’s “Road to the Sun”). The 50-mile route cuts across Glacier National Park at an elevation of 6,646 feet and is open seasonally, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. To include the road as part of a longer trip, consider AAA’s , a 374-mile journey that starts in Kalispell, Montana, and ends in the capital city of Helena. (AAA members can take advantage of exclusive member benefits with car rentals from Hertz .)

A drive through the eastern portion of Montana will have you wondering, “Why is the sky so big in Montana?” It’s the prairie grasslands and wide-open vistas of the east that gave Montana the nickname “Big Sky Country.” To see these expansive, impossibly blue skies, consider the following road trips:

• Big Sky Country Road Trip : A scenic 425-mile journey that starts and ends in Billings, Montana, looping through southern Montana and a small section of northern Wyoming. You’ll see the cowboy town of Cody, snow-capped mountains and hairpin turns along Beartooth Scenic Highway , and important sites in Native American history like Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument.

• Big Sky Back Country Scenic Byway : Farther east in Montana’s Great Plains region, this 111-mile journey takes you through badlands, buttes and rolling prairies.

For Montana drives under one hour, consider these additional trips:

• Flathead Lake West Shore Scenic Highway : Follows the shore of glacially formed Flathead Lake, said to be the largest natural body of freshwater west of the Mississippi River

• Bitterroot Valley Scenic Highway : Begins in rustic Darby, a filming location for the TV series “Yellowstone”

Road Trips Around Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks

Established in 1872, was the first national park in the U.S. and continues to be one of its most-visited, with approximately 4 million visitors each year. If you want to be among those visitors and experience one of the best places for road trips in the U.S., here are a few things to know about Yellowstone:

• The park is big — very big. Based on total land area, Yellowstone is larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined.

• The vast majority of Yellowstone’s 3,472 square miles lie in northwestern Wyoming, but its boundaries also extend into Idaho and Montana. (Three of the five park entrances are in Montana.)

• Wildlife sightings are common from park roadways, so drive with caution; you may see grizzlies, black bears, elk, bighorn sheep, moose and bison.

• Most park roads are open May through October (weather permitting), but check the Yellowstone road status website for the most current information.

To see Yellowstone’s dramatic river canyons, geysers, geothermal pools and waterfalls in all their glory, take the road trip, a 400-mile journey from Bozeman, Montana, to Jackson, Wyoming, with plenty of national park stops along the way. You’ll enter through the park’s west entrance (in West Yellowstone, Montana) before making a scenic loop that includes the popular Yellowstone Grand Loop in the heart of the park. This Yellowstone drive includes a trip through Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park, with magnificent views of Jenny Lake, the Teton Range and the valley of Jackson Hole.

What Else to See on a Wyoming Road Trip (Besides Yellowstone)

Once you’ve done the scenic drives around Yellowstone National Park, what else should you see in Wyoming?Just outside Yellowstone’s northeast entrance is , a two-lane road that’s been called one of the most scenic American road trips. It rises to an elevation of almost 11,000 feet, with plenty of overlooks where you can stop for a photo. (If you’re starting from Cody, Wyoming, take the Chief Joseph Scenic Highway to reach Beartooth Scenic Highway; it offers more views of snow-capped mountains and deep canyons.)South of Yellowstone, you can explore the ski resorts and mountains around Jackson Hole and Star Valley. The Star Valley to Yellowstone Scenic Highway will take you from Yellowstone’s south entrance into Grand Teton National Park and then through Jackson Hole and a handful of small towns near the Idaho border. This trip is a good jumping off point for visiting Snow King Mountain and the National Elk Refuge in Jackson, Wyoming.North-central Wyoming near the Montana border offers many scenic drives and small towns worth exploring. From I-90 just south of the Montana–Wyoming border, you’ll have your pick of two scenic drives that start on US 14: the is a roughly 200-mile route across the Bighorn and Shoshone national forests on the way to Cody, while the Medicine Wheel Passage Scenic Highway heads toward Bighorn Lake on US 14A.The follows SR 120 past the vast prairies of Bighorn Basin to Thermopolis, Wyoming, a town known for its hot springs. Continue south on the Wind River Canyon Scenic Byway to Shoshoni for more views of canyons, rock formations and the Bighorn River.

Best Idaho Road Trips

Breathtaking mountain scenery, diverse wildlife, raging river rapids and a ski town that rivals Aspen — it’s easy to see why the state of Idaho makes a great road trip destination.The west region of Idaho boasts the , a 90-minute drive that snakes along the Payette River, with frequent pull-offs to admire the view.Scenic drives in Idaho’s central region will acquaint you with the state’s remote wilderness and craggy granite peaks. The follows SR 75 through Sawtooth National Recreation Area, passing the popular resort towns of Hailey, Ketchum and Sun Valley along the way. You may see wildlife like pronghorn antelope, deer, elk and wolves in this area.Another must-do road trip in the central region of Idaho is the , which follows the Salmon River (also known as the River of No Return, due to its strong current) past waterfalls and spectacular areas for whitewater rafting. As you near the Montana border, you can put yourself in the shoes of Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, who traveled through these mountain passes in 1805 on their journey west.In northern Idaho’s panhandle is a portion of the only International Scenic Byway in North America: . This 88-mile section of the Selkirk Loop offers great river scenery and wildlife watching opportunities around the Selkirk Mountains. (Make the full international loop — bring your passport! — by adding on Washington’s International Selkirk Scenic Loop to the west and British Columbia’s International Scenic Loop to the north.)Nearby is the Pend Oreille Scenic Byway , a two-lane road that follows the Clark Fork of the Columbia River from the Idaho–Montana border to Lake Pend Oreille (pronounced pond-ah-RAY), one of the largest freshwater lakes in the Pacific Northwest.

Best Time of Year for a Northern Rockies Road Trip

June to September is the best time of year for a Northern Rockies road trip, with the best chances of sunny skies and mild temperatures occurring in summer. July is the hottest month on average in these states.

Given the ideal driving conditions in June, July and August, expect plenty of crowds when road-tripping through tourist-heavy areas like Yellowstone, Glacier and Grand Teton national parks in summer months.

If you plan to visit Yellowstone National Park in the fall or spring, keep in mind that roads may close for winter conditions as early as October and remain closed until mid-April. In Glacier National Park, roads at higher elevations (such as the alpine portion of Going-to-the-Sun Road) can close in October and remain closed until late June or early July.

Some roads in Grand Teton National Park may close from November through April or mid-May for winter recreational use.

Winters are particularly harsh in the Northern Rockies, and driving in winter months can be dangerous due to slush, frost, snow, ice and white-out conditions.

No matter the season, always be prepared for dramatic temperature changes and unpredictable weather in the Northern Rockies, especially at higher elevations.

Start Your Next Road Trip with AAA

AAA Travel provides peace of mind for travelers — from the first mile of the journey to the last. Get inspiration for your next road trip and locate AAA Diamond designated hotels and restaurants with AAA’s TripTik Travel Planner , or browse pre-planned itineraries on AAA.com/RoadTrips . Estimating fuel costs for your trip is easy with the AAA Gas Cost Calculator , and if your car needs a quick tune-up before the trip, find a AAA Approved auto repair facility near you at AAA.com/AutoRepair . For printed maps, AAA TourBook guides and trip planning advice, contact your local AAA office .

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Destination Spotlight Category | February 23, 2022

Yellowstone is Turning 150! Take the Ultimate Road Trip Through Wyoming and Montana’s National Parks

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March 1 marks the 150 th anniversary of the establishment of America’s first national park: Yellowstone. Situated atop a volcanic hot spot, the park is known for its iconic geysers, hot springs, dramatic canyons and other impressive natural features, making it a “must-see” destination for many. This year, the park will also play host to a multi-month commemoration event, offering opportunities to reflect on the past 150 years, highlighting successes in the ecosystem and opening dialogue on how to prepare for the Yellowstone of tomorrow.

If Yellowstone is on your travel wish list, there’s never been a better time to visit, and the park’s location on the Wyoming and Montana border makes it the perfect midpoint for a road trip through the region’s other majestic national parks: Grand Teton and Glacier. Here’s the perfect itinerary that allows you to see it all, as well as some other notable sights along the way!

Make Your First Stop Jackson Hole

Begin your trip in Jackson, Wyoming. This charming town offers a wealth of homespun dining establishments and shops, museums with works by famous names, and picture-perfect arches made of shed antlers from the nearby National Elk Refuge. It makes the ideal starting point for exploring the peaks of Grand Teton National Park before heading further north into the lower loop of Yellowstone National Park, where you can explore popular geothermal features such as Old Faithful, and search for bison, bighorn sheep and elk in the Hayden Valley.

Where to Stay: Homebase at the spacious suites at Homewood Suites by Hilton Jackson , located near all the action downtown and just a short drive to the airport and Grand Teton National Park. Fuel up for a day of adventure with the hotel’s free hot breakfast, and wind down in the evening with a dip in the onsite pool.

Grand Teton National Park Credit: Chanya Thirawarapan/Shutterstock

Next Up, Head to Big Sky Country

As you make your way through Yellowstone’s upper loop, allow ample time to stop at unforgettable natural formations such as the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Mammoth Hot Springs, before heading into Montana’s Big Sky. This year-round destination is an outdoor lover’s paradise and is home to world-class skiing, hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, rafting and more. After a day of wild adventures, take a relaxing stroll through hip Bozeman, Montana, which boasts chic eateries, a variety of craft breweries and soothing hot springs that are sure to melt your cares away.

Where to Stay: Book a room or family-friendly suite at Hilton Garden Inn Bozeman , which is walking distance from a variety of eclectic eateries and a short drive away from the outdoor activities of Big Sky and the towering dinosaur fossils at the Museum of the Rockies.

Bozeman, Montana Credit: Jacob Boomsma/Shutterstock

Cap Off Your Journey in Kalispell, Montana

Continuing north, you’ll come to the breathtaking turquoise Flathead Lake, which is surrounded by mature ponderosa pines, juniper trees and awe-inspiring views of the Mission Mountains. Come summer, the region is brimming with juicy Flathead cherries. They’re a perfect snack to enjoy as you wander the quaint streets of Kalispell, Montana and admire restored buildings from the 1800s. The town serves as the gateway for Glacier National Park, which offers more than 700 miles of hiking trails, making it an idyllic spot to seek solitude and reflect on your amazing journey through so many natural wonderlands.

Where to Stay: Hampton Inn Kalispell is ideally situated near Flathead Lake and Glacier National Park, as well as the serenity of Lone Pine State Park. When it comes time to bid farewell to this epic escapade, the hotel is just a short drive away from Glacier Park International Airport.

Glacier National Park Credit: Vaclav Sebek/Shutterstock

Hitting the road this summer? Hilton Honors members can earn up to 5,000 Bonus Points and save on qualified car rentals with Alamo, Enterprise and National. Members can also redeem their Points for car rentals through the Hilton Honors Online Portal . Not a Hilton Honors member? It is free and easy to join at HiltonHonors.com, and new members can earn up to 5,000 Bonus Points.

The Perfect 5 to 7 Day Montana Itinerary

Last Updated on December 4, 2023

by Duncan McHenry

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

The “Big Sky Country” of Montana is marked by an abundance of Rocky Mountain peaks and richly forested valleys that stand alongside wide-open prairies and ranchlands. For travelers who are planning a 5 to 7-day Montana itinerary, it’s a good idea to chart a route that will take you through a variety of the different landscape types and towns in the Treasure State.

Like other nearby Rocky Mountain states such as Wyoming, Colorado, and Utah, Montana is known as a haven for outdoor adventurers like hunters, anglers, backpackers, mountain bikers, and skiers.

It makes sense to mix in some stops at outdoor attractions such as Yellowstone National Park , Glacier National Park , or Montana’s famed Gallatin River as part of any Montana vacation itinerary, depending on your goals and the time of year.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Montana?

Figuring out how many days you should devote can be a challenge when planning a trip to Montana—especially since things are spread so far apart and there’s so much ground to cover. It’s generally a good strategy to pick a major interstate, such as I-90, and plot your stops accordingly.

The difference between spending 5 days and 7 days in Montana can be significant, as traveling for a full seven days can give you more opportunity to do something like spend a night camping in Glacier NP during the summertime.

One advantage of spending 5 days in Montana, on the other hand, is you might dive a bit deeper into exploring a single area if you’re more time-constrained. Skiers visiting Montana in the wintertime might want to focus on a resort like Big Sky, Bridger Bowl, or Whitefish, for example, rather than spending too much time driving.

But if you wanted to have enough time to spend some time in both Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, for example, then you might be more likely to opt for a 7-day itinerary.

5 to 7-Day Montana Itinerary

Generally speaking, there’s more to see and do in Montana once you get to the central and western parts of the state, so this 5 to 7-day Montana road trip itinerary will assume you’re driving across eastern Montana on Interstate 94 (if not directly into the western part of the state via the same highway) or from the south by way of interstates 25 and 90.

That being said, regardless of how you get into Montana, this itinerary will give you some good ideas on things to do in some of its most picturesque, activity-rich ecological areas and cities.

If you need to rent a car for this trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com which aggregates prices for many different car hire companies. Alternatively, you can consider renting an RV or campervan from Outdoorsy if you’re on a long trip to Montana from Denver or other cities such as Seattle.

Day 1 – Billings

The yellowstone river.

As you’re coming into the central part of Montana on Interstates 94 and 90, Billings stands between the Bighorn lands surrounding the Yellowstone River and the corridor that eventually leads to the more mountainous areas of Livingston and Bozeman.

The Yellowstone River runs right along the highway around the city of Billings, and convenient access points like the Duck Creek, Bundy Bridge, and Voyagers Rest access areas make for nice rest stops on a road trip.

The Rimrocks

These natural rock formations are a great option for an afternoon hike and offer some of the area’s best views overlooking the city. Locals enjoy coming here for the sunset, but it’s an equally good option for a morning hike before pushing on to the Bozeman area, assuming that’s your next stop.

Yellowstone Cellars & Winery

With some of the best wines you could ever find produced in the Western US, the winery at Yellowstone Cellars is an ideal stop for anyone looking to stay close to the interstate on their trip to Montana. There’s sometimes a live music act on Fridays, as well.

Though the area is known far more for picking wild huckleberries than for cultivating grape vines, you will be surprised my the quality of wines to be found here.

Where to Stay in Billings

Northern Hotel – An excellent option if you’re looking for a bit of luxury during your trip to Montana, this hotel has it all. They offer a range of plush and comfortable rooms, a central location for exploring Billings and its surrounding area as well as an on-site bar and diner for guests to enjoy.

Riversage Billings Inn – This mid-range hotel is a great option in Billings if you’re travelling on a bit of a smaller budget but still want a level of comfort. They have countless lovely rooms available, a fitness centre on-site, a great location and even allow pets.

Private Rental – A private rental is also a great option in Billings. Properties such as this bright 2-bedroom apartment is just one of many options in the city.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Billings hotels!

Day 2 – Bozeman

The museum of the rockies.

Under the umbrella of Montana State University, the Museum of the Rockies is a world-class natural history museum with one of America’s most highly prized collections of dinosaur fossils.

This is obviously a great stop for kids, featuring exhibits that explore everything from ancient archaeology to cutting-edge advancements in technology and science. Planetarium shows, educational programs, and a museum store with exhibit-inspired souvenirs all add to the museum’s appeal.

Downtown Bozeman

Anyone who appreciates a quintessential college town will enjoy taking a walk around Bozeman. This is arguably your best chance at experiencing a wide array of different restaurants and bars during your travels in Montana.

If you’re craving a burger and beer combo after a day of hiking or sightseeing, local favorites like Backcountry Burger Bar are a great bet; or if you’re in the mood for something a little less American, try Whistle Pig Korean or Dave’s Sushi.

The Gallatin Canyon

The Gallatin River is among the most famous of the great drainages in the Western US and Montana—up there with the Missouri, the Blackfoot, and the Madison Rivers, among others.

This is a great river for rafting, kayaking, tubing (when the water is lower), or fishing, and road trip travelers who are just passing through can find a lot of easy access points for a hike or a picnic and enjoy the beautiful wilderness.

There are plenty of turnouts as you drive along the steeply winding cliffs that line the Gallatin, and even families with kids and travelers with pets will find easy access points for taking a break by the river.

Where to Stay in Bozeman

RSVP Hotel – If you’re looking for a luxury option in Bozeman, then this hotel is a great choice. They have a range of lovely rooms available, a wonderful location and a number of other amenities available to help make your time in Bozeman memorable.

The LARK – Another great option in Bozeman is this modern boutique hotel. Located in the downtown area close to all the action, there are plenty of great rooms to choose from, they offer valet parking, and they even allow pets if you happen to be traveling with a furry friend.

Private Rental – A private vacation rental is also a great option in Bozeman. Properties like this modern condo and many others are available and there are lots of options to choose from that will suit your travel style and needs.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bozeman hotels!

Day 3 – Helena

State capitol.

Montana’s Capitol building is arguably one of the country’s most stately historic structures, complete with Greek columns, marble accents, painted ceilings, and well-manicured lawns that look out across the valley where this city resides.

It can be fun to tour the inside of the Capitol before wandering down the hill or over toward Helena’s downtown area.

The Montana Historical Society

A stop here makes sense if you’ve decided to visit the Capitol building, as the Montana Historical Society is right next door.

The Society hosts Montana’s Museum, which is home to several permanent exhibits and galleries, including the Charles M. Russell Gallery and its collections detailing Lewis and Clark’s experiences as their expedition passed through Montana.

Last Chance Gulch

Essentially Helena’s historic Main Street area, Last Chance Gulch gives visitors a true sense of the city’s Gold Rush-era origins. This area was the site of the original mining camp upon which Helena was founded, but today it’s also a happening part of town with a great nightlife scene.

Local businesses do very well in the buildings that showcase the sort of Victorian architecture you’ll find in mountain towns all across the American West.

Finally, a nice dinner and an evening on the town in the Last Chance Gulch area is a great way to finish things in Montana’s capital.

Where to Stay in Helena

Best Western Premier Helena Great Northern Hotel  – If you’re looking for a great, solid choice in Helena, then this hotel is a fantastic option. There are a number of clean and comfortable rooms available, they have a central location for exploring the Montana capital and there is an on-site bar and swimming pool to enjoy. 

Oddfellow Inn & Farm  – If you’re looking for a unique and quaint stay near Helena, then this traditional inn on a working farm is a great option! They have a number of lovely rooms available and there is even a great restaurant on site! 

Private Rental   – If you’d rather have your own space in the Montana capital, then a private rental – like this comfortable 1-bedroom suite  – is an excellent option. You will find lots of properties available that can suit all kinds of travel styles and needs. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Helena hotels!

Day 4 – Missoula

Downtown missoula.

As the home of “the Griz,” Missoula is where you’ll find Montana’s other main college, the University of Montana. The drive to Missoula from Helena takes you along sections of the Blackfoot River and the Clark Fork River before reaching the Bitterroot Valley area.

Downtown Missoula has a unique personality that makes it feel a bit more tight-knit than Bozeman, with funky little music venues including The Wilma, The Badlander, Monk’s Bar, and others.

The Sapphire Mountains

If you hook directly back to the southeast from Missoula, the mountainous area that spans across to the small town of Philipsburg and the Rock Creek drainage is a beautiful place to sightsee and car camp.

Crowds tend to be almost non-existent in these alpine National Forest areas, even on weekends, and photographers will love the opportunities for bird- and wildlife-watching.

Be mindful that this is grizzly bear country, so it’s best to have any food or non-smell-proof items sealed in a bear-proof container overnight if you’re camping.

The Bitterroot River

While anyone who is walking or wading along the banks might prefer stopping at a smaller river like the Blackfoot, the Bitterroot River—along with the nearby Clark Fork—is a great chance to work some watersports into your itinerary.

You might even consider floating the Bitterroot and the Clark Fork on separate days if you have the time.

The Bitterroot tends to see more crowds, and the Clark Fork is perhaps even more prized for its fly fishing opportunities these days, but both are incredibly scenic and come with sightings of bald eagles soaring overhead and the at-times snowy peaks that line the Bitterroot Valley in the background.

Where to Stay in Missoula

C’mon INN Missoula – This hotel is an excellent option if you’re looking for a comfortable and reliable accommodation option Missoula. They have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available, an indoor swimming pool and fitness center on site and a number of other amenities to make your stay a great one.

Private Rental – Another popular option in Missoula is a private rental, like this plush condo in central Missoula . There are lots of properties to choose from in the city that you’re sure to find something that suits your needs.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Missoula hotels!

Day 5 – Kalispell

Downtown kalispell.

You might choose to set out on a trajectory for Glacier NP after leaving Missoula on a Montana road trip, and the town of Kalispell is worth a stop on the way.

As the largest city in northwest Montana, Kalispell’s downtown area is very pedestrian-friendly and hosts lots of mom-and-pop businesses selling everything from small-batch ice cream to high-end outdoor gear.

Flathead Lake

The largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River is nearly 30 miles long and less than a 20-minute drive from Kalispell.

A tribal recreation pass is needed to access the southern half of the lake, but Montana Fish & Wildlife maintains a number of recreation sites on the other half of the lake—some of which allow for tent camping. Visitors tend to go boating, fishing, and swimming, and pontoon boats are available to rent.

On Flathead Lake, you can also visit Wild Horse Island, which is home to – not surprisingly- wild horses along with bighorn sheep and other wildlife. You can also get excellent views around the lake.

For something smaller, consider visiting nearby Swan Lake and, for more iconic wildlife, consider driving a bit further from Flathead Lake to the CSKT Bison Range where you can see bison roaming in the prairie.

Whitefish Mountain Resort

If you’re visiting Montana during the winter months, Whitefish Mountain Resort (also known simply as Big Mountain) is renowned for getting some of the best snowfall totals of all the Montana ski resorts.

Eleven chairlifts service the mountain, meaning that the already sparse crowds can disperse, and the glades, groomers, and powder-stashed runs often feel downright secluded. If you’re only planning a 5-day Montana itinerary, this is the best place to end your trip.

Where to Stay Near Kalispell

The Ridge at Glacier – If you’re looking for a rustic but plush place to stay close to Kalispell, Whitefish and Glacier NP, then these luxury cabins are a great option. There are a range of cabins to choose from that can suit all kinds of visitors.

Under Canvas Glacier – Glamping is another great option for your visit, and this place located near Kalispell is a good choice if this is an accommodation that intrigues you. Well located close to all the area has to offer, there are a number of safari-style canvas tents to choose from and plenty of great amenities to ensure you have a great stay.

Private Rental – A private vacation rental is one of the best options in Kalispell or near the national park. You’re sure to find something that suits your travel style and budget and a place like this historic home in Kalispell or this mountain view cabin within the Park are just some of countless options.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in Kalispell!

Day 6 – Butte

World museum of mining.

If you’re not proceeding north from the Missoula area toward Glacier NP, then looping back to Butte after having driven the length of the Bitterroot Valley could be a good option. The World Museum of Mining, known for its witty and informative tour guides, is perfect for anyone looking for a short diversion.

Copper King Mansion

The Copper King can double as an option for lodgings, as there’s a year-round bed & breakfast available, but it’s also worth working into any Montana vacation itinerary simply for its remarkable Victorian-era architecture. If you stay here for a night, be sure to book one of the guided tours to learn about the building’s history that dates back to the early days of Butte.

Day 7 – Glacier National Park

Avalanche lake.

If your final destination on your visit to Montana is the Glacier National Park area, then it’s hard to find a better day hike than the Avalanche Lake Trail.

Other hikes such as the Highline Trail might offer more in the way of views stretching out as far as the eye can see, but Avalanche Lake strikes a nice balance as a moderate hike of about five miles in total. This glacial cirque is full of healthy pines and features some memorable waterfall views.

Logan Pass Visitor Center

Even if you’re not looking to get out of the car and venture into the backcountry, a visit to Glacier isn’t complete without stopping in the Logan Pass Visitor Center, which rests at the highest point of the Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road.

You’ll get great information and an opportunity to use facilities here before driving on to other iconic Glacier NP destinations like Wild Goose Island.

Have More Time?

Book a guided float fishing trip.

Montana’s popular angling ideal of “A River Runs Through It” is definitely accurate in its portrayal of fly fishing culture as gospel in the state of Montana.

Rivers like the Blackfoot (featured in the Norman McLean novel and the movie it inspired starring Brad Pitt), the Madison, the Missouri, the Gallatin, and the Bighorn are excellent options for booking a guided float fishing trip.

Lodges and outfitters like renowned angler and fly-tier Kelly Galloup’s Slide Inn have experienced guides ready to take clients out in search of wild trout practically year-round.

Head south toward Yellowstone by way of Big Sky

If you’re not planning a trip to Montana that trends toward the northwestern part of the state, then you can always veer south toward the town of Big Sky and Yellowstone National Park.

This area is known for outstanding downhill skiing and mountain biking, so outdoor adventurers will find it worth spending a day here on their way to Yellowstone.

Montana’s many natural areas, its abundance of wildlife, and its classic mountain towns make it another Rocky Mountain state that’s perfect for road-trippers. No matter how you structure your 5 to 7-day Montana itinerary, the Treasure State has something for travelers of all kinds.

Are you planning to visit Montana? Have any questions about this route? Let us know in the comments!

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About Duncan McHenry

Duncan is a writer for The World Was Here First. He lives in Colorado and also works as a fly fishing guide and instructor when not editing or writing. He has spent time in Costa Rica and has made numerous trips exploring the Western states of the Rocky Mountains.

Wow, you completely left out a day to visit Kootenai Falls west of Libby, just east of Troy. It’s a 2 hour drive West on Highway 2 from Kalispell. McGregor Lake, Thompson Lakes Upper, Middle and Lower, Happy’s Inn is 1/2 way. Kootenai Falls is where they filmed the waterfall scenes in The River Wild and The Revenant. There is a swinging bridge over the Kootenai River just west of the falls. A trip a few miles south gets you to Bull Lake where the movie Always was filmed and just a couple miles from there are the Ross Creek Cedars. The Kootenai River is a blue ribbon trout fishery with summertime opportunities for paddle boarding or just floating on a tube or Kayak. Seventeen miles north of Libby is Libby Dam which is I believe the 3rd or 4th largest dam in the U.S.A. You can get in all of this within a days time.

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How to do the great American road trip: Montana and Wyoming

T he old-time rancher looked us up and down, and then in his best cowboy drawl, asked, “Where y’all from?” On naming our home base, he insisted: “Florida? That’s the other side of the world.”

And, in his way, he was probably right. From Farson, Wyoming , the Sunshine State probably seemed a world away from the immense reaches of this Western-cultured state, where round-ups were still conducted on horseback and tourism was just a quaint idea.

True, we had all stopped for ice-cream at Farson Mercantile rather than anything cowboy-like, but the whipcord-slim old-timer gave the impression that anything from out of state might just as well be in a different hemisphere.

• Read part one of Diaries from the Road here
• Read part two of Diaries from the Road here
• Read part three of Diaries from the Road here

This was the Wyoming we had hoped to discover, though, after scrapping plans to head further west. Our grand 12-month RV adventure had hit a roadblock, having come too far, too fast and put our Winnebago Sightseer under undue strain.

We’d had to decide between pushing on an additional 1,000 miles to Washington and Oregon in favour of more Montana and Wyoming, which we had only touched on during our hectic dashes to Yellowstone and Glacier National Park. Indeed, Wyoming had really piqued our curiosity with its small-city-big-country feel, and we wanted a deep dive into a state still predicated on ranching, mining and railways.

The most populous city is state capital Cheyenne, but, with 65,000 people, that’s less than Torquay in Devon. Yet Wyoming is nearly 4,000 square miles larger than the entire UK. To say it is an ocean of emptiness in a vast panorama of mountains, rivers and ranches is an understatement. Nature still rules the roost here, and that makes it perfect for exploring by RV.

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After the wonders of Glacier National Park , we had turned south-east through Montana and a welter of small towns, including the near ghost-town of Reed Point, agricultural Shelby and historic Great Falls, a pivotal location in the legendary Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1805.

Here, the Corps of Discovery spent more than a month hauling their boats up the Missouri River through five waterfalls, a compelling story excellently told at the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail Interpretive Center and Giant Springs State Park , home of the shortest river in the world, the less-than-mighty 200ft Roe River.

The boutiquey Old West RV Park earned our plaudits for its location in the heart of Reed Point, with its Waterhole Saloon (and truly excellent burgers), while the nearby Harvest Host site of Greycliff Mill offered a modern counterpoint with its heavenly milkshakes, bagels and paninis. Natural Bridge Falls on the Boulder River scenic drive provided the eye candy.

That took us further south, into Wyoming and deeper into cowboy culture, via the town of Buffalo with its stately edifice of The Occidental Hotel and 1908 Saloon, and Sheridan, where Peter D’s RV Park offered one of the most user-friendly RV camps we had discovered to date.

By this stage – 4,635 miles into our journey – we had discovered the “secret” of RVing, and it wasn’t about pointing our rig, Indefatigable (or Fati for short), at the nearest scenic trail and following our noses, as we did during the first three months.

No, the essential truth of this unique style of travel was to use the RV as the base from which to explore in our little Ford Fiesta, Nippy. Therefore, we picked Sheridan, Casper, Wheatland and Green River as HQs for extensive adventuring, and dug into the magnificence that is Wyoming.

Sheridan, with its cute downtown, opened the door to the impressive Tongue River Canyon and the historic Fort Phil Kearny , site of a key battle in Red Cloud’s War from 1866-68; Casper offered us major stops on the fabled Oregon Trail , the 19 th -century pioneer route to the West Coast. We stood on the iconic Independence Rock and struggled to imagine how those intrepid folks would have viewed this stark landscape, battling through its countless barriers on foot, wagon and horseback.

They had to reach this point by 4 July on their epic 2,170-mile trek west or risk not achieving their destination before the onset of winter (and starvation). Roughly half a million people passed this way between 1836 and 1869; most of them made it, but thousands did not.

From Wheatland, we drove south to the true cowboy outposts of Cheyenne and Fort Laramie; lapped up the mountain scenery of the US-34 scenic drive; and marvelled at Wind River Canyon, gateway to Thermopolis and its extensive thermal springs.

Even better, looking at the map, we saw we were only 150 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park , just across the border of Colorado , and we set forth in Nippy to get up close and personal with the Rockies.

We had already encountered them in Glacier, but this was different. Surrounded by peaks reaching 14,000 feet, our WPMs (Wows Per Minute – trademark pending) reached new heights as we goggled at a 360-degree vista of mountain splendour. The scenic drive up Cache La Poudre Scenic Byway served as a warm-up to the main event, taking US-34 into the National Park, where arriving in Estes Park brought the full majesty into play.

A solitary moose crossed our path, grazing casually on lake vegetation, a glorious symbol of nature’s munificence

Trail Ridge Road took that lofty vision and ran with it, highlighting why it was designated an All-American Road in 1996. Here, the road touched 12,000 feet above sea level, an elevation beyond the tree line and with views in every direction that staggered the mind. As we descended back to a mere 8,000 feet, a solitary moose crossed our path, grazing casually on lake vegetation, a glorious symbol of nature’s munificence.

If we thought this part of the world had delivered all the scenic wonders it could offer, we found more as we headed west to Green River back in Wyoming. In the shadow of the imposing Castle Rock and the edge of the high plains Red Desert, this city was the starting point for explorer John Wesley Powell’s 1869 expedition to the Grand Canyon. More importantly, it offered the Flaming Gorge – Green River All American Road , 45 miles of zig-zagging roller-coaster that continued into Utah and the Uinta Mountains.

Halfway through what actually turned out to be a grand 154-mile round-trip, we arrived unexpectedly at Red Canyon Overlook, an improbably precipitous point perched 1,631ft above the Flaming Gorge Reservoir, and affording views halfway to forever.

We had started out in the high desert, populated by a mass of hardy sagebrush and sunflowers, and graduated through a jumbled mass of hogbacks, bowls, ridges, cuestas and ancient deep river canyons to the high-altitude pine forest of the Red Canyon.

The wildlife was equally impressive, from sage-grouse and wild horses to mule deer and the seemingly ever-present pronghorn antelope.

It challenged our knowledge of geologic features and understanding of the ages-old terraforming powers of wind, water and frost. But, best of all, it was utterly untouched by any human activity or degradation, a pristine, untroubled landscape that bordered on the holy.

As we rolled westward along I-80 towards Idaho, we were left with a deeply-ingrained sense of Wyoming’s essential vastness, the big-sky attributes of horizons that filled our windscreen and more besides; a truly magical vista.

It was utterly untouched by any human activity or degradation, a pristine, untroubled landscape that bordered on the holy

The lone somber note was provided by repeated sightings of the Sand Creek Massacre Trail , another heartbreaking story of brutality by the US Army in attacking a peaceful camp of Cheyenne and Arapaho in 1864, slaughtering men, women and children. The Trail reflects the 600-mile journey of the survivors. It took until 1990 for the government to issue an official apology for the 19th century bloodbath, and until 2000 for the National Historic Site to be created.

For a while, we trundled along in silence, pursued by memories of a 159-year-old outrage. To this day, it is the only National Historic Site with the word “massacre” in it. And that’s a start.

Next stops: Idaho and Utah...

How to do it

• Always leave both sewage tanks closed until you’re ready to dump them. You don’t want a “poo pyramid” in your black (toilet) tank because you let all the liquid out.
• When filling up at a petrol station, make sure you can get OUT of the station as well as in. RVs don’t fit in some spaces and you must check them out before filling up.

RV factfile

• For Wyoming and Colorado, Cruise America offers RV rentals from Denver. See more at cruiseamerica.com .
• When things go wrong, consult myrvresource.com .

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Hi everybody, wanted to do this since college , but never got the finances . After 4 years , i finally got the time and money to do something like this , albeit not the right time of the year .Here is what i have , in october. The plan is still sketchy , but thats where i need all the help i can get.

2. want to see more of the unbeaten path , with some major national parks in between

3. planning to just camp all the time

4.the major question would be is three states out of the question in 10 days , if yes i can do either just montana or wyomingw with utah.

5. how is the weather going to be in the month of october ? i think thats the major question

Please all the travel gurus , drop in your thoughts , and hopefully this trip will be the best.

Welcome to the forum!!

Montana and northern/higher elevations will be much cooler or really cold at that time of the year. In fact the main road thru Glacier NP shuts down around the third week of September.

Yellowstone NP and Grand Tetons will also be cooler and the later you get in October the greater chance for snow/winter conditions, road closures, etc. Also many of the in park lodging, restaurants and facilities begin to close down by end of September.

You should be able to drive Trail Ridge Drive and see the Rocky Mt. NP which is north of Denver at this time of the year.

If I were doing this trip I might stick with some of the parks in the Grand Circle in Utah and Colorado. Arches, Monument Valley, Mesa Verde, Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce should all be nice at this time of the year. Here is a link to info about these parks-

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g28965-c177493/Utah:United-States:Trip.Planning.html

We've done many of the parks in Colorado and Utah in late September and had gorgeous weather and no large crowds.

Let us know if you have other questions. Good luck with your trip planning!!

Are you planning on driving from St. Louis? If not, then what's the starting point?

I think it's going to be too cold to camp the entire time. You'll need a pretty thick sleeping bag and, even then, you'd have to have some serious tolerance to go for more than a couple of nights at a time.

10 days is perfectly acceptable for three adjacent states. Yellowstone should be on your list. RMNP is probably not going to work. Trail Ridge Road closed for the season on 10-17 last year, and that's fairly typical. Anything in Montana is probably going to be out as well, unless it's in the eastern part of the state (but why would you go out there?). You may want to think about adding Idaho. I realize no one ever yells "Idaho!" with excitement, but there's a lot to see in the state, particularly if you can get out to Boise. But I would probably try to concentrate on Utah and Colorado, and see their national parks.

Good luck though.

Go the "beaten path"; you won't be disappointed. Plus, you have only 10 days, that path is beaten for a reason.

Yellowstone is terrific - in season, and with at least 3 full days. By October, much has closed down, though the roads will be open.

I'm with colinaz, and would favor the S. Utah parks that time of year.

Opening/Closing Dates, YNP/NPS http://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/open_closedates.htm

Opening/Closing Dates, Xanterra Lodging and other services http://www.yellowstonenationalparklodges.com/opening-closing-dates-2247.html

http://www.utah.com/nationalparks/grandcircle.htm

http://www.utah.com/nationalparks/

Hi agree with the others.

Yellowstone can be cold and snowy in October, the later the greater the risk, but SW Colorado and Utah would be perfect.

Check out your options, re: climate/weather, here:

http://www.weatherbase.com for historical averages

Not sure if i want to go utah/colorado trip right now , i have to sleep on that. i know i dont want to digress , but yosemite sounds like a good park to visit in october.

Doing Montana, Wyoming, and Utah in ten days would be way too quick. 8 days alone would be the bare minimum I would recommend for seeing the Utah parks and if you throw in off the beaten path destinations it would add more. Yellowstone and the Tetons would need another 4-5 days plus a day driving from Wyoming to southern utah. I would recommend picking your spots and saving the rest for the another trip. Southernn Utah and Colorado will be much warmer on October for camping and you'll see some great fall colors. I could recommend a lot of great places and how to best see them if you decide to spend time in Utah.

Given the Yosemite fire, October climate (cold camping), and road closures, unsure YNP is a good bet for you this year.

Great list from shake for relatively unknown places to visit and hike off the beaten path, and many of them easily combined with some of the wonderful national parks, too.

I would be surprised if the fires in Yosemite aren't out by October, but without a crystal ball, who knows!

October is a great time of year for southern Utah and California, but because of this, most of the national parks will be busy, so do bear that in mind.

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Fall Road Trip through Utah, Wyoming, & Montana

There’s just something about a road trip that makes me think of simpler times. Windows down, radio up, and fresh air running through my hair! No plans and nothing ahead but open road and adventure! Ahhh… 🙂

2017 was a busy year in our house! Between working 4 jobs (3 for me, 1 for Brandon) and going weeks without a day off, this was just what we needed! And what better time to drive through the mountains than the fall, right?! Hence our epic fall road trip was born!

The only plans we made for our trip were which general areas we wanted to visit and about how much time we thought we’d spend there, and the only reservation we made was for 2 nights at a ranch in Montana (one of my must do things)! Which, as it turns out, we ended up changing anyway! 🙂

So read on to see some of the amazing places we visited and things we did, including visiting 8 national parks, backpacking through Aspens, glamping in the desert, and a snowy proposal in the mountains!!

Our first visit to Zion National Park (wow!!). If you want to avoid the crowds and still get the views, there’s a great and easy trail that starts outside of the park to the east at the East Mesa Trailhead . Since we were short on time and will do almost anything to avoid crowds, we took this easy trail to the canyon overlook. It did not disappoint! We only saw 2 people on the trail, and that was at the very end!

Brandon got a little too close to the edge for my comfort level!

The colors here were sooo good! I think I made Brandon stop for photos for a good 15 minutes 🙂

For Brandon’s 30th birthday I surprised him with his first glamping experience at Under Canvas Zion ! In case you haven’t heard the term before, glamping= glamorous camping; AKA expensive tents with unnecessary luxuries 😉

This was our tent!

Inside the tent we had a wood oven for heat, a huuuuge cozy bed, and a shower and bathroom! Amazing! Plus there are also other communal tents with lounge areas, games, and a restaurant (see below)!

Also, these swings were crazy! You kind of fall into them and it’s impossible to get out!

Another highlight was backpacking in Bryce Canyon National Park ! It’s definitely one of the most beautiful (and unique) national parks and we wanted to experience it away from all the crowds (seriously there are busses and busses of people everywhere).

You might notice a theme for this trip: avoiding the crowds! 😉 Part of the reason we went in the fall was to avoid the summer hustle and bustle. But for Utah, the parks are still busy in the fall because the weather is much nicer. In this case, all it takes is going slightly off the beaten path (we’re talking just a half mile away from a parking lot or lookout point) to get away from all the people!

Above is the start of the Under the Rim Trail that we backpacked! The trail is about 23 miles and we finished in 2 nights & 3 days. It took us through some of the most varied terrain and there were so many fall colors that I wasn’t expecting! Definitely a fun short backpacking trip if you’re in the area!

The mud pit below was our water source on the first day (see photo above for the look on our faces when we saw it). Sketchy to say the least! Water is a bit of an issue on this trail, so be prepared to stock up when you have it! Oh, and of course we had a pump/filter so we didn’t get sick (thank goodness)!

The view at the end! Unlike any other place I’ve seen!

Onward to more national parks!

Every once in a while we had to pull over to take some photos on the side of the road 😛

We drove through Capitol Reef and Arches , but quickly discovered that we weren’t impressed by rock arches. 🙂 We did, however, stop for some freshly picked fruit in the only orchard in a national park (Capitol Reef). It was snack time anyway! Wait…it’s always snack time…

A few more from Capitol Reef. Honestly we just drove in and out! So many other fun things to see!

Not pictured from Utah was our time in Moab (which is a really fun city) and the time we went mountain biking at Dead Horse Point State Park  and I almost stepped on a rattlesnake. MY WORST FEAR! But I got over it and Brandon says I actually handled it pretty well! Read: didn’t have a panic attack or cry. Yes, this has happened before! But at least I don’t let it stop me from getting outside, right?!

The highlight of our time in Wyoming was definitely when Brandon proposed to me at the top of a snowy hike to Amphitheater Lake  (below) in Grand Teton National Park ! We started in beautiful hiking weather and ended up in the freezing wind and a few feet of snow! We also stayed 3 nights in Jackson, which was definitely our favorite town on the trip!

Enjoy some highlights from the Grand Tetons!

By the time we headed to Yellowstone National Park , a snowstorm had hit and most of the roads were closed (though we were able to snap a few photos on the west side seen below). And thus began the “winter” part of our fall trip…

Bring on the snow!

One of the best places we stayed on the entire trip was Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana! For some reason I’ve had this desire to stay on a ranch in Montana, and it was soo worth it! We came at the absolute perfect time: shoulder season. Basically it was the last week that they had reservations before closing until the winter ski season. Perfect for us, because that meant there were very few other people around! They even upgraded our room at no charge! The rooms were incredibly cozy and the perfect contrast to the snow falling outside! Brandon also had his first experience horseback riding and we had an epic nightly Backgammon battle. Quality time well spent! 🙂

On the way up to  Glacier National Park we found this insanely colorful pullout on the side of the road!

We spent a good half hour or more here just wandering around the dry creek bed and taking photos! Quite possibly the most colorful fall scene ever! This is just one of the reasons why I prefer to not have plans when I travel. Then you allow yourself to be open to opportunities like this one, which we could have never predicted, but ended up being one of the most beautiful and memorable sights!

By the time we made it up to Glacier National Park most of the main roads were closed because of snow. But that didn’t stop us from wandering around where we could! And the crazy weather made for some eerily beautiful photos!

It was cold. You might not be able to tell, but I had 3 coats and 3 shirts on in the photo below!

I always have to get in a few jumping photos! 🙂

Brandon found some outdoor weights…

So there you have it! Some of my favorite places from our biggest trip of 2017!

Thanks for following along!

If you made it this far, then you must love travel and adventure as much as we do! 🙂 I hope you’re headed for some great adventures in 2018!

If you’re planning your own trip, or are just curious, I’m happy to chat with you about any of the places we stayed or things we did! Send me an email at [email protected] or contact me here !

 And if you’re curious about how to travel with celiac disease (that’s me!) or on a gluten free diet, check out my post “5 Tips for the Gluten Free Adventurer” here !

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The Incredible Flower Road Trip Through Wyoming Is The Ultimate Spring Adventure

Super-rad musician, scholar, photographer, and traveler. The Mountain West and larger PNW = home, but can be found wherever there's adventure.

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As a photographer, I’m always on the hunt for new places to document and explore. But as awesome as it is to unexpectedly stumble upon somewhere new, sometimes having a game plan is ideal! As spring awakens the rolling landscapes of Wyoming, every corner of the state’s vast plains and rugged mountainsides burst to life in a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers . Spring blooming season brings a splash of color to Wyoming’s already breathtaking scenery with patches of Indian paintbrushes, lupines, and sunflowers adding a little extra magic to the state’s richly-hued backdrops. While I can’t possibly list every wildflower-studded meadow in Wyoming, this road trip shows off a few highlights!

1. Sundance White Ranch Park

2. Pole Mountain

3. Pilot Peak Road

4. Vedauwoo

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6. snowy range.

7. Munger Mountain

8. Ski Lake

9. Jackson Wildflower Trail

10. Paintbrush Canyon

Please note that many of the stops presented here involve hiking and are best undertaken as their own day trip – we’re hopping all over the state on this trip! Since Wyoming’s wildflowers typically hit their peak moving from lowest to highest elevation, break this road trip up as necessary to make the most of the entire spring and summer wildflower season (typically April-July). Grab the map and start planning!

If you have any favorite trails, parks, gardens, or side trip suggestions along this route, feel free to share .

After you’ve wrapped up your wildflower journey, drink in the magic of the Tetons found all along this iconic lake trail . 

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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