Ultimate Road Trip: National Parks II
- shannastewart4443
- Apr 14
- 15 min read
Updated: Apr 15
"Wherever you go, go with all your heart." – Confucius
Embarking on a road trip from Cody, Wyoming, through the wild beauty of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, onward to Bozeman, Flathead Lake, and finally the majestic Glacier National Park, is an unforgettable journey through some of America’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. This route winds through towering mountain ranges, geothermal wonders, pristine lakes, and rugged wilderness, offering a front-row seat to the untamed spirit of the West. From the steam-filled basins and roaming bison of Yellowstone to the glacial peaks and alpine waters of Glacier, every mile brings a new adventure. Whether you’re chasing sunrises over the Tetons, cruising past endless Montana plains, or watching waterfalls cascade into turquoise lakes, this road trip is a perfect blend of thrill, serenity, and pure scenic magic.
This post will feature a grand road trip through Wyoming and Montana and features 3 National Parks! Stops include:
I planned for a 12-day trip, but if you have more time/money, you could always extend the time in each of these destinations.
So, gather up your hiking gear and let's go!
Best time to do this Road Trip:
Late September to early October
Why This Time is Ideal:
Fall Colors – The landscapes are stunning, with golden aspens and crisp mountain air. Fewer Tourists – Peak summer crowds have died down, making national parks and scenic routes more peaceful. Comfortable Weather – Temperatures are mild (highs in the 50s–70s°F), perfect for hiking without summer heat or winter snow. Wildlife Activity – Animals are more active, especially in Yellowstone and Grand Teton, preparing for winter.
Alternative Timeframe:
Late May to Early June – Spring wildflowers bloom, wildlife emerges, and most roads are open, but some mountain passes may still have lingering snow.
Day 1 - 2: Arrive at Billings Montana and Drive to Cody Wyoming
(about 2 hours' drive time)
Cody, Wyoming, is a fantastic destination for those looking to experience the Wild West, stunning landscapes, and easy access to Yellowstone National Park. Founded by Buffalo Bill Cody, the town is rich in history, outdoor adventures, and cowboy culture.
Things to see on route to Cody:
Top Stops Between Billings and Cody
Pictograph Cave State Park – A fascinating archaeological site with ancient rock art.
Yellowstone Art Museum – A great stop in Billings showcasing regional art.
The Rimrocks – Stunning sandstone cliffs offering panoramic views of Billings.
Red Lodge, MT – A charming mountain town with great restaurants and outdoor activities.
Beartooth Highway – One of the most scenic drives in the U.S., featuring breathtaking mountain views.
Buffalo Bill Center of the West – A world-class museum complex in Cody featuring exhibits on Buffalo Bill, Native American history, and Yellowstone.
Where to stay in Cody:
Moose Creek Lodge & Suites
2.5 Star Hotel
Moose Creek Lodge & Suites is located downtown in the heart of it all, making it convenient to walk to dinner, the rodeo, or shops. When you need lodging and a breath of fresh air, look no further than Moose Creek Lodge & Suites for a family-friendly, Western-themed hotel in Cody, WY.
The Scout Inn
3-Star Hotel
Located in the Heart of Cody, Wyoming. Spacious, practical rooms packed with features.
Walking distance to restaurants, museums, shopping – close to everything Cody has to offer.
Lovingly renovated and remodeled in 2022. The Blanca Tatanka Bar & Restaurant offers fine cocktails, plates, and tunes — right where you’re staying.
The Cody Hotel
4-Star Hotel
The Cody Hotel is known for luxury lodging in the Heart of the American West. The hotel is conveniently located just under an hour's drive from Yellowstone National Park's East Entrance gate.
Enjoy luxurious accommodations in the heart of Yellowstone Country. Family activities in the Cody area include river rafting on the Shoshone River, trail rides on horseback, hiking and camping, guided sightseeing tours, sightseeing on the Cody Trolley, exceptional western historical experiences at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center, fly fishing on the North Fork of the Shoshone River, and breathtaking sightseeing along the Beartooth Highway.
The luxurious accommodations and superior services at The Cody Hotel make this the perfect place to base your daily sojourns into Yellowstone Country.
Things to do in Cody:
Top Things to Do in Cody
Buffalo Bill Center of the West – A world-class museum complex featuring exhibits on Buffalo Bill, Native American history, and the natural wonders of Yellowstone. Learn more here.
Old Trail Town – A collection of historic buildings and artifacts from the Old West, including structures used by Butch Cassidy.
Buffalo Bill Dam & Visitor Center – A historic dam with impressive views and exhibits.
Cody Nite Rodeo – The longest-running nightly rodeo in the U.S., offering an authentic cowboy experience.
Chief Joseph Scenic Byway – A stunning drive through Wyoming’s rugged landscapes.
Red Canyon Wild Mustang Tours – Experience Wyoming’s iconic wild horses on a guided tour.
Yellowstone River & Outdoor Activities – Enjoy fishing, rafting, and hiking in the surrounding wilderness.
Day 2 - 5: Drive to Yellowstone National Park
(about an hour drive to East Entrance)
Yellowstone National Park is a bucket-list destination known for its geysers, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. As the first national park in the world, it offers 2.2 million acres of natural wonders, including Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Things to see on route to Yellowstone:
The drive from Cody, Wyoming, to Yellowstone National Park is often called one of the most scenic routes in America. President Theodore Roosevelt even described it as "the most beautiful 50 miles in America."
Buffalo Bill Dam & Reservoir – A historic dam rising 350 feet above the canyon floor, offering stunning views and a visitor center.
Buffalo Bill State Park – A great spot for hiking, fishing, and picnicking along the Shoshone River.
Smith Mansion – A fascinating, multi-story wooden structure built by an eccentric engineer, visible from the highway.
Red Barn in Wapiti – A great place to grab snacks and fuel before entering Yellowstone.
Shoshone National Forest – The first national forest in the U.S., featuring rugged mountains, dense forests, and abundant wildlife.
Mummy Cave – An ancient archaeological site with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years.
Sylvan Pass – A breathtaking mountain pass offering panoramic views as you approach Yellowstone.
Where to stay near Yellowstone:
Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins - Inside the Park
3-Star Hotel
Many people think that the oldest lodge in Yellowstone is the Old Faithful Inn. Actually, it’s Lake Yellowstone Hotel. The bright yellow, columned building has been around since 1891. Upon your arrival, the Lake Yellowstone Hotel’s massive white columns welcome you to a time of classic yet casual elegance.
Today, the hotel is cozier and more upscale than ever before after the latest round of renovations, says Rick Hoeninghausen, director of sales and marketing for Yellowstone National Park Lodges.
While many of the hotel’s amenities are new, it “still gives you a feel for the history and heritage part of golden age of touring in the park,” Hoeninghausen says.
According to Historic Hotels of America, the hotel was remodeled in 1903 by Architect Robert Reamer and has since undergone a series of remodels and additions over the years. The latest renovation was in 2014 when the Lake Hotel underwent renovations to the tune of $28.5 million. Beyond paint, the improvements include adding bathrooms (which cut down the number of rooms to 153), new fixtures, structural work, and new furniture.
Like most national parks, internet access is in scarce supply. This new renovation has included hard-wiring internet in each room and access is provided by a third party for a fee. And there is a new business center that provides computers with free internet and printers. A new cell tower in the lake area also provides better mobile phone service.
The charming hotel, which is a member of Historic Hotels of America, takes guests back to a time before cell phones and televisions. Since there are no televisions or radios in the rooms, guests congregate in the common areas and often make new friends.
In the summer, a string quartet plays during the evenings in the lobby while people play board games or share the experience of putting a puzzle together.
Under Canvas West Yellowstone
Glamping
Under Canvas West Yellowstone is located just 10 minutes from the primary Yellowstone National Park West Entrance, making it the perfect gateway to Montana’s unique hydrothermal and geologic wonders, diverse wildlife, and boundless outdoor activities. With uninterrupted views of Montana’s picturesque landscape, Under Canvas offers a one-of-a-kind outdoor glamping experience near America’s oldest national park.
Bar N Ranch
4-Star Hotel
Experience a rustic Montana ranch vacation with exceptional lodging accommodations and scenery. Located just six miles from the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, on an expansive, 200-acre valley property, Bar N Ranch is the perfect destination to access countless adventures and scenic beauty. This traditional western guest ranch is an enchanting extension of the natural wonders and scenic byways of southwest Montana, offering spacious lodge rooms with charming amenities and individual cabins from one to four bedrooms. Resident wildlife and breathtaking views surround, while the South Fork of the Madison River meanders through the 200-acre ranch.
Summer activities include fly-fishing, hiking, whitewater rafting and guided tours of nearby Yellowstone National Park. A simple walk around property will have you greeted by rescue horses and red fox, antelope and more. After a day of outdoor adventures, cozy up in your private cabin or spacious lodge room and enjoy dining at Embers and s’mores around the outdoor fire pit at night.
Fly-fishing is available right on property during the summer, as well as nearby horse-back riding and the breathtaking geysers and natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park within just 20 minutes. Be it a family adventure, friends retreat, corporate offsite, or wedding, Bar N Ranch is the perfect Montana getaway, no matter the season.
Things to do at Yellowstone:
Old Faithful – Witness the park’s most famous geyser erupt on a predictable schedule.
Grand Prismatic Spring – A stunning, rainbow-colored hot spring that’s one of the most photographed spots in the park.
Mammoth Hot Springs – Unique limestone terraces formed by thermal activity.
Yellowstone Lake – A massive high-altitude lake perfect for boating and fishing.
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone – Featuring Lower Falls, one of the most iconic waterfalls in the park.
Lamar Valley & Hayden Valley – Prime spots for wildlife viewing, including bison, wolves, and grizzly bears.
Scenic Drives – Explore Dunraven Pass, Beartooth Highway, and Firehole Canyon Drive.
Hiking & Backcountry Camping – Over 1,100 miles of trails to explore.
Ranger Programs & Guided Tours – Learn about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife from experts.
Days 5 - 8: Drive to Grand Teton National Park
(about 2.5 hours' drive)
Grand Teton National Park is a breathtaking destination in northwestern Wyoming, known for its towering mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Whether you're looking for scenic drives, world-class hiking, or peaceful moments by the water, Grand Teton offers an unforgettable experience.
Things to see on drive to Grand Teton:
Mammoth Hot Springs – A fascinating geothermal area with limestone terraces and steaming hot springs.
Jenny Lake Trail – One of the most scenic spots in Grand Teton, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and Cascade Canyon. Check it out here.
Teton Park Road – A stunning drive through Grand Teton National Park, featuring incredible mountain views and wildlife sightings.
Where to stay near Grand Teton:
Mountain Modern Motel
3-Star Hotel
If there were ever a segment of the hotel market ripe for a boutique takeover, it’s the outdoor/adventure-travel world. The Mountain Modern Motel in Jackson, Wyoming is an early example: the look is stylish and contemporary, with a tightly focused color palette and plenty of bare blond wood, and the facilities are minimal but well-chosen, from the indoor pool and hot tub to the on-site café, BBQ joint, and Korean fusion restaurant. You’re two blocks from Jackson’s town square, and you’re a short drive from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and even closer to the town’s own Snow King.
Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa
4-Star Hotel
Your gateway to Jackson Hole summer adventures is just one mile from Grand Teton National Park and in the heart of vibrant village activities and secluded serenity away from town traffic and crowds. Unwind after a day of Wyoming adventures at our classic alpine lodge offering upscale amenities setting the standard for refined mountain living. Indulge in the ultimate Jackson Hole spa experience. SpaTerre combines Indonesian and Thai-inspired treatments in a calming mountain setting for a soothing escape for mind and body.
Lost Creek Ranch & Spa
5-Star Hotel
A Historic Guest Ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming offering all-inclusive vacations and family-owned hospitality. The boutique property is family owned and offers a time capsule Guest Ranch experience with modern-day creature comforts. A winding path of wildflowers, lined by Aspen trees leads to 10 cozy log cabins and main lodge. Accommodating up to 60 guests per week, the guest to staff ratio provides excellent customer service during your stay.
Things to do at Grand Teton:
Jenny Lake – One of the most iconic spots in the park, perfect for hiking, boating, and photography.
Hidden Falls & Inspiration Point – A short but rewarding hike with stunning views.
Snake River Overlook – Made famous by Ansel Adams, this viewpoint offers incredible scenery.
Mormon Row Historic District – Classic barns with the Tetons as a backdrop, perfect for photography.
Teton Park Road – A scenic drive offering breathtaking views of the mountains.
Wildlife Watching – Spot moose, elk, bears, and bald eagles throughout the park.
Jackson Lake – A great spot for kayaking, fishing, and relaxing by the water.
Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center – A great place to learn about the park’s history and geology.
Colter Bay Village – A hub for outdoor activities, including boat rentals and ranger programs.
For more on Jackson Hole, see my post: Snow Covered Bliss 2 - Unforgettable Ski Destinations in the U.S.
Days 8 - 10: Drive to Bozeman, Montana
(about 4.25 hours' drive time)
Bozeman, Montana, is a vibrant mountain town known for its outdoor adventures, thriving arts scene, and proximity to Yellowstone National Park. Whether you're into hiking, skiing, fly fishing, or exploring local culture, you are sure to enjoy time in Bozeman.
Things to see on drive to Bozeman:
Beartooth Mountains – A breathtaking mountain range with scenic drives, including the famous Beartooth Highway.
Bighorn Mountains – A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, fishing, and wildlife spotting.
Montana Grizzly Encounter – A grizzly bear rescue and educational sanctuary where you can see these incredible animals up close.
The Story Mansion and Story Park – A historic site in Bozeman, perfect for learning about local history.
Museum of the Rockies – Home to one of the best dinosaur fossil collections in the world.
Hyalite Canyon – A stunning area for hiking, camping, and waterfall views.
Where to stay in Bozeman:
The Lark
3-Star Hotel
Bozeman is a major city by Montana standards, but it’s also surrounded by vast expanses of adventure-ready landscape, including Yellowstone National Park. It’s only natural that a boutique hotel like the Lark, then, should have one eye on the downtown social scene and the other on the great outdoors. Rooms are modernist-inspired and full of works by local artists, even as they pay tribute to Bozeman’s natural surroundings. There’s a map room staffed by local guides who will help you plan your adventures, and the whole of the city’s compact downtown district is within easy walking distance.
Kimpton Armory Hotel
4-Star Hotel
Welcome to the new Kimpton Armory Hotel, the historic destination in the heart of the American West, and Bozeman’s first and only luxury boutique hotel. Seamlessly merging past and present, we’re honoring the rich heritage of the landmark Armory building we call home and bringing a relaxed, contemporary refinement and energetic spirit to vibrant Downtown Bozeman. Not satisfied to simply be a place you lay your head at night, the hotel features an array of distinctive social gathering places and luxe amenities all with the purpose of encouraging you to unwind, explore and indulge during your stay. Dine on traditional American fare at our Fielding’s restaurant, take in the stunning views at Sky Shed, the rooftop bar, and close the night with live music at Tune Up, the basement bar. Delight in unique hosted events and activations during your stay.
Montage Big Sky
5-Star Hotel
Inspired by a timeless Montana-inspired palette of locally sourced woods and stones, the resort’s collection of guestrooms, suites and residences are thoughtfully situated across three distinct settings– The Lodge, Inn and Mountain Homes– providing a contemporary mountainside retreat. The 139 guestrooms, suites and residences blend a timeless natural palette with modern luxuries to provide an idyllic alpine retreat in which to relax and rejuvenate.
Enjoy signature Elements of Wellness treatments, an indoor pool and refined amenities at Spa Montage, where nature-inspired experiences allow your mind, body and soul to relax in the cradle of Big Sky Country.
Indulge in locally inspired dishes at our resort’s five unique dining outlets, offering exquisite wood-fired Italian cuisine, fresh-caught fish and an array of delectable small bites that pair perfectly with expansive alpine views and handcrafted cocktails.
Things to do in Bozeman:
Museum of the Rockies – Famous for its extensive dinosaur fossil collection, including the largest T-Rex skull ever found. Learn more here.
Gallatin History Museum – A fascinating look at Montana’s past, featuring exhibits on pioneers, Native American history, and the Old West. Check it out here.
Bridger Bowl – A fantastic spot for skiing and snowboarding in winter, with breathtaking mountain views. More details here.
Bozeman Hot Springs – Relax in natural hot springs, perfect after a day of adventure.
Gallatin River – A prime location for fly fishing, rafting, and scenic drives.
Hyalite Canyon – A stunning area for hiking, camping, and waterfall views.
Downtown Bozeman – Explore local shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
American Computer & Robotics Museum – A unique museum showcasing the history of computing and robotics.
Days 10 -12: Drive to Glacier National Park
(about 5 hours' drive time)
Glacier National Park, often called the "Crown of the Continent," is a breathtaking destination in northwestern Montana, known for its glacial peaks, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. Whether you're looking for scenic drives, world-class hiking, or peaceful moments in nature, Glacier offers a memorable experience.
Things to see in route to Glacier National Park:
Madison Buffalo Jump State Park – A historic site where Native Americans once hunted bison by driving them off cliffs.
Last Chance Ranch (Helena, MT) – A unique stop offering a wagon ride dinner show with Montana prime rib.
Roe River – The shortest river in America, measuring just 201 feet long.
Giant Springs State Park – A beautiful spot for a picnic and a chance to see one of the largest freshwater springs in the U.S.
Old Trail Museum – A quirky stop featuring Montana history, dinosaur fossils, and delicious ice cream.
Glacier Highline – A treetop adventure park with ziplining, ropes courses, and rock climbing.
Avalanche Lake – A breathtaking alpine lake surrounded by towering cliffs.
Hidden Lake Overlook – A short but rewarding hike with stunning views.
Red Rock Falls – A scenic waterfall hike in Glacier National Park.
Siyeh Pass – A high-elevation trail offering incredible glacier views and alpine meadows.
Where to stay near Glacier Park:
Cedar Creek Lodge and Conference Center
3-Star Accommodations
A four-season destination inspired by the people, culture and landscapes of Montana, Cedar Creek Lodge and Conference Center blends the comfort of a mountain lodge with modern style at the gateway to Glacier National Park in Columbia Falls. A rich sense of exhilaration infuses every experience, from fly fishing on Whitefish Lake and backcountry adventures in Glacier National Park to championship golf and more.
Lodge at Whitefish Lake
4-Star Hotel
Nestled between majestic mountains and pristine waters lies The Lodge at Whitefish Lake. A truly a special place, The Lodge is situated between Whitefish Lake and the 28-acre Viking Creek Wetland Preserve, with breathtaking scenery at every turn and no shortage of Montana adventures to experience. If relaxation and leisure are more your style, our first-class amenities and luxurious spa allow you to get comfortable and just be.
Inspired by the grand lodges of the past, The Lodge offers genuine western hospitality sure to create cherished moments and lasting memories. Connect – to yourself, those around you and your environment. Refresh your senses, play like a local, indulge in quality culinary experiences, and make yourself at home.
The Firebrand Hotel
4-Star Hotel
The Firebrand Hotel brings urban sophistication and service combined with the atmosphere and adventurous style of Northwest Montana’s rugged landscapes. The Firebrand’s premier location in downtown Whitefish positions you steps away from world-class dining and nightlife options and within easy access to golfing, Whitefish Lake, trails, and skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort, and it's a short drive to the West Glacier entrance to Glacier National Park.
The Firebrand restaurant showcases regionally inspired entrées and small plates to satisfy your hunger and ignite your senses! The Firebrand Spa offers an array of day spa services including therapeutic massage and facials.
Things to do in Glacier Park:
Going-to-the-Sun Road – One of the most scenic drives in the U.S., winding through mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. Learn more here.
Lake McDonald – A stunning glacial lake with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking mountain views. Check it out here.
Logan Pass Visitor Center – The highest point on Going-to-the-Sun Road, offering incredible vistas and wildlife sightings. More details here.
Many Glacier – A spectacular area with Grinnell Glacier, Swiftcurrent Lake, and incredible wildlife.
Hidden Lake Overlook – A short but rewarding hike with breathtaking views.
Avalanche Lake – A beautiful alpine lake surrounded by towering cliffs.
Trail of the Cedars – A scenic, wheelchair-accessible trail through an ancient cedar forest.
Wildlife Watching – Spot mountain goats, grizzly bears, moose, and bald eagles throughout the park.
Red Bus Tours – A historic and scenic way to explore the park. Check it out here.
Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park – A unique cross-border park shared with Canada.
Day 11: Drive to Glacier Park International Airport
and return home (about 30 minutes' drive time)
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