A Journey Through Yellowstone and Beyond: A Wild Travel Diary

Day 1: Minneapolis to Bozeman to Yellowstone

Our adventure began with an easy non-stop flight from Minneapolis-St. Paul to Bozeman, Montana. The anticipation mounted as soared above the clouds, knowing the wonders that awaited us. The beauty of the area started right at the airport.

Bozeman, MT

Upon landing in Bozeman, we headed to Mackenzie River Pizza Co. for lunch. This local favorite did not disappoint. There were several lunch combo options and we each enjoyed a flavorful, filling meal. The cozy, rustic ambiance of the restaurant set a perfect tone for the start of our trip. We took a few minutes to walk around and appreciate the quaint town and the displays supporting breast cancer awareness month.

We set off for Yellowstone National Park, and within a little over an hour we arrived at the north entrance. The line to enter the park late in the afternoon wasn't long and we were able to enter for free because of my dad's veteran status. As soon as we passed through the gates, we were greeted by the park's stunning landscapes and immediately saw a mountain goat. It was so surprising to be greeted by wildlife right away! Our first stop was the magnificent Mammoth Hot Springs. The terraces of travertine, shaped by thousands of years of geothermal activity, were a sight to behold. The unique formations made it clear why this is one of Yellowstone's most iconic features. Liberty Cap is 37 feet tall and was formed after years of an active hot spring in the area.

The terraces were amazing!

After some more exploration and Yellowstone beauty, we made our way to Canyon Lodge for our first night's stay. Nestled within the park, this lodge provided a cozy and convenient base for our adventure. Late in the season, the lodge had a couple of food options still open, and we were able to unwind with a couple beverages and appetizers.

Our building at Canyon Lodge

Crescent moon in the night sky

Day 2: Wake up to Wildlife Tour and more Yellowstone Exploration

Our second day began early with the highly anticipated Wake Up to Wildlife Tour of Lamar Valley. The tour left right from Canyon Lodge, which was very convenient for the 7am departure. As the first rays of sunlight broke over the valley, we were treated to the sight of bison herds grazing peacefully, pronghorns hanging in the valley, a few wolves prowling in the distance, a close encounter with a coyote, and so much more. The tour guide was knowledgeable and passionate, providing fascinating insights into the park's ecosystem and the behaviors of its inhabitants. She was able to share some history about the park, what to look out for when exploring on your own, the meaning of a three-dog day, and brought a high-powered scope to see wildlife in the distance. Even though the park is easy to navigate on your own, I highly recommend taking this tour. It was a great way to learn more about the park, there were a lot more eyes to catch glimpses of wildlife, and we got some tips from the guide and other visitors.

Sunrise with bison along the roadside

Pronghorns resting in the distance

Even the smallest wildlife was in sight

Close up coyote

Mud Pots

After the tour, we headed out to explore more on our own. We checked out Dragon's Mouth Spring and Mud Volcano, boiling mud pots and pools. These amazing thermal features were a delight, but it was hard to capture the energy in a picture or video. As we continued on our journey, it wasn't long before we were able to catch elk grazing near the road.

Dragon's Mouth

Elk by the roadside

We also had to check out Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America. Being it was late in the season there was barely a soul in sight. The serenity of the lake was awe-inspiring. We explored the shoreline, taking in the breathtaking views, and marveling at the geothermal features dotting the area. The combination of the crystal-clear waters and the rugged mountain backdrop created a scene of unparalleled beauty.

Yellowstone Lake

Day 3: Geysers, Waterfalls and More!

The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone was so mesmerizing from what we saw on day two, we knew we needed to spend more time admiring its beauty. The power and majesty of the falls were breathtaking, and the viewpoints provided a stunning panorama of the canyon's rugged beauty. Again, it was hard to capture the grandeur with pictures, but it truly was impressive to take in. And dare I say, I enjoyed this canyon more than the Grand Canyon in Arizona?!

We then began to make our way down to the historic Old Faithful Inn where we were spending the last two nights of our trip. Along the way we stopped to admire many of the springs. These were mesmerizing to watch - the bright colors, the bubbling, and the contrast of the surrounding landscape. These were another favorite of mine.

Pulling up to the Old Faithful Inn was nearly as grand as Old Faithful itself. This iconic lodge, with its rustic architecture and prime location next to Old Faithful, offered a unique blend of history and comfort. The Upper Geyser Basin is home to the world-renowned Old Faithful. Watching Old Faithful erupt was an unforgettable experience as the geyser shot boiling water high into the air with remarkable precision. The view platform is spacious, and the predictability of the geyser made it easy to admire.

Old Faithful

It's truly unbelievable how many bison we saw over the course of the trip, but we were lucky enough to also get an up-close view of one just outside of our room.

Bison visitor

Day 4: Beyond Yellowstone to Grand Teton National Park and Jackson, WY

Beautiful drive

The next morning, we headed south to Grand Teton National Park. The drive through the trees was beautiful. Unfortunately, our views of the majestic Teton Range became obscured by wildfire smoke, but we managed to get a few photos before the smoke became too thick. We still made the most of it and stopped along the way at a few great spots. Jackson Lake Dam and Reservoir provided a picturesque setting for some scenic photos and a good stretch of the legs.

Jackson Lake Dam and Reserve

Our journey continued to Jackson, WY, a charming town known for its Western flair. We couldn't resist stopping at the iconic Cowboy Bar, where we enjoyed drinks, a bite to eat, and soaked in the lively atmosphere. The bar, with its saddle bar stools and rustic decor, offered a taste of the Old West. We explored a couple local shops and were happy to see another sign of a city supporting breast cancer awareness. On our way out of town we stopped to admire some of the art at the National Museum of Wildlife Art. Up on a hill, it provided a great view of the city and many great sculptures and wildlife to take in.

National Museum of Wildlife Art

Day 5: Departure Day But First A Scenic Drive Through Big Sky, MT

On our way back to Bozeman, we took a scenic drive through Big Sky, MT. Driving along US 191, also known as Gallatin Road, was a windy one and provides many opportunities to admire the Gallatin River. As we were entering into Big Sky, we spotted some big horned sheep grazing along the roadside-a perfect end to our adventure.

Conclusion: Memories to Last a Lifetime

The journey through Yellowstone and beyond was an unforgettable experience, filled with natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and unique attractions. From the awe-inspiring geothermal features, serene lakes, charming towns, rivers, prairies, forests, and mountains, every moment offered something new and exciting. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply seeking a beautiful escape, this trip promises memories that will last a lifetime, and I was lucky enough to share the experience with my parents. If you want a trip of adventure or one where you explore from the car and tours, Yellowstone makes it doable. So pack your bags and discover the magic!

I hope you enjoyed reading about this incredible journey! I'd love to share more with you and help you plan your 2025 Yellowstone trip now. Safe travels!