Yellowstone Day Trip from West Yellowstone: The Perfect Itinerary

Panoramic view of Firehole Falls along Firehole Canyon Drive in Yellowstone National Park, featuring rushing water, rocky cliffs, and evergreen trees.

If you’re short on time but want to experience the very best of Yellowstone National Park, a day trip from West Yellowstone is the perfect solution. This itinerary is designed to help you maximize your time, hit the park’s top spots, and make unforgettable memories.

Start Early: Enter Through the West Gate

Begin your adventure at sunrise by entering through the West Entrance to Yellowstone. This is the quickest way to access iconic attractions while enjoying fewer crowds and cooler morning temperatures—perfect for wildlife sightings.

Pro Tip: Early mornings are prime time for spotting bison, elk, and even bears along the Madison River.

Stop #1: Madison Junction and Firehole Canyon

From the entrance, head to Madison Junction, where the Gibbon and Firehole Rivers meet. Then take the scenic Firehole Canyon Drive, a lesser-known gem where you can enjoy waterfalls and dramatic canyon views.

Stop #2: Old Faithful & Upper Geyser Basin

No Yellowstone itinerary is complete without watching Old Faithful erupt. The geyser erupts roughly every 90 minutes, so check the visitor center for the next predicted time.

While here, explore the Upper Geyser Basin Boardwalk to see a variety of hot springs, bubbling pools, and colorful thermal features.

Stop #3: Grand Prismatic Spring

Next, drive to Midway Geyser Basin to marvel at the famous Grand Prismatic Spring, the largest hot spring in the U.S. Its brilliant blue, orange, and yellow rings are breathtaking, especially when viewed from the Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail.

Stop #4: Norris Geyser Basin

Head north to Norris Geyser Basin, Yellowstone’s hottest and most dynamic thermal area. The contrasting colors and constant geothermal activity make this stop a must for photographers.

Stop #5: Mammoth Hot Springs (Optional for Fast Travelers)

If time allows, continue north to Mammoth Hot Springs for its terrace-like thermal formations. Otherwise, start looping back toward the West Entrance.

Afternoon Wildlife Drive: Gibbon River & Back to West Yellowstone

On your return, keep your eyes open along the Gibbon River and open meadows for wildlife activity. Late afternoon is another prime time for animal spotting.

Evening in West Yellowstone

Finish your day with a hearty dinner at one of the West Yellowstone restaurants and maybe an evening stroll through the charming downtown.

Final Tips for a Successful Day Trip:

  • Pack a lunch or snacks to save time.
  • Dress in layers—Yellowstone weather can change quickly, even in summer.
  • Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife (at least 25 yards from bison and elk, 100 yards from bears and wolves).

With this Yellowstone day trip itinerary, you’ll see geysers, colorful springs, rivers, and wildlife—all in one unforgettable day. If you fall in love with the park (you will), start planning your next visit to explore more in-depth.