Trip Information
Number of Nights: 7 nights
Seasons: Late May – Late September
Start / End: Bozeman, MT
Average Price: $6,300
Detailed Itinerary
Start: 1 night Bozeman, MT
Start your adventure in the charming western town of Bozeman, Montana, where a blend of historic character and vibrant culture awaits. Nestled in the picturesque Gallatin Valley and surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains, Bozeman offers a delightful array of activities and sights. Stroll through its lively downtown area, lined with unique shops, cozy cafes, and local restaurants. Explore the Museum of the Rockies, which showcases fascinating exhibits on the region’s natural history and paleontology. You can arrive in Bozeman at any time, as we have booked our favorite hotel for you to stay in before you embark on your RV adventure the following day.
Bozeman to West Yellowstone: 200 miles
2 nights Yellowstone National Park (Western Area)
After collecting your RV and familiarizing yourself with its features, you’ll drive to the western area of Yellowstone National Park. Here, you’ll find yourself close to the geyser basin, a highlight of the park renowned for its geothermal wonders. The geyser basin area boasts a remarkable collection of geothermal features, including the iconic Old Faithful Geyser, which erupts with impressive regularity, showcasing nature’s power. Explore the boardwalks that wind through the basin, leading you past steaming fumaroles, bubbling hot springs, and colorful thermal pools. Notable spots include the Grand Prismatic Spring, famous for its vivid, rainbow-like colors, and the Fountain Paint Pot, where you can observe a variety of bubbling mud pots. Width two nights in this area, you will have plenty of time to explore this area and the charming town of West Yellowstone, as well.
West Yellowstone to Southern Yellowstone: 60 miles
1 night Yellowstone National Park (Southern Area)
ontinuing along the lower loop drive of Yellowstone, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Grant Village, Lake Village, and the Fishing Bridge area. Grant Village, situated near the southern shore of Yellowstone Lake, offers beautiful lakeside views and easy access to hiking trails. Lake Village, located on the northern shore of Yellowstone Lake, provides a scenic backdrop with opportunities for boating and fishing. The Fishing Bridge area, historically known for its iconic bridge over the Yellowstone River, is a prime spot for fishing and wildlife viewing. Each area showcases unique aspects of Yellowstone’s natural beauty, from tranquil lake vistas to vibrant wildlife encounters, enriching your road trip experience.
South Yellowstone to East Yellowstone: 25 miles
2 nights Yellowstone National Park (Eastern Area)
From the southern area of Yellowstone, head to Hayden Valley before reaching the Canyon area for 2 nights. Hayden Valley is renowned for its excellent bison viewing, where you can often see large herds grazing in the expansive meadows. Continuing to the Canyon area, you’ll experience the dramatic Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, with the Yellowstone River cutting through deep canyons. The Lower Falls, cascading 308 feet, is a must-see, best viewed from Artist Point, which offers stunning panoramic views. Explore the North and South Rim drives for additional scenic overlooks. The Canyon area’s vibrant rock formations and powerful waterfalls make it one of Yellowstone’s most impressive regions.
Eastern Yellowstone to Livingston: 95 miles
1 night Livingston, MT
On the last full day of your road trip, explore the Lamar Valley, renowned for being the best spot in Yellowstone for wildlife viewing. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to see bison, elk, and possibly even wolves in their natural habitat. Afterward, visit the Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces, where you can marvel at the unique and colorful travertine formations created by geothermal activity. As you exit through the northern entrance of the park, stop for a delightful dinner in Gardiner, a charming town with local dining options. Then, make your way to Livingston for your final night’s camp, where you can relax and reflect on your adventure before concluding your journey.
Livingston to Bozeman 35 miles
TOTAL TRIP MILEAGE: 310 miles
End: Bozeman, MT
Trip Extensions
2 nights Grand Teton National Park +$1,100
Including Grand Teton National Park in your Yellowstone trip is highly recommended for its stunning contrast and complementary beauty. Just south of Yellowstone, Grand Teton boasts the dramatic Teton Range, with its jagged peaks rising abruptly from the valley floor, offering breathtaking views and incredible photo opportunities. The park features pristine lakes like Jenny Lake and serene rivers surrounded by lush meadows, providing a peaceful retreat from the more visited areas of Yellowstone. Grand Teton also offers diverse outdoor activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.