Planning a Family Trip to Yellowstone and Grand Tetons
Planning a family trip to Yellowstone National Park and the Grand Tetons is an adventure like no other. As a family photographer near Yellowstone and Grand Tetons, I might be a little biased when I say that these iconic destinations offer breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and countless activities that cater to all ages. Whether you're exploring Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders or marveling at the rugged peaks of the Tetons, your family will create memories to last a lifetime. Today, I’m sharing a comprehensive guide to help you plan the perfect trip.
Before we dive in though, planning a family trip to Yellowstone and Grand Tetons really isn’t complete without booking family photos! If you’re looking to capture your precious vacation in a meaningful way, I would love to help. You can find pricing for family portraits here, or head straight to my contact form for availability.
Pros and Cons of Each Season
One of the first steps when planning a family trip to Yellowstone and Grand Tetons is deciding when to visit. Below, I have the pros and cons of visiting during each season so you can decide what would work best for your family.
Spring (April to June)
Pros:
Wildlife is most active as animals emerge from hibernation and start raising their young.
The park is less crowded compared to summer.
Spring offers lush greenery, blooming wildflowers, and flowing waterfalls due to snowmelt.
Cons:
Many park roads and facilities may still be closed due to lingering snow.
Weather can be unpredictable, ranging from warm sunny days to sudden snowstorms.
It can be a little muddy, so visiting during the spring is not a good idea if you don’t like to get messy.
Summer (July to August)
Pros:
Warm weather makes it perfect for hiking, boating, and other outdoor activities.
All roads, trails, and facilities are open, making it easier to explore the entire area.
Family-friendly programs, such as ranger-led tours, are in full swing.
Cons:
This is the busiest season, so expect larger crowds and higher lodging prices.
Popular attractions like Old Faithful can get crowded.
Fall (September to October)
Pros:
Cooler weather and fewer crowds make for a more peaceful experience.
The changing colors of autumn foliage provide stunning photography opportunities.
Wildlife is active as animals prepare for winter, and elk bugling season is a must-see.
Cons:
Some facilities and roads begin closing in mid-October.
The weather can shift quickly, bringing cold temperatures or snow without notice.
Winter (November to March)
Pros:
A serene, snow-covered wonderland offers unique opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and wildlife spotting.
Fewer visitors mean you’ll have the park mostly to yourself. Here’s a list of my favorite winter family activities to start your planning!
Cons:
Access is limited as many roads are closed, and some areas are only reachable by snowmobile or guided tours.
Frigid temperatures and short daylight hours can be challenging for young children.
Top Attractions in Yellowstone
Once you choose when you’re going to visit, we get to do the fun stuff—deciding what to do! Yellowstone is famous for its geothermal features, wildlife, and vast wilderness. There’s no shortage of activities for the whole family, but here are some of the absolute must-see attractions:
1. Old Faithful and Upper Geyser Basin
Old Faithful, the world-famous geyser, erupts approximately every 90 minutes, making it a family favorite. The surrounding Upper Geyser Basin boasts a network of boardwalks where you can safely explore other geothermal features like hot springs and colorful thermal pools. It’s one of my favorite attractions and is an absolute must when planning a family trip to Yellowstone.
2. Grand Prismatic Spring
This vibrant hot spring, with its iconic rainbow-like colors, is one of the most photographed sites in Yellowstone. I recommend carving out time to both visit Grand Prismatic Spring and then also taking the short hike to the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook for the best views.
3. Yellowstone Lake
Yellowstone Lake is the largest high-elevation lake in North America is perfect for a day of fishing, boating, or picnicking if you’re visiting in the summer. Plus, it’s also a great spot for kids to explore shallow shores.
4. Lamar Valley
Often called the “Serengeti of North America,” Lamar Valley is teeming with wildlife, including bison, wolves, and bears. I definitely recommend a visit, but just know that early mornings or evenings are the best times for wildlife viewing.
5. Mammoth Hot Springs
Last but not least, Mammoth Hot Springs are unique terraces of steaming, mineral-rich waters look like something out of a fairy tale. They’re also easily accessible for families with younger children (which make them a double win in my books).
Family-Friendly Activities
On top of the attractions and “things to see"“, there is also just so much to do. Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks offer a wide range of activities to suit every family member (and activity level). Here are a few of my favorite family-friendly activities.
1. Hiking
Yellowstone:
Fairy Falls Trail (5.4 miles round trip): This relatively flat trail leads to a stunning waterfall and offers an optional detour to view Grand Prismatic Spring.
Storm Point Trail (2.3 miles round trip): Best if you’re looking for a short, scenic hike with views of Yellowstone Lake.
Grand Teton:
Taggart Lake Trail (3 miles round trip): A family-friendly trail with panoramic views of the Tetons.
String Lake Trail (3.7 miles round trip): Perfect for kids, this flat trail loops around the lake and offers opportunities for picnics and wading.
2. Boating and Kayaking
Jackson Lake and Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park are both excellent spots for boating. You can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or take a scenic boat tour to enjoy the serene waters and dramatic mountain views with the whole family.
3. Wildlife Watching
I’ve already touched on this, but wildlife watching is a big draw for our area. Both parks are havens for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep your binoculars handy to spot bison, elk, moose, bears, and wolves. Just remember to maintain a safe distance and follow park guidelines.
4. Junior Ranger Programs
Depending how long your trip is (and how close to Yellowstone and Grand Tetons “home” is, you can also check out some of the Junior Ranger programs offered. Both parks offer Junior Ranger programs, where kids can complete fun activities to earn a badge and learn about conservation.
5. Scenic Drives
Personally, this might be my favorite on the list. In Yellowstone, Grand Loop Road connects all the major attractions and provides numerous scenic pullouts, making is ideal for a scenic drive. Alternative, if you’re visiting Grand Teton, Teton Park Road offers unparalleled views of the mountains and access to trailheads.
Want even more things to do during your trip to Grand Tetons? Head to this post next where I share some of my favorite family friendly activities.
Where to Stay and Eat
Personally, when I plan a family trip, I like to know what I’m doing first (so that I can choose something that will be close by). Now that you’ve decided that (or at least have some ideas), next on the list is deciding where to stay (and eat!).
Lodging Options
Yellowstone:
Inside the Park: Staying at lodges like Old Faithful Inn or Canyon Lodge allows you to wake up close to the action.
Outside the Park: West Yellowstone and Gardiner offer family-friendly hotels and vacation rentals.
Grand Teton:
Jackson Hole is the best base for exploring the Tetons, offering accommodations ranging from budget motels to luxury resorts.
Dining Recommendations
Yellowstone: Inside the park, dining is limited, but the Yellowstone Lake Hotel Dining Room and Canyon Eatery offer family-friendly options.
Grand Teton: The Mural Room at Jackson Lake Lodge is a must for its stunning views and delicious menu. For casual dining, Dornan’s Pizza & Pasta Company in Moose is a hit with families.
Want more ideas? I have some of the best places to eat in Jackson Hole (for the whole family!) here.
Tips for a Stress-Free Family Trip
As you start planning a family trip to Yellowstone and Grand Tetons (you’re off to a great start!), here are just a few more things to keep in mind (from a photographer who lives and loves here!).
Plan Your Itinerary in Advance: Both parks are vast, so prioritize the attractions and activities you want to see. Ask your family what they’re hoping to include now, so you don’t get bombarded with surprise suggestions later.
Pack Smart: Bring layers, as temperatures can vary widely, even in summer. Don’t forget sunscreen, hats, and sturdy shoes.
Stay Flexible: Wildlife sightings, weather, and park conditions may affect your plans. As someone who always likes to plan ahead, it’s been a learning curve to embrace the unexpected (but I promise you’ll have more fun this way!).
Prepare for Limited Connectivity: Cell service and Wi-Fi are sparse in the parks. Download maps and guides in advance.
Teach Kids About Safety: Last but not least, take a moment to educate your children on the importance of staying on trails, respecting wildlife, and following park rules.
Don’t Forget Family Photos in Yellowstone
A family trip to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park is a bucket-list adventure that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re marveling at geysers, hiking to serene lakes, or spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, these parks provide endless opportunities for exploration and bonding. With proper planning and a sense of adventure, your family will leave with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of nature.
As you plan your family adventure to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, don’t forget to capture the magic with professional photos. These parks offer some of the most breathtaking backdrops in the world, and there’s no better time to preserve your family’s unique story than during this once-in-a-lifetime trip. Whether it’s candid moments of your kids exploring the trails, stunning portraits against the dramatic Teton peaks, or a family photo by a serene alpine lake, I’d love to help you create timeless memories. Contact me today to book your session and ensure your family’s adventure is beautifully documented for years to come!