How to Plan the Ultimate Yellowstone Vacation

Situated on top of a volcanic hot spot, Yellowstone National Park is comprised of over 3,000 miles of wilderness and spans across Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. Dramatic canyons and hot springs abound, and spectacular wildlife freely roams the landscape. Whether you enjoy hiking, fishing or whitewater rafting, America’s first National Park truly has something for everyone. Here’s why a Yellowstone vacation should be on your bucket list.

Start planning your Yellowstone vacation with our free vacation guide! It’s full of recommendations for great places to visit during your stay at the Bentwood Inn.

3 of the Best Yellowstone Vacation Ideas

1. Admire Old Faithful

Named after its frequent eruptions, Old Faithful is the most famous geyser in the world and is a must-see when you visit Yellowstone. Every hour or so, Old Faithful shoots out up to 8,000 gallons of boiling water that can reach heights of up to 185 feet. Although park rangers can predict with 90% accuracy when the geyser will erupt, you can do the same by simply looking at the crowds. If you reach Old Faithful and the benches around it are empty, you’ll know the geyser has recently erupted. However if the area is full of spectators and you see some bubbling and splashing, it’s time to grab your camera!

2. Watch Wildlife

Did you know that Yellowstone National Park is home to more wild animals than almost anywhere else in the country? It's the perfect place to observe wildlife in their natural habitat! In the summer months, guests can admire a variety of species including bears, bison, and wild horses. You'll also find wolves, elk, and moose when the cold weather sets in. If you wish to take a guided wildlife tour, Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris will lead you to some of the best animal observation locations no matter what time of year you’re visiting. We’ll even plan a wildlife viewing excursion for you!

3. Visit the Grand Prismatic Spring

The Grand Prismatic is Yellowstone’s largest single hot spring and is the third largest in the world. This enormous 300-foot pool is located in the Midway Geyser Basin and bubbles at a blistering 160 degrees. The spring’s steam creates a rainbow of colors around the edge of the pool, with a deep azure center that is truly breathtaking. Guests can hike the trail to Fairy Falls for outstanding aerial views, or follow the 0.8-mile boardwalk loop, which also circles past Excelsior Geyser.

Come Home to the Bentwood Inn

Just a 65-mile drive from the south entrance of the park, our Jackson Hole bed and breakfast has everything you need for a wonderful Yellowstone vacation. You’ll enjoy comfortable accommodations and luxurious amenities throughout your stay! Our Indian Paintbrush Room is the perfect place to relax after a day trip and offers incredible views of the Teton Mountain Range. A spa-like bathroom and private balcony complete the tranquil ambiance. For additional lodging options, view our rooms page and contact us to make your reservations. We can’t wait to hear all about your adventures! You can also check out this complete guide to Yellowstone National Park to find other exciting activities.

Looking for more fun things to do? Read our blog about the best Yellowstone snowmobile tours!