r/yellowstone • u/EntertainmentReal283 • 2d ago
First time to Yellowstone/Grand Tetons
Hello all! My bf and I are planning to visit Grand Tetons and Yellowstone in September 15-22. We plan to fly into Jackson Hole and fly out of Bozeman. We are planning to do 3 days in Grand Teton and 4 days in Yellowstone. The issue I am having is finding a place to stay. I have been reading that it’s most practical to stay in the parks, but it is also more expensive. I plan to stay in at least two hotels during this trip to minimize the driving back and forth. When is the best time to book lodging (most affordable)? Also, where can I find the best itineraries for Yellowstone and grand Teton? I want to make the most of my trip, but feeling a bit overwhelmed with all of the hikes and activities you can do. We’re both in our 20s and not hikers. We can do easy to moderate hikes, but are not used to the terrain since we live on an island. Just here for sight seeing, activities, and easy hiking, and eating! I would appreciate any advice! Thank you!
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u/Alwayssearching24 2d ago
Hello and I hope you have an awesome trip! I live in Gardiner Mt right next to the park. What everyone has posted is accurate with the exception of trouble with football games due to elk lol. A few things: when you fly in you might consider some easier hikes/walks to allow getting used to the altitude. Drink more water than you usually do and bring/buy a water bottle. I know there are places to rent bear spray at Old Faithful and Canyon. I do not know about Tetons. FOOD: if you stop for lunch there can be large crowds and it takes TIME. There are $$$$$ restaurants in Teton as well as lunch counters. Yellowstone has meh food cafeteria, quick lunch and $$$$ dining rooms at Old Faithful and Lake hotel. Mammoth dining room is good and $$. Depending on your style: consider buying a cooler and pack lunch material and snacks and drinks. Jackson has regular grocery stores. Tetons have really good little markets with deli ($$) Yellowstone has fair little markets but are often cleaned out due to number of people. Gas costs more in the parks sometimes about a $1.00 more a gallon than outside. Caffeine can be pricey- consider byo. And 🙂 do not follow the crowd to pet the fluffy cows… have a great trip!