A Family Guide to Visiting Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks in 2025: Unforgettable Adventures in Wyoming’s Wilderness

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, nestled in Wyoming’s northwest, are two of America’s most iconic natural wonders, offering families a perfect blend of geothermal marvels, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife. Yellowstone, the world’s first national park (established 1872), spans 2.2 million acres of geysers, hot springs, and canyons, while Grand Teton, just 7 miles south, dazzles with its 310,000 acres of jagged peaks and alpine lakes. Together, they form the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, one of the largest intact temperate ecosystems on Earth, home to grizzly bears, wolves, bison, and elk. In 2025, these parks expect over 8.4 million visitors, drawn by their unparalleled beauty and family-friendly activities. This 2,000-word guide provides a comprehensive plan for families visiting Yellowstone and Grand Teton in 2025, covering top attractions, practical tips, and a sample itinerary to create lifelong memories.

Why Yellowstone and Grand Teton are Perfect for Families

These parks offer a unique combination of adventure, education, and natural beauty, making them ideal for multigenerational trips. Here’s why they’re a must-visit:

Diverse Attractions: Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, like Old Faithful, captivate kids, while Grand Teton’s lakes and trails offer scenic adventures.
Wildlife Watching: Spot bison, moose, and bears in their natural habitats, thrilling for all ages.
Educational Opportunities: Junior Ranger programs and visitor centers teach kids about geology, ecology, and conservation.
Accessibility: Boardwalks and scenic drives make key sites approachable for strollers or grandparents.
Year-Round Appeal: Summer offers hiking and rafting, while winter brings snowshoeing and wildlife tours.

With entrance fees of $35 per park (or $80 for an America the Beautiful Pass covering both), and affordable lodging options, these parks are accessible for budget-conscious families. Let’s explore the top things to do and how to plan your visit.

Best Time to Visit in 2025

Timing your trip depends on your family’s interests and tolerance for crowds:

Summer (June–August): Warm weather (60–80°F), all facilities open, and ideal for hiking, rafting, and wildlife spotting. However, expect crowds, with Yellowstone seeing 4.7 million visitors and Grand Teton 3.6 million in 2024.
Spring (May): Roads reopen May 1 (Grand Teton) and May 9 (Yellowstone’s South Entrance), with fewer crowds and active wildlife like bison calves. Weather is unpredictable (30–60°F).
Fall (September–October): Vibrant foliage, cooler temperatures (40–70°F), and fewer visitors. Some facilities close by late October.
Winter (December–March): Snow transforms the parks into a quiet wonderland for snowshoeing and guided snowmobile tours. Many roads close, but wildlife is easier to spot against snow.

For families, early June or September offers mild weather, fewer crowds, and open facilities. Book lodging 6–12 months in advance, especially for in-park options.

Getting There and Around

Yellowstone and Grand Teton are connected by the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway, making them easy to combine in one trip. Here’s how to get there:

By Air: Fly into Jackson Hole Airport (JAC), inside Grand Teton, for the closest access (30 minutes to Grand Teton, 1.5 hours to Yellowstone). Alternatively, use Bozeman, Montana (BZN, 2 hours to Yellowstone), or Idaho Falls, Idaho (IDA, 2 hours to Grand Teton). Book flights early, as Jackson Hole has limited rental cars.
By Car: Rent a car for flexibility. A 4×4 is recommended for winter or backcountry roads. Driving from Jackson to Yellowstone’s South Entrance takes about 1 hour.
Within Parks: No public transport exists, so a car is essential. Roads like Grand Loop Road (Yellowstone) and Teton Park Road (Grand Teton) access key sites. Expect summer traffic and wildlife-related delays.

Tip: Purchase an America the Beautiful Pass ($80) for unlimited access to both parks and other federal sites for a year.

Top 10 Family-Friendly Activities in Yellowstone and Grand Teton

1. Watch Old Faithful Erupt – Yellowstone’s Iconic Geyser

Location: Upper Geyser Basin, Yellowstone
Cost: Free

Old Faithful, erupting every 60–90 minutes, is a must-see for its 100–180-foot water jets. The nearby Old Faithful Visitor Education Center offers eruption schedules and Junior Ranger activities. Boardwalks make it stroller-accessible, and viewing decks at the historic Old Faithful Inn are perfect for families. Arrive early to avoid crowds.

Tip: Pack a picnic and watch from the inn’s deck for a relaxed experience.

2. Explore Grand Prismatic Spring – A Rainbow-Hued Wonder

Location: Midway Geyser Basin, Yellowstone
Cost: Free

The Grand Prismatic Spring, with its vibrant blue, yellow, and orange hues from thermophilic bacteria, is Yellowstone’s largest hot spring. Boardwalks provide safe access for kids, and the Fairy Falls Trail (1.2 miles roundtrip) offers an elevated view. Teach kids about geothermal science at the nearby interpretive signs.

Tip: Visit in the morning for clearer views before steam obscures the colors.

3. Hike Jenny Lake to Hidden Falls – Grand Teton’s Scenic Gem

Location: Jenny Lake, Grand Teton
Cost: Free (ferry $20/adult, $10/child)

Take the Jenny Lake ferry to the Hidden Falls trailhead for a 1-mile roundtrip hike to a 100-foot waterfall. The gentle trail is ideal for kids, with views of Cascade Canyon. Alternatively, hike the 5-mile loop around Jenny Lake for more adventure. The Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center nearby has kid-friendly exhibits.

Tip: Book ferry tickets online to skip lines. Bring bear spray for safety.

4. Spot Wildlife in Lamar Valley – Yellowstone’s “Serengeti”

Location: Northeast Yellowstone
Cost: Free

Known as North America’s Serengeti, Lamar Valley is prime for spotting bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears. Early morning or dusk drives increase sightings. Rent binoculars ($10–20/day) and stop at pullouts with ranger-led talks. Kids love the thrill of spotting animals through scopes.

Tip: Pull over safely when you see stopped cars—wildlife is likely nearby.

5. Visit Mormon Row – Grand Teton’s Historic Photo Spot

Location: Near Moose, Grand Teton
Cost: Free

The Moulton Barns on Mormon Row, framed by the Teton Range, are a photographer’s dream. This historic homestead offers a flat, kid-friendly walk with interpretive signs about early settlers. Sunrise visits yield stunning light and fewer crowds. Look for bison or pronghorn nearby.

Tip: Arrive at dawn for the best photos and a peaceful experience.

6. Raft the Snake River – Grand Teton’s Family Adventure

Location: Starts near Jackson, Grand Teton
Cost: $80–120/adult, $50–80/child

A scenic float trip down the Snake River offers views of the Tetons and chances to spot bald eagles, moose, and beavers. Guided trips (2–3 hours) are safe for kids as young as 4. For thrill-seekers, whitewater rafting is available (ages 8+).

Tip: Book with outfitters like Barker-Ewing for family-friendly guides. Dress in layers.

7. Walk the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone – A Geological Marvel

Location: Canyon Village, Yellowstone
Cost: Free

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, carved by the Yellowstone River, features the 308-foot Lower Falls. The Artist Point trail (0.2 miles roundtrip) is stroller-friendly with stunning views. Older kids can try the Uncle Tom’s Trail (500 steps) for a closer look. The Canyon Visitor Education Center has interactive exhibits on volcanism.

Tip: Visit in the afternoon for vibrant canyon colors. Bring water for steps.

8. Join a Junior Ranger Program – Educational Fun

Location: Visitor centers in both parks
Cost: $3–5/booklet

Both parks offer Junior Ranger programs for ages 4–12, with activity booklets on geology, wildlife, and conservation. Complete tasks like attending ranger talks or hiking to earn a badge. Programs at Old Faithful and Jenny Lake visitor centers are engaging and educational.

Tip: Start early in your trip to give kids time to finish activities.

9. Bike Teton Park Road – Grand Teton’s Scenic Ride

Location: Grand Teton
Cost: Bike rentals $15–30/hour

Pedal along Teton Park Road for stunning views of the Cathedral Group peaks. Family-friendly paths near Colter Bay are flat and safe for kids. Rent bikes in Jackson or Teton Village. Guided tours ($50–100/person) include wildlife spotting.

Tip: Ride in the morning to avoid traffic. Helmets are mandatory for kids.

10. Visit West Thumb Geyser Basin – Yellowstone’s Lakeside Wonder

Location: Yellowstone Lake, Yellowstone
Cost: Free

The West Thumb Geyser Basin, along Yellowstone Lake, features colorful hot springs like Abyss Pool and Fishing Cone. Boardwalks are easy for kids, and the Grant Visitor Center has exhibits on wildfires. The lakeside setting offers picnic spots with mountain views.

Tip: Combine with a drive to Lewis Falls (30-foot cascade) for a half-day trip.

Where to Stay

Yellowstone

In-Park Lodging: Old Faithful Inn ($200–400/night) offers historic charm and geyser views. Canyon Lodge ($200–350/night) is central for wildlife tours. Book via Xanterra 12 months in advance.
Campgrounds: Grant Village ($20–99/night) has tent and RV sites. Fishing Bridge RV Park offers full hookups. Reservations required.
Outside Park: Holiday Inn West Yellowstone ($150–250/night) in West Yellowstone is family-friendly with pools. Blackwater Creek Ranch near Cody offers dude ranch activities ($200–400/night).

Grand Teton

In-Park Lodging: Jackson Lake Lodge ($250–450/night) has Teton views and kid-friendly dining. Colter Bay Cabins ($150–300/night) are rustic and affordable.
Campgrounds: Lizard Creek ($44/night) and Headwaters Campground ($44–83/night) suit tents and RVs. Book early.
Outside Park: Rustic Inn in Jackson ($200–400/night) offers luxury near town. Snake River Lodge in Teton Village has pools ($250–500/night).

Tip: In-park stays save commuting time but book fast. Outside options in Jackson or West Yellowstone are cheaper but add 30–60 minutes of driving.

Where to Eat

Yellowstone: Old Faithful Inn Dining Room serves bison burgers and kid-friendly meals ($15–40/person). Canyon Lodge Eatery offers casual fare like pizza ($10–20/person). Pack groceries for picnics to save money.
Grand Teton: Jackson Lake Lodge Mural Room has Teton views and family meals ($15–35/person). Dornan’s Pizza & Pasta in Moose is affordable ($10–20/person). Jackson’s Persephone Bakery is great for breakfast ($5–15/person).
Tip: Buy groceries in Jackson or Bozeman for snacks and picnic lunches. In-park dining is pricier.

Sample 5-Day Family Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Grand Teton Exploration

Arrive at Jackson Hole Airport, rent a car, and drive to Grand Teton.
Visit Mormon Row for photos and Craig Thomas Discovery & Visitor Center.
Hike or bike around Colter Bay. Stay at Jackson Lake Lodge.

Day 2: Jenny Lake and Snake River

Take the Jenny Lake ferry and hike to Hidden Falls.
Enjoy a Snake River float trip. Dinner at Jackson Lake Lodge. Stay in Jackson.

Day 3: Yellowstone’s Geysers

Drive to Yellowstone via South Entrance (1 hour). Stop at West Thumb Geyser Basin.
Explore Old Faithful and Upper Geyser Basin. Start Junior Ranger activities.
Stay at Old Faithful Inn or Grant Village.

Day 4: Grand Canyon and Wildlife

Visit Grand Prismatic Spring and hike Fairy Falls.
Drive to Grand Canyon of Yellowstone for Artist Point. Evening wildlife spotting in Hayden Valley.
Stay at Canyon Lodge.

Day 5: Lamar Valley and Departure

Early morning drive to Lamar Valley for wildlife. Visit Tribal Heritage Center.
Drive back to Jackson (2 hours) for evening flight or stay in Jackson for dining.

Cost: Approx. $1,500–2,500/family of 4 (excluding flights), depending on lodging and activities.

Practical Tips for Families

Book Early: Reserve lodging, tours, and rentals 6–12 months in advance, especially for summer.
Pack Smart: Bring layers, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and bear spray ($40, available at visitor centers). Download park maps offline, as cell service is spotty.
Stay Safe: Keep 100 yards from bears and wolves, 25 yards from bison. Stay on boardwalks near geysers. Teach kids to stay close on trails.
Beat Crowds: Start early (7–8 AM) for popular sites like Old Faithful or Jenny Lake. Visit in spring or fall for quieter trails.
Budget Wisely: Save with an America the Beautiful Pass, picnic lunches, and campgrounds. In-park lodging is convenient but pricier.
Engage Kids: Enroll in Junior Ranger programs and pack binoculars for wildlife. Share stories about park history at dinner to spark curiosity.

Making the Most of Your Visit

Embrace Nature: Let kids splash in Yellowstone Lake or marvel at the Tetons’ reflection in Jenny Lake.
Learn Together: Visit the Tribal Heritage Center in Yellowstone to explore Native American history.
Capture Memories: Snap photos at Mormon Row or Grand Prismatic Spring. Create a family scrapbook post-trip.
Support Conservation: Your entrance fees (80% stay in parks) fund preservation. Teach kids about protecting wildlife.

Conclusion

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are a family adventure like no other, blending geothermal wonders, rugged mountains, and wildlife encounters into an unforgettable trip. From watching Old Faithful erupt to hiking to Hidden Falls, these parks offer activities for all ages, enriched by educational programs and stunning vistas. By planning ahead, choosing the right season, and balancing adventure with downtime, your family can create memories that last a lifetime. In 2025, embrace the wild beauty of Wyoming’s national parks and discover why they’re America’s natural treasures.

Which park are you most excited to explore? Share your plans or favorite experiences in the comments, and happy adventuring!