Grand Loop Road: Map & Itinerary for Yellowstone’s Most Scenic Drive
Yellowstone’s Grand Loop Road is one of the most scenic drives in the United States, offering an immersive experience of Yellowstone’s diverse landscapes, geothermal features, and abundant wildlife. This 142-mile figure-eight-shaped road connects many of Yellowstone’s most famous attractions, making it the perfect route for first-time visitors to explore the park efficiently.
Whether you’re planning a quick day trip or an extended stay, driving Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone provides access to everything from iconic geysers and hot springs to breathtaking canyons and serene valleys. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about navigating Yellowstone’s “Grand Loop,” including key stops, road conditions, and tips for making the most of your trip!
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What’s the best driving route through Yellowstone National Park?
Grand Loop Road is a 142-mile scenic route that forms a figure-eight shape and connects all major areas of Yellowstone National Park.
It provides access to many of the park’s top attractions, from the iconic Old Faithful Geyser to the world-famous Lamar Valley and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Grand Loop Road, also known as “The Grand Loop” or “Yellowstone’s Grand Loop,” is the best driving route through Yellowstone National Park for first-time visitors who want to experience as much of Yellowstone as possible.
The Golden Gate © [ronniechua] via Canva.com
Overview of Grand Loop Road
Grand Loop Road is a driving route through Yellowstone that connects the park’s most popular attractions and five entrances (North, Northeast, East, South, and West). The route is divided into two main sections: the Upper Loop and the Lower Loop. Together, these loops form a figure-eight route through the park called “The Grand Loop”.
Here’s a quick overview of each section.
Yellowstone’s Lower Loop
The Lower Loop is known for its geothermal features, including the Upper Geyser Basin (Old Faithful), the Midway Geyser Basin (Grand Prismatic Spring), and the West Thumb Geyser Basin (Yellowstone Lake). It also passes through beautiful valleys like Hayden Valley, one of Yellowstone's best spots for wildlife watching.
Key attractions along Yellowstone’s Lower Loop include:
Old Faithful Geyser: The world-famous geyser that erupts approximately every 98 minutes.
Grand Prismatic Spring: The largest hot spring in the United States, known for its vibrant colors.
Canyon Village: A breathtaking canyon with stunning viewpoints, hiking trails, and the famous Artist Point Overlook.
West Thumb Geyser Basin: A stunning collection of geysers and hot springs located on the shores of Yellowstone Lake.
For more on Yellowstone’s Lower Loop, visit our Yellowstone Lower Loop Guide.
Yellowstone’s Upper Loop
The Upper Loop is characterized by scenic driving and dramatic landscapes, such as the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. It is also home to Yellowstone’s Northern Range and Lamar Valley, the best and most consistent area for wildlife viewing in Yellowstone.
Key attractions along Yellowstone’s Upper Loop include:
Mammoth Hot Springs: A series of limestone terraces that create a unique and beautiful landscape.
Lamar Valley: A short detour from Yellowstone’s Upper Loop brings you to the world-famous Lamar Valley. Often called the “Serengeti of North America,” this area is one of the best places in the world to see wolves, bison, and bears, among other wildlife.
Tower Fall: One of the best places to look for bears from mid-May through early June and home to a picturesque 132-foot waterfall tucked between towering rock formations.
Dunraven Pass & Mountain Washburn: This is the highest point in the park and one of the most scenic areas, offering beautiful panoramic views and more great wildlife watching.
For more on Yellowstone’s Upper Loop, check out our Yellowstone Upper Loop Guide.
Map of Yellowstone’s Grand Loop Road
Here’s a map of Yellowstone’s Grand Loop, highlighting attractions and services along the way.
Note: The road between Norris and Canyon Village is actually Norris Canyon Road, but because it’s part of Yellowstone’s figure-8 “Grand Loop,” it’s highlighted in red alongside the rest of Grand Loop Road. Service areas are highlighted in yellow (and designated with stars), while points of interest are noted using graphics corresponding to some of the best things to do or see in the area.
When is Grand Loop Road open and closed?
Yellowstone’s Grand Loop Road has seasonal openings and closures, except for the portion that sits between Yellowstone’s North and Northeast Entrances, which is open year-round. The rest of Grand Loop Road opens in phases starting in early Spring, with the west entrance (West Yellowstone) to Mammoth, Old Faithful, and Canyon Village being some of the first sections to open around mid-April.
By late May through October 31st, all sections of Grand Loop Road are generally open. Weather permitting, all areas of Yellowstone are also open at this time, allowing visitors to travel to key destinations like Old Faithful, Canyon Village, and Yellowstone Lake.
On November 1st, most of Grand Loop Road closes in preparation for the winter season. The only exception is the portion of Grand Loop Road between Yellowstone’s North and Northeast Entrances, which stays open year-round.
By mid-December, Yellowstone’s interior once again becomes accessible to visitors; however, only by over-snow travel, such as by snowmobile or snowcoach. Guided tours during winter months offer a unique way to explore the park and see popular spots, but these interior roads remain closed to self-driving until late April when the snow is cleared, and the cycle begins again.
1-Day Yellowstone Grand Loop Itinerary
Here’s a great one-day itinerary following Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone!
This itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors or those looking to see as much of the park as possible in a short amount of time. If you have more time for your visit, we highly recommend splitting the various sections of Yellowstone’s Grand Loop into multiple days.
Start Your Day in Gardiner, MT
You can begin driving Yellowstone’s Grand Loop from whichever entrance is closest to you. So that it’s easier to follow along, we’re sharing this itinerary as though you’re starting from the north, in Gardiner, MT.
Enter Yellowstone’s North Entrance, passing by the historic Roosevelt Arch, then drive toward Mammoth Hot Springs, one of the park’s most iconic geothermal areas. Keep your eyes open for wildlife like elk, which are often found grazing around the Mammoth area, or even pronghorn antelope and bison along the way.
Stop 1: Mammoth Hot Springs
Once at Mammoth, take time to explore. The Upper and Lower Terraces are easily accessible from boardwalks, and the striking white and orange formations make this area unique. If you’re eager to maximize time elsewhere, skip the full hike and opt for a quick walk or drive by the Upper Terraces loop. (We personally love the Mammoth Hot Springs at sunset, so we’ll often skip this in favor of early morning wildlife watching, then return later in the day.)
Detour to Lamar Valley
From Mammoth, follow the signs to Lamar Valley. (If you’re heading toward Mammoth from Gardiner, turn left before the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel.) As you head toward Tower-Roosevelt Junction, you’ll pass through Blacktail Plateau Drive, where wildlife sightings are common. Keep your eyes peeled for bison, bears, red foxes, coyotes, elk, moose, and even wolves. Once you arrive at Tower-Roosevelt, turn left and detour off Grand Loop Road into the famous Lamar Valley, often referred to as “America’s Serengeti” for its vast, open meadows and abundant wildlife.
Stop 2: Lamar Valley Wildlife Watching
Lamar Valley is one of the best spots for wildlife viewing in Yellowstone, and early morning is prime time for seeing wolves, bison, bears, and eagles. Make use of the many pull-offs to scan the valley with binoculars or a spotting scope.
Stop 3: Tower Fall and Canyon Village
After enjoying the wildlife, retrace your route back to Tower-Roosevelt Junction and turn left to continue south. Shortly after, stop at Tower Fall, a picturesque 132-foot waterfall tucked between towering rock formations. Continue driving through Dunraven Pass, which offers stunning panoramic views of the park’s high-altitude landscapes and is a great place for bird watching in Yellowstone. Hikers might love the Dunraven Pass to Mount Washburn Trail for 360 degree panaromic park views. Continue following Grand Loop Road until you reach Canyon Village.
Stop 4: The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Once at Canyon Village, you’ll be at one of the park’s most breathtaking sights: the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Follow the short detours along both North Rim Drive and South Rim Drive.
The North Rim Drive features iconic overlooks like the Grand View Point and the Brink of the Lower Falls, a short but steep walk that brings you to an up-close view of the waterfall plunging 308 feet into the canyon below. The South Rim Drive provides access to the famous Artist Point Overlook, offering stunning views of the canyon and the Lower Falls. Both drives are short but packed with incredible scenery, making them essential stops for any visit to the park. The vibrant colors of the canyon, paired with the powerful falls, make this a must-see area of Yellowstone!
Stop 5: Hayden Valley
After exploring the canyon, continue south toward Hayden Valley, another prime wildlife-watching area. This wide-open space is known for its bison herds, and you might also spot grizzly bears, bald eagles, or even wolves in the distance.
Stop 6: Yellowstone Lake and West Thumb Geyser Basin
As you continue along the Grand Loop, you’ll drive along the shores of Yellowstone Lake, the largest high-elevation lake in North America. For hikers, consider the nearby Elephant Back Mountain Trail, Storm Point Loop, or Avalanche Peak. As you continue following Grand Loop Road along the shores of Yellowstone Lake, make a stop at West Thumb Geyser Basin, where the geothermal features seem to merge with the lake’s edge. Walk the boardwalks to see hot springs, bubbling pools, and even geysers, all with the backdrop of the lake.
Stop 7: Old Faithful and Upper Geyser Basin
Continue following Grand Loop Road toward one of Yellowstone’s most famous attractions, Old Faithful Geyser. The Old Faithful Visitor Center will have the next predicted eruption time for Old Faithful, which erupts roughly every 98 minutes. While waiting, explore the nearby Upper Geyser Basin, home to the largest concentration of active geysers in the world, including Castle, Daisy, and Riverside Geysers.
Stop 8: Grand Prismatic Spring and Fairy Falls
A short drive from Old Faithful brings you to Midway Geyser Basin, home to the famous Grand Prismatic Spring. The brilliant rainbow colors of this spring are best viewed from the Midway Geyser Basin boardwalks or the Grand Prismatic Overlook on the Fairy Falls Trail. The colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring are their most vibrant on hot and calm summer afternoons, so we love heading here a few hours before sunset on warm summer and fall days.
Stop 9: Norris Geyser Basin
On your way back to Gardiner, make a final stop at Norris Geyser Basin, the hottest and most volatile of Yellowstone’s geyser basins. The basin’s highlight is Steamboat Geyser, the world’s tallest active geyser, which can erupt unpredictably with blasts that reach over 300 feet. Even if Steamboat isn’t active, the array of colorful hot springs and steamy vents in Norris is a great last stop for geothermal enthusiasts.
Final Stop: Mammoth Hot Springs
If you skipped it earlier in favor of wildlife watching first thing in Lamar Valley, then make one last stop at Mammoth Hot Springs, where the travertine terraces look particularly beautiful at sunset. Finish your loop back in Gardiner, MT, keeping your eyes peeled for bison, elk, and pronghorn antelope along Yellowstone’s Northern Range.
Driving Distances along Grand Loop Road
Driving times between attractions in Yellowstone National Park can vary significantly depending on traffic, road conditions, wildlife sightings, and seasonal closures. Here's an overview of estimated driving times between some of the most popular attractions within the park, assuming a clockwise direction. These times do not account for stops along the way, wildlife jams, or slow-moving vehicles, so it’s wise to budget extra time.
Mammoth Hot Springs to Lamar Valley:
Driving from Mammoth Hot Springs to Lamar Valley takes about 55 minutes (32 miles). Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you drive, as you might spot pronghorn, elk, bison, bears, or wolves even before reaching the valley.
Tower-Roosevelt Junction to Canyon Village:
The drive from Tower-Roosevelt Junction to Canyon Village is approximately 45 minutes (19 miles) via Dunraven Pass. This section offers beautiful mountain scenery and a chance to see wildlife before arriving at Canyon, where you can explore the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.
Canyon Village to Hayden Valley:
Driving south from Canyon Village, it’s about 20 minutes (9 miles) to Hayden Valley. This is one of the park’s prime spots for wildlife watching, especially for bison, elk, and sometimes wolves and bears in the early morning or late evening.
Hayden Valley to West Thumb Geyser Basin:
From Hayden Valley, the drive to West Thumb Geyser Basin on the edge of Yellowstone Lake is around 45 minutes (27 miles). Here, you’ll enjoy scenic views of geothermal features right next to the lake, with plenty of great boardwalk trails to explore.
West Thumb Geyser Basin to Old Faithful:
It’s about 35 minutes (20 miles) from West Thumb Geyser Basin to the Old Faithful Visitor Center. Be sure to check the next predicted Old Faithful eruption time at the visitor center and, if you have time, explore the Upper Geyser Basin or even hike to Biscuit Basin or Black Sand Basin while you’re waiting.
Old Faithful to Midway Geyser Basin (Grand Prismatic Spring):
From Old Faithful, it’s a 15-minute drive (7 miles) to Midway Geyser Basin, where you’ll find the famous Grand Prismatic Spring. If you have time, consider hiking to the overlook on the Fairy Falls Trail for a stunning bird’s-eye view of the colorful spring.
Midway Geyser Basin to Norris Geyser Basin:
The drive from Midway Geyser Basin to Norris Geyser Basin takes about 40 minutes (24 miles). You’ll pass the Lower Geyser Basin and Fountain Paint Pots on your way. At Norris, you can explore some of Yellowstone’s most active and colorful thermal features, including the unpredictable Steamboat Geyser.
Norris Geyser Basin to Mammoth Hot Springs:
From Norris Geyser Basin, it’s about 40 minutes (21 miles) to Mammoth Hot Springs. Along the way, you’ll drive through a striking rock canyon known as Golden Gate. This section of the road hugs the side of Sheepeater Cliff, a towering wall of rust-colored volcanic rock that looms over the highway. Initially, this stretch of road was one of the most challenging routes to build in early Yellowstone history.
Use the following charts for more estimated driving times along Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone. Whether you have limited time or are just getting familiar with the park before diving into deeper exploration, Grand Loop Road is the perfect introduction to Yellowstone's beauty and diversity.
However, keep in mind that while these times reflect the distance between major Yellowstone attractions, there are countless other viewpoints, picnic areas, and wildlife-watching opportunities along the way! While this is a great starting point for a one-day tour of the park, there is much more to explore by taking detours off Grand Loop Road.
FAQs about Driving Grand Loop Road
What is the Grand Loop Road?
The Grand Loop Road is a 142-mile scenic route that forms a figure-eight shape and connects all major areas of Yellowstone National Park. It provides access to both the Upper Loop and Lower Loop, which encompass many of the park’s top attractions, including Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and Mammoth Hot Springs.
How long does it take to drive the Grand Loop Road?
Driving the entire Grand Loop without stops takes around 4 hours, not counting traffic or road closures. (Not to mention all the stops you’ll want to make!) To fully appreciate the sights and attractions along the way, we recommend spending at least one full day exploring Grand Loop Road, but two or more is even better. There’s a lot to see in Yellowstone, and while trying to fit top highlights into one day is doable, it makes for a long, full day.
When is the Grand Loop Road open?
The Grand Loop Road begins opening to vehicles in mid April and closes for the winter on November 1st. However, road openings are staggered, with the northern sections often opening earlier in spring and higher elevation sections opening later in May. All sections of Grand Loop Road are generally open around Memorial Day weekend through October 31st, weather permitting. Check Yellowstone’s official road status page before your trip for the most current information.
Is Grand Loop Road one way?
No, Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone is a two-way road, allowing traffic in both directions. It forms a figure-eight shape, making it possible to drive in either a clockwise or counterclockwise direction. This flexibility allows visitors to choose the best route for their needs based on what they want to see and where they’re starting from.
Is Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone paved?
Yes, Grand Loop Road is fully paved, providing easy access for all types of vehicles, including cars, RVs, and motorcycles. The road is well-maintained but can be subject to closures due to weather or maintenance work, especially in the winter months.
What are some must-see stops along Grand Loop Road?
Key stops along Yellowstone’s Grand Loop include Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Hayden Valley. Lamar Valley is a short detour off Grand Loop Road, but it is highly worth the trek.
Can I drive Grand Loop Road in one day?
It is possible to drive the entire loop in one day; however, this is a long, full day. If you only have one day in Yellowstone, by all means… Drive Grand Loop Road, and you’ll see as much of Yellowstone as possible in a short visit! However, if it’s possible to extend your trip, a better approach is to divide the loop into two sections: the Lower Loop and the Upper Loop, each of which can be explored on a separate day. Check out our posts on Yellowstone’s Lower Loop and Yellowstone’s Upper Loop for more details.
Which loop of Yellowstone’s Grand Loop is best?
Both loops (Upper and Lower) offer unique experiences and are worth driving. Many visitors enjoy the Lower Loop due to its concentration of iconic attractions like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. The Lower Loop is ideal for exploring Yellowstone’s thermal areas.
The Upper Loop, on the other hand, is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, with Lamar Valley and Mammoth Hot Springs being major highlights. Ultimately, the best loop depends on your interests, with the Lower Loop focusing on geothermal wonders and the Upper Loop providing more opportunities for dramatic scenery and wildlife viewing. We’re partial to the Upper Loop, especially for return visits, but first-time visitors must drive the Lower Loop, too!
What should I know about road conditions and closures on Grand Loop Road?
Road conditions in Yellowstone can change rapidly due to weather (particularly in the fall and winter months) and construction. Wildlife on the road can also majorly impact driving conditions. (Bison jams are a real thing in Yellowstone National Park!) Check the current road status before you go, and be prepared for potential delays.
Where are the best places to see wildlife along Grand Loop Road?
Some of the best spots for wildlife viewing include Lamar Valley (a short detour off Yellowstone’s Upper Loop), Hayden Valley, and the area around Mammoth Hot Springs. Bison, elk, bears, and wolves are commonly seen in these regions, especially during dawn and dusk.
Are there places to eat and rest along Yellowstone’s Grand Loop?
Yes, there are several dining and lodging options along the Grand Loop, including at Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower-Roosevelt Junction, Canyon Village, Fishing Bridge, Lake Village, Grant Village, and Old Faithful Village. These areas offer a variety of services such as restaurants, general stores, and picnic areas.
Is Grand Loop Road suitable for RVs and trailers?
Most sections of the Grand Loop Road are accessible for RVs and trailers, but some areas can be narrow and winding. (The most winding route in Yellowstone is the drive between the north entrance, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Norris Geyser Basin.)
However, while driving an RV around Yellowstone is possible, parking can be challenging due to limited RV-specific spaces. Most major attractions offer RV parking, but these spots tend to fill up quickly. It's best to arrive early in the day or explore less crowded areas to increase your chances of finding a parking spot.
What are some tips for driving Grand Loop Road?
Here are some tips for driving Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone National Park.
Start early to avoid crowds, enjoy quieter roads, and have an easier time finding parking at popular attractions and trailheads. Early mornings are also best for wildlife watching!
Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a full tank of gas, as services are limited. It’s best to fill up in a nearby gateway town, such as Gardiner, MT; West Yellowstone, MT; Cooke City, MT; Cody, WY; or Jackson, WY. Also, you’ll want to be prepared for limited cell service, as reliable service is generally only available at larger service areas like Old Faithful Village.
Allow time for spontaneous stops—wildlife sightings and scenic views are common!
Obey speed limits and watch for wildlife on the road, especially at dawn and dusk.
Keep Planning Your Trip to Yellowstone National Park
Plan the ultimate Yellowstone vacation with our All-Seasons Yellowstone Travel Guide! With insider tips, detailed maps, and tailored itineraries, our Yellowstone Travel Guide is packed with expert advice for experiencing the best—and less-traveled—parts of Yellowstone National Park. Take the stress out of planning a vacation to one of America’s largest national parks, and let us be your virtual tour guides thanks to our comprehensive, easy-to-use travel guide.
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