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Yellowstone Road Trip Itinerary: The Black Hills Route
The Great American Road trip awaits! Travel through the American West and see everything from high plains to mountain peaks. From the sacred Black Hills to the splendor of Yellowstone, welcome to the American west.
#thisismyroute
Prepared by:
Erika
States:
Colorado, South Dakota, Wyoming
Start/End:
Denver, Colorado
Total miles:
2,000
Suggested days:
At least 14
Type:
scenic road trip
Recommended for:
First-timers to the United States, honeymooners, photographers, road trippers
Suggested season:
Spring through Fall
Overview of the yellowstone road trip route
This route is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of the open road and some of America’s most untamed areas. Your Yellowstone road trip can include so much more than just national parks! Experience a true American road trip with old western towns, intriguing culture, and unbelievable scenery. Arrive at Denver International Airport, and depending on your preferences, spend a day in Colorado’s capital city either at the start of your trip or at the end. From Denver, head north for a quick stop in the “Craft Beer Capital of Colorado,” in Fort Collins. It’s a fun, happening town that will get you excited to explore everything else to come. Later, head further north to Wyoming. Stop in Cheyenne, one of the most well-known western towns in the world. Afterwards, head towards South Dakota to see the Black Hills. Return to Wyoming and visit Yellowstone National Park, the Grand Tetons, Devils Tower, and more! After all the excitement of Jackson and the parks, slow down and enjoy the small towns of southern Wyoming.
How to Prepare for your yellowstone road trip
We recommend approximately 14 days for this trip in order to experience each town and activity without feeling rushed. With so many miles to cover, we suggest spending a couple of days in the Black Hills and a couple of days in and around Yellowstone National Park. This itinerary is full of suggestions for some of the best places to stop during a Yellowstone road trip especially during the longer days on the road. Plan your trip accordingly so that you experience the places that spark your interest the most. These areas can be crowded in the summertime, and for good reason. There are multiple events and the weather is beautiful. If you want to avoid crowds we suggest traveling at the end of spring or the beginning of fall. If you are visiting at peak season in the summer, we suggest visiting the smaller towns on the weekends and the national parks, monuments, and larger towns on the weekdays. Wintertime is still beautiful in these places, however, many roads are closed and you cannot drive into some of the parks. Always check for road closures if visiting in winter.
DAY 1: arrive in Denver and head to Fort Collins
1.5 hours/72 miles
We suggest arriving early into Denver and renting your car from the airport. Head north on I-25 towards Fort Collins, Colorado. It is the perfect town to get prepared and excited to start your road trip! Don’t worry, you will have a chance to explore the mile high city at the end of your trip if you choose!
Travel Tip: drink tons of water! The elevation in the Rocky Mountain West is real, and if you’re heading from lower elevation, increased hydration will help you stave off altitude sickness.
Fort Collins, Colorado
This vibrant town is full of activities, but offers the tranquility of nature just a few miles away. If you want to walk on cobblestone streets next to historical buildings, you will love Old Town Fort Collins! Boutiques, pubs, galleries, events, local eateries abound in this downtown area.
Best short hike:
Kimmons Trail
Best place for breakfast:
Silver Grill Cafe
Best place to watch the sunset:
Cathedral Tree Trail
Best place to stay:
Old Town Ft. Collins
Best swimming hole:
Cache La Poudre
Best place for local brew:
New Belgium Brewery
DAY 2: Fort Collins to Cheyenne
50 minutes/47 miles
Grab breakfast and get an early start towards your first stop in Wyoming. Cheyenne, Wyoming is the perfect town to get a real feel for the American west. It is famous for its cowboy culture, rodeos, and trains. After you take in all the entertaining events, historic museums, steam engines, and western-themed attractions, take a day trip east on I-80 to nearby outdoor recreation areas like Vedauwoo and Curt Gowdy State Park. Here you will discover beautiful views, world class climbing, mountain biking, and hiking. Cheyenne is also known for its art and the beautiful botanic gardens.
Best experience for the whole family:
Terry Bison Ranch
Can’t miss it:
Cheyenne Depot and Museum
Must see it:
Big Boy Steam Engine
Best place for a hike:
Curt Gowdy State Park
Best burger in town:
2 Doors Down
Best morning grab and go:
Mort’s Bagel
DAY 3: Cheyenne to Hot Springs, South Dakota
3 hours/240 miles
Today is going to be a longer travel day, so rise and shine, grab your morning bagel, and hit the road. Head north on I-25 for a little over an hour until you reach Wheatland. This small Wyoming town is a good rest stop filled with quaint shops and murals. Then head northeast on Highway 26 towards Guernsey. Another very interesting part of American history lies just a ½ a mile south of the town, where some of the best examples of the Oregon Trail ruts are still visible. After a bit of American history and a relaxing picnic in Guernsey State Park, head northeast for about 2 hours toward Hot Springs, South Dakota. If you make it before 8pm, go end your day in the relaxing hot springs of Evans Plunge, the oldest attraction in the Black Hills.
Best place for a picnic:
Guernsey State Park
Best place to stay:
Historic Log Cabins in Hot Springs
Can’t miss it:
Oregon Trail Ruts
Where to soak:
Evans Plunge Mineral Springs
Best place for dinner
The 1891
Best place for a hike:
JH Keith Park and Whitney Preserve
DAY 4: Hot Springs to Rapid City
2.5 hours/100 miles
Today you are going to have an action packed day exploring the gems that surround the Black Hills! Evans Plunge opens early if you want to get some relaxation in before the day begins. If you have time in the morning, visit the Mammoth Site, which boasts the largest concentration of mammoth fossils in the world, and the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary. Afterwards drive up north toward Wind Cave National Park. After the visiting this unique national park, head up the quintessential old west town of Custer. Grab a bite to eat and then head to Custer State Park to explore granite peaks and rolling hills. It’s a great stop if you want to hike, bike, swim or see the buffalo herd. After some time in the park, come face to face with George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln at Mount Rushmore. This national monument teaches the story of America’s birth, growth, and development. Venture northeast for a night in Rapid City. Here you will find a vibrant town with great places to eat, drink and stay.
Read more about Hot Springs, South Dakota here.
Best hike:
Wind Cave Canyon Trail
Best photo op:
Jewel Cave National Monument
Great place to go:
Fort Hays Old west Town Square
DAY 5: Rapid City to Gillette Wyoming
3.5 hours/220 miles
Rapid City is a fun bustling town, so wake up to enjoy a walk through downtown with a coffee in hand. Then head up Highway 90 towards Spearfish. It doesn’t matter when you visit, this town has year round adventure. There is an abundance of hiking, fishing, camping, hunting, climbing, and biking. The art and history surrounding the area is an attraction in and of itself. If you want some final Black Hills views, drive through Spearfish Canyon to Interstate 90 towards Gillette, Wyoming. When you hit Highway 14, go north towards Devil’s Tower National Monument. This landmass is America’s first national monument for a reason: it is one of the most striking, naturally-formed landscapes in the country. After seeing Devil’s Tower, make your way to Gillette. This town will get your taste buds buzzing with all their delicious culinary options.
Read more about Gillette, Wyoming here.
Best scenic drive:
Spearfish Canyon
Best history:
Crazy Horse Memorial
Can’t miss it:
Devils Tower National Monument
Best place to get dinner:
Pizza Corrello
Best place to stay:
Arbuckle Lodge
Best place to grab a local brew:
Gillette Brewing Company
DAY 6: Gillette to Cody
4.5 hours/250 miles
As you make your way across eastern Wyoming there are a few quiet stops before reaching the bustling eastern gateway of Yellowstone National Park. Your first stop is Buffalo, a cute town nestled in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains. A dozen historical buildings, ice cream shops, art galleries, and restaurants line Main Street. Head towards Ten Sleep, a unique, small western town that hippies, hunters, cowboys, and climbers alike call home. Next, stop in Worland, home of the Washakie Museum. Now it’s time to head for the lively western adventure town of Cody, Wyoming. The best way to get a taste of the Wild West is by watching bucking broncos and fearless cowboys at one of the nightly rodeos. For more country western culture, walk around Sheridan Ave and follow the noise of live music and dancing boots. Before you leave for your official Yellowstone road trip in the morning, don’t forget to learn about the man that the town is named after, Buffalo Bill Cody, at the Buffalo Bill Museum of the American West.
Read more about Cody here
Best place for a local brew:
Ten Sleep Brewing Company
Best hike:
Gooseberry Badlands
Best place to take the kids:
Red Gulch Dinosaur Tracks
DAY 7-9: Yellowstone road trip
Wake up early and hop on the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway that connects Cody to Yellowstone National Park. Called one of the most beautiful drives in America, the rushing Shoshone River, amazing rock formations, and the mountains views abound. If you want to get out and stretch your legs, there are multiple scenic vista pullouts along the highway. Once you reach the eastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park, don’t forget to grab a park map! Remember, Yellowstone covers a huge tract of land. If you want to get the best experience without a lot of driving, we suggest staying one night within Yellowstone National Park.
YELLOWSTONE road trip attractions:
LAKE BUTTE OVERLOOK
FISHING BRIDGE VISITORS CENTER
YELLOWSTONE LAKE
MUD VOLCANO
SULPHUR CALDRON
VIRGINIA CASCADE
BERYL SPRING
Best place for wildlife:
The Lamar Valley
Best hike:
Storm Point Nature Trail
Best place to ride a horse:
Lodges of East Yellowstone
Best point of interest:
Lake Yellowstone Hotel
Best iconic American landmark:
Old Faithful
Can’t miss it:
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Emerald Pool
DAY 10-11: Grand Teton National Park and Jackson
3.5 hours/165 miles
We hope that you explored all you wanted during your Yellowstone road trip because it’s time to leave the geothermal natural wonders behind and head south. For a more relaxed experience, Grand Teton National Park is a gorgeous paradise. You really aren’t prepared for the beauty until you actually experience these mountains up close. Explore crystal clear lakes, flowing rivers, and great spots for photography all with the rugged Grand Tetons next to you. If you really want to enjoy Grand Teton National Park you can avoid the crowds and bike some of the many trails (map attached below!). Post Grand Teton Grandeur, head towards Jackson Hole. As you approach the famous tourist town of Wyoming, look left towards the National Elk Refuge, which offers tons of activities to explore if you want to get up close with the herd. Once you get to Jackson it’s time to enjoy the art culture, cowboy bars, delicious restaurants, and vibrant vibes! If you want to see it all from above we suggest taking a ride up the Aerial Tram! It really doesn’t matter what time of year you are in Jackson, you will definitely have a great time!
Best road for photo ops:
Signal Mountain Summit Road
Best hike:
Colter Bay Lakeshore
Best museum:
National Museum of Wildlife Art
Best place to shop:
Downtown Jackson
Can’t miss it:
Carriage Ride through the National Elk Refuge
Best local brew:
Snake River Brewing
DAY 12: Jackson to Lander
Take your time and enjoy your morning in Jackson Hole. Then it’s time to go back to the Wyoming roots and explore a few more small towns. As you begin to see the Grand Tetons disappear in your rearview mirror you will reach the town of Dubois. This charming hidden gem is one of the last real Old West towns. This small town is surrounded by outdoor activities like mountain biking, hiking, ATV riding, kayaking, and much more. If you are here in the winter you can’t miss out on the snowmobiling! Afterwards it is time to get to know the Wind River Mountain Range. Drive along the mountains toward Riverton, one of the most underrated towns in Wyoming. This small mountain town is worth an overnight stay, so you can learn all about the local Native American culture. If you are lucky you may just be here for one of the many events that take place over summer. For an outdoor adventure, head to the next town over, Lander. Discover the beauty of the untamed Wind River Mountains, starting with the fascinating Sinks Canyon State Park.
Best comfort food:
Cowboy Cafe
Can’t miss it:
Sinks Canyon State Park
Best place to try your luck:
Wind River Hotel and Casino-Riverton
DAY 13: Lander to Denver, Colorado
6.5 hours/385 miles
Today you are going to explore some of America’s best kept secrets in Southern Wyoming. It is a long trip so break it up however you like. Your first stop is the town of Rawlins. There is particularly interesting history here, as it is home to the Wyoming Frontier Prison Museum. After you have stretched your legs in Rawlins, it’s time to hit Saratoga. Your drive down will have vast open spaces and the towering peaks of the Snowy Range. Saratoga will be a good stop for lunch before you head west on Highway 130 for Medicine Bow National Forest. This area is full of lakes and peaks with many spots to sit by the water and relax. After you have enjoyed one of the best outdoor areas in Southern Wyoming head for Laramie. Laramie is an idyllic American town with rich history, fun local happenings, and tons of outdoor recreation. If you didn’t get a chance to visit Vedauwoo the first time, this is your second chance. Take some time to walk around downtown Laramie where you will find great restaurants, art shops, souvenirs and more. For some this may be the last stop of your trip before heading back to the airport. For others you may be heading down to Denver, Colorado for a taste of the city life.
Great Coffee:
Deb B’s Family Espresso & Ice Cream-Rawlins
Can’t miss it:
Hobo Hot Springs-Saratoga
Great Museum:
Saratoga Museum
Best hike:
Lake Trails
Can’t miss it:
Wyoming Territorial Prison-Laramie
Best outdoor recreation:
Vedauwoo Recreation Area
DAY 14: Denver
Exchange your country boots for your city shoes because you are now in the Mile High City. Denver is known for its foodie paradise, vibrant neighborhoods, music scene, thriving beer culture, amazing art, and sporting life. During your visit you may hear many expressions such as LoDo, SoDo, RiNo and many more. That is because Denver is broken up into ten different neighborhoods. So whatever you are looking for during your vacation, you will find it within one of the neighborhoods, each with its own unique style and flair. Find out more about Denver here.
Historic neighborhood:
Larimer Square
Best museum:
Denver Art Museum
Haven for Art Lovers:
The Art District on Santa Fe
Shopper’s Paradise:
Cherry Creek
Can’t miss it:
Union Station
Best hotspot for food and culture:
