Epic 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip Itinerary

If you’re looking for a road trip that covers some of the most incredible places in the U.S., this 9-day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier road trip itinerary is the one you need. From mountain views to geysers, these parks have everything you could want in an adventure. And, if you’re into hiking, exploring, or just soaking in the sights, this trip has something for everyone.

We’ve put together a day-by-day guide to make planning your trip easier. We’ll walk you through the best spots to visit, tips to save time, and what to expect along the way!

GOOD TO KNOW: This road trip begins at the stunning Grand Teton National Park, situated near Jackson, Wyoming, and wraps up with a departure from Glacier National Park.

• You’ll start by flying into Jackson Hole Airport, conveniently close to Grand Teton National Park, making it easy to kickstart your adventure. Nestled amidst the Teton Range, this airport serves as a perfect gateway to the park.
• After exploring Grand Teton, your journey heads northward into the renowned Yellowstone National Park. Famous for its geothermal wonders and abundant wildlife.
• The final leg of your road trip brings you to the pristine wilderness of Glacier National Park. Here, jagged peaks and glacial valleys await your exploration.
• To wrap up your adventure, you’ll depart from Glacier Park International Airport, conveniently located near Kalispell, Montana.

PRO TIP: Since you are visiting three national parks then make sure to get America the Beautiful National Park Pass. This $80 pass is valid for 12 months and gets you into all 400+ national park sites!

Map of 9-Day Road Trip Through Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Parks 

Your adventure begins as you touch down at Jackson Hole Airport, the gateway to Grand Teton National Park.

After the landing, make your way to the accommodations for a chance to unwind.

If you’re looking to save time, here are our go-to places to stay in Jackson:

If you’re looking for a cozy and unique place to stay, check out Bentwood Inn. It’s a gorgeous spot made from 200-year-old logs, giving it a real rustic charm. It’s just 14 miles from Jackson Hole Airport, and only about 23 miles from Grand Teton National Park, so it’s super convenient. The rooms are all decked out with Western-themed decor and antique-style furniture. Plus, each one has a fireplace, comfy linens, and down comforters to keep you warm after a day of exploring.

Another one of our favorites is Fireside Resort. It’s just a 5-minute drive from Teton Village, so it’s super close to all the action. The cabins here have a cool “tiny house” vibe, offering a cozy and unique alternative to a regular hotel stay. It’s perfect if you want something a little different and homey!

Another place you might want to check out is Hotel Jackson. It is a super classy spot with spacious, beautifully decorated rooms that totally capture the Jackson, Wyoming vibe. And you can’t visit without checking out Figs, their amazing Lebanese restaurant. It’s seriously a culinary adventure—you won’t want to miss it!

Now, if everything is booked (which happened to us several times in the past, then we put together a few other options that might help to find a place in Jackson: WHERE to STAY in GRAND TETON (7 Personal Picks for the Best Stay)

Ok , so once you’re settled into your accommodations, take a leisurely stroll around the town of Jackson. This authentic western town offers a mix of boutiques, galleries, and charming local shops.

For dinner, Jackson has a variety of dining options to suit almost every palate. We don’t know about you, but we love a great pizza. Try Pinky’s G Pizzeria. It is our place to go whenever we are in Jackson Hole. You will not be disappointed.

Day 2 in Grand Teton is all about taking in the best views along the Grand Teton Scenic Drive. Find out all the details about this drive here, where to start and end, and what to see!

After the Scenic Drive, you will take a peaceful boat ride on Jenny Lake.

Finally, you will hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point, which is a classic Grand Teton hike perfect for everyone in your group.

It’s the perfect combo of stunning scenery and outdoor adventure!

So, we are kicking off Day 2 of this itinerary with the Scenic Drive in Grand Teton….

Our first stop on Grand Teton Scenic Drive is the Moulton Barns on Mormon Row, which offers iconic views of the Teton Range and a glimpse into the region’s homesteading history.

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: The Mormon Row is a photographer’s delight! It is best enjoyed in the morning for optimal lighting and fewer crowds.

Sunrise at Mormon Row / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

The next stop on Grand Teton Scenic Drive is Schwabacher Landing. It is one of our favorite spots in Grand Teton National Park. Here, you will see a picture-perfect reflection of the Tetons in the still waters of the Snake River.

Take a walk along the riverbank, and keep an eye out for wildlife; moose, beavers, and elk often make appearances at his scenic spot.

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: Do not miss the turn to Schwabacher Landing! It is easy to just drive by it. So slow down and be on the lookout for the sign.

Schwabacher Landing / 9 Days in Yellowstone and Grand Teton 

The next stop is Snake River Overlook. It became famous through the lens of Ansel Adams, a legendary photographer.

This spot offers a timeless view of the Snake River flowing through the Teton Range.

If you’re a fan of Adams’ iconic black-and-white photos, visiting this easily accessible overlook allows you to experience the same breathtaking scenery that inspired one of the greatest photographers of the 20th century.

Snake River Overlook / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip Itinerary

The next stop on the Scenic Drive is Oxbow Bend. It is known for its scenic views and wildlife. The Snake River winds through, providing a reflective backdrop to Mount Moran.

This spot is popular for photography. It offers a unique perspective of Mount Moran. It’s also a prime location for observing wildlife, including moose, elk, and various birds.

Oxbow Bend / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip Itinerary

Ok, we are done with the Grand Teton Scenic Drive and it is time to embark on a scenic boat ride across Jenny Lake and then hike to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point.

• Start by taking the shuttle from Jenny Lake East Boat Dock, conveniently located next to Jenny Lake Visitor Center. The brief, scenic shuttle ride takes you across Jenny Lake to the West Boat Dock.

GOOD TO KNOW: Shuttles run every 10-15 minutes, with a round-trip ticket costing $18 and a one-way ticket priced at $10.

 Jenny Lake with the Boat Dock Dock in the Distance / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

Once you get to the Jenny Lake West Boat Dock follow the signs for the Cascade Canyon Trailhead/Hidden Falls!

Following is the map:

At about 0.5 miles from the Cascade Canyon Trailhead, you will reach the short trail leading to Hidden Falls. It is a beautiful waterfall that drops 100 feet in a series of cascades.

Hidden Falls in Grand Teton / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip 

Next, continue your hike to Inspiration Point. This section of the hike goes at a sharp ascent over a rugged, rocky trail. However, it is a short section and it is all worth the extra effort!

The views are awesome! Right in front of you will be Jenny Lake and Jackson Hole!

Jenny Lake from Inspiration Point / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

That wraps up Day 2 in Grand Teton! After a day filled with breathtaking views, a peaceful boat ride, and an epic hike, it’s time to head back to your hotel, kick off your hiking boots, and relax. Get a good night’s sleep—you’ve got more adventures ahead!

Day 3 is all about hitting the Leigh Lake Trail, one of our favorite hikes in Grand Teton.

You’ll start with a super scenic walk along String Lake, with incredible views of the Tetons right from the start. Then, the trail takes you along the edge of Leigh Lake, eventually leading to the peaceful Bearpaw and Trapper Lakes—a perfect spot to just soak it all in.

Along the way, you’ll pass four gorgeous alpine lakes, with the Tetons reflecting off the water like something out of a postcard. It’s an easygoing hike with nonstop views, and totally worth it!

For all the details, including the trail map and step-by-step directions, check below.

Map of Leigh Lake Trail. Image Credit: National Park Service

• Roundtrip Distance: 11.9 miles
• Trail Location: String Lake Trailhead
• Time: 6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Start your hike at the String Lake Trailhead, just north of Jenny Lake.

From there, follow the trail along String Lake for about 1.4 miles until you reach the Leigh Lake Trail Junction. This is where the views really start to impress—take a moment to soak in the incredible sight of the Cathedral Group, with Mount Moran towering at 12,605 feet right in front of you. It’s one of those “wow” moments you won’t forget!

Mount Moran Mirrored in String Lake / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

Next, embark on a 2.8-mile trek along the eastern shore of Leigh Lake until you reach Bearpaw and Trapper Lakes Junction. The views are off the charts!

Reflections in Leigh Lake / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

Next, take a right turn, and in a concise 0.4 miles, you’ll find yourself at the picturesque glacial Bearpaw Lake.

Next, head to Trapper Lake. Simply follow the sign for Trapper Lake, located approximately 0.9 miles away.

Trapper Lake in Grand Teton / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

To wrap up your hike, you’ll reach the String Lake Outlet and a small footbridge. Cross over, and it’s just a short 0.3-mile walk back to the String Lake Trailhead, where you started. It’s the perfect way to end a scenic and rewarding adventure!

After wrapping up your hike at Leigh Lake, it’s time to wind down and soak in the last moments of your Grand Teton adventure. Whether you’re up for a relaxing evening or one last scenic stop, there are a few great ways to end Day 3.

If you’re not too tired, consider driving up to Signal Mountain Summit Road for a stunning sunset view over the Tetons and Jackson Lake. It’s a short detour and totally worth it for the panoramic scenery.

Otherwise, head back to your hotel or cabin, grab a well-earned meal (maybe a bison burger in Jackson?), and get some rest. Tomorrow, you’re off to Yellowstone, and the adventure keeps going!

Today, you will drive about 60 miles from Grand Teton to Yellowstone through the beautiful John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway.

Next, you will witness the famous eruptions of Old Faithful and explore the intriguing geothermal wonders of the Upper Geyser Area.

Finally, you will wrap up your day at Biscuit Basin ending with the vibrant colors of the Grand Prismatic Pool.

Tonight’s stay in West Yellowstone, Montana.

After your drive to Yellowstone, start by exploring the Upper Geyser Basin, home to some of the park’s most incredible geothermal features. This area is divided into five distinct sections, each offering something unique.

For a deep dive into the trails, top sights, and detailed maps, check out: Guide to the Upper Geyser Basin in Yellowstone (5 Sections, Trails, Best Attractions + Maps).

Here’s a breakdown of each section and the highlights you won’t want to miss:

• Old Faithful Geyser Area

The star attraction here—and in all of Yellowstone—is Old Faithful. This world-famous geyser puts on an unforgettable show, erupting like clockwork about every 90 minutes. When it does, get ready to watch superheated water and steam shoot 130 to 185 feet into the sky. It’s a must-see moment that never disappoints!

Old Faithful in the Upper Geyser Area /9 -Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

• Castle Geyser to Morning Glory Pool Section – The trail for this section spans approximately 2.4 miles round trip.

This section is a treasure trove of diverse geothermal features, plus it contains the Grand Geyser, the tallest geyser on Earth and undoubtedly the highlight of the Upper Geyser Basin.

Here, you will also find a stunning Crested Pool, known for its scorching temperatures averaging around 191.1°F (88.4°C). It is almost perpetually in a state of boiling, occasionally reaching heights of 6 feet (2 m) or more. The intense heat creates an environment where bacterial growth is inhibited, contributing to the pool’s remarkably clear blue water.

Stunning Crested Pool in Yellowstone / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

Also, do not miss the Morning Glory Pool. It is renowned for its breathtaking colors that resemble the Morning Glory flower, hence its name. This vibrant hot spring boasts striking shades of blue and green. The pool reaches a depth of about 25 feet and maintains a warm temperature of around 165°F due to the geothermal activity beneath the park.

• Biscuit Basin Section – Exploring Biscuit Basin is a fun experience, and you can do so effortlessly on a brief loop trail made of wooden boardwalks.

The star of the Biscuit Basin Section is, in our opinion, the Sapphire Pool. It is a stunning geothermal feature renowned for its azure-blue color. The pool measures approximately 18 meters (56 feet) in diameter and reaches depths of up to 15 meters (50 feet), making it one of the larger thermal features in the park.

The vivid blue hue of Sapphire Pool is a result of its high water clarity, allowing sunlight to penetrate deep into the spring and scatter blue wavelengths, much like the effect seen in clear ocean waters.

Sapphire Pool / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

Next on the itinerary is the dazzling Grand Prismatic Spring.

This colossal marvel stretches an impressive 370 feet in width, making it Yellowstone’s largest hot water pool and the third largest in the world!

What sets Grand Prismatic Spring apart are its vibrant bands of color, pulsating with shades of yellow, green, red, and orange, a mesmerizing display created by thriving algae.

Grand Prismatic Spring / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

GOOD TO KNOW: Here’s a fascinating tidbit – on a sunny day, as you observe Grand Prismatic Spring from the road, you will witness an optical wonder. The steam rising above the spring mirrors the colors of the water below, appearing blue in the center and transitioning to brown or orange around the periphery.

That wraps up Day 4 in Yellowstone! After an exciting day exploring the Upper Geyser Basin, witnessing Old Faithful in action, and checking out Grand Prismatic Spring, it’s time to head to West Yellowstone for the night. This town, just outside the park’s west entrance, is the perfect place to rest up before another day of adventure.

We’ve got some great West Yellowstone stay recommendations to help you find the perfect spot—check them out below!

Here are our top recommendations for a comfortable stay in West Yellowstone:

Explorer Cabins near the West Entrance are a top-notch choice that we highly recommend. These cabins offer a delightful blend of modern comfort and rustic charm. Picture this: you are only 0.6 miles away from Yellowstone’s wonders, with the convenience of a kitchenette, cozy fireplace, and your very own private entrance.

Kelly Inn in West Yellowstone is a fantastic family-friendly place! It is packed with amenities like an indoor pool, hot tub, and free WiFi, plus a complimentary breakfast. It is just a 2-minute walk to the National Geographic IMAX Theater and a quick 3-minute drive to Yellowstone Park’s West Entrance.

Clubhouse Inn is another great choice, just a 3-minute drive from the West Entrance! They offer an indoor pool, hot tub, and free Wi-Fi. Rooms feature a fridge, microwave, and coffee machine. Plus, let’s not forget a complimentary breakfast.

On Day 5, you will enjoy the beauty of Yellowstone as you visit Mammoth Hot Springs and the stunning Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone.

It truly is a day filled with amazing sights and natural beauty!

Start Day 5 with a visit to the incredible Mammoth Hot Springs, one of Yellowstone’s most unique and otherworldly spots.

This geothermal wonder is famous for its terraced formations, created by hot water bubbling up from deep underground and interacting with the surrounding limestone. It’s like walking through a natural sculpture garden that’s always changing!

GOOD TO KNOW: When the hot water meets the surface, it brings along carbon dioxide, which reacts with limestone to form calcium carbonate. This is what creates the stunning travertine terraces—a constantly evolving masterpiece shaped by nature over time.

Mammoth Hot Springs / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: Don’t miss Minerva Terrace—it’s named after the Roman goddess, and trust me, it’s worth it! The white and gold colors here are stunning, and you’ll see a cool mix of minerals at play. Also, check out Canary Spring—the vibrant orange and yellow tones make it feel like you’re walking through a painting.

What’s really cool about these terraces is that they’re like living art. The heat, water, and minerals are always shifting, so the landscape is constantly changing. It’s like nature’s own little masterpiece that never stays the same!

Next on your itinerary is the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and trust us, it’s a sight you won’t forget. It’s like a giant, colorful painting that’s come to life!

The canyon stretches for about 20 miles and is filled with rich shades of red, yellow, and ochre.

But, the real showstopper here is the Lower Falls—a massive 308-foot waterfall that’s nothing short of breathtaking. The waterfall happens when the Yellowstone River races through the canyon, creating a spectacular cascade that echoes off the cliffs.

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: For the best view of the canyon and those powerful Lower Falls, head to Artist Point on the south rim. It’s the perfect spot to take it all in—definitely the VIP viewpoint of the park!

View from Artist Point in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

And that’s a wrap on Day 5 at the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone! After taking in those incredible views of the canyon and the Lower Falls from Artist Point, it’s time to head back, relax, and reflect on the day.

Whether you decide to unwind for the evening or catch one last glimpse of the sunset, it’s been a day full of unforgettable moments. Take some time to rest—you’ve had an amazing day, and there’s still more to come!

Day 6 kicks off with a scenic drive to Glacier National Park, but not before making a couple of exciting stops along the way!

First, you’ll explore the Lewis and Clark Caverns on a guided tour, then continue on to the Gates of the Mountain for a boat tour that takes you through some seriously stunning scenery. It’s a day packed with adventure and jaw-dropping landscapes!

Our first destination is Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park in Montana, the state’s inaugural and most renowned State Park. Home to one of the largest and most adorned limestone caverns in the Northwest, the park features various tours.

The Paradise Tour is specifically designed for visitors with small children or mobility challenges. Alternatively, the Classic Tour, spanning nearly 2 miles, takes visitors through highly decorated cave passageways, revealing fascinating rooms such as Decision Rock, the Cathedral Room, and the Brown Waterfall Room.

Lewis and Clark Caverns, Montana / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

Continuing our journey, the next stop is the Gates of the Mountains, a natural area best explored through a two-hour boat tour.

The tour begins at the Marina, and as you glide along in an open-air boat, you’ll witness towering limestone walls, and wildlife like bighorn sheep, eagles, and otters, and learn about Lewis and Clark’s expedition, the Mann Gulch Fire, and the collapse of Hauser Dam.

Gates to the Mountains, Montana / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

To wrap up Day 6, you’ve had an action-packed day, starting with the stunning Lewis & Clark Caverns and ending with the breathtaking Gates of the Mountain Boat Tour. After such an exciting day, it’s time to settle into your accommodations for the night.

Here are some of our top recommendations for where to stay, so you can relax and recharge before another full day of adventure tomorrow!

Our recommendation is to stay on the east side of Glacier National Park, and here’s why.

The east side offers a more peaceful, less crowded experience compared to the busier west side. Plus, it’s conveniently close to some of the park’s top attractions, like Many Glacier and Two Medicine, both offering stunning views and excellent hiking opportunities.

Staying on this side also puts you right near the Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the most scenic drives in the country, which is an unforgettable way to kick off your exploration of the park. With fewer crowds and easy access to incredible scenery, it’s a great place to truly take in the natural beauty of Glacier.

IMPORTANT: An important tip for your visit! You’ll need reservations to drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak season (from late June to mid-September). The road is incredibly popular, and the reservations help manage the traffic, ensuring you can experience the stunning drive without the crowds.

Make sure to secure your passes in advance through the official website here, so you’re all set for this unforgettable scenic route!

Here are our recommendations for places to stay on the east side of Glacier National Park:

Many Glacier Hotel, nestled in the heart of Glacier National Park, is a historic and iconic destination! With its stunning location overlooking Swiftcurrent Lake and surrounded by majestic mountains, the hotel offers breathtaking views. This is no doubt one of our favorite places to stay whenever we are visiting Glacier, however, it needs to be booked at least a year in advance.

Swiftcurrent Motor Inn is a handy choice for exploring the stunning surroundings. Close to Swiftcurrent Lake, it is perfect for hiking and wildlife adventures. The inn’s cozy rooms have what you need for a chill stay. Plus, there’s a restaurant on-site with killer natural views.

St. Mary Village in the town of St. Mary is a comfy spot with various lodging options – cabins and motel rooms. It’s a village-style setup, making your stay comfy and easy while you explore Glacier National Park.

The Cottages at Glacier is our go-to place whenever we are visiting Glacier National Park! They are a cozy and charming stay with peaceful surroundings. These cottages offer a tranquil retreat, letting you immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Glacier National Park.

Today is Day 7, and it’s all about the Grinnell Glacier Trail in Glacier National Park. Offering stunning views and wildlife encounters, this trail promises an unforgettable hiking experience. Your ultimate reward? Reaching the iconic Grinnell Glacier.

INTREPID’S SCOUT TIP: Get an early start to beat the crowds and secure a parking spot. Note that once the parking lot is full, park rangers may turn away visitors at the Many Glacier Entrance.

• Roundtrip Distance: 10.6 miles
• Trail Location: Grinnell Glacier Trailhead (Many Glacier Valley Region of Glacier National Park)
• Time: 5-6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate – Strenuous

INTREPID’S PRO TIP:  If you’re looking to cut down the 10.6-mile roundtrip, consider taking two shuttle boats. The first boat crosses Swiftcurrent Lake (10-minute ride), followed by the second boat across Lake Josephine (15-minute ride). To make the most of this option, be sure to reserve your spots in advance.

Start your hike on the Swiftcurrent Lake Nature Trail, a scenic 0.8-mile route along Swiftcurrent Lake.

The trail then continues for about 1.3 miles along the captivating shores of Lake Josephine.

At 2.1 miles, the ascent begins, offering improved views of Swiftcurrent Lake and Lake Josephine.

Grinnell Glacier Hike / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

The most challenging section precedes the Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint, featuring a steady climb.

Upon reaching the viewpoint at 2.1 miles, marvel at the panoramic view of the 152-acre Grinnell Glacier, Upper Grinnell Lake, the Garden Wall, and Mount Gould.

Grinnell Glacier Hike / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: For an even better view, walk closer to Upper Grinnell Lake, but use caution, especially if tempted to venture onto the glacier. Be aware of hidden openings under the snow.

Ultimately, the Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint provides an awesome vantage point to take a break, relax, and enjoy the surroundings before heading back.

After an amazing day hiking to Grinnell Glacier, you’ve seen some of the most jaw-dropping views Glacier National Park has to offer. From those stunning turquoise lakes to the glaciers themselves, it’s a hike you’ll remember for a long time.

Now it’s time to head back to your place, kick back, and relax after all that adventure. Take a moment to soak it all in—you’ve definitely earned it! Get ready, because tomorrow brings more exciting sights and experiences!

Day 8 is all about hitting the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road! Stretching 50 miles through Glacier National Park, this road is more than just a drive—it’s a total adventure through some of the most beautiful landscapes you’ll ever see.

Built back in the 1920s and 30s, it takes you across the Continental Divide at Logan Pass, where you’ll get jaw-dropping views of glacial lakes, forests, and meadows.

Along the way, you’ll make stops at the best viewpoints, waterfalls, and trails. It’s a perfect day to take in the park’s beauty from the comfort of your car—and maybe take a few detours for those must-see spots!

St. Mary Lake and Wild Goose Island Lookout is the first stop on Going-to-the-Sun Road.

St. Mary Lake stands as a breathtaking gem, holding the title of the second-largest lake in Glacier National Park, surpassed only by Lake McDonald.

This glacial finger lake stretches 9.9 miles long, reaching a depth of 300 feet, and sits 1,500 feet higher than Lake McDonald at an elevation of 4,484 feet.

A must-see within the lake is the famous Wild Goose Island, a tiny yet iconic island featured in the movie “The Shining.”

Wild Goose Island / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

The next stop on Going-to-the-Sun Road is St. Mary Falls Trailhead where you will start your hike to beautiful St. Mary Falls.

St. Mary Falls Trail is short and easy (1.9 miles roundtrip and elevation change of 452 feet) and it will get you in no time to the falls.

St. Mary Falls / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: If you have time, then continue on this hike for another 0.8 miles to Virginia Falls.

The next stop is Logan Pass. It is the highest point reachable by a vehicle on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. It sits at an elevation of 6,646 feet.

The views are awesome here. So, take a few minutes and enjoy the picturesque views of Reynolds Mountain and Clements Mountain in the distance, along with meadows of wildflowers. Also, the views of the Bearhat Mountian right behind the Logan Pass Visitor Center are stunning!

INTREPID’S PRO TIP: Before jumping back into your vehicle and continuing on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, make sure to take a peek into the Logan Pass Visitor Center, use the restroom, and refill your water bottles.

Logan Pass on Going-to-the-Sun-Road / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

The Trail of the Cedars is the next stop on Going-to-the-Sun Road. It is a short and easy hike. The trail is a loop and you can do it either way. Most people start on the east side and continue along a raised boardwalk. The trail will take you through a forest of ancient western cedars.

Trail of the Cedars / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

At about halfway point, you will reach a footbridge over Avalanche Creek and get to enjoy awesome views of the lower Avalanche Gorge.

Just past this section is a junction to the Avalanche Lake Trail.

If you are up to it, then we want to encourage you to hike to Avalanche Lake. It will be 2.3 miles from the trailhead before you reach the lake and ahead of you will be a moderate climb to reach the lake.

However, you will not be disappointed, because the views of this gorgeous lake are simply off the charts. It sits in a bowl-shaped canyon surrounded by Bearhat Mountain, Little Matterhorn, and Mount Brown with numerous waterfalls cascading down into the lake!

Avalanche Lake / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

Trail of the Cedars and Avalanche Lake Hike concludes day 8 of your Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier road trip itinerary. It is time to settle into your accommodations.

Tonight, you will be staying on the west side of Glacier National Park. Here are our top recommendations for a comfortable stay:

Belton Chalet, close to the west entrance of Glacier National Park. Built in 1910, this chalet has rustic elegance mixed with modern comforts.

Great Northern Resort, close to the west entrance of Glacier National Park, is a family-owned spot, it offers cozy cabins and spacious suites.

Glacier Guides Lodge snuggled near the west entrance of Glacier National Park, is a top pick for outdoor lovers. Run by Glacier Guides and Montana Raft, it’s a mix of comfort and adventure. The rooms are set up with modern stuff to give you a good rest after exploring.

The 9-day is your last day of this epic road trip to Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier!

Enjoy a leisurely exploration of Lake McDonald’s shores before heading home.

Lake McDonald is the largest lake in Glacier National Park. It is a classic glacial fjord-like lake filling the basin carved out by erosion and Ice Age Glaciers. It is 10 miles long, over a mile wide, and 472 feet deep.

The views of the turquoise waters surrounded by towering mountains in the distance are picture-perfect!

There are many access points to the lake on the Going-to-the-Sun Road. And, besides enjoying the views, you can swim in the lake, kayak, or paddleboard.

GOOD TO KNOW:  Glacier Outfitters is a place to get all your rentals. They have single, tandem, child, fishing kayaks, and paddle boards. Also, they rent bikes!

If you like fishing, then Lake McDonald is a good spot. You will find numerous native trout species at Lake McDonald: westslope cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and bull trout.

Lake McDonald / 9-Day Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier Road Trip

After an amazing 9-day adventure through Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Parks, it’s time to head home. You’ve had an unforgettable time exploring stunning landscapes!

Safe travels back home!