TRIP ESSENTIALS The Black Hills to Yellowstone National Park Route Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming Overview This route is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of the open road and some of America s most untamed areas. In other words, you will get to experience a true American road trip that includes great American towns, intriguing American culture and unimaginable scenery. You will begin by arriving at Denver International Airport. Denver is a great town and we would recommend spending more than one day here. Whether you do this at the beginning or the end of your trip is up to you. Then head north for a quick stop in the Craft Beer Capital of Colorado, Fort Collins. It s a fun, happening town that will get you excited to explore much more to come. Afterwards you will enter Wyoming, with your first stop being the capital city and one of the most well known western towns around the world. Afterwards you will head towards South Dakota with a few fun stops on the way. During your time in South Dakota you will experience the Black Hills, monuments, memorials, national parks, and old western towns! Then you will venture back into Wyoming where much more frontier fun is to be had. You will visit at least 10 more historic towns along with Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Devils Tower and so much more! After all the excitement of Jackson and the parks, you will slow down again and enjoy southern Wyoming, and its more laid back pace. As you make your way back to Colorado you can decide if you want to spend some time in Denver or head back to Denver International Airport. #MYUSAPARKS Prepared by: Erika States: Colorado, Wyoming, South Dakota Start/End: Denver International Airport Total miles: 2,000 Suggested days: 8-12 Type: Parks, Monuments, Scenic, American culture, Wildlife, Adventure Recommended for: Families, Outdoor Enthusiasts, Road trippers, Photographers Suggested season: Spring, Summer, Fall GET IN TOUCH: > info@visitusaparks.com > visitusaparks.com
GET IN TOUCH: > info@visitusaparks.com > visitusaparks.com 7 YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK 8 8 6 CODY BUFFALO GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK JACKSON 5 GILLETTE WORLAND 4 DUBOIS 3 9 RAPID CITY HOT SPRINGS LANDER RAWLINS WHEATLAND LARAMIE SARATOGA 2 CHEYENNE 1 FORT COLLINS DENVER Trip Details We recommend approximately 8 to 12 days for this trip in order to experience each town and activity without feeling too rushed. You have a lot of miles to cover, so 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 of some of the best places to stop, especially during your longer days on the road. So 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 can t make that happen then we suggest visiting the smaller towns on the weekends and the National Parks, Monuments and bigger towns on the weekdays. Wintertime is still beautiful in these places, however, most park entrances are closed and roads into the parks are closed and you have limited access into some of the parks. OUR #1 TRIP RECOMMENDATION: Yellowstone National Park teems with wildlife. Our recommendation to you would be to plan into your trip the drive through Lamar Valley. Located in the northeastern portion of the park, this wildlife rich area is filled with pronghorns, wolves, bears (both black and grizzly), bison and elk, among other critters. Our #1 recommendation is when viewing these animals, remember they are wild. Stay near your car and never approach! Black Hills and Yellowstone National Park Trip Essentials 2
GET IN TOUCH: > info@visitusaparks.com > visitusaparks.com DAY 1: Arrival in Denver International Airport to Fort Collins, Colorado (Toll Route-1 hour 9 minutes/70 miles or Non-toll Route- 1.5 hours/72 miles) We suggest arriving early into Denver and renting your car from the airport and setting out 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! Fort Collins, Colorado This vibrant town is full of never-ending activities that offers the tranquility of nature just a few miles away. If you want to walk on cobblestone streets and next to historical buildings than you will love Old Town Fort Collins! Boutiques, pubs, galleries, events, local eateries and so much more draw people from all over to the downtown area. Short Hike: Kimmons Trail (1.1 miles) Horsetooth Reservoir, Fort Collins Best place to eat breakfast: Silver Grill Cafe or Luciles Best place to watch the sunset: Horsetooth Reservoir Recommended area to stay: near Old Town Fort Collins Best place to grab a drink: New Belgium Brewery (kid-friendly) (free-tour) DAY 2: Fort Collins to Cheyenne, Wyoming (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 known around the world for its cowboys, rodeos and trains. After you have experienced all the entertaining events, historic museums, steam engines and western themed attractions you can dig deeper. You can take a day trip east on Interstate 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. Unique Experience for the Whole Family: Terry Bison Ranch Must Visit: Cheyenne Depot and Depot Museum Must See: Big Boy Steam Engine 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 40 minutes/240 miles) Today is going to be a longer travel day full of some intriguing history. So rise and shine, grab your morning bagel and pack the car. You will start north on I 25 for a little over an hour until you reach Wheatland. This small Wyoming town is a good rest point and as you walk around Wheatland you will find quaint shops and murals covering the buildings. Each mural has a story behind it related to the town s long and interesting history. Now head Cheyenne Frontier Days Rodeo, July, Wyoming Black Hills and Yellowstone National Park Trip Essentials 3
GET IN TOUCH: > info@visitusaparks.com > visitusaparks.com 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 can be seen. 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 than go end your day in the relaxing hot springs of Evans Plunge, the oldest attraction in the Black Hills. Good Spot for a Picnic and Views: Guernsey State Park Interesting Attraction: Oregon Trail Ruts Suggested Overnight Stay: Historic Log Cabins in Hot Springs Where to soak in the Hot Springs: Evans Plunge Mineral Springs Evan s Plunge, Black Hills, South Dakota 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 Mount Rushmore, South Dakota relaxation in before the day begins. If you have time in the morning, two great things to do in Hot Springs are the Mammoth Site, which boasts the largest concentration of mammoths in the world and the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary. Afterwards drive up north toward Wind Cave National Park. After the 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 join the buffalo herd. After some time in the park it s time to be face to face with George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln. Mount Rushmore will teach you the story behind the birth, growth, development and preservation of this country. Venture northeast for a night in Rapid City. Here you will find a vibrant town with great places to eat, drink and stay. Best Tourist Attraction: Mount Rushmore National Memorial (parking fee) Must see: The Mammoth Site Great Tour: Wind Cave Tour Easy Hike: Wind Cave Canyon Trail (2 miles) Good Places to Photograph: Jewel Cave National Monument Custer State Park Great Museum: National Museum of Woodcarving Scenic Drive: Needles Eye Tunnel Recommended Overnight Stay: Rapid City Best Local Beer: Crow Peak Brewing Company Black Hills and Yellowstone National Park Trip Essentials 4
GET IN TOUCH: > info@visitusaparks.com > visitusaparks.com Devils Tower National Monument, Wyoming 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. This town is another that is surrounded by unmatched beauty. 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 also brings people from all over to visit. If you want some final scenery of the Black Hills we suggest taking Spearfish Canyon to Interstate 90 towards Gillette, Wyoming. Then once you hit Highway 14, go north towards Devils Tower National Monument. This landmass is America s First National Monument for a good reason. It is one of the most striking naturally formed landscapes in the country. Once you have been awed by Devils Tower, make your way to Gillette. This town will get your taste buds buzzing with all the delicious culinary options. History: Crazy Horse Memorial Scenic Drive: Spearfish Canyon Suggested Place to Stay: Arbuckle Lodge (Gillette, Wyoming) Good Places to Photograph: Spearfish Canyon, Bridal Veil Falls, Bear Butte, Devils Tower Best Wood-fired Pizza: Pizza Carrello (Gillette, Wyoming) Great Museum: Days of 76 Museum (Deadwood) Great Place for Coffee and Pastries: Alternative Fuel Coffee House (Rapid City) Must See: Devils Tower National Monument Best Local Beer: Gillette Brewing Company Black Hills and Yellowstone National Park Trip Essentials 5
GET IN TOUCH: > info@visitusaparks.com > visitusaparks.com DAY 6: Gillette to Cody (4.5 hours/250 miles) As you make your way across eastern Wyoming there are a few less hectic stops to hit before reaching the bustling eastern gateway of Yellowstone National Park. Your first stop is Buffalo, which is nestled in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains. As you walk down the main street you will discover over a dozen historical buildings, ice cream shops, art galleries, restaurants and beautiful views. Then set out towards Ten Sleep, a unique, small western town where hippies, hunters, cowboys and climbers reside. One great not-to-be-missed stop in Ten Sleep is the Ten Sleep Pioneer Museum. With a playground, splash pad and museum all for free, it s a great place to stop, stretch your legs and learn about the fascinating history of this unique part of Wyoming. Next up will be Worland, an area known for its archeology and geology. You can check out the history of the area at the Washakie Museum. When you are ready to hit the road again we invite you to visit another small western town called Greybull. The activities here range from a museum of flight and aerial firefighting, to interesting rock formations like Devil s Kitchen and track sites of dinosaur fossils. 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 Yellowstone 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. This is a great museum, and expansive, so prepare to spend a little extra time here to make sure you get the full experience. Best Local Beer: Ten Sleep Brewing Company Diamond in the Rough: Stogie Joe s Pizza (Worland) Unique Scenery Experience: Gooseberry Badlands Scenic Overlook & Trail (Worland) Fun Activity for the Kids: Red Gulch Dinosaur Track Site (Greybull) Best Fishing Spot: Bighorn River Best Place to Rock Climb: Ten Sleep Canyon Recommended Place to Stay: Historical Irma Hotel and Restaurant Best Museum: Buffalo Bill Museum of the West DAY 7: Yellowstone National Park Wake up early and if you didn t have time the day before then try to hit the Buffalo Bill Museum of the West before you leave. Hop on the Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway that connects Cody to Yellowstone National Park. One of the most beautiful drives in America you will experience the rushing Shoshone River, amazing rock formations and the mountains views. If you want to get out and stretch your legs there are multiple turnouts along the highway. Once you reach the eastern entrance of Yellowstone National Park don t forget to grab a park map. In that map you will be able to see anything and everything that may spark your interest during your park journey. Remember, Yellowstone covers a huge area of land. If you want to get the best experience without a lot of driving we suggest staying one night within Yellowstone National Park. Best Scenic Byway: Buffalo Bill Scenic Byway Point of Interest: Pahaska Teepee Great Horseback Ride: Lodges of East Yellowstone Cloud Peak Wilderness, Big Horn Mountains, Ten Sleep, Wyoming Black Hills and Yellowstone National Park Trip Essentials 6
GET IN TOUCH: > info@visitusaparks.com > visitusaparks.com Best Steak: Cassie s, Wyoming s Premier Steakhouse DAY 8: Grand Teton National Park and Jackson Great Entertainment: Night Rodeo in Cody We hope that you explored all you wanted to in Yellowstone National Park because it s time leave the geothermal natural wonders behind and head south for a more relaxed experience in Grand Teton National Park. You really can t imagine the beauty until you actually experience these mountains up close. Today you are going to explore crystal clear lakes, flowing rivers and great spots for photography all with the rugged Teton Range next to you. If you really want to enjoy Grand Teton National Park you can avoid the crowds and bike on the many trails throughout the park. We have attached a map below of the park so you can plan your trip to its full potential. After you have been blown away by the Best Scenic Byway: Cloud Peak Skyway Some Attractions in Yellowstone: Lake Butte Overlook Fishing Bridge Visitors Center Yellowstone Lake Mud Volcano Sulphur Caldron Virginia Cascade Beryl Spring Iconic American Landmark: Old Faithful Geyser (best to go early to beat the crowds) Grand Tetons let s head towards Jackson. As you approach the famous tourist town of Wyoming, look left. That is because the National Elk Refuge is right here, 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! Must Visit: Jackson Lake Jenny Lake Best Road for Photographers: Signal Mountain Summit Road Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming Black Hills and Yellowstone National Park Trip Essentials 7
GET IN TOUCH: > info@visitusaparks.com > visitusaparks.com Best Scenic Drive: Jenny Lake Scenic Drive Easy Hike: Colter Bay Lakeshore (2 miles) Best Water Activities: Rent a boat or go on a scenic float trip Iconic Photos: Antler Arches (Jackson) T.A. Moulton Barn Best Museum: National Museum of Wildlife Art Best Place for Shopping: Downtown Jackson Hole Unique Experience: Carriage ride in the National Elk Refuge Best Local Beer: Snake River Brewing DAY 9: Jackson to Lander (3.5 hours/160 miles) Take your time and enjoy your morning in Jackson. 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 including; mountain biking, hiking, ATV rides, 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. The largest city in Fremont County, this will be a great place to explore Native American history and culture in Wind River Country. Next head over to Lander one of the most underrated towns in Wyoming. This small mountain town is worth an overnight stay. You will discover the beauty of the untamed Wind River Mountains and the Native American history that surrounds them. Best Comfort Food-Dubois: Cowboy Cafe Best Casino-Riverton: Wind River Hotel and Casino Best Casino-Lander: Shoshone Rose Hotel and Casino Must Visit: Sinks Canyon Best Hike: Popo Agie Falls Trail Best Scenic Drive: Sinks Canyon Road Best Local Beer and Pizza: Lander Bar Best Coffee: Lander Bake Shop Popo Agie Falls, Lander, Wyoming DAY 10: 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, and it is home to the Wyoming Frontier Prison Museum. After you have stretched your legs in Rawlins, it is 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 so much outdoor recreation. If you didn t get a chance to visit Vedauwoo on day two, here is your chance. Take some time Black Hills and Yellowstone National Park Trip Essentials 8
GET IN TOUCH: > info@visitusaparks.com > visitusaparks.com vibrant neighborhoods, music scene, thriving beer culture, amazing art, sporting life and exquisite culinary opportunities. 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, Historic Neighborhood: Larimer Square Best Museum: Denver Art Museum Haven for Art Lovers: The Art District on Santa Fe Medicine Bow National Forest, Laramie, Wyoming 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: Huckleberry s Espresso and Ice Cream Shop (Rawlins) Great Camping and Outdoor Recreation: Vedauwoo Recreation Area Great Bar and Grill: 3rd Street Bar and Grill (Laramie) Shoppers Paradise: Cherry Creek Must Visit: Union Station Best Ice Cream: Little Man s Ice Cream DAY 11: Denver Exchange your country boots for your city shoes because you are now in the Mile High City. Denver is known for its Hot-spots for local restaurants, art galleries and boutiques: South Pearl Street and Old South Gaylord Great Museum: Saratoga Museum Free Hot Springs: Hobo Hot Springs (Saratoga) Best Place to Photograph: Medicine Bow National Forest Easy Hike: Lake Trails-Medicine Bow National Forest Laramie Museum: Wyoming Territorial Prison Downtown Denver, Colorado Black Hills and Yellowstone National Park Trip Essentials 9