Exploring Yellowstone National Park ( Part One)

For two years, I sheepishly answered, “Not yet,” when asked if we’d been to Yellowstone—though my kids had gone twice with their grandparents. Finally, we made it, and it was unforgettable. 

Join me as I share why Yellowstone deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list.

When’s the Best Time to Visit Yellowstone?

Summer brings crowds, as my kids discovered with their grandparents, along with long lines and traffic. 

In late September, we found a quieter Yellowstone, glowing with autumn colors and alive with wildlife—a perfect blend of beauty and tranquility. 

Consider this when planning your visit to experience Yellowstone at its best!

How Many Days Do You Need to Visit Yellowstone?

A three-night stay was doable for exploring Yellowstone, with two full days—one per loop—each about eight hours long. 

If you’re visiting during the busy summer or prefer a slower pace, six days would allow more time to fully enjoy the park’s beauty.

Where to Camp (Affordably) When Visiting Yellowstone?

My VERY FAVORITE boon-docking location so far is situated along Bootjack Dr. in Island Falls, Idaho. Not only is Bootjack Dispersed Camping beautiful and completely free, it’s merely twenty-minutes outside of Yellowstone’s West Entrance.

We found a spot alongside a scenic river, making it easy to find the balance between adventure and rest. 

Our peaceful spot allowed us to leave our home behind and explore with ease. Surrounded by beauty, we fished right outside our door, swam, kept up with schoolwork, and relaxed by the river. 

Each morning, the breathtaking view became a refreshing start to our day—a cherished perk of our nomadic lifestyle.

What Time of Day is Best to Visit Yellowstone?

For the best experience, explore Yellowstone at sunrise and sunset. We enjoy a slow morning with coffee, Bible study, and breakfast, arriving around 10:00 and staying until sunset at 6:00. While you’ll spot some wildlife during the day, bison and elk are most active at sunset. 

If you visit in peak season, make sure to catch the park’s early morning charm at sunrise.

Where to Stop First When Visiting Yellowstone?

Make your way through the enchanting town of West Yellowstone, Montana to the Visitor Center.

Here you can talk to a Ranger about your itinerary. We picked up a map and decided to do the less popular, but longer upper loop the first day, and the more popular lower loop the second day.

Each loop, with its scenic stops, took about eight hours. I always recommend stopping at the visitor center before exploring a new area.

Stay tuned for Part Two of our Yellowstone adventure, where I will share with you the iconic stops, lesser known hikes that are a must, and roads to explore off the beaten path. 

New Year

Reflecting on our Yellowstone journey, I’m grateful for the enriching experience of exploring this iconic park. 

My hope is that sharing our adventure inspires you to step outside your comfort zone, discover new places, and embrace the joy of the unknown this year.

2 Timothy 1:7 NLT

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self- discipline.

Reflection

• Fear and timidity are not from God. There are times during our travels, homeschooling, and thoughts of our future when I feel timid and fearful.

I have to recognize that those thoughts are not good, which means they are not of God.

• We are not meant to live in fear. Instead, God provides us with power, love, and self-discipline, enabling us to approach new experiences and challenges with a spirit of confidence, courage, compassion, strength, and wisdom.

• God gave us a bold Spirit and desires for us to be bold. He doesn't want us to live in our comfortable little bubbles that we make for ourselves. Instead, He wants us to burst them so that we can grow by living an exciting life connected to Him, taking delight in His creation, and being available to people.

• Another verse that comes to mind is Psalm 27:1. Fear is one of the enemy’s greatest tools because he knows that once we break free from fear, there is no stopping us.

• Let’s not live in fear this year; instead, let’s be bold and courageous together.

I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences, feel free to leave a comment below. 

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