The Call of Yellowstone & the American West

Self-Drive Adventure With Curated Stops Along the Route

 

Plan Your Perfect Yellowstone Adventure

This 8-day self-drive tour is perfect for independent travelers who want a flexible yet well-planned way to experience Yellowstone. You’re welcome to follow the itinerary on your own, or I can help by booking your car rental and accommodations. I’ve included links for optional guided tours—please use those links when booking so the tour companies know you’re connected through me. That way, I can step in and assist if anything comes up along the way.


Journey Through Yellowstone & the Tetons

A curated adventure by 360 Vision Travel


 

DAY 1: WELCOME TO THE WILD WEST

Drive to Bozeman or Arrival at Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN)

  • Drive to Bozeman – 13-15 Hours
  • Pick up your Rental car Approx $1500 for 8 days

  • Enjoy a scenic 1 hour 45-minute drive to West Yellowstone

Check-In: Clubhouse Inn West Yellowstone

  • King Room | Breakfast Included

  • Conveniently located just minutes from Yellowstone’s West Entrance

  • Amenities include free Wi-Fi, indoor pool, hot tub, and continental breakfast

Evening at Leisure in West Yellowstone
Unwind in this charming gateway town, home to rustic shops and the Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center, or enjoy dinner and stroll through the historic downtown.


DAY 2: ICONIC YELLOWSTONE – LOWER LOOP TOUR

7:00 AM – Lower Loop Van Tour

Book Lower Loop Van Tour Here

Provider: Yellowstone Hiking Guides

  • Small-group exploration of Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Yellowstone Lake, and more

  • Short hikes, scenic viewpoints, and abundant wildlife viewing

Evening at Leisure
After a day of adventure, relax or enjoy a casual dinner in town.


DAY 3: SELF-GUIDED SCENIC DRIVE – NORTH YELLOWSTONE & LAMAR VALLEY

Suggested Route Highlights:

  • Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone – panoramic views & waterfalls

  • Lamar Valley – premier wildlife viewing: bison, wolves, bears, and more

  • Optional hike: Lamar River via Soda Butte Creek Trail

  • Mammoth Hot Springs – surreal geothermal terraces

  • Return to West Yellowstone by evening


DAY 4:

Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone Rim and Loop Hike with Lunch

Book Yellowstone Rim Tour

8 AM Pick-Up | Provider: Yellowstone Hiking guides

  • Visit Hayden Valley for bison, wolves, and elk

  • Walk the rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

  • Stop at Ribbon Lake and go past a geyser basin, mud pots, and meadows

  • Lunch included


DAY 5: SCENIC DRIVE TO JACKSON, WY

  • Depart West Yellowstone by 10 AM

  • Scenic stop at Colter Bay Village on Jackson Lake

  • Jackson Lake Scenic Lunch Cruise

    • Enjoy your picnic lunch with breathtaking views of the Tetons from Elk Island

Check-In: SpringHill Suites Jackson Hole

  • Modern amenities, bike rentals, and central location

Afternoon: Hike Taggart Lake Loop
An easy, beautiful trail with epic views of Grand Teton and local wildlife

Evening at Leisure
Explore Jackson’s vibrant art galleries, shops, and restaurants.


DAY 6: GRAND TETON WILDLIFE SAFARI

Book Grand Teton Safari

6:30 AM – 10:30 AM | Provider: Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris

  • Open-air vehicle safari through Grand Teton National Park

  • Search for moose, wolves, elk, eagles, and bears

  • Includes snacks, drinks, and expert guide commentary

Lunch in Town – Enjoy a local favorite in Jackson!

Afternoon Hike: Delta Lake (Optional for experienced hikers)

  • A more challenging but rewarding hike for those up for the adventure

  • Gorgeous alpine lake views at the base of Grand Teton


DAY 7: SNAKE RIVER FLOAT & FINAL MOMENTS

Book Snake River Float

11:30 AM – Snake River Scenic Float and Lunch
Provider: Teton Scenic Floats and Fly Fishing

  • Gentle float with high-back seats

  • Enjoy Grand Teton views and wildlife sightings in a serene setting

Afternoon at Leisure
Relax, shop, or revisit a favorite spot before heading home

Final Night Out
Celebrate your unforgettable journey with a special dinner in town. Toast to the geysers, rivers, and wildlife—and all the stories you’ll take home.


DAY 8: DEPART FOR HOME

  • Drive to Jackson Hole Airport (JAC)

  • Return your rental car and board your flight home with a heart full of adventure