AboutJohn Expertise My greatest passion in the natural world is Yellowstone National Park. I have been going there regularly since I was 2 (that was in 1953). I make a minimum of two trips a year there, and have visited in both the summer and winter. My area of real joy is studying and observing the geysers, primarily in the upper geyser basin near Old Faithful. I belong to a group called GOSA (the Geyser Observation and Study Association) which has around 300 members. I have also acquired a passion for park history, much of it`s geology, I marvel every year at the wonderful canyon and experience such peace on the shores of Lake Yellowstone. I do love this park and if I can help make a families time there more fun and a greater learning experience I would love to do that.
Experience I am a founding member of both the Committee to Preserve Our Yellowstone Heritage, a group committed to preserving habitat and affordable accomodations, and I am a charter member of The Geyser Observation and Study Association (GOSA). This added to my years of study and enjoyment give me a valuable base from which to share what I have learned over the years.
Expert: John Date: 3/6/2008 Subject: Summer trip to Glacier, Grand Tetons and Yellowstone
Question QUESTION: Hi John,
I would like to plan a trip for myself and two children, 16 & 8 to see Grand Teton, Glacier, and Yellowstone. We will be flying in from Baltimore and plan to rent a car and would like to stay in the parks if possible. Long drives are not a problem, the kids are great travelers, We really enjoy the National Parks, hiking, wildlife, etc. Whatis the best choice of airports to fly into and would you have a general itinerary you would recommend? We have about ten days to two weeks available to travel in mid June.
Thank you for your help,
Wendy
ANSWER: Hi Wendy:
I would try to fly into Missoula Montana and visit Glacier first. The road to the sun is all I am familiar with up there. I'd then travel south to Yellowstone...it's a full days drive from Glacier. You may want to stay in Gardiner Mt. or at Mammoth your first night there. You should head east to Roosevelt from Mammoth then south to Canyon. Tower falls is nice, Dunraven Pass is good bear country. Canyon deserves the better part of a day. Trips to the brink of the Lower Falls, to the Overlook, Artist Point and Uncle Tom's trail are all good trips...all but Artist Point can be strenuous. Spend a Night at Canyon. I would go to Norris from there...up to 2 hours can be spent there. Head south toward Madison Junction and on toward Old Faithful. Stops at Fountain/Paintpots is well worth your time. The Midway basin is good also. Continue on to Old Faithful. Two nights here will give you a good understanding what makes this place so special. Be sure and do a ranger walk....it will help a lot. A budget cabin at the Lodge is affordable and almost like camping. The Inn is cool. Geysers you may be able to see include OF, Grand, Riverside, Daisy, and Castle...all will be predicted. Also look for Sawmill, Plume, Beehive and Lion. You should continue south from OF...a nice 5 mile round trip hike into Lonestar Geyser, near Keppler Cascades is a nice way to get off the beaten path for a few hours and get away from the crowds. West Thumb is well worth the hour..I think the prettiest pools are here. From West Thumb head North through Hayden Valley...great animal viewing here. A boat ride or Fishing expedition can be done from Bridger Bay or at Grant Village. From Fishing Bridge, turn around and head south toward Grand Teton. Two nights at Colter Bay gives you a good base to explore this area; by boat, by car and by foot. A ranger program would be really helpful here too. We have probably filled your days and take a flight home out of Jackson Hole Wyoming. Have a great time.
John
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QUESTION: John,
Thank you so much for all of the great info, we are off to a great start. I wonder if you could elaborate on some of the places you mentioned. I couldn't tell if you were referring to trails or towns sometimes. Are there particular access points I should look for on the trails ? I am so grateful for any info, it always makes for a better trip when you have someone elses experiences to guide you.
Thanks again,
Wendy
Answer Hi Wendy:
I would suggest you buy a copy of YELLOWSTONE TREASURES by Janet Chapple. She gives a detailed review of each of those sites I previously mentioned and the other attractions in the park. My suggestions above were given to enhance your trip when combined with a good travel guide book like hers. I should have mentioned that book to you in my first letter. Most major bookstores carry it or they can order a copy for you.
