While staying in Columbia Falls, MT a trip to Yellowstone is well worth the detour! The world renowned national park attracts more than four million people per year for good reason. Not only is this dream destination home to over 60 percent of the world’s natural geysers but, it’s also home to an extensive population of moose, elk, bison, grizzly bears and wolves. No matter what type of vacationer you are, experiencing Yellowstone’s endless beauty is something everyone should do at least once.
Check out this one-day itinerary designed to ensure you get the most out of your visit.
We recommend making the 6-hour drive from Columbia Falls, MT the day before your Yellowstone adventure begins—stay at your preferred hotel in West Yellowstone and get an early start to your day.
8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Breakfast: Start the day off right by eating a hot breakfast at your hotel or, if hotel breakfasts aren’t your thing, try one of many local mom and pop eateries near the entrance to the park.
10:00 a.m.- Noon | Experience Old Faithful: After breakfast venture into the park and take in all the natural beauty Yellowstone has to offer as you head to see Old Faithful. This highly predictable geyser has erupted every 44 to 125 minutes since 2000.
12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Lunch: Enjoy lunch with a view at the Old Faithful Lodge Cafeteria! Be sure to try some of the lodge’s favorite menu items, such as the bison sloppy joe sliders.
1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. | Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center: Experience the thrill of watching large predators like the American grizzly and the wolf in their natural habitats.
3:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Hike to Gibbon Falls: Take a scenic hike to one of the most photogenic waterfalls of Yellowstone. Make your friends jealous and post your experience on your preferred social media platform—don’t forget to use #MyRCI.
