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I spent 3 days in Yellowstone and found that was enough to see the highlights. Grand Teton is not that special IMO. People visit it only because it is right next to Yellowstone.
Of course you can spend 2 weeks as well if you want to explore it more thoroughly. I normally don't spend much time in looking at just rocks and trees that you can see in any large national park, only the unique part you don't have elsewhere.
Two weeks is a lot of time there, but not ridiculously so.
You could easily spend a day in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone area, a day in the Yellowstone Lake area, a day at Mammoth Hot Springs, and 2-3 days visiting the various geyser basins taking photos. In Grand Teton, you'll probably want to spend a couple days each around the Colter Bay and Jenny Lake areas. A couple days in nearby Jackson would also be a good idea.
We weren't planning for 2 weeks in those parks specifically, moreso that geographical region. Trying to figure out what time is reasonable in those parks to be able to plan other sights accordingly.
We weren't planning for 2 weeks in those parks specifically, moreso that geographical region. Trying to figure out what time is reasonable in those parks to be able to plan other sights accordingly.
when you're at Old Faithful, make sure you allocate a couple hours or more to explore the lower geyser basin where most of the pools and geysers are located and not just confine yourselves to the Old Faithful Geyser...and avoid the temptation to tug on a bison's tail.
Just be aware things start closing in late September...campgrounds, etc. Snow may fall. That being said it's usually the best season to visit because the crowds are gone.
End of September? Think real hard about this. You could have great weather or blizzard conditions. It's impossible to say for sure. Most of the tourist places will be closed for the winter including campgrounds, etc. I agree off season is the best time because of the crowds but the weather will be iffy!
I went to Yellowstone Memorial Day week once. We got stuck in a horrible blizzard. But we were prepared and did fine. We had 4wd to make it thru the drifts. Plus we were used to living in snow country. But it was gnarly!!!
I think 2 weeks in the area is great. Make sure to go up to the north entrance to see Mammoth Hot Springs!
Thanks for the additional feedback. Snow is the other concern I have and am wondering if my plans for the mountains may not be realistic for this time of year.
Don't forget you could drive up north and go to Glacier National Park - beautiful!
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