One Day in Yellowstone From South Entrance Itinerary: What To See When You’re Short On Time

July 30, 2023

As someone from Arizona, I can’t resist an opportunity to escape the heat and visit my in-laws in scenic Wyoming. They live just south of Jackson and this provides easy access to the stunning national parks that dot the area. You’d think after all these visits I’d be Yellowstone’d out, but nope! I relish every chance I get to explore these incredible landmarks even if that means just one day in Yellowstone.

In fact, i’ve got insider knowledge on the best spots to check out. So, if you’re pressed for time and looking for the ultimate experience, I am sharing how to spend one day in Yellowstone from the South Entrance driving the Grand Loop.

I have all the juicy deets on where to go, what to do and more! Let me be your ultimate insider guide to Yellowstone, so stick around and let me help you make the most of your one day in Yellowstone!

*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through a link below then I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I really appreciate your support!

Tips For Visiting Yellowstone National Park

ENTRY FEE: You will need an entrance pass to get into Yellowstone. These can be purchased at any entrance of the park or online and cost $35/vehicle or $20 for anyone entering the park by foot or bicycle. If you have an annual national park pass, you can use this to enter Yellowstone.
ARE RESERVATIONS NEEDED: Currently, no reservations are required to enter Yellowstone
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT: Over 3 million people visited this park in 2022, and with the rise in popularity you can expect congested roads and crowds during the summer months of June – August. If you want to limit this, the best months to visit Yellowstone National Park would be April, May, September and October.
WHAT’S THE BEST ENTRANCE: The West Entrance of Yellowstone is the most popular one, because it’s the closest to some of the most iconic spots like Old Faithful, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and more. I prefer the South Entrance, because it takes you through the beautiful Grand Teton National Park, and I never get tired of those views. The downside is you will have to pay to enter Grand Teton and Yellowstone unless you have an annual national parks pass.
PLAN AHEAD: Because you are limited on time and only have one day in the park, this means you will need to start early to cover all the highlights!
ARE THERE SERVICE STATIONS? FOOD? You can find 7 service stations inside Yellowstone National Park where you can get gas and even snacks. You can also find some dining spots throughout the park, but I would recommend packing a lunch to save on time and money.
IS YELLOWSTONE DOG-FRIENDLY: The National Park Service has said “allowed in public areas, parking lots and within 100 feet of any road.” They must be on a leash that is not longer than 6 feet in length at all times.” We absolutely LOVE traveling with our dog and took him to Yellowstone with us one year, but found it challenging to see some spots because we had to take turns staying back with our dog. As much as it pains me to say, I would leave your dog behind for one day in Yellowstone.

How to Use My One Day in Yellowstone Guide

Listen up, we are about to go on a wild ride through Yellowstone! You, me, and limited PTO, we’ll cover all the best highlights, don’t worry.

This guide starts at the south entrance and the spots are outlined in chronological order, because I like to keep things organized here. I have included details on driving distance, duration and parking. Keep in mind that the time alloted to drive to each spot is subject to change based on when you visit, construction and wildlife. You’ll need at least 12 hours for this journey, but don’t worry, if it’s summertime, the sun won’t leave you until 9 pm! You’ll want to start early. We entered the park at 8 am and left at 8 pm. Let’s dive in!

*We did one day in Yellowstone in early July on a Saturday during peak travel time, but managed to cover it all so don’t get discouraged if you are traveling during a busy time!

Yellowstone In One Day Road Trip Itinerary at a Glance

STOP 1: Moose Falls
STOP 2: Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
STOP 3: Tower Fall
STOP 4: Roosevelt Arch
STOP 5: Mammoth Hot Springs
STOP 6: Firehole Falls
STOP 7: Grand Prismatic Spring
STOP 8: Black Sand Geyser Basin
STOP 9: Old Faithful
STOP 10: West Thumb

Map provided by Wanderlog, for making itineraries on iOS and Android

STOP 1: Moose Falls Gets Skipped By 99% Of Visitors

Moose Falls Trail – the overlooked gem of Yellowstone! Don’t be fooled by its short length, this beautiful trail is perfect for all ages! This 30-foot tall geothermal waterfall is not only gorgeous but also makes for a great photo-op. It’s no surprise that most people miss it as they speed their way into Yellowstone. But not you, you’ll be smart enough to stop by and take in all its natural beauty. Trust me, you’ll thank me later!

DRIVING DISTANCE TO GRAND CANYON ARTIST POINT: 1 Hour, 22 Min

STOP 2: Check Out Yellowstone’s Own Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is an absolute MUST-SEE when you’re visiting Yellowstone National Park. There are tons of viewpoints, hiking trails, and two different rims to explore, but don’t worry – I’ve got you covered. Because you only have one day in Yellowstone, you HAVE to check out Grand Canyon Artist Point and the brink of the upper falls of the Grand Canyon. Believe me, you won’t want to miss these views!

There is not enough time to do some extensive hiking here, but don’t worry because you can still soak up some beautiful views without FOMO. So grab your camera, and get ready to have your mind blown by the beauty of Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon.

Grand Canyon Artist Point

Picture this: You’re in Yellowstone and the views are grand, but are you really getting the full experience if you don’t hit up Artist Point at the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone? You’ll be amazed at the view of the 308-foot Lower Falls. And the best part? It’s only a short 5 minute walk from South Rim Drive.

DRIVING DISTANCE TO UPPER FALLS: 4 Minutes

Brink of the Upper Falls of Yellowstone’s Grand Canyon

Feast your eyes on one of the most stunning views in Yellowstone – the Upper Falls Brink Overlook! It’s just an easy walk from the parking lot. The sheer power of the falls will leave you in awe on the brink of the Upper Falls. This is one view you won’t want to miss!

DRIVING DISTANCE TO TOWER FALL: 34 Minutes

STOP 3: Pick Up Food and Souvenirs at Tower Fall

Tower Fall has been impressing people for over a century with its 132-foot plunge, from explorers to lawmakers. Unfortunately, the erosion has ruined our hiking dreams of making it to the bottom. However, fear not, as you can still enjoy a stroll for three-quarters of a mile and watch as Tower Creek flows into the Yellowstone River.

And if you have dreams of catching more views of Tower Fall by continuing down the open section of the trail, you’ll be let down. Although the trail offers breathtaking views down the Yellowstone River, there are no views of Tower Fall beyond the overlook. And, to lighten the mood, there’s a charming general store stocked with souvenirs, a cafe, and a grocery aisle.

DRIVING DISTANCE TO ROOSEVELT ARCH: 50 Minutes

STOP 4: Take A Peek At The Historic Roosevelt Arch

Don’t miss out on a postcard-worthy photo op at Roosevelt Arch! This massive stone structure was finished way back in 1903 and serves as a gateway to Yellowstone. After the completion of Roosevelt Arch, visitors would hop off the train and onto a stagecoach to start their grand tour of Yellowstone’s natural splendor from here. Fast forward to present day and it’s now an iconic symbol of the national park concept.

DRIVING DISTANCE TO MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS: 14 minutes

STOP 5: Explore the Popular Mammoth Hot Springs

If you thought Yellowstone National Park couldn’t get any hotter, Mammoth Hot Springs are here to prove you wrong! Unlike other thermal areas in Yellowstone National Park, these are far more unique due to their limestone structure. Rumor has it Mammoth Hot Springs looks like a cave turned inside out! And did you know you can actually find over 50 hot springs on the Upper and Lower Terrace boardwalks?? Trust me, you don’t wanna miss out on this must-see feature but be prepared to wait for a parking spot.

INSIDER TIP: You will have better luck finding parking on the upper loop of Mammoth Hot Springs.

DRIVING DISTANCE TO FIREHOLE FALLS: 54 minutes

STOP 6: Most Visitors Don’t Know Firehole Falls Exists!

Step right up and behold Firehole Canyon Drive – the hidden gem of Yellowstone National Park! This 2-mile, one-way road off the Grand Loop is home to a magnificent waterfall and even a swimming area. Firehole Falls stands proud at 40-feet tall amongst 800-foot thick lava flows, forming the canyon walls. Don’t worry about the crowds; with this spot as underrated as it is, you’re likely to have it all to yourselves! Park your car at the small parking area near the falls and take in all the grandeur.

DRIVING DISTANCE TO GRAND PRISMATIC SPRING: 16 minutes

STOP 7: Grand Prismatic Spring Is Worth The Hype!

The rainbow colors and sheer size of Grand Prismatic Spring will make you feel like you’re staring into an enchanted kaleidoscope! It’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular attractions in Yellowstone. Pop over to the Midway Geyser Basin area of the park and make your way to the parking lot at Grand Prismatic Spring. But don’t say I didn’t give you fair warning. This parking lot is always packed to the brim, so brace yourself for a long line. That said, trust me, it’s worth all hype!

INSIDER TIP: If it’s looking especially crowded when you get there, you can make your way over to the Grand Prismatic Spring overlook. More information on this spot down below. Keep in mind you will not have enough time to do both in one day.

Option 2: Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook

If you want to see the Grand Prismatic Spring in all its glory, the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook Trail is where it’s at. First, head on over to the Fairy Falls parking lot. From there, you’ll embark on a 0.8-mile trail that takes you across the Firehole River and a wide gravel path, before climbing up to the viewing platform. Don’t worry, it’s only a 100-foot elevation gain. And believe me, the views are worth every step.

DRIVING DISTANCE TO BLACK SAND GEYSER BASIN: 8 minutes

STOP 8: Explore Black Sand Geyser Basin

Check out Black Sand Basin, a downright dazzling little basin of geysers and hot springs that will have you feeling like you’re walking through a rainbow. The sand’s black because the lava cooled off too fast (classic rookie mistake) but don’t worry, these geysers are quite the impressive sight. Sure, it’s not THE top priority site in Yellowstone, but if you’ve got some extra time on your hands, it’s definitely worth swingin’ by.

DRIVING DISTANCE TO OLD FAITHFUL: 4 minutes

STOP 9: Old FaithFul Is A Yellowstone Must See!

Old Faithful has got some serious fame! I mean, it’s the world’s most famous geyser after all. And let’s be real, if you’re visiting Yellowstone for the first time, your main priority is probably catching a glimpse of this natural wonder.

This geyser can last anywhere between 1.5 to 5 minutes with water shooting up to 184 feet in the air. You can expect about 16 to 17 eruptions a day, which, let’s face it, is pretty impressive. In fact, the National Park Service has got this geyser’s routine down to a tee and share predicted eruption times on their website. You can even download an app to make sure you don’t miss out on the action.

Keep a close eye on the schedule throughout the day, so you can plan your visit accordingly. And leave some room for parking, it can be difficult to find a spot here.

DRIVING DISTANCE TO WEST THUMB: 33 minutes

STOP 10: End Your Day At West Thumb

Think Old Faithful or Grand Prismatic Springs is the Best in Yellowstone? Think Again! West Thumb is located along the shores of Yellowstone Lake and is filled with some truly stunning hot springs!

The hot springs are jaw-dropping, and the Black Pool found here is giving the Grand Prismatic Springs a run for its money. Make sure you check out the left side of the basin facing Jackson lake to find it. Oh, and did I mention it’s not as busy as the other basins? It’s like the underdog of Yellowstone.