The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Yellowstone; Grand Teton National Park: Tips, Trails, and Essentials

Dreaming of exploring the rugged landscapes of Yellowstone and Grand Teton? Here’s your guide to experiencing the best of both parks, from wildlife spotting tips to hidden trail recommendations. Plus, don’t forget to pack your Lincoln Forest tees and sweatshirts for every step of the adventure!

1. Early Morning Wildlife Spotting

Yellowstone and Grand Teton are renowned for their incredible wildlife. If catching sight of bison, elk, and even wolves is on your list, plan to rise early. Lamar Valley in Yellowstone and Oxbow Bend in Grand Teton are two incredible spots for early-morning sightings, with cooler temps and quiet trails creating the perfect wildlife-watching atmosphere.

2. Best Hikes: Classic Trails & Hidden Gems

The trails in both parks offer a blend of popular must-sees and lesser-known paths where you can escape the crowds:

• Yellowstone: While the iconic sites like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring are always worth the visit, add a few off-the-beaten-path trails to your list. Mystic Falls Trail is a hidden gem for a peaceful hike, and the colorful Black Sand Basin offers a quieter setting to soak in Yellowstone’s natural beauty.
• Grand Teton: Hidden Falls and Jenny Lake are classic favorites, but the Taggart Lake Trail provides equally stunning views with fewer hikers. You'll find picture-perfect angles of the Teton peaks and enjoy a serene day on the trail.

What to wear: Our National Park Tees  keep you cool and comfortable on the trails. Each tee is designed with nature-inspired graphics so you can bring a piece of the wilderness wherever you go.

3. Take in the Scenic Drives

If you’re in the mood to see as much as possible without the hike, the scenic drives are a fantastic option. Teton Park Road in Grand Teton and Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone give you a front-row seat to stunning landscapes. Stop at the overlooks, snap photos, or settle in for a picnic lunch while soaking in the views of snow-capped peaks, winding rivers, and vibrant valleys.

4. Soak in a Hot Spring

One of Yellowstone’s best-kept secrets is that some hot springs are actually safe for a dip! Near Mammoth Hot Springs, you’ll find Boiling River, where warm water mixes with the river for a natural soak. It’s a unique way to relax and recover from a day of hiking or exploring!

Post-dip coziness: Our Lincoln Forest Hoodies are perfect for keeping warm after a swim, with soft, cozy fabric that’ll help you relax as you watch the steam rise from the springs.

5. Enjoy the Night Skies

Both Yellowstone and Grand Teton offer stunning night skies with little light pollution, making them ideal for stargazing. Signal Mountain in Grand Teton is a great spot to take in the stars or enjoy a quiet, reflective moment with breathtaking views.

Stay warm: Our National Park Blankets are the ultimate cozy necessity for those chilly nights. It’ll keep you cozy and cute as you gaze up at the stars with the iconic National Park designs as your reminder of all the adventures yet to come.

Ready to Pack?

Whether you’re planning early hikes, scenic drives, or stargazing sessions, our Lincoln Forest gear is here to keep you comfortable and adventure-ready. Don’t forget to check out our tees, hoodies, and sweatshirts so you’re set for the full national park experience.

Here’s to the open road, starry nights, and unforgettable views. Happy exploring!

The Lincoln Forest Team