Yellowstone Park / West Entrance KOA

Upper Loop

The “figure 8” roadway that leads through Yellowstone National Park has a top and bottom half. On the upper loop follow the Madison and Gibbon Rivers to Norris and enjoy the park’s most active geyser basin. Then head to Mammoth Hot Springs and walk among its unique terraces, perhaps sharing the trail with grazing elk. And the Yellowstone River, the Lamar Valley and the awe-inspiring north rim of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone with its spectacular Upper and Lower Falls.

Lower Loop

This trip will lead you through Firehole Canyon to the Fountain Paint Pot, three geyser basins and the world’s most famous geyser, Old Faithful. Cross the Continental Divide to gigantic Yellowstone Lake, Fishing Bridge and beautiful Hayden Valley on this, one of the most scenic drives in America, watch for buffalo, elk and bear on your way to the Artist Point view of the Lower Falls.

Grand Tetons and Jackson Hole

While you’re so close, take a day to see Grand Teton National Park. Drive into Yellowstone and south through Grand Teton to Jackson. Return the same way, or swing west from Jackson on Highways 22, 33, and 32 (there is a 10% grade on this route) to US 20 in Idaho and return to your KOA base through the beautiful Teton Basin and over historic Teton and Targhee Passes. Either way, allow enough time to enjoy the entire trip.

Quake Lake and Ghost Town

Take US 287 to visit the destruction sites of the severe 1959 earthquake. Clear evidence remains readily visible of 45 seconds of awesome power the night the mountain fell. A lake was formed and lives were lost and altered. A tour guide brochure is available at the Slide and Visitor Center at Hebgen Lake. For an extended tour, continue on west to relive the excitement of the Montana gold rush. Restored Virginia City and Nevada City, two old mining camps of the 1860’s, offer a collection of historic buildings, relics and antiques as well as a narrow gauge excursion train. Return to KOA via 287, or for a circle trip take Highway 87, passing Henry’s Lake and making two easy crossings of the Continental Divide.

Red Rock Lake Wildlife Refuge and Wilderness

Take an excursion off the beaten path. Red Rock Lake Wildlife Refuge and Wilderness is situated in the picturesque Centennial Valley. This slice of God’s country literally is where the deer and the antelope play. From US 87 take the Staley Springs Road past the northwest shore of Henry’s Lake. The road is gravel and a four wheel drive is not needed, but recommended.