Caldera Cottage is less than 40 minutes from West Yellowstone gate.

/

Your perfect Yellowstone stay is just 40 minutes from the entrance! This sweet cottage sleeps up to six and is away from the hustle and bustle of tourist traffic so you can sleep easy and rest for your next big adventure. ⁣




Not in the mood for the hustle and bustle in the park? No Worries! Just hang out in town, we have some amazing things to do in Island Park too. Float big springs or check out Mesa falls. Go horseback riding at Harriman or fishing off the Mack’s Inn bridge.

Winter in the back yard of the Caldera Cottage.

Everything is better in Island Park ❤️

⁣

Book it now at VisitIslandParkIdaho.com.

Outside Fall Crafts for the win

/

This fall, when you are cozy in your cabin in Island Park, Idaho, it's a great time to shut off electronics and TVs and get back to connecting. But, you may be wondering, "What the heck do I do without electronics???"



Well, we have some ideas for you!  Here are a few cute and fun fall crafts you can do by yourself, with your family, or with friends!

When you want to stay in the cabins close to Yellowstone book here.

Howl at the Moon Night

/

When is the last time you howled at the moon? Tonight (Oct 26) is Worldwide Howl at the Moon Night is a tribute to animals that howl at the moon.

It is also a day when people are educated and made aware that conservationists are working in wolf conservation organizations like @yellowstonewildlifesanctuary that provide a lifelong sanctuary to non-releasable Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem wildlife while sharing a message of education and conservation. As well as @grizzlywolfctr, a not-for-profit wildlife park and education facility located in West Yellowstone, MT.

And as always, if you are looking for a cabin or lodge to stay in while howling, www.VisitIslandParkIdaho.com .

Got GORP? ⁣

/

G.O.R.P. stands for "Good Old Raisins and Peanuts" and is said to be the original trail mix. It's the perfect snack for hiking, picnics, and watching movies! The best part? There really are no rules to what you can make it out of. We put together a list of some things you can add along with raisins and peanuts for a perfect snack while adventuring around Island park. ⁣

⁣

The first step, head to Robins Roost Grocery Store! ⁣

⁣

Things to add to your GORP to make it even better: popcorn, honey nut Cheerios, dried cranberries, m&ms, pretzels, yogurt-covered raisins, and Chex cereal.

Gear, Clothing, Essentials … oh my!

/

With its pristine lakes, forests, and abundant wildlife, Island Park is THE place to explore and fall in love with the outdoors. If this is your first trip to the area, you may be wondering what to pack for your stay. ⁣

⁣

Here are some of our picks for items you don't want to forget!

Summer at the Big Chalet in the Forest

/

If sitting on a wrap-around porch surrounded by a national forest with friends and family sounds like a great day, the Big Chalet in the Forest is the getaway for you. ⁣

⁣

This cabin sleeps up to 5 and has a full-size kitchen for cooking big meals with your crew. The fire pit in the backyard is bound to be a gathering space for s'mores and stories. ⁣

⁣

Look and book at visitislandparkidaho.com/the-chalet-forest-big-cabin.

Calling all writers, artists, musicians, and academicians!

/

We have the PERFECT place for you to relax, unplug and focus on your craft. ⁣

Picture this: Forest for miles, the sounds of breeze through falling leaves, fall colors painting the landscape. There is no traffic, no city sounds, and no distractions. You are in a cabin with a fire keeping you warm and are about to dip into the hot tub to look at the stars to celebrate having a breakthrough working on your project. ⁣

This scenario can be your reality when you book a stay with us this fall in Island Park, Idaho. See our accommodations at https://visitislandparkidaho.com!

The Little Chalet is perfect for two

/

This beautiful cabin has been rebuilt with the most care and has all the charm of a real log cabin like wooden beams and hand made log bed but all the amenities of a modern home, including a hot tub for relaxing after your hikes. ⁣

⁣

The Little Chalet in the Forest sleeps up to 3 and is perfect for a young family or couple. However, it is right next to the Big Chalet, so you can book both spaces for larger groups! ⁣

⁣

⁣

Look and book this cabin and more at visitislandparkidaho.com!

Perfect for large families, groups, retreat.

/

When you want to get away with the whole family, cousins, best friends, and maybe your siblings too....you need a lot of space. That's where The Gathering Place Family Lodge comes in! There are 6 themed bedrooms with 14 beds and 5 bathrooms, so no one has to wait in line. ⁣

⁣

This massive cabin is 4,000 sq ft and includes a game room, entertainment, hot tub, fire pit, and even a piano perfect for singing carols during the holiday! Book this cabin soon; it fills up fast! ⁣

⁣

Look, book, and more at visitislandparkidaho.com/island-park-cabin-the-gathering-place.

Give-away! Get-away! Yay-away!

/

Love Island park, Yellowstone, Grand Tetons, and the great outdoors? Visiting soon? Planning a trip? We have a giveaway for you! ⁣

⁣

We are giving away an Island Park swag bag full of goodies, including:⁣

A collapsable cooler⁣

Island Park Idaho shirt⁣

$25 to Cafe Sabor here in Island Park⁣

AND 50% off your rental fee at one of our cabins! ⁣

⁣

All you have to do is follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok and comment on this post, and tell us why you want to visit Island Park. ⁣

⁣

Facebook> facebook.com/VisitIslandParkIdaho

Instagram-> instagram.com/visitislandparkidaho

TikTok > TikTok.com/@VisitIslandParkIdaho

Tips for staying in a rental cabin Close To Yellowstone

/

Staying in a hotel is much different than staying in a cabin rental. There's more room, space to cook, and more comforts of home. If you're new to short-term rentals, we have some tips to help you feel more comfortable and make your stay easy and carefree!

15 Genius Ways To Keep Your Kids Busy On Road Trips

/

When visiting Island Park, chances are you want to go on a day trip to Yellowstone, the Tetons, or one of the many other natural wonders and beautiful towns a drive away. That means you also may be searching for ways to keep the kiddos entertained until you get to your destination. Don't worry; we have some tips to help you out!

15 Genius Ways to Keep Your Kids Busy on Road Trips:

1. Turn your backseat into a movie theater with an IPad.

2. Pack a treasure chest full of dollar store toys and treats.

3. Bring kid-friendly audiobooks.

4. Try Road Trip Bingo.

5. Play (fun) educational games.

6. Plan pit stops in advance.

7. Pack a car art kit and a lap desk.

8. Pack snacks in a tacklebox to make it fun.

9. Let the kids be in charge of photography while driving.

10. Make road trip Lego boxes.

11. Make sewing cards in various shapes out of cardboard, punch holes in the border and give shoelaces or yarn to thread through.

12. Play the “what is in the cloud “game?

13. Use the back of the front seat organizer and fill it with games, toys, and snacks.

14. Let kids decorate with window clings.

15. Play the game “Would you rather?’.

And as always, if you are needing a cabin to stay at after those amazing road trips, check our our amazing line up for all ages and group sizes HERE.

Kayak Rentals

/

Did you know we can take you on a friendly float down the river in Island Park? We will meet you at the boat dock with our kayaks and help you launch onto the kayak. Then we will float down the river enjoying the beautiful views. ⁣

You can book this memorable experience right through Airbnb when you book your stay. Enjoy a couple reviews and see what people had to say about this fun outing!

Or contact us at info@VisitIslandParkIdaho.com or 385-685-0272 to check availability.

Huckleberry Hut Close To Yellowstone

/

If sitting on a wrap-around porch surrounded by a national forest sounds like the perfect way to wind down at the end of the day, then we have the ideal getaway for you! ⁣

⁣

Huckleberry Hut sits on just under a half-acre lot nestled by a national forest and close to fishing spots. This cabin has room for up to 6 with 2 bedrooms,  2 queen beds, and a sleeper sofa. ⁣

⁣

View photos and more cabins at visitislandparkidaho.com!

Fishing Fishing Fishing

/

If you're visiting Island Park and plan to go fishing, chances are you're an experienced angler, but for some visitors, fishing may be a new activity to try out! ⁣

⁣

Whether you are experienced or a newbie, here are some things we suggest making sure you have in your tackle box.⁣

⁣

Fishing license: This may not be IN your box, but you should certainly have one! Get yours at https://idfg.idaho.gov/licenses.⁣

⁣

Extra line: One of the most crucial pieces of equipment you can carry in your tackle box is extra fishing line. Just make sure to choose the right fishing line for your rod, your reel, and the fish you're planning to catch. ⁣

⁣

Extra hooks: Once you have your line, it's time to stock up on extra hooks. Each hook is specially designed for a particular kind of fish and a specific range of conditions. ⁣

⁣

Sinkers, bobbers, swivels: All these funny words actually serve a purpose. Our local gear shops can help you get equipped with the right ones for your needs. ⁣

⁣

Bait: How else will you catch the fish? There are lots of kinds to choose from, like spinners and soft and hard bait. ⁣

⁣

What is an essential in your tackle box?

Grand Teton Nation Park must see while staying in Island Park Idaho

/

Note about Grand Teton National Park Must See Areas: It is possible to spend all your time in Yellowstone National Park, but if you have the time, checking out Grand Teton National Park is highly recommended. It is possible to get from the cabin to GTNP by going through YNP, but I only recommend this if you leave early in the morning and watch the sun rise in YNP. It is a long day if you plan to make a loop of it and stop in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, on the way back. You can go the opposite way by turning at Ashton, Idaho, and cutting across to Driggs and Victor (the Idaho side of the Tetons) then over the Teton Pass to Jackson. From Jackson, you’d head toward GTNP and return through YNP. I don’t recommend going to Jackson first as coming through the park late in the day can cause delays due to bison, bear, and elk jams anywhere along your route while in both parks. There is also the risk of hitting wildlife while traveling the roads of YNP after dark. You can always just skip going through YNP and just do the beautiful two hour drive to Jackson through Teton twice and return the same way… either way is stellar.


Drive the 42-mile Scenic Loop

This drive takes you through the heart of Grand Teton National Park. You will drive down the length of the Teton Mountain range along Jenny and Jackson Lakes and past numerous scenic overlooks. Along the way, you can take the option to detour to Signal Mountain, Jenny Lake Scenic Drive, and numerous hiking trails in the park.
  


Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls
Hidden Falls is a waterfall located in the Teton Range next to Jenny Lake. Inspiration Point is a viewpoint over Jenny Lake. Both spots are located on the same hiking trail, it is easy to combine both into one very scenic hike.

 

Hidden Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls in GTNP.

There is a shuttle boat on the western side of Jenny Lake which cuts down on the walk to Inspiration Point and Hidden Falls. If you are short on time, this is the fastest way to see both sights. The boat runs every 15 minutes.

Expect big crowds from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm in the summer months.
 


Mormon Row Historic District

In 1890, Mormons from Salt Lake City settled here, establishing 27 homesteads. Mormon Row was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977.

This is one of the best sunrise spots in GTNP. An iconic shot of the historic barn with the Tetons in the background attracts photographers from around the world.




Chapel of the Transfiguration

This is another historic site in GTNP and is a short ride from Mormon Row. This small log chapel was built in 1925. During the summer season, St. John’s Episcopal Church offers services on Sunday mornings.





Schwabacher Landing

For one of the most scenic views of the Teton mountain range, don’t miss Schwabacher Landing. This is a great place to capture the reflection of the mountain range in the Snake River.

You can walk from the parking lot to the river and snap a photo, or you can continue further down the trail for a slightly different view of the Teton range.



Snake River Overlook

Channel your inner Ansel Adams and photograph the Tetons from the lookout. This photography location was made famous when Ansel Adams snapped a photograph in 1942, while working for the United States government.

 






Oxbow Bend of the Snake River

This is the place to get the iconic view of Mt. Moran’s reflection in the Snake River. Sunrise is the most popular time to visit Oxbow Bend, not only to capture the Teton range but to photographic wildlife in the area.






 

Taggart Lake

This relatively short, easy trail is one of the most popular hikes in GTNP. Once you reach Taggart Lake, you get amazing view of the Tetons in this beautiful clear lake.

It is a three-mile round trip hike. Be alert for bear. You can continue further to Bradley Lake, but this adds another 2.5 miles to the total distance. The trailhead is located on Teton Park Road south of Jenny Lake.







Rockefeller Preserve and Visitor Center

The Rockefeller family played a huge role in preserving the land of GTNP. This reserve is an 1,100-acre refuge located within GTNP and was donated by the Rockefeller family in 2001.

The visitor center was built on this parcel of land. It is a beautiful property and is a LEED certified building for it’s environmentally friendly building practices.






 

                  

Drive Moose Wilson Road

Moose Wilson Road is an 8-mile paved and dirt road that connects Jackson with GTNP. Rough and narrow in some spots, it is acceptable for cars but having an SUV or 4x4 makes the drive easier. Expect lots of potholes and slow speeds for the portion that is unpaved. Along the way you have a good chance of seeing moose and other wildlife. The road is closed from November 1 to mid-May. RVs and trailers are not permitted. It is also subject to closure for grizzly bear activity.

Yellowstone Entrances

/

Written by Sandy Briggs, a long time resident and friend. Note about Yellowstone Entrances: One of the most important things to understand about Yellowstone National Park are the entrances. Each one offers something different, and I highly recommend not eating at the park restaurants because it is expensive, and the food just isn’t that good. Therefore, below I will recommend restaurants just outside the park boundaries at each of the entrances. Keep in mind that the West Yellowstone Entrance is the closest to the cabin, but you probably already figured that one out! When deciding routes, the maximum speed in the park is 45 mph and it is strictly enforced. You can usually get away with 5 mph over, but that is not a guarantee. You may also get caught in a “bison, elk, or bear jam” which can delay you for hours. Best practice is to have food and water with you and plan on it taking longer than you expected. Don’t worry, enjoy the ride. Note, we have a cooler which is great for packing food and beverages for the park. It is located on the back porch. Please remember to leave it when your visit is done so the next person will have it to use.


West Entrance, near West Yellowstone, Montana

Restaurants and things to do are covered previously in this book because they are geographically the closest to the cabin. Please see West Yellowstone Experiences and West Yellowstone Places to Eat for more detailed information. One thing to add, the West Entrance brings you to geyser paradise.


Bechler Ranger Station 

Most people do not know there is an Idaho entrance to YNP at the Bechler Ranger Station. This area is a favorite of hikers, backpackers, and hot springs soakers looking to get away from the tourist crowds. It is about 45 minutes south of the cabin. You drive to Ashton and follow the signs to Cave Falls. Most of this road is dirt but is well maintained. If you like to hike, and don’t want steep grades, this is the hike for you. You are literally in meadows for miles and miles. The view of the Tetons from the meadows is spectacular, too. One thing to keep in mind is that the meadows are swamps mid to late season depending on snowpack. It is also a great place to fish. Take bug spray and wear shoes that you can get wet and hike in. From Bechler you can hike to Dunanda Falls which features a beautiful waterfall and hot springs.

Stop and check out Cave Falls, too, either on the way in or the way out of Bechler – it’s beautiful.

Note: The cave is on the roadside looking at the falls and you must hike down to river level to see it. You can just imagine the Native Americans fishing there.

North Entrance, near Gardiner, Montana - CURRENTLY CLOSED DUE TO FLOODS IN JUNE
The North Entrance brings you the Roosevelt Arch, Gardiner, Montana, and Mammoth Hot Springs. This entrance can be reached by going through the park from West Yellowstone to Norris, Mammoth, and Gardiner. You can also reach it by traveling from Bozeman to Livingston, then Gardiner, and through the park to the West Entrance. Taking this route from Bozeman will have you going by two hot springs. Chico Hot Springs and Yellowstone Hot Springs. Boiling River (which is one of the only hot springs areas of the park you can swim in). Note that Boiling River has been closed since COVID. All of these are worth checking out when you are near the North Entrance. Check with any park ranger when entering the park to see if Boiling River is open.

 

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN GARDINER:

·      The Corral, 711 Scott Street

Great burgers, including elk and bison options, shakes, fries, some gluten-free options.

·      Wonderland Café, 206 Main Street

Locally sourced and organic fare using fresh ingredients as much as possible, therefore their menu is constantly changing. They only accept reservations for 6 or more and will add a 20% gratuity. Coffee and baked goods from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm, lunch from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm, and dinner from 4:30 pm to 8:00 pm.

·      Follow Yer’ Nose BBQ Smokewagon, 375 US 89 South

This is a BBQ wagon. Surprisingly great options for vegetarians, their chopped brisket sandwiches are fantastic, and the coleslaw is to die for.

·      Mountain Tacos, 906 Scott Street West

Mexican Fare which is quick and easy if you are in a hurry to get back to the park. They are in Outlaws Pizza.

·      Yellowstone Grill, 404 Scott Street West

American fare, burgers, sandwiches, etc. They do have good breakfast, but it’s hard to get to that side of the park by breakfast unless you leave really early.

Northeast Entrance, near Cooke City and Silver Gate, Montana

In my opinion, this is one of the most beautiful areas of the park. The mountains are incredible. If you have the time, going through Cooke City and Silver Gate to the Bear Tooth highway which is an amazing drive. You don’t have to take the whole drive, but even doing part of it is fun. It does take some time however, and it is a long way away, so plan accordingly. The Northeast Entrance is a long way to any town of size, but the two small towns just outside the park borders have a couple of options for dining.

 

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN SILVER GATE AND COOKE CITY:

·      The Log Cabin Café, 106 US-212This quaint little restaurant is adorable inside and out. They serve good food, not fast, but worth the wait. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are excellent. They usually have great coffee and desserts. Their beef is top-notch.

·      Silver Gate BBQ, 91 US-212They are known for their pork shoulder and have typical BBQ dishes with delicious sides. If it is a nice day, it’s great to sit outside and enjoy the incredible views.

·      Miners Saloon, 208 Main StreetThey have typical bar food and pizza. Not my favorite choice in the area, but a possibility if you want an alcoholic beverage and aren’t too picky or in a hurry.

·      Buns N Beds, 201 Main StreetFood served home-made and fast. Really good huckleberry shakes and chocolate chip cookies. You can also get good sandwiches.

East Entrance, near Cody, Wyoming
The East Entrance takes you to Yellowstone Lake from Cody, Wyoming. Cody is a great little city to spend time in and Roosevelt called the road from Cody to Yellowstone “the most beautiful 50 miles in America.” If you do end up in Cody, the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, and the Irma’s Hotel are two places to pay a visit.

 

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN CODY, WYOMING:

·      Irma Hotel, 1192 Sheridan AvenueThe Irma is a historical landmark, but they also have great meals. On the weekends they have a dinner buffet that features buffalo prime rib. It is worth a look.

·      Wy Thai, 1928 Big Horn Avenue
Best Thai food in Cody. They have dine-in and take-out, but no delivery.

·      Michael’s Taco, 702 Yellowstone Avenue
Best Mexican food in Cody. Made fresh daily. They have dine-in and take-out.

·      Noon Break 2 Go, 2619 Sheridan Avenue
Best breakfast burritos and green chili in Cody. 

·      Hungry Bear Restaurant, 2706 Big Horn #ALocally owned, great service and friendly staff. Good for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. American food and home-cooking. Dine in, drive through, and no delivery.

South Entrance, Grand Teton National Park, near Jackson Hole, Wyoming
The South Entrance takes you from Jackson Hole to Grand Teton National Park (GTNP) then on into Yellowstone National Park (YNP). The closest city to this entrance is Jackson Hole and you end up near the West Thumb of Yellowstone Lake if you are going into GTNP, then YNP. It is a beautiful drive on a clear day. Keep in mind that if the weather is cloudy, you might not get to see the majestic Tetons because of cloud cover. Note: There are many options for dinner in Jackson if you are not in a hurry. I did not include dinner options below, except for one experience if you happen to be spending the night. Google the top restaurants to make your choice.

 

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS IN OR NEAR JACKSON HOLE, WYOMING:

·      Jackson Hole Marketplace, 4125 Pub PlaceBy far the best place to get a sandwich in Jackson and a great location on your way out of town to stop and grab one. You can also order online and pick up. The market also has a really good selection of drinks and snack foods for your trip.

·      Nora’s Fish Creek Inn, 5600 WY-22Nora’s has one of the best breakfasts in town. It is on the way over Teton Pass in Wilson, just outside Jackson, but worth the stop if they aren’t too crowded. They have familiar breakfast fare and diner-style American chow such as burgers for lunch. They are now open for dinner, but I haven’t tried their menu.

·      The Bunnery Bakery and Restaurant, 130 N. Cache StreetBaked goods, brunch, traditional breakfast plus sandwiches, and desserts like pie. A great spot to sit and eat or to grab a sweet to go. Usually crowded, but they do a good job moving people through.

·      Calico Pizza, 2650 Moose Wilson RoadItalian restaurant with fantastic pizza. One of our favorite spots. They do not open until 4:30 pm and only serve dinner. Show up early because they fill up fast. They do take reservations.

·      The Whistling Grizzly Restaurant, 930 West BroadwayBreakfast and lunch fare. They are not open for dinner. They have dine-in and take-out.

·      Bar J Chuckwagon Suppers, WilsonThis is one of the most fun events we have done in Jackson. I believe they had some trouble staying open during COVID but hopefully they will be able to reopen this summer. This is a great dinner and fantastic entertainment all wrapped into one.

·      Gondola Ride, Teton VillageOne of the best things to do on a sunny day is take the gondola up the mountain. The gondola doesn’t take you to the top, that would be the Aerial Tram, but to one of the restaurants on the hill which has a great deck, bar, and if you like mushrooms, the fried ones with aioli sauce are the best. They often use this venue for weddings and parties, so call to make sure it is open. They also have a mountain bike trail that is amazing. You can check that out by talking to the folks at the bottom of the hill.

·      Aerial Tram at Teton VillageThe ride up the Jackson Aerial Tram is breathtaking on a clear day. Take coats as the temperature at the top can be cold and windy. Hiking trails are available from there or just a ride up and back for photos.