The first day is all about arriving, picking up your car, and getting into the groove of an American road trip. Even just landing in Jackson Hole lets you know you're in for something special. If you're sitting by the window, you'll get your first look at the iconic peaks of the Teton Range, which will be your companions for the next few days. I recommend taking the rest of the day easy, resting up from your travels, and gearing up for the adventure that begins first thing the next morning.

Today is a more relaxed day, during which you will fully enjoy the atmosphere of Jackson and gradually get in the mood for the adventures awaiting you in the national parks. You'll spend the morning in the heart of this Western town, walking through its center and getting to know a place that, despite its popularity, has managed to preserve the character of the American West. After lunch, you'll head toward Grand Teton National Park. With every kilometer, signs of civilization will start to fade, and iconic mountain peaks, some of the most photographed scenes in the USA, will appear on the horizon. Today is a gentle transition from the urban atmosphere of Jackson to a world of mountain wilderness, where lakes, viewpoints, and encounters with the unique nature of the American West await you in the coming days.

Start with one of the most impressive moments in all of Grand Teton—sunrise over the iconic mountain peaks. The first light of morning gives the landscape a completely different atmosphere and shows Grand Teton in its most peaceful and photogenic form. After the morning experience, you'll shift to a slower pace with time to explore one of the most beautiful mountain regions in the USA. The day will focus on short walks, alpine lakes, and quiet spots in the heart of nature, where you can fully enjoy the atmosphere of the national park without any rush. The rest of the day is left open, so you can adjust the pace to your mood, stop at scenic viewpoints, or just relax in the surrounding Grand Teton landscape.

In the morning, pack up and leave the Grand Teton area. You're heading to Yellowstone National Park, where the dramatic mountain landscape gradually transforms into a unique world of geysers, hot springs, and colorful mineral terraces. Today serves as a smooth introduction to the oldest national park in the USA. You'll pass through your first geothermal areas and finish the day near West Yellowstone, where you'll spend the night. In Yellowstone, it's essential to follow basic safety rules and stay only on marked trails. Never enter or touch the thermal springs—the water and surrounding ground can be extremely dangerous. It's recommended to have offline maps downloaded and carry bear spray, as signal in the park can be limited and bear sightings are common in some areas. It pays to plan stops outside of peak hours, as the most famous spots can get very crowded during the day. If you have the chance, visit the main attractions either early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when the park is quieter and the experience is more intense.

Wake up early and set off from the West Yellowstone area across the national park. A day full of diverse scenery awaits you, during which you will discover another face of Yellowstone – from geothermal areas and waterfalls to vast valleys where wildlife often roams. Throughout the day, you will visit some of the most interesting spots in the park and drive through a constantly changing landscape. Colorful thermal springs give way to deep canyons, rivers, and sprawling grassy plains. The pace of the day is relaxed, with plenty of time for stops, short walks, and nature observation.

• Important tips for today - Keep your camera or binoculars handy, especially in the open valleys where bison, elk, and other wild animals are frequently spotted. It is recommended to carry bear spray and follow the basic safety rules for moving around the national park, especially while hiking. If you encounter wildlife, always maintain a safe distance and stay in your car or on marked trails.

A full-day drive from Yellowstone National Park to the Glacier National Park area in Montana. This is one of the longer stretches of the entire trip, taking you across northern Montana from the mountain regions all the way to the border of Glacier. The drive takes approximately 6-8 hours, so plan to spend most of the day on the road. You can make a quick stop for snacks or a break along the way, for example in Bozeman or Missoula. Your destination is West Glacier, which serves as the main western entrance to Glacier National Park.

One of the most famous driving experiences in Glacier National Park. Start early in the morning from the West Glacier area and head out along the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, which crosses mountain ridges and offers views of glacial valleys and mountain lakes. The road leads over narrow mountain sections and gradually climbs to the highest point, Logan Pass, where panoramic views of the surrounding landscape open up. On the east side of the park, you can look forward to stops at St. Mary Lake and several short walks to viewpoints and waterfalls, which are among the most beautiful spots in this part of Glacier National Park.

Important tips for today - A timed entry reservation may be required for the Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak season, so it is a good idea to check current conditions before you leave. It is recommended to set out early in the morning, as parking at Logan Pass is limited and fills up quickly. Weather in the mountains can change rapidly, so be sure to bring warmer clothing and a waterproof layer. Always carry bear spray with you while moving around the park.

Today you'll head to the Many Glacier area, considered one of the most beautiful and wild parts of Glacier National Park. The narrow mountain valley is surrounded by steep peaks and a landscape shaped by glaciers, which creates a unique atmosphere in this part of the park. You'll spend the day enjoying leisurely walks around mountain lakes, visiting the historic Many Glacier Hotel, and taking trips to waterfalls hidden in the woods. The area is also known for its abundant wildlife, and with a bit of luck, you might spot bears, moose, mountain goats, or bighorn sheep.

Today you'll be driving across Montana, heading south from the Glacier National Park area. The route takes you through vast valleys, past ranches, pastures, and small towns that still retain the atmosphere of the American West. Your main stop will be a visit to the historic Bannack State Park, one of the best-preserved former mining towns from the Gold Rush era in the US. You'll walk among the original wooden buildings and get a glimpse into the places where the daily lives of the first settlers unfolded over 150 years ago. After touring Bannack, you'll continue toward southern Montana, where you'll finish today's drive and get ready for the next part of your trip.

Important tips for today - Today's drive will take about five to six hours, so it's best to head out after breakfast and leave yourself plenty of time to explore Bannack. You'll be doing a lot of walking between historic buildings, so comfortable shoes and plenty of water are recommended. Entrance to the park is usually for a nominal fee, which can generally be paid by card, but I'd recommend carrying a little cash just in case.

A relaxed drive from Montana back to Wyoming. The journey takes you through the picturesque Idaho countryside, past farmlands, rivers, and mountain valleys, before the silhouette of the Teton Range reappears in front of you. In the afternoon, you'll cross the Teton Pass and descend into Jackson Hole, one of the most iconic areas of the American West. You'll wrap up the day in Jackson, a town with a cowboy vibe, wooden sidewalks, and views of the surrounding mountains.

Your final morning in the USA and your flight back home. After breakfast in the Jackson area, pack your bags and head to the airport, enjoying one last drive through Jackson Hole valley with views of the Teton Range. At Jackson airport, return your rental car, drop off your bags, and catch your flight home. During the trip, you'll have time to process photos and memories from your journey across the American national parks. The final day is dedicated to travel to the airport, returning the car, and flying back home. The journey concludes with your return from the Grand Teton, Yellowstone, and Glacier national parks.

Important tips for today - Arrive at the airport with plenty of time, ideally 2.5-3 hours before your flight, to allow for returning the rental car and going through security. Don't forget to fill up the tank before returning the car and check your luggage, including all compartments and the trunk. Bear spray cannot be transported on an airplane, so it cannot be taken with you and must be left in the USA.