Bozeman & Yellowstone Trip Itinerary!

I just got back from the most incredible Montana trip, and I couldn’t wait to spill all the beans on what I did and what I absolutely adored. Montana may not have been on your radar, but by the end of this post, I hope this post inspires you to plan your own adventure to this beautiful and nature-filled part of The United States. Detailed below, you’ll find an itinerary recap of what I did, where I stayed, and even what I ate, so let’s get into it!

Where I Wandered: Bozeman, Paradise Valley, Yellowstone

My journey began with a direct flight from NYC to the Bozeman Airport. From there, I embarked on an epic adventure through Bozeman, Paradise Valley, and the breathtaking Yellowstone National Park.

My Cozy Retreat: Sage Lodge

My home away from home for this incredible journey was the enchanting Sage Lodge. Nestled in the heart of Paradise Valley, it was the perfect base for my adventures and my new favorite elevated log cabin. 

Day 1: Soaking It All In

The first day was all about unwinding and immersing myself in the Montana spirit. After touching down in Bozeman, I wasted no time hitting the Bozeman hot springs to soothe my nervous system and recharge. But hey, I still had my priorities straight – a quick stop at Whole Foods for some essentials!

Next up was my cozy check-in at Sage Lodge. I indulged in some serious pampering at the spa with a Yellowstone River rock massage, and Paul (my husband) did the detox wrap. Feeling rejuvenated, I took a leisurely walk on the lodge’s scenic trail before having dinner at The Grill. Can’t go wrong with a pork chop, smoked feta salad, and s’mores in a jar, right? Yes, I just said s’mores in a jar – how cool is that! By the way, my body never would have tolerated that dessert before my healing journey, but now that I’m undergoing active treatment for Lyme Disease, my body is responding so well and tolerating all of these foods that I once found to be very triggering. If the s’mores in a jar weren’t exciting enough, I also felt adventurous and tried Elk, and to my surprise, it wasn’t bad!

Day 2: Adventures Await

I started early with a caffeine fix at Tree Line Coffee Roasters before taking to the skies with Essential Helicopters for a thrilling flight over Yellowstone. I’m so glad I stocked up on snacks at Whole Foods because they came in handy while helicopter-bound!

Afterward, I revisited the Bozeman hot springs, ensuring I was always in zen mode. For lunch, the Backcountry Burger Bar satisfied my nutritional needs with a delicious salad packed with greens and protein. Post-lunch, I explored the charming town of Bozeman, and I couldn’t help myself but do some crystal shopping at Zsa Zsa (while I love evidence-based practices, I’m all for anything that will encourage a positive oura and promote healing energy) and treated myself to ice cream at Sweet Peaks (Again, this was a huge win! Dairy was totally off limits for me before undergoing Lyme treatment). 

Back at Sage Lodge, I squeezed in a quick jog before dinner at the Fireside Room, featuring risotto and mouth-watering chicken. And, of course, I couldn’t resist the s’mores in a jar for dessert.

Day 3: Yellowstone Adventure Day

Rise and shine at 6:20 AM for a day of thrilling adventures in Yellowstone National Park. I kicked things off with a pitstop at Bear Brew in Gardiner, MT, a great spot for coffee and some more crystal bracelet shopping.

My mission was to beat the crowds at Old Faithful. So I zipped around the park, taking in the sights and enjoying lunch at the historic Old Faithful Inn.

The day was filled with more attractions and breathtaking views before I returned to Sage Lodge for some (more) spa time – a detox wrap for me and a hot stone massage for Paul (yes, we switched treatments this time!). 

For dinner, we found ourselves back at The Grill. Roasted chicken for me and, you guessed it, s’mores for dessert.

Day 4: Wildlife Encounters and Spectacular Views

Another early start, and this time I enjoyed breakfast on the go. My coffee fix came courtesy of Bear Brew, and I may have added a few more crystals to my collection (yes, I may have gotten a little carried away). 

My day was dedicated to wildlife tracking, starting with a visit to Lamar Valley. I spotted bison and antelope, though binoculars would have been handy for longer-distance views.

Next, I explored Tower Falls and hiked by the river. Then, it was off to Canyon Village for a hike to Artist Point, where the view was nothing short of spectacular.

I rounded off the day with a visit to Yellowstone Lake and lunch at Wiley’s at the Lake Lodge. On my way back, I couldn’t resist a cold plunge at Yellowstone Hot Springs.

Back at Sage Lodge, I savored my final dinner at the Fireside Room, reminiscing about my unforgettable trip.

Day 5: Wolf Watching and Bear Tracking

One last early start, this one earlier than the others at 4:30 AM, took me on an extraordinary adventure with Yellowstone Wolf Tracker. I arrived at the park at 6 AM and waited patiently until noon for a sighting of the magnificent wolves. And let me tell you, it was well worth the wait!

Afterward, I enjoyed a late lunch back at Sage Lodge before venturing out to Tom Miner Basin at dusk, where I was fortunate to spot four grizzly bears. Nature at its finest!

Day 6: Homeward Bound

All good things must come to an end. With a heart full of incredible memories, I began my journey home, cherishing the moments I shared in Montana.

My Montana adventure was nothing short of magical, a blend of relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable encounters with nature’s wonders. If you’re craving an escape that’s off the beaten path, consider Montana – you won’t be disappointed.

If you can’t make it to Montana, then I highly recommend you find the closest National park or nature preserve near you. A weekend or even a day in nature does wonders for the mind, body, and soul!