I'm thinking about using a week's vacation for a road trip to NW Wyoming (Yellowstone, Tetons, etc). Never been and have no idea where to go and what to do! We love to hike, but have a toddler, so major hikes aren't possible. We love the outdoors and beautiful scenery. We don't want to camp. It will be about an 8 hour drive over and more driving is fine, I just don't want to spend the whole week in the car. Can anyone give me any advice about 2-3 places to base ourselves in the area, accommodations, and what to do? Thanks!

Well I don't know which direction you're coming from, but spending 2 nights in Jackson Hole and at least 3 nights in Yellowstone would be nice. That would give you some time at each park.

In Yellowstone, at Old Faithful there are lots of other geysers to see in that area within a short walk and most trails are either a boardwalk or paved I believe. The other thing to see is the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, which is also a series of short walks to viewpoints. The park is shaped like a big 8 so you will have to drive, but you'll be driving between things to get out and see.

The tetons would be more viewpoints of the lakes and mountains, but maybe a boat ride across the lake there or short hikes are possible.

Take a look at Signal Mountain Lodge for the Tetons. Great spot.

Advice on traveling w/a toddler -
Make sure to bring a ball, to play and run around in the beautiful outdoor scenery will keep your toddler happy.

I'd center the activites and plan the day around when naptime is - use naptime for driving from one place to the next.

My husband and I did hike when ours were toddlers, in fact the backpack thing came in handy even when they were 3-4 years old and little feet got tired. We always had snacks and juice.

I'd spend 1/2 the time at one place in the Tetons, and pick one part of Yellowstone and make it your base.

Since you've never been and no idea where to go, you can search here for many trip reports to get started on your planning.

thread on Yellowstone Day Hikes:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...1&tid=35122976

thread on Fodorite Recommendations for Yellowstone & Tetons:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...1&tid=34836620

The other thing I recommend is the NPS plan your visit pages http://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisit/index.htm
Trip Planner
http://www.nps.gov/yell/planyourvisi...plannerweb.pdf
& whats really cool is Yellowstone has online photo tours, for example is the link for Mammoth Hot Springs:
http://mms.nps.gov/yell/features/mammothtour/index.htm

Book your accomodations soon!

Thanks! Does anyone have any idea how crowded it might be the week of Labor Day? I'm hoping that many people have to go home ON Labor Day, so the following week wouldn't be so bad.

There is a guest ranch in Moran(Jackson)called Turpin Meadow Ranch.This is right outside the SE entrance to Yellowstone. It is convenient to Tetons and Yellowstone and has lovely log cabims. You can hike,horseback ride,fish,raft,rapids or a float trip and visit Yellowstone and The Tetons.We have been there 3 times in the summer and my son and family have been there is the winter snowmobiling. This is a great family place.The food is excellent. Check out the reviews on Tripadvisor.

Take a stroller for the toddler. Most of the geyser areas are very stroller friendly and it will be much safer than having them walk.

Utahtea

Wouldn't it be better to take a plane to Jackson and then rent a car for your excursions.Vacation is supposed to be relaxing.Paul