Grand Loop Road is a designated scenic route in Wyoming, about 140 km (87 mi) long.
The Grand Loop Road is a historic district which encompasses the primary road system in Yellowstone National Park. Much of the 140-mile (230 km) system was originally planned by Captain Hiram M. Chittenden of the US Army Corps of Engineers in the early days of the park, when it was under military administration. The Grand Loop Road provides access to the major features of the park, including the Upper, Midway and Lower geyser basins, Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Fall, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone and Yellowstone Lake. A number of other historic districts adjoin the Grand Loop in Yellowstone, including Mammoth Hot Springs, North Entrance Road, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Fish Hatchery and Old Faithful historic districts. Grand Loop Rd. includes unsigned portions of US 20, US 89, US 191 and US 287, all of which traverse the park. The road was named by Harry W. Frantz in 1923, who served asFrom Wikipedia — Grand Loop Road, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Photo stops along the way
Hot SpringMimulus Pool
Hot SpringTwin Geysers
Hot SpringBlue Funnel Spring
Hot SpringThumb Geyser
Hot SpringPerforated Pool
Hot SpringCollapsing Pool
Hot SpringEphedra Spring
Hot SpringOil Slick Pool
Hot SpringSurging Spring
Hot SpringPercolating Spring
Hot SpringLedge Spring
Hot SpringBluebell Pool
Tips for scenic drive photography
- Drive the route in both directions — the views change completely.
- Plan stops for golden hour at the highest overlooks; use pull-outs, never stop on the roadway.
- Check seasonal closures for high-elevation roads before you go.
- A polarizer cuts windshield-like glare on wet roads and foliage.