Island Park, Idaho, is surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region, offering RV travelers a range of scenic drives filled with mountain views, rivers, and forests. Staying at Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park gives you convenient access to these routes, allowing you to explore the area’s natural beauty by day and return to a comfortable, well-equipped base at night. Here’s a guide to the best RV-friendly scenic drives around Island Park, each offering a unique look at the region’s breathtaking scenery.
1. Mesa Falls Scenic Byway
The Mesa Falls Scenic Byway is one of the most popular routes near Island Park, taking travelers through lush forests and along the Henry’s Fork of the Snake River to two impressive waterfalls: Upper and Lower Mesa Falls. The falls cascade down rugged cliffs, creating a dramatic scene that’s perfect for photography and a must-see for visitors to the area.
- Highlights: Upper Mesa Falls is particularly striking, with a viewing platform that allows you to see the waterfall up close. The Lower Falls are visible from the nearby lookout point and provide a peaceful setting surrounded by nature.
- RV Accessibility: This byway is well-paved and suitable for RVs, with several pull-offs and parking areas near the falls. Accessible restrooms and boardwalks make it easy to explore on foot.
- Tip: Start your drive early to enjoy the falls with fewer crowds. Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park is just a short drive from the start of the byway, making it easy to reach Mesa Falls and return to your campsite for a relaxing evening.
2. Henry’s Lake to West Yellowstone
For RV travelers looking for a scenic route to Yellowstone’s West Entrance, the drive from Henry’s Lake to West Yellowstone provides stunning views of Henry’s Lake, the surrounding mountains, and open valleys. This route is ideal for wildlife watching, with frequent sightings of bison, deer, and even the occasional bear.
- Highlights: Henry’s Lake is a beautiful spot for a quick stop, especially in the early morning when the water is calm and perfect for photos. The drive also takes you through scenic open spaces with mountain backdrops.
- RV Accessibility: RV-friendly pull-offs around Henry’s Lake allow you to park and enjoy the scenery. The route is mostly straight and smooth, making it a comfortable drive for larger vehicles.
- Tip: Pack binoculars for wildlife spotting along the way. Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park’s location near the West Entrance makes this route a convenient day trip with a mix of lake views and open landscapes.
3. Big Springs Loop
The Big Springs Loop is a short but scenic drive that highlights some of Island Park’s unique features, including the crystal-clear waters of Big Springs. Known for its resident trout and historic Johnny Sack Cabin, Big Springs offers a peaceful setting with easy walking paths and great photo opportunities.
- Highlights: Big Springs’ clear waters make it easy to spot large trout swimming below, and Johnny Sack Cabin is a historic site that gives a glimpse into early settler life in the area.
- RV Accessibility: RVs are welcome along the loop, with designated parking areas and pull-offs for easy access to Big Springs and surrounding picnic spots.
- Tip: Bring along a picnic and enjoy lunch by the water. The loop is just a short drive from Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park, making it a perfect choice for an afternoon outing.
4. Targhee National Forest Drive
The Targhee National Forest offers a scenic route filled with dense pine forests, alpine meadows, and mountain views. This drive is ideal for RV travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature, with numerous pull-offs and picnic areas where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Highlights: Views of the Targhee National Forest provide an immersive experience, with towering trees, mountain vistas, and plenty of quiet spots to stop and explore.
- RV Accessibility: The forest roads are well-maintained, and there are several designated areas for RV parking along the way. Make sure to check seasonal road closures if visiting in early spring or late fall.
- Tip: Plan for a full day and bring your hiking gear to explore some of the short trails along the drive. Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park offers easy access to Targhee’s trails and scenic points, allowing you to maximize your time in the forest.
5. Island Park Reservoir Loop
The Island Park Reservoir Loop offers water views and scenic open spaces, with plenty of spots for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The drive loops around the reservoir, providing RV travelers with panoramic views of the lake against the backdrop of distant mountains.
- Highlights: Island Park Reservoir is perfect for a leisurely drive with several pull-off areas for fishing, picnicking, or simply enjoying the view. The calm waters reflect the surrounding landscape, making it a peaceful and picturesque setting.
- RV Accessibility: This route is easy to navigate with an RV, with paved roads and accessible parking areas near the lake.
- Tip: Bring your fishing gear or a kayak for a day of fun on the water. Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park’s proximity to the reservoir makes it an ideal base for exploring the area and returning for a comfortable night’s rest.
6. Yellowstone Scenic Loop
For those who want to venture into Yellowstone itself, the Yellowstone Scenic Loop takes you through some of the park’s iconic spots, including Mammoth Hot Springs, Norris Geyser Basin, and Lamar Valley. This drive is one of the most popular scenic routes, with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities and incredible geothermal sights.
- Highlights: Norris Geyser Basin’s colorful hot springs, Mammoth Hot Springs’ limestone terraces, and the wildlife-rich Lamar Valley provide diverse and memorable sights.
- RV Accessibility: RVs are welcome along this loop, and Yellowstone’s major viewing areas have large parking lots to accommodate RVs. Be sure to check road conditions and park guidelines before setting out.
- Tip: Plan to start early, as this loop covers significant ground. Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park’s close location to the West Entrance makes it the perfect base for a full day of exploring Yellowstone’s scenic wonders.
7. The Scenic Drive to Mesa Falls and Beyond
While the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway is beautiful on its own, the drive can be extended to explore surrounding scenic byways and hidden roads that lead through the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. This extended drive is ideal for those looking to spend a full day taking in a variety of landscapes, from waterfalls to dense forests.
- Highlights: Upper and Lower Mesa Falls, scenic overlooks, and winding forest roads that reveal hidden clearings and quiet rivers.
- RV Accessibility: Forest roads are mostly well-maintained, with pull-offs near the falls and viewpoints. Some roads may be narrow, so check maps in advance if traveling with a large RV.
- Tip: This scenic drive is ideal for photography enthusiasts. Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park provides a comfortable base for exploring Mesa Falls and extending your drive to more remote, scenic areas.
Why Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park is the Ideal Base for Scenic Drives Around Island Park
For RV travelers interested in Island Park’s best scenic drives, Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park is the ideal home base. Located just minutes from the West Entrance of Yellowstone and close to all of Island Park’s top routes, the park provides easy access to these breathtaking drives while offering the convenience of spacious RV sites, ADA-compliant facilities, and on-site amenities.
Whether you’re exploring waterfalls, wildlife-rich valleys, or quiet forest roads, staying at Yellowstone Grizzly RV Park allows you to experience the beauty of the area while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a well-equipped campground. Discover why this central location is the best choice for RV travelers looking to make the most of Island Park’s scenic drives.
