Why We Chose Island Park Over West Yellowstone (And Would Again & Again)

When people think of visiting Yellowstone, their first thought is often West Yellowstone. But here’s the honest truth: West Yellowstone is an outdated old town. It has its history, but when you’re looking for beauty, comfort, and authentic mountain adventure, nothing compares to Island Park, Idaho.

Island Park is not just a place to pass through, it’s a place to stay. A place to linger, to breathe deep, to eat well, and to enjoy the outdoors in a way that feels both restorative and adventurous. It’s where my family and I chose to put down roots, and if I had to choose all over again, I would choose Island Park every single time.

Life and Living in Island Park

When it came time to decide where we wanted to live with our little family, Island Park won us over with its wide-open beauty and endless opportunities. From our front door, we have access to rivers, mountains, and trails plus a community that values nature, and time spent outside.

Our days here often start with coffee and a breakfast burrito by the river at TroutHunter, followed by gearing up for fishing at one of our favorite fly shops. Evenings are for sipping some of the best cocktails on the water at Anglers Lodge, or dressing up for fine dining at Henry’s Fork Lodge, which is truly a gem tucked away in the woods.

And the adventures? They’re endless. In just five minutes we can be at Harriman State Park for horseback riding through golden meadows. A short drive brings us to Upper Mesa Falls, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world (and one of my personal favorite places on earth). It’s hard to describe the magic of standing there, watching the falls thunder down, but it never gets old.

Why Our Guests Love It Too

When we built Yellowstone Peaks Hotel in the heart of Last Chance, Island Park, it was about more than creating a place to stay. It was about creating an experience. We wanted our guests to feel the magic that made us fall in love with this place.

Our property is designed with both adventure and wellness in mind:

• Private wood-fired hot tubs at every cabin

• Cold plunges and sauna for ultimate relaxation

• A fully stocked private fishing pond with trout waiting to be caught

• Modern, cozy cabins that bring the outdoors in

It’s a dream for the young and old alike families making memories, couples soaking under the stars, friends gathering for a weekend of fishing and fun.

A World-Class Location

The beauty of Island Park is that you get the best of both worlds. Yellowstone is right next door. just minutes away, yet when you come back to Island Park, you’re stepping into peace, space, and a community that feels authentic and alive. You don’t have to settle for crowded streets and souvenir shops. Here, you can truly breathe.

We travel far and wide, but Island Park always remains one of our favorite places in the entire world. It’s why we built our life here, and why we encourage every guest who stays with us to explore this corner of the world. Because it’s that amazing.

Final Thoughts

Island Park is more than a destination.. it’s a lifestyle. It’s morning light on the river, evenings by the fire, horseback rides in the meadows, and waterfalls that make you stop in your tracks. It’s where we live, where we’ve built our dream hotel, and where we invite you to come and stay.

So skip the old tourist traps. Come experience Island Park, Idaho. Come stay with us at Yellowstone Peaks Hotel, and discover why this place is unforgettable.