The Classic Lodges . . . and Then Some

Nothing like an overnight in a historic lodge to get a taste of what the national parks have to offer. Here's a look at the top lodges in seven popular western parks, with alternatives in case there are no rooms at the inns.

-- Andrea Sachs

PARK

Yellowstone

Wyoming, Idaho, Montana

307-344-7381

www.nps.gov/yell

CLASSIC CHOICE:

Old Faithful Inn. Watch her blow -- Old Faithful geyser, that is -- from one of the world's largest log structures, which boasts 325 rooms and a 77-foot lobby ceiling. Plus, it turned 100 this year. From $78 to $371.

PLAN B:

Old Faithful Snow Lodge. At the newest lodge in the park (est. 1998-99), bunk like a true outdoorsman in the timber and log property, surrounded by wildlife -- some framed, other untamed. From $156.

OTHER OPTIONS:

The seven other park properties include the Roosevelt Lodge Cabins, near Teddy Roosevelt's fave camping spot, and the Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, flanked by steaming geologic wonders. Hotel rates from $73; cabins from $56. Grant Village, on Yellowstone Lake, features six two-story buildings; from $98.

BOOKING:

307-344-7311, http://travelyellowstone.com.

PARK

Glacier

Montana

406-888-7800