re: We are trying to decide between Yellowstone and North Cascades the 2nd week of July

Just to piggyback on what everyone else is saying- for the trip being this close I would choose Cascades. I've never been there but I have been to Yellowstone.

We spent a week in the Yellowstone/Teton/Jackson area a few years ago. We went as soon as the kids got out of school in May. That year it was actually the week before Memorial Day so we were fortunate that it wasn't too crowded. Even then, there were several spots we would arrive at only to circle the parking lot for 10 minutes waiting for a spot. I would not want to do this in peak summer crowds.

The best advice I can give you for Yellowstone is to stay inside the park and move around every night or 2. We spent 4 nights in the park at 4 different hotels. This allows you to get up early and start your day before the droves of people begin entering the park. I think having to drive into the park every day would severely impact your enjoyment. Traffic in the park is a nightmare, as well as parking at the popular sights/trails. Just because Google maps says a destination in the park is 45 mins away, in reality it could be double that. The figure 8 loop moves slow and there are always animal crossings that will slow you down

There are some decent hikes in Yellowstone, but the main attraction is the wildlife. The Tetons are more suited for hiking/scenery.

We thoroughly enjoyed Yellowstone, and I think every American should see it. But being that your trip is 2 months away, I would punt until next year so you have time to properly plan and get lodging. This way you will be able to maximize your trip, and not leave the park feeling like you were rushed. We came in from the south and our lodgings were- Old Faithful Inn, Canyon Lodge, Mammoth Lodge, and back to Canyon.