8 Day Tour Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Yellowstone and Grand Teton

Experience the Magnificence of the American West in 8 Days

This 8-day tour takes you through some of the most iconic sights of the American West, starting in Los Angeles and ending in Las Vegas. Along the way, you’ll explore Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton, Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Utah’s Temple Square. With a price of $1,335 per person, it offers a well-structured mix of natural beauty, fascinating landmarks, and vibrant city life.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders up close with knowledgeable guides who can tell you the stories behind the geysers and hot springs. Plus, the scenic drives through Grand Teton and the Southwest’s striking landscapes make every mile memorable.

One possible drawback is the packed schedule—some travelers might find it tight, especially with long driving days. Still, the trade-off is the opportunity to see so much in just over a week, making it ideal for those who want a broad experience without spending weeks on the road.

This tour suits adventurous travelers eager to cover a lot of ground, nature lovers excited to witness geysers and canyons, and those who appreciate guided insights into America’s stunning landscapes.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering national parks, iconic landmarks, and unique geological features
• Expert guides provide engaging insights and background stories
• Long driving days but rewarding views and photo opportunities
• Includes entry fees for major attractions like Yellowstone geysers and Antelope Canyon
• Comfortable hotel accommodations with flexible room options for groups
• Option to customize if traveling with more than four guests or requesting separate rooms

Exploring the Heart of the American West: A Deep Dive into the 8-Day Tour

Starting in Los Angeles: From Coastal City to Desert Landscapes

The adventure begins with a morning departure from Los Angeles, heading eastward toward Las Vegas. We loved how the guide smoothly transitions from the bustling cityscape to the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert, with its iconic Joshua trees adding a rugged charm. The drive takes about 5.5 hours, but it’s a pleasant journey, especially if you enjoy scenic horizons and light conversation.

In Las Vegas, the tour passes by the famous Strip, giving you a taste of neon-lit grandeur without the time-consuming casino visits. This brief glimpse is perfect for photo ops and soaking in the city’s energy before heading on to Nevada’s lesser-known but equally stunning St. George.

Day 2: Marveling at Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

The highlight of this day is a visit to Lower Antelope Canyon—a true marvel of nature. This slot canyon on Navajo land is renowned for its wave-like walls and shifting light beams. We loved how guides help you navigate the narrow passages, making it accessible and safe, while still feeling like stepping into another world.

Next, you’ll see Horseshoe Bend, a sweeping curve of the Colorado River that’s as dramatic as it is photogenic. The viewpoint offers an incredible photo opportunity, and the 1-hour stop leaves plenty of time to marvel and snap pictures.

Travel tip: The best light for photography is morning or late afternoon, so plan accordingly if pictures are your priority.

Day 3: From Salt Lake City to Jackson and Grand Teton

Moving northward, the journey takes us to Jackson, Wyoming. The town’s Elk Antler Arches are quirky and iconic—thousands of elk antlers form four impressive arches. We found walking around Jackson Town Square a restful break before heading into Grand Teton National Park.

The scenic drive through Grand Teton offers breathtaking mountain vistas, alpine lakes, and the chance to see wildlife. It’s a short but impactful drive, perfect for appreciating the rugged beauty of the Rockies.

Day 4: Yellowstone—The First National Park

Today is dedicated to Yellowstone, and it’s a day packed with natural marvels. The itinerary includes Yellowstone Lake, Fishing Bridge, mud volcanoes, Upper Falls, and Artist Point. We loved the way the guide explained the geothermal activity, making the geysers and hot springs more meaningful.

The highlight is undoubtedly Old Faithful, a geyser that has been reliably erupting for over a century. Watching it shoot water high into the air is an unforgettable experience. The park’s vastness means that some areas, like the East Gate, might be closed during the winter or early spring, so check ahead if planning around specific attractions.

Day 5: Deepening Yellowstone Experience

The second day in Yellowstone offers a more in-depth look at this vast ecosystem. Stops include Fountain Paint Pot, with its colorful mud pots, and the Grand Prismatic Spring, which looks like a swirling watercolor. The park’s geothermal features make it one of the most visually captivating landscapes you’ll encounter.

A visit to Yellowstone Bear World adds a wildlife element—driving through the park’s habitats for a chance to see bears, elk, and moose. The guide emphasizes that it’s a family-friendly, accessible way to spot animals up close.

Day 6: Utah’s Capitol and Salt Lake City

This day blends natural beauty with a touch of Americana. Visiting the Utah State Capitol gives insight into the state’s history and governance, while Temple Square offers a serene, spiritual setting with impressive architecture. Both sites are free, and the guide’s local knowledge makes them more meaningful.

The evening is spent in Las Vegas, giving you time to explore the city’s nightlife or perhaps enjoy a quiet dinner after days of outdoor adventures.

Day 7: The Grand Canyon’s West Rim

The trip’s climax is a visit to the West Rim of the Grand Canyon. Here, you can opt for the Skywalk, a glass bridge that extends over the canyon, or an exhilarating helicopter ride. Both options offer unparalleled views—if you’re comfortable with heights, the helicopter ride is a thrill.

The Hualapai Tribe’s protected area preserves the canyon’s grandeur, and guides share the cultural significance of the site. We loved how the guide explained the geology, making the canyon more than just a pretty view.

Day 8: Las Vegas Highlights and Departure

On the final day, the tour winds down with visits to M&M’S World and the Flyover Las Vegas, a simulated flight experience over the city and surrounding landscapes. These add a fun touch before heading home.

The tour ends with a farewell at the Vegas Welcome Sign, perfect for one last selfie. If you choose to stay in Vegas, you’ll find the city’s energy hard to beat—whether for shows, casinos, or just soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable guides are a real asset, providing context and stories that transform a sightseeing trip into an engaging narrative. We heard that guides like Lisa or Mike (not their actual names) made the geology of Yellowstone or the history of Salt Lake City come alive with enthusiasm and expertise.

Stunning views aren’t in short supply—whether it’s the geothermal eruptions in Yellowstone, the sweeping vistas of Grand Teton, or the dramatic curves of Horseshoe Bend. The scenery’s variety keeps each day fresh and visually exciting.

Value for the price is notable because most major attractions, like national park entry fees and key sites, are included. The tour also offers options like hotel upgrades and optional activities such as helicopter rides, letting you tailor your experience.

One thing to consider is the long driving days—up to several hours—so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic road trips and don’t mind bus travel. Also, the schedule is quite packed, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel intense.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for adventure seekers eager to see a wide swath of the American West in a limited time. It’s also great for families or groups wanting a guided experience that takes care of logistics and entry tickets. If you love geology, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, this tour delivers in spades.

It’s ideal for those who appreciate organized travel with knowledgeable guides, as well as travelers who want a mix of natural wonders and some city sightseeing. If you’re comfortable with long days on the bus and want a taste of everything from geysers to canyons, this is a solid choice.

FAQs

How many days does the tour last?
The tour spans 8 days, with most of the days packed with sightseeing and travel between destinations.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel accommodations, transportation, a professional guide, and entry to attractions like Yellowstone, Antelope Canyon, and Horseshoe Bend. Some optional activities like helicopter rides are extra.

Can I customize my room?
Rooms accommodate 2-4 guests, with options for one king/queen or two full/double beds. If traveling with more than four or wanting separate rooms, you should create separate bookings.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is optional and may be arranged, but most meals are on your own. The guide can help with recommendations.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, sun protection, cash, and drinks are recommended. The tour involves a lot of walking and outdoor exposure.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
Yes, children under 18 need adult supervision. Pregnant women up to 24 weeks can join, but safety and comfort should be considered.

What happens if a site is closed?
The tour operator reserves the right to modify the itinerary and provide alternatives if certain attractions are closed or inaccessible.

How do I cancel?
You can cancel up to 6 days before the tour for a full refund.

The Sum Up

This 8-day journey offers a well-rounded experience of the American West’s most iconic landscapes and landmarks. With knowledgeable guides, included entry fees, and a thoughtfully designed itinerary, it provides good value for travelers eager to see Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Antelope Canyon, and more—all without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

It’s especially suited for those who want an immersive, guided trip that balances natural wonders with cultural insights, all while covering a lot of ground in a manageable timeframe. Be prepared for some long travel days, but rest assured, the views and stories you’ll take home will make it worthwhile.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply looking to tick off some of the most breathtaking sights in the U.S., this tour strikes a fine balance between adventure, education, and fun.

Note: Always review current restrictions or updates, especially regarding park access or site availability, to ensure the trip aligns with your expectations.