Salt Lake City is a prime jumping-off point for exploring some of the most stunning landscapes in the American West. Its location in the heart of Utah and proximity to national parks make it ideal for quick, immersive trips. Whether you’re after dramatic canyon vistas, geothermal wonders, or wildlife encounters, Salt Lake City’s tour options deliver. We especially like how the Zion, Bryce, & Antelope Canyon Adventure combines some of Utah’s top natural attractions into an all-inclusive, small-group experience — perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free way to see these treasures without sacrificing comfort or insight.
From guided tours with private options to scenic drives that include staying inside Yellowstone, Salt Lake City offers a variety of 3-day adventures. Many tours are capped at a small number of participants, ensuring personalized attention, while others blend city highlights with national park wonders. Prices vary depending on the level of lodging and exclusivity, but all promise memorable views and hassle-free planning. Below, we detail the top 3-day tours to help you choose the perfect fit.
1. Zion, Bryce, & Antelope Canyon Adventure: Small Group 3-Day Tour
At number 1 on our list, this small-group Utah tour offers a comprehensive, all-inclusive experience exploring Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Antelope Canyon. Limited to eight travelers, it’s ideal for those who want an intimate look at some of Utah’s most iconic parks without the hassle of self-driving or planning every detail.
The tour kicks off with Bryce Canyon’s spectacular hoodoos and accessible viewpoints, plus an optional hike down Navajo-Queen’s Garden Trail. Day 2 features Antelope Canyon’s mesmerizing curves, guided by Navajo experts who reveal the canyon’s secrets. The final day takes you into Zion for breathtaking vistas and easy shuttles to trailheads. Throughout, the focus is on providing immersive guided experiences with free time to explore. Accommodation is included, and the tour can be upgraded to a private, tailor-made journey.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and well-paced itinerary, with reviews highlighting the “magnificent landscapes” and “very organized logistics.” Priced at $1,795 per person, this tour offers excellent value for access to multiple parks with all logistics handled.
Bottom line: If seeing Utah’s top parks in comfort and style appeals, this small-group adventure balances guided insight with free exploration, making it perfect for travelers wanting a hassle-free, memorable trip.
2. Salt Lake City: Yellowstone 3-Day Guided Trip with Hotels
This guided tour takes you from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone and Grand Teton, with a focus on seeing the park’s highlights and wildlife. For $868 per person, it offers a budget-friendly way to experience two of America’s most famous national parks in a compact timeframe.
The trip includes transportation, hotel accommodations, and guided visits to Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake, and more. It’s designed for travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive experience without the stress of organizing logistics. The small group, capped at 14, ensures a more personal feel, with guides sharing local stories and safety tips along the way. Travel times are structured to maximize sightseeing, with notable stops at West Yellowstone and the Grand Teton vistas.
Guests rave about the well-organized nature of the trip and the knowledge of guides, with reviews emphasizing it as “great value for money” and “stress-free.” It’s particularly suited for those on a budget or who prefer guided logistics over self-driving.
Bottom line: For a practical, budget-conscious introduction to Yellowstone and Grand Teton, this guided tour provides a lot of park for the price and is well-suited for first-time visitors or those with limited time.
3. Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks: Small Group 3-Day Tour
At number 3, this small-group Yellowstone and Grand Teton tour combines the highlights of both parks with a personal touch. Priced at $1,695, it’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a deep, guided experience with a maximum of eight participants.
Your adventure begins with a flight into Salt Lake City, followed by a visit to Jackson Hole and the stunning Grand Tetons. Day 2 includes top sights like Yellowstone’s Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The tour’s small size allows for more flexibility and personalized attention, with the guide sharing insights into the parks’ geology and wildlife.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the comfort of the accommodations. The itinerary is carefully curated to balance sightseeing with sufficient time at each location, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive experience without feeling rushed. The inclusion of overnight stays within or near the parks enhances the experience, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery early in the morning or at sunset.
Bottom line: If you prefer a guided, small-group trip that covers both Yellowstone and Grand Teton in style, this tour offers expert guidance, comfortable logistics, and well-chosen highlights.
4. Salt Lake City to Yellowstone and Grand Teton 3 Day Tour
This comprehensive tour offers a full exploration of Yellowstone and Grand Teton for $825 per person. It’s perfect for travelers who want a well-organized, guided experience with the option of staying overnight inside Yellowstone.
Starting in Jackson or Salt Lake City, the tour visits Jackson’s elk antler arches, Grand Teton National Park, and then delves into Yellowstone’s geothermal marvels. The itinerary includes visits to Old Faithful, West Thumb Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Staying inside Yellowstone allows for early mornings and late evenings in the parks, giving a more authentic experience without the need to commute back and forth.
Reviews mention that the tour is “well-organized” and great for seeing both parks efficiently. The inclusion of park entry fees, transit, and some meals makes it a practical choice for those who want a guided experience that covers everything.
Bottom line: If you desire the convenience of in-park lodgings and a comprehensive itinerary, this tour balances value and immersive access to Yellowstone and Grand Teton.
5. 3-Day Yellowstone, Grand Teton and Jackson Hole Guided Tour
This in-depth guided tour for $965.20 features Jackson Hole, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a detailed experience with a cultural touch, including Jackson’s town square and scenic drives.
Highlights include Jackson’s elk antler arches, scenic Teton drives, and Yellowstone’s famous geysers and hot springs. The tour emphasizes wildlife spotting, with plenty of time at each major attraction like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring. It includes overnight stays in West Yellowstone, providing a good base for park exploration.
Guests comment on the “well-organized” nature of the trip and the attentiveness of guides, making it a good option for those who like guided logistics but want ample time in the parks.
Bottom line: For visitors seeking a balanced, guided experience that combines cultural stops with natural wonders, this tour delivers a thorough Yellowstone and Grand Teton visit.
6. Arches, Canyonlands & Moab Adventures: Small Group 3-Day Tour
This small-group tour explores southern Utah’s stunning parks for $1,795. It’s perfect for those who want to see Canyonlands, Arches, and Goblin Valley along with Moab’s local vibe.
Day 1 includes stops at Dead Horse Point State Park and Canyonlands, with its rugged mesas and river views. Day 2 covers Arches National Park, famous for its iconic arch formations. The final day features Goblin Valley State Park, home to unusual hoodoo formations that look like goblin figures. The tour includes all transportation, select meals, and stays in small groups for a personal experience.
Guests praise the tour’s flexibility and how it covers not just the main parks but also some lesser-known spots, giving a fuller sense of Utah’s diverse landscape.
Bottom line: If you’re keen on Utah’s varied geology, this tour offers a well-rounded look at the state’s most spectacular parks with the comfort of small-group travel.
How to Choose Your 3-Day Utah or Yellowstone Adventure
When selecting the best 3-day tour, consider your budget, interest level, and fitness. Want to see multiple parks with minimal planning? The small-group Zion, Bryce, & Antelope Canyon Adventure offers a great balance. Looking for a more budget-friendly Yellowstone experience? The Yellowstone & Grand Teton Guided Trip suits that need.
If you prefer staying inside the parks for early morning wildlife or geyser viewing, the Salt Lake City to Yellowstone and Grand Teton is a top pick. For a deeply personalized experience, the Private 3-Day Tour is unbeatable if your budget allows.
To sum it up, Salt Lake City offers a range of 3-day tours catering to different interests, budgets, and travel styles. From budget-conscious guided trips to intimate small-group adventures and private custom tours, there’s something for all. Planning ahead and booking early ensures availability, especially during peak seasons. Whether you’re after Utah’s iconic parks or exploring Yellowstone and Grand Teton, these tours promise a memorable, efficient way to experience some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.