From Salt Lake City: Yellowstone & Grand Teton 5-Day Tour

Experience the grandeur of Wyoming’s national parks and iconic American monuments on this 5-day guided tour from Salt Lake City. For just $1,368 per person, you’ll explore Yellowstone and Grand Teton, marvel at Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse, and visit dramatic sites like Devils Tower. Led by knowledgeable guides, with comfortable transportation and cozy hotels, this trip is designed for travelers eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning.

What we love most about this tour are the carefully curated stops, like the vibrant colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring and the impressive Old Faithful geyser, which erupt right before your eyes. Plus, the expert guidance helps you understand the significance of each site, making the experience more meaningful. One potential drawback is the long driving days—some travelers note they felt exhausted from the packed schedule and lengthy travel times.

This tour suits visitors who want to hit the highlights efficiently and are comfortable with a busy pace. It’s ideal for those who appreciate expert storytelling, scenic beauty, and historic monuments, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a mix of adventure and education.

Key Points

From Salt Lake City: Yellowstone & Grand Teton 5-Day Tour - Key Points

  • Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and Devils Tower.
  • Expert Guidance: Driven by knowledgeable guides who share insights and keep things moving smoothly.
  • Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a high-roof van or bus, making long days more manageable.
  • Well-Selected Hotels: Four nights in cozy accommodations that give you a good base for exploring.
  • Rich Scenic and Historic Stops: From geysers to mountain overlooks, this tour captures the essence of Wyoming.
  • Packed Schedule: Expect long days with substantial driving, but with plenty of remarkable sights.
You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the 5-Day Wyoming Adventure

From Salt Lake City: Yellowstone & Grand Teton 5-Day Tour - A Practical Look at the 5-Day Wyoming Adventure

If you’re drawn to Wyoming’s natural beauty and iconic landmarks, this tour offers a concentrated glimpse into some of the best sights. We’ll walk through each day to help you picture what to expect and what makes each stop worth your time.

Day 1: Starting in Salt Lake City

Your journey begins with a flight into Salt Lake City, followed by a shuttle to the Clarion Inn near the airport. While the first day mainly involves settling in, it’s a good opportunity to relax after your flight and prepare for the adventures ahead. The check-in time is after 3 PM, so plan your flights accordingly.

Day 2: From Salt Lake City to Jackson and Grand Teton

Your first full day on tour is packed with scenic and cultural highlights. After breakfast, you’ll head to the Flying J Travel Center for a quick restroom break. Then, the charming Jackson Town Square awaits, with its famous elk-antler arches — a perfect spot for photos and to soak in the old Western vibe.

Next, you’ll visit the Teton Point Overlook for panoramic views of the towering Teton Range—a scene that makes many travelers pause in awe. We loved the way the guide explained the geological history here, adding depth to the stunning vistas.

The afternoon takes you to Yellowstone’s West Thumb Geyser Basin, where colorful hot springs and geysers along Yellowstone Lake offer a gentle introduction to geothermal wonders. The highlight of the day is Old Faithful, which erupts roughly every 90 minutes—watching this iconic geyser shoot water into the sky is truly a bucket-list moment. The tour allows about 60 minutes here, giving you enough time to appreciate the power and unpredictability of Yellowstone’s geothermal activity.

We’ll also visit Fountain Paint Pot to see bubbling mud pots and hot springs, a fun and tactile experience that shows the geothermal life beneath the park’s surface. By late afternoon, you’ll check into your hotel in West Yellowstone, ready for the next day’s adventures.

Day 3: Yellowstone’s Geothermal Marvels and Waterfalls

Day 3 dives deeper into Yellowstone’s geothermal areas. The Norris Geyser Basin is Yellowstone’s hottest region, with steaming springs and erupting geysers—an impressive sight that’s worth the hike. We appreciated how knowledgeable the guides were about the geothermal activity and the stories behind each feature.

Later, you’ll see the Upper Falls from the Brink of Upper Falls viewpoint. The force of the water crashing down is striking, and the walk there is gentle but rewarding. From Artist Point, you’ll get a classic view of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone—a photo spot that has appeared in countless travel magazines for good reason.

The Mud Volcano area offers bubbling pools and colorful mineral deposits, giving a close-up look at Yellowstone’s geothermal dynamism. The day wraps up with a visit to Cody, Wyoming, where you’ll settle into your hotel for the night.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: From Yellowstone to Mount Rushmore and Native American Monuments

Today, the tour takes a scenic drive through Wyoming to visit some of America’s most recognizable monuments. First, the Devils Tower—a sacred site for Native Americans and a striking monolith that’s fun to walk around. The moderate hike gives you close-up views, and the storytelling about its cultural significance is enriching.

Next, you’ll visit Mount Rushmore, a must-see for many travelers. The vast faces of four U.S. presidents carved into granite are impressive, and the walking tour around the monument allows you to absorb its history. The Crazy Horse Memorial offers a different perspective — a work-in-progress honoring Native American heritage, with a museum that adds context.

These stops are about understanding history and culture, making them a meaningful contrast to the natural wonders of Yellowstone.

Day 5: From Wyoming to Salt Lake City

The final day takes in Independence Rock, a landmark along the Oregon Trail where pioneers inscribed their names. It’s a reminder of the rugged journey westward. Then, a lunch break in Green River, Wyoming, helps you recharge before heading south toward Salt Lake City.

In Salt Lake, you’ll visit the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square, iconic symbols of the city’s religious and political history. These sites provide a fitting end to your trip, blending natural beauty with cultural significance.

The tour concludes with a drop-off at Salt Lake City International Airport, with plenty of time to catch your evening flight.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

From Salt Lake City: Yellowstone & Grand Teton 5-Day Tour - What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The guided aspect really elevates this experience. Our guide, Peter, was praised for his attentiveness, stories, and keeping the group on schedule. His insights turned sightseeing into storytelling, making each stop memorable. As one traveler noted, “Peter was always close by to give directions, answer questions, and just keep an eye on everything,” which really helped us relax and enjoy the sites.

The scenic diversity—from geothermal pools and waterfalls to mountain overlooks and historic monuments—means you leave with a well-rounded impression of Wyoming’s natural and cultural treasures. You’ll see the iconic geysers, stunning mountain vistas, and important landmarks, all in just five days. The hotel accommodations are comfortable, providing a solid base after long days in the bus.

However, the long driving hours—some travelers reported 14-hour days—are a consideration. If you prefer more leisurely pacing or less time on the road, this might feel a bit intense. Still, the value of experiencing so much in a short time can outweigh this for many.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

From Salt Lake City: Yellowstone & Grand Teton 5-Day Tour - Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re eager to see Yellowstone’s geothermal features and Wyoming’s iconic monuments without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s well-suited for those who don’t mind long days and want a guided experience that maximizes sightseeing. Families, history buffs, or first-time visitors to the region will benefit from the expert guidance and curated stops.

Travelers appreciative of stunning vistas and informative commentary will find this trip rewarding. While the pace might be brisk, the depth of experience—especially with a guide like Peter—helps make sense of the vast landscapes and historic sites.

FAQ

From Salt Lake City: Yellowstone & Grand Teton 5-Day Tour - FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for travelers of all ages, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves some walking and long days, so consider your child’s comfort with that.

How much walking is involved?
Most stops involve easy to moderate walking, such as at geyser basins and viewpoints. The Devils Tower hike is moderate and lasts about 75 minutes.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so you’ll need to budget for lunches and dinners. There are stops for food, such as in Cody and Green River, where you can try local fare.

What type of transportation is used?
You’ll travel in a high-roof van or bus, which helps with comfort during long drives. This also allows for better viewing during scenic routes.

How many people are in the group?
While the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest a manageable number that allows for personal interaction and attentive guiding.

What is the age limit for participants?
Pregnant women under 24 weeks may participate, and the tour is generally suitable for all ages. Children should be capable of walking and sitting for extended periods.

Can the itinerary be changed?
Yes, the tour operator reserves the right to modify the schedule due to weather, traffic, or unforeseen circumstances.

Is hotel accommodation included?
Yes, four nights of hotel stay are included, with rooms for 2-3 guests, featuring options for King/Queen or Double beds.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Since meals are not included, pack snacks if desired.

Final Thoughts

From Salt Lake City: Yellowstone & Grand Teton 5-Day Tour - Final Thoughts

This 5-day guided tour from Salt Lake City offers a fantastic way to see Wyoming’s top sights without the stress of planning. With expert guides, comfortable transportation, and thoughtfully chosen stops, you’ll experience the best of Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and iconic monuments like Mount Rushmore. While the schedule is packed and some days are long, the value and depth of experience make it worthwhile.

It’s a particularly good fit for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground, enjoy natural beauty and history, and appreciate guided insight into the regions’ stories. If you’re prepared for some full days and want an efficient, informative trip, this tour delivers on both counts.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or looking to deepen your appreciation for this part of the American West, this tour provides a memorable and enriching journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: