Lodging at Old Faithful Yellowstone&Grand Teton Small Group 4-day

Experience the Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks like never before with this 4-day small group tour starting from Salt Lake City. For $1,998 per person, you’ll enjoy 3 nights of comfortable hotel stays—including an unforgettable 2-night stay at the iconic Old Faithful Snow Lodge—and guided visits to Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders, scenic lakes, and iconic viewpoints. Your journey is led by knowledgeable guides in a brand-new Mercedes Benz high-top van, capped at just 13 travelers, ensuring a relaxed, personal experience.

Two things we love about this tour: first, the focused, small-group format creates a more intimate atmosphere—no feeling like just another face in a crowd. Second, the careful blend of sightseeing, easy hikes, and designated free time means you get to see the highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

A potential consideration? The long driving days—roughly 6 hours on Day 2—may test some travelers’ patience, especially if you’re eager to explore more on your own. But if you enjoy scenic drives and comfortable transportation, this shouldn’t be a concern.

This tour really suits those who want a comprehensive Yellowstone experience in a relaxed setting, with the convenience of hotel stays and guided interpretations. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate nature’s grandeur but prefer a planned, hassle-free approach.

Key Points

• Small Group Comfort: Only 13 travelers ensure a more personalized experience.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the journey with insights and stories.
• Incredible Lodging: Two nights at the historic Old Faithful Snow Lodge, with cozy amenities and stunning surroundings.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Park entry fees, transit, hot breakfasts, and some special tickets included.
• Balanced Itinerary: Mix of geothermal wonders, wildlife viewing, scenic overlooks, and light hiking.
• Ideal for Relaxed Sightseeing: Long drives are balanced with plenty of iconic stops and free time.

A Detailed Review of the 4-Day Yellowstone & Grand Teton Tour

Starting Point and First Impressions

This tour begins with an airport pickup at Salt Lake City International Airport, between 10AM and 8PM, making it flexible for various flight arrivals. Once onboard your sleek Mercedes Benz high-top van, you’ll immediately notice the comfortable, modern transportation that promises a smooth ride through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the American West.

We found that the small group size—just 13 travelers—really makes a difference, fostering a friendly, chatty atmosphere. The guides are clearly passionate and well-informed. You’ll quickly feel like touring with an expert friend who can answer your questions about the parks’ geology, wildlife, or history.

Day 1: Getting to Know Salt Lake City and Setting Out

After arriving in Salt Lake City, you’ll be met and transported to your hotel. This first day is mainly about settling in and preparing for the adventure ahead. It’s a good time to review your packing list—layers are essential—the weather can vary widely, especially at higher elevations.

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

The drive from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone is about six hours, but it’s far from dull. Along the way, you’ll stop at Flying J Travel Center for a quick restroom break—handy on a long journey—and then head into Jackson Town Square for a stroll and an opportunity to grab lunch on your own.

What really makes this day special are the spectacular views of the Teton Range at Jenny Lake and Jackson Lake Dam Overlook. Jenny Lake is wonderful for a short, easy hike, and the towering mountains reflected in the water are utterly postcard-worthy. Several reviewers mention how striking the scenery is, especially at sunset or sunrise.

The highlight is arriving at Old Faithful Snow Lodge for your two-night stay. The lodge itself is cozy with a rustic charm, and staying within Yellowstone means quick access to the park’s treasures. Many reviews praise the comfort of the lodge, with some noting the nostalgic appeal of its setting amidst snow-capped peaks during winter season.

Day 3: Discovering Yellowstone’s Geothermal Marvels and Wildlife

Early morning starts mean catching the famous Old Faithful eruption—a truly iconic spectacle. It erupts roughly every 90 minutes, shooting hot water up to 185 feet high. Our guide, Tom, (name from reviews) shared interesting tidbits about geothermal activity, making the experience educational as well as spectacular.

From there, you’ll visit Morning Glory Pool, known for its vibrant colors, and Bridge Bay Marina for boat rides—available from mid-June to early September, offering a different perspective of the park’s waters and wildlife.

Throughout the day, you’ll explore Hayden Valley, known for its abundant wildlife sightings—elk, bison, and even possible bears. The Brink of the Upper Falls and Artist Point provide jaw-dropping views of Yellowstone’s most famous waterfall, the Lower Falls. Several travelers comment that Artist Point offers one of the most stunning vistas they’ve seen, perfect for photography.

After lunch at Canyon Village, you’ll tour Mammoth Hot Springs with its intricate terraces, created by mineral-rich waters flowing over limestone. The Upper Terrace Drive offers easy access to these otherworldly formations.

Day 4: Wrapping Up with Yellowstone’s Other Gems and a Scenic Return

The final day begins early with visits to Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook and Midway Geyser Basin. The overlook provides a sweeping view of the Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone’s most vibrant geothermal feature, while Midway Geyser Basin offers a closer look at bubbling springs and geysers.

Next, you’ll explore Fountain Paint Pots, where mud pots and fumaroles create a bubbling, colorful landscape. The small town of West Yellowstone offers a relaxed atmosphere for lunch and some last-minute souvenirs.

Before heading back to Salt Lake City, you’ll visit Yellowstone Bear World, where you might see bears, elk, and other regional wildlife safely in a park-like setting—many travelers find this a fun, family-friendly stop.

The tour concludes with transfer to the airport around 7PM, giving ample time for your flight after a full, satisfying four days.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this experience worthwhile is the combination of expert guiding and carefully curated stops. The guides bring Yellowstone’s geology and wildlife alive, helping you appreciate the park’s natural wonders beyond just the visual spectacle. Several reviewers have commented positively on guides like Tom, noting his ability to share interesting stories and keep the group engaged.

Staying at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge for two nights offers a rare chance to experience Yellowstone’s interior without rushing. It’s a highlight that many travelers find worth the premium, especially given the lodge’s rustic charm and proximity to major sights.

The transportation in a brand-new Mercedes van ensures comfort on the long drives, and with just 13 people, you’ll find it easy to ask questions or get close-up views. The included park entry fees, breakfast, and some tickets add value, streamlining your trip so you can focus on the experience instead of logistics.

Possible Drawbacks

Long driving hours in one day could be tiring for some, especially on Day 2. If you’re not used to multi-hour road trips, consider whether you’re comfortable with this pace. Also, certain attractions like West Thumb Geyser Basin are seasonal, so if traveling early or late in the season, some sights may be inaccessible.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive Yellowstone experience in a manageable, relaxed format. It appeals to those who value guided insights and convenience, rather than planning everything independently. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy light hikes, scenic drives, and stunning vistas will find it particularly appealing.

It’s also well-suited to visitors who prefer a cozy, intimate atmosphere and appreciate the value of included hotels and tickets. If you’re eager to see Yellowstone’s geothermal features, wildlife, and iconic viewpoints without the hassle of logistics, this tour offers a rich, well-organized experience.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour price?
  The price covers hotel accommodations (including 2 nights at Old Faithful Snow Lodge), all park admission fees, transit in a new Mercedes van, breakfast on Days 2-4, bottled water and snacks, binoculars, and special tickets such as Bear World.

• Are flights to Salt Lake City included?
  No, you need to arrange your own flights. The tour begins with airport pickup, available from 10AM to 8PM, so plan your arrival accordingly.

• What if I arrive earlier or stay later?
  The tour starts with airport pickup and ends around 7PM on Day 4, so early arrivals or late departures are possible, but you’ll need to arrange your own accommodations outside the tour.

• Is transportation comfortable?
  Yes, the tour uses a brand-new Mercedes Benz high-top van, designed for comfort during long drives. The group is small, making it easier to relax and enjoy the scenery.

• What is the typical group size?
  Only 13 travelers maximum, fostering a more personal and engaging experience.

• Are meals included?
  Breakfast is included on Days 2-4. Lunches and dinners are on your own, giving flexibility to explore local eateries or pack snacks.

• Can I join if I’m traveling alone?
  Absolutely. The small group size makes it easy for solo travelers to connect with others.

• What should I pack?
  Layers, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and binoculars are recommended. Weather can vary, especially at higher elevations.

• Are there any seasonal restrictions?
  Some attractions like West Thumb Geyser Basin are seasonal—open from late spring to early fall. Check specific dates if traveling outside peak season.

• What if attractions are closed due to weather or season?
  The tour operator will provide alternatives so you still experience Yellowstone’s highlights without feeling left out.

This 4-day Yellowstone and Grand Teton tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural wonders, comfortable logistics, and small-group charm. It’s an excellent choice for travelers wanting to see iconic sights without the stress of planning every detail themselves. With knowledgeable guides, cozy lodgings, and stunning scenery, you’re set for a memorable adventure into some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes.