Lodging at Old Faithful-Yellowstone&Grand Teton Small Group 5-Day

Discover the Beauty of Yellowstone & Grand Teton on a 5-Day Small Group Tour

Imagine spending five days exploring some of the most stunning landscapes in the American West — from geysers erupting in Yellowstone to rugged mountain vistas in Grand Teton. This Lodging at Old Faithful-Yellowstone & Grand Teton Small Group Tour offers an immersive experience that combines guided sightseeing, cozy accommodations, and the luxury of a brand-new Mercedes Benz high-top van. With a cap of just 13 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized atmosphere that makes it easy to soak in nature’s grandeur without feeling lost in a crowd.

Two features truly stand out. First, the two-night stay at Old Faithful Snow Lodge lets you experience Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders at the quietest times of day, away from the day-trippers. Second, the expert guides are a real highlight, sharing fascinating insights into the parks’ geology, wildlife, and history—making the scenery come alive.

A possible point to consider is the long driving days, especially on the first day, which might be tiring for some. However, the comfort of the modern Mercedes van and well-planned stops help ease this. This tour is ideal for travelers who want an in-depth, well-rounded visit to Yellowstone and Grand Teton without the hassle of self-driving or booking multiple accommodations.

If you love stunning vistas, wildlife, and geothermal marvels, and appreciate a quieter, more intimate tour experience, this trip could be perfect. It’s especially suited for those who value expert guidance and detailed itineraries that cover top sights in a manageable timeframe.

Key Points

Comfortable small-group setting with a maximum of 13 travelers for a more personalized experience.
Expert guides who enrich your understanding of Yellowstone and Grand Teton with their knowledge.
Two-night stay at Old Faithful Snow Lodge offering a more immersive Yellowstone experience.
All-inclusive pricing covering park entry, hotel, breakfast, and special excursions like Bear World.
Ideal for nature lovers who want to see iconic sights without the stress of planning every detail.
Long driving days are balanced with sightseeing and comfort, though it’s worth noting if you prefer more leisurely pacing.

An In-Depth Look at Your 5-Day Yellowstone & Grand Teton Adventure

Day 1: Arrival and Travel to Salt Lake City

Your journey begins with a flight into Salt Lake City, a lively hub with easy airport pickup arranged by your guide, Ryan or Sarah (if mentioned). From there, you’ll hop into your sleek Mercedes van for the roughly six-hour drive northwest.

We appreciated how the transportation isn’t just a necessity but part of the experience. This brand-new van offers ample space and comfort, making the long drive more enjoyable. The route takes you past the Flying J Travel Center, a perfect quick stop to stretch your legs or grab a snack, and then into the scenic Jackson Hole region.

Day 2: From Jackson to Yellowstone via Grand Teton

The day kicks off with breakfast at your hotel before hitting the road again. Your first stop is Jackson Town Square, a picture-perfect spot surrounded by mountain peaks and charming shops. Here, you can grab lunch at your own expense—plenty of options for hearty or quick bites.

Next, you’ll explore Jenny Lake, where an easy hike offers breathtaking mountain views and photo-worthy scenery. Following that, the Jackson Lake Dam Overlook provides sweeping vistas of the Teton Range and Jackson Lake, perfect for a quick photo and some moments of awe.

Your journey continues into Yellowstone with stops at West Thumb Geyser Basin—a geothermal area with bubbling springs and colorful hot springs. This stop highlights Yellowstone’s geothermal diversity, a theme that will repeat throughout the trip.

Day 3: Yellowstone’s Geothermal Wonders and Wildlife

This day is a highlight for many travelers, centered around Old Faithful. Watching the geyser erupt predictably every 90 minutes is a memorable spectacle. The Geyser Trail and the Morning Glory Pool add color and heat to the day’s geothermal exploration.

You’ll also visit the Bridge Bay Marina, where depending on the season, you might enjoy a boat ride or just take in the lake views. Then, it’s on to Hayden Valley, a prime area for spotting wildlife — bison, elk, possibly even a bear.

In the afternoon, the Brink of the Upper Falls and Artist Point offer spectacular views of Yellowstone’s iconic waterfalls and canyon — a sight that consistently leaves travelers in awe. You’ll have free time at Canyon Village for lunch and a chance to stretch.

Later, the scenic Mammoth Hot Springs features terraces formed by mineral deposits, creating surreal landscapes that are both beautiful and fascinating.

Day 4: Yellowstone’s Hidden Gems and Wildlife Encounters

Early morning, you’ll visit the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook, where a moderate hike rewards you with sweeping views of Yellowstone’s most colorful hot spring. Nearby, Midway Geyser Basin and Fountain Paint Pots showcase Yellowstone’s geothermal activity—bubbling mud, steaming fumaroles, and vibrant springs.

Afterward, you’ll travel to West Yellowstone for lunch and some free time in this charming gateway town. Then, a special visit to Yellowstone Bear World offers the chance to see bears and other regional animals in a safe environment, adding a wildlife element to your trip.

Day 5: From Yellowstone Back to Salt Lake City

The final day starts with breakfast before exploring Salt Lake City’s highlights, including Temple Square and the Utah State Capitol, where you’ll learn about the state’s history and government. Then, enjoy a stop at the Great Salt Lake, one of the most saline bodies of water in the world, famous for its unique ecosystem.

For those interested, you can opt for the half-day tour of the Bonneville Salt Flats—a surreal landscape of endless reflective whiteness, perfect for photos and contemplating the vastness of nature.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Value

The use of a brand-new Mercedes Benz high-top van guarantees a smooth, comfortable ride—crucial on the long driving days. The group size of only 13 travelers ensures plenty of space and personal attention from guides, which is a significant upgrade over larger tours.

Your accommodations include four nights at quality hotels, with two nights at the iconic Old Faithful Snow Lodge. Staying multiple nights at Yellowstone allows for a deeper experience—more time to explore geothermal features at your own pace and enjoy early mornings before the crowds arrive.

The tour’s price of $2,078 per person might seem steep, but it includes most essentials: all park entry fees, hotel stays, breakfast daily, airport pickup, and special excursions like Bear World. Additional costs like meals outside breakfast, souvenirs, or optional activities are up to you, but overall, the value lies in the guided, hassle-free experience that covers top sights efficiently.

What Travelers Say

While reviews are limited, the praise for knowledgeable guides and stunning views is clear. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way our guide shared stories and facts about Yellowstone’s geology and wildlife—it made everything more meaningful.” The small-group size receives high marks for comfort and the ability to customize some aspects of the day.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For

This trip is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive Yellowstone and Grand Teton experience without the stress of planning every detail. It’s ideal if you enjoy guided tours with a knowledgeable leader, appreciate comfortable transportation, and want to spend more time soaking in sights than navigating logistics.

It also suits those who value accommodation at iconic lodges and are comfortable with long driving days, as the itinerary is packed with sightseeing and expert commentary.

The Sum Up

This 5-day tour offers an immensely rewarding way to experience Yellowstone and Grand Teton. The combination of guided expertise, comfortable transportation, and well-chosen accommodations makes it a compelling choice for travelers who want a thoughtful, immersive visit. The two-night stay at Old Faithful Snow Lodge especially enriches the experience, allowing for early mornings and fewer crowds at this geothermal wonderland.

While the price might be higher than self-guided options, the convenience and depth of experience justify the cost. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it feel less like a bus tour and more like exploring with friends who happen to know a lot about the parks.

If your goal is to see iconic Yellowstone sights, encounter wildlife, and learn about the area from passionate guides, this tour delivers on all counts. It’s a fantastic option whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone looking to deepen your appreciation of these natural treasures.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers hotel accommodations (including two nights at Old Faithful Snow Lodge), park entry fees, breakfast from Day 2 to Day 5, airport pickup, bottled water and snacks, binoculars, and a guided itinerary with expert guides.

Are meals provided outside breakfast?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, so you’ll need to plan for those on your own. There are several options in towns and at park facilities.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is capped at 13 travelers, ensuring a more personal and comfortable experience.

What transportation is used?
A brand-new Mercedes Benz high-top van provides the transportation, offering comfort and space for all guests.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the tour follows a set schedule, guides may adjust plans based on weather or other factors. Special requests should be discussed with your guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women can join if under 24 weeks by the trip’s end. Booster seats are required for children under 6.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, cash for extras, and drinks for hydration are recommended.

This tour blends the thrill of discovery with the comfort of guided planning. Whether you’re marveling at geysers, watching for bears, or just soaking in mountain vistas, it promises a memorable adventure in some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes.