Salt Lake City: Yellowstone National Park 6-Day Tour — A Journey Through America’s Iconic Landscapes
If you’re dreaming of towering mountains, bubbling geysers, and historic monuments, this 6-day tour from Salt Lake City offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the US’s most famous sights. Priced at $1,398 per person, it covers Yellowstone, the Grand Tetons, Mount Rushmore, and even the Crazy Horse Memorial, blending nature and history seamlessly. Guided by knowledgeable experts, you’ll stay in comfortable hotels and travel in a high-roof van suited for sightseeing and easy movement.
What we love about this trip is how it balances stunning scenery with cultural landmarks. The stops at Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring reveal geothermal marvels that are visually spellbinding, while visits to Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse offer a powerful sense of American history and Native American heritage. We also appreciate the flexibility given during sightseeing, with plenty of free time to explore or just soak in the views.
A potential consideration is the intensive schedule — be prepared for long driving days and a packed itinerary. This isn’t a trip for those seeking leisure time at each spot or a slow pace, but for adventurous travelers wanting to see a lot in a short period.
This tour suits travelers who value expert guidance, are eager to see multiple iconic sites with a manageable level of comfort, and are comfortable with a bit of travel fatigue. Families, history buffs, and nature lovers will find this trip especially rewarding.
Key Points
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- Comprehensive Itinerary: Visits to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and more.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary, often in multiple languages.
- Comfortable Accommodations: Hotels included for five nights, with options for shared rooms.
- Seamless Transportation: High-roof van or bus for easy sightseeing and comfort.
- Value for Money: Included park fees and major monument entries add up, making it a solid deal.
- Long Days: Expect full days with many stops, some moderate hikes, and early mornings.
A Detailed Look at the 6-Day Experience
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Starting in Salt Lake City
Your adventure begins in Salt Lake City, where you’ll check into the Clarion Inn Salt Lake City Airport. The first day is mainly about acclimating and arriving at the hotel, with no organized activities until the next morning. This initial buffer helps travelers settle in after flights and prepares you for the days ahead.
Day 2: From Salt Lake to Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons
Bright and early, you’ll head out from Salt Lake City, making a brief stop at the Flying J Travel Center before venturing north. The first major highlight is Jackson Town Square, a classic Western town with the iconic elk antler arches and a lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect introduction to the region’s Wild West charm.
Next, you’ll visit the Grand Teton National Park, specifically Teton Point Overlook. Here, we loved the panoramic views of the Teton Range, which create a sense of grandeur that’s hard to match. This spot alone is worth the trip if you love dramatic mountain scenery.
The day moves on to Yellowstone, where geothermal wonders take center stage. The West Thumb Geyser Basin offers colorful hot springs and geysers, perfect for easy hikes and photography. Watching Old Faithful erupt is an experience many travelers praise, with one reviewer noting it’s a highlight that lives up to its reputation.
Other geysers like Norris and Fountain Paint Pot deepen your appreciation for Yellowstone’s geothermal activity. The rainbow hues of the Prismatic Spring are unforgettable, a vivid reminder of the park’s natural artistry.
Day 3: Yellowstone’s Natural Wonders
Day three is packed with some of Yellowstone’s most iconic sights. The Norris Geyser Basin is home to Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world, and provides a fascinating peek into geothermal processes.
The Upper Falls and Artist Point treat visitors to breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. These spots are frequently praised in reviews for their spectacular vistas, with one traveler describing the view of Lower Falls from Artist Point as “iconic.”
The Mud Volcano area is fascinating, showcasing bubbling mud pots and colorful thermal pools. All these sites involve moderate hiking, but nothing too strenuous, making them accessible for most travelers.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit Cody, Wyoming, for a relaxed hotel stay. The mix of natural wonders and small-town charm makes this an engaging travel day.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 4: From Yellowstone to Native American Monuments
Leaving Sheridan, the group heads toward Devils Tower, a sacred site for many Native American tribes. Its towering, solitary presence is both intimidating and majestic, and the moderate hike around the base offers close-up views.
Next, it’s on to Mount Rushmore, a monument that symbolizes American history. The 90-minute visit provides a good amount of time to walk around and appreciate the faces carved into granite. A reviewer praised the guide for “thoroughly explaining” the significance of the monument.
The afternoon includes a visit to the Crazy Horse Memorial, which continues to be a work in progress but is already impressive. The museum and sculpture give insight into Native American culture and history, making this stop more than just a photo op.
Day 5: Historic Landmarks and Return to Salt Lake City
On the way back to Salt Lake City, the tour includes a stop at Independence Rock, a key site along the historic Oregon Trail. The inscriptions and pioneer history make it a meaningful visit for history buffs.
A lunch break in Green River, Wyoming offers a chance to stretch and refuel. Arriving in Salt Lake City in the late afternoon, you’ll visit the Utah State Capitol and the iconic Temple Square, ending your journey with a taste of local religious and political history.
Day 6: The Great Salt Lake and Departure
Your final morning includes a visit to the Great Salt Lake, a unique ecosystem and the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. It’s a fitting farewell to the diverse landscapes you’ve experienced on this trip.
The tour ends with a transfer to Salt Lake City International Airport, making it easy for you to catch your flight after a quick, scenic morning.
What Travelers Say
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Reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides. One reviewer called Chris “a great guide,” noting he kept everyone informed and engaged. Others appreciated the stunning scenery; one said, “The views throughout the trip were just incredible,” emphasizing how the scenery makes this trip stand out.
Some mention the long driving days, but most felt the itinerary was well worth it, with several saying that the value for money was good considering the included park fees and landmarks.
A traveler from Switzerland expressed slight disappointment with some stops being brief and wished for more commentary, especially when the guide’s English was not perfect. Still, even critics agreed that the hotels were functional and the sights unforgettable.
Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?
This guided tour is best suited for travelers who want to see multiple iconic sights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. The included hotel stays, park fees, and guided commentary make it a convenient way to experience the big attractions of Yellowstone, the Tetons, and Mount Rushmore.
It’s ideal for those who are comfortable with full days of sightseeing, including moderate walks, and don’t mind a somewhat packed schedule. Families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers will find this tour offers a good balance of education and breathtaking scenery.
If you’re looking for a trip that combines natural wonders with cultural landmarks and comes with the security of guided logistics, this tour provides solid value and memorable experiences.
FAQ
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Is airport pickup included?
No, the tour does not include airport pickup. You’ll need to check into your hotel yourself, and the tour begins at your hotel in Salt Lake City.
How many nights will I stay in hotels?
You will stay in five hotels over six days, with most nights spent in comfortable accommodations that can host 2-3 guests, with options for different bed configurations.
Are park entry fees included?
Yes, all major park entry fees for Yellowstone and Grand Teton, as well as Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse, are included in the price.
What’s the group size?
While the exact number isn’t specified, it’s a guided tour with a guide who manages a group, likely small to medium-sized for a more personal experience.
Can children participate?
Yes, the tour is suitable for travelers of all ages, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women under 24 weeks are also welcome.
What about meals?
Meals are not included, so you’ll need to plan for breakfasts, lunches, and dinners during your trip. The guide can suggest good restaurants along the way.
Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it possible for travelers with mobility needs to enjoy the experience.
This 6-day Salt Lake City to Yellowstone and beyond tour offers a well-rounded adventure, showcasing some of America’s most stunning landscapes and monuments. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and a balanced itinerary, it’s an excellent choice for those eager to see the highlights with minimal fuss. Just pack comfortable shoes and a sense of curiosity — you’re in for a memorable journey.
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