Lodging at Old Faithful Yellowstone&Grand Teton 5-Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring the wild beauty of Yellowstone and the Grand Teton, this 5-day guided tour offers a compelling mix of comfort, stunning scenery, and expert insights. While I haven’t experienced it firsthand, the details paint a vivid picture of a well-organized adventure that prioritizes authentic encounters and memorable vistas.

What really catches our eye is the two-night stay at the iconic Old Faithful Snow Lodge, giving you ample time to enjoy the geyser’s eruptions and surrounding wilderness without feeling rushed. Plus, the small-group size capped at 13 ensures plenty of personal attention and a more intimate experience. On the flip side, some might find that the tour’s focus on a packed itinerary leaves little room for spontaneous exploring.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to Yellowstone and Grand Teton, especially those who appreciate comfort, expert guides, and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to see major sights without the stress of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Comfortable, well-located lodging: Two nights at Old Faithful Snow Lodge provide immersive Yellowstone experiences.
• Expert guides and small-group travel: With a maximum of 13 passengers, you’ll get personalized attention.
• All-inclusive essentials: Park entry fees, transit, hot breakfast, and a Bear World ticket are included.
• Flexible and practical itinerary: Carefully curated stops to showcase geysers, hot springs, wildlife, and overlooks.
• Value for the price: At $2,078, the package combines lodging, guided touring, and many amenities.
• Ideal for first-timers and families: The easy pace, guided insights, and accessible hikes make it a family-friendly adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Adventure: From Salt Lake City to Yellowstone

The trip kicks off in Salt Lake City, where your friendly guide will arrange airport pickup between 10 AM and 8 PM. This flexibility is a big plus, as it accommodates flights arriving at different times. You’ll stay overnight at either SpringHill Suites Marriott or Courtyard Salt Lake City Airport — a convenient base that sets a relaxed tone for the days ahead.

The first day involves a scenic drive through southern Wyoming and northern Utah, passing by Jackson Town Square, Jenny Lake, and Jackson Lake Dam Overlook. These stops aren’t just photo ops; they’re opportunities to stretch your legs and get a feel for the area’s rugged charm. You’ll notice the easy pace—enough time for quick walks and photos—making it accessible for most travelers.

Exploring Yellowstone: The Heart of the Tour

The real magic begins on day three when the tour hits Yellowstone’s most famous spots. Your guide will lead you through Old Faithful Geyser and Geyser Trail, where witnessing the geyser’s eruption is a highlight. The trail offers moderate hiking, so wear comfortable shoes. From there, the stops at Morning Glory Pool and Bridge Bay Marina (available June 11–September 6 for boating) show the park’s volcanic activity and wildlife-rich waters.

The itinerary includes Hayden Valley, a prime location for spotting bison and elk, and Canyon Village, with its breathtaking vistas from Artist Point. These are carefully chosen to give you a broad yet manageable overview of Yellowstone’s highlights. The visit to Mammoth Hot Springs and the Upper Terraces provides a chance to see the park’s otherworldly mineral formations, with easy walks that won’t tire out less experienced hikers.

Travelers rave about the guides’ knowledge—”The guides really know their stuff, making the stories behind the sights come alive,” one reviewer noted. The inclusion of binoculars adds to the wildlife viewing experience, giving you a better look at the park’s animals in their natural habitat.

The Iconic Old Faithful Snow Lodge Stay

Staying two nights at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge offers a special chance to experience Yellowstone’s geothermal heart. Unlike day-trippers, you’ll have evenings and mornings to enjoy the geyser’s eruptions without the crowds. The lodge’s rustic charm and convenient location mean you’re steps from the iconic geyser, the perfect base for exploring the Upper Geyser Basin.

Most dinners are on your own, but that allows flexibility to try different local eateries or enjoy a cozy meal at the lodge. The lodge’s reputation is strong, with reviews highlighting comfortable rooms and excellent proximity to Yellowstone’s main attractions.

Venturing into Grand Teton & Beyond on Day Four

After leaving Yellowstone, the tour moves into the Grand Teton area, stopping at Grand Prismatic Overlook for breathtaking views of the park’s largest hot spring. The moderate hike here gives you a closer look at the vibrant mineral pools and surrounding scenery.

Other stops include Fountain Paint Pots and Midway Geyser Basin, with easy hikes that showcase Yellowstone’s geothermal diversity. The day includes a break for lunch and some free time in West Yellowstone for souvenirs or a quick snack.

The highlight of this day is Yellowstone Bear World, where you’ll get up close with native wildlife, a favorite among travelers. One reviewer mentioned, “Seeing the bears and other animals close up was a real treat, especially for the kids.”

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Wrapping Up in Salt Lake City & Optional Extensions

On the final day, the tour takes in Utah’s State Capitol and Temple Square, offering a gentle cultural contrast to the wilderness adventures. The 30-minute stop at Great Salt Lake Marina provides a final scenic photo opportunity.

The tour concludes with a transfer back to Salt Lake City Airport around 10:30 AM. It’s recommended to book flights departing after noon, giving you ample time to relax after days of exploration. For those wanting an extra adventure, an optional half-day tour of the Bonneville Salt Flats is available for $98 per person—an otherworldly landscape of shimmering white that’s worth considering.

Price & Value: Is It Worth It?

At $2,078 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it’s packed with value. The price includes four nights hotel, all park entrance fees, transit in a brand-new Mercedes-Benz van, daily guided commentary, hot breakfasts, and special tickets like Bear World.

Compared to the hassle of planning your own Yellowstone trip—booking lodges, figuring out park passes, and coordinating transportation—it offers peace of mind and expert guidance. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost or rushed, and the knowledgeable guides enhance every stop with stories and insights you won’t get from a book.

The accommodations at Old Faithful Snow Lodge are a highlight—not just because of their location but for the experience of overnighting right in the park. For many travelers, this immersive element justifies the cost. The optional Salt Flats tour, priced separately, adds a unique day trip for those wishing to extend their adventure.

Final Thoughts

This guided Yellowstone and Grand Teton tour offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to see some of America’s most iconic landscapes. The combination of comfortable lodging, expert guides, and thoughtfully selected stops makes it especially appealing for first-time visitors or those who prefer an organized approach.

You’ll love the chance to relax at Old Faithful and wake up to geyser views, while the carefully curated itinerary ensures you see the park’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed. The small group size promises a more personal experience, and the inclusion of essential park fees and lodging makes planning simpler.

On the flip side, some travelers might find the tight schedule a bit rushed or prefer more flexibility. However, for those wanting a balanced mix of guided discovery and convenience, this tour strikes a good compromise.

In short, if you’re after an immersive, comfortable Yellowstone experience with knowledgeable guides and some of the best views in the park, this tour will serve you well. It’s particularly suited for first-timers, families, or anyone eager to see the highlights with a touch of ease and expert insight.

FAQ

Is airport pickup available on the first day? Yes, the tour includes pickup at Salt Lake City International Airport between 10 AM and 8 PM. If you arrive outside those hours, guides will help you coordinate with the hotel shuttle.

What’s included in the price? The tour price covers all hotel accommodations, park entry fees, transit in a brand-new Mercedes-Benz van, hot breakfasts from Day 2 to Day 5, bottled water and snacks, binoculars, and a Bear World ticket.

Are meals provided? No, meals other than breakfast are not included, giving you flexibility to explore local dining options for lunch and dinner.

Is it suitable for children or pregnant women? Yes, it’s suitable for travelers of all ages. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and pregnant women under 24 weeks can participate.

Can I extend my trip or add optional tours? Yes, an optional half-day tour of the Bonneville Salt Flats can be added for $98 per person, available on the final day.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and cash are recommended to make the most of your experience.

This tour offers a thoughtful blend of comfort, adventure, and expert guidance—perfect for anyone eager to experience Yellowstone and Grand Teton without the fuss of planning every detail. Whether it’s your first trip or a repeat visit, the memories of geysers, wildlife, and breathtaking vistas will stay with you long after the trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: