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

Thinking about exploring Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks with a guided tour? This 4-day adventure offers a chance to see some of America’s most stunning scenery without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. With small group sizes, comfortable lodgings, and an emphasis on authentic experiences, it’s an option worth considering for nature lovers and first-timers alike.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances comfort and immersive exploration. The two-night stay at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge is a highlight, allowing plenty of time to soak in the geothermal wonders and wildlife encounters. Plus, traveling in a brand-new Mercedes Benz high-top van makes the journey smoother and more enjoyable.

On the flip side, a potential drawback is the intensive schedule, with long driving days—up to six hours—especially on Day 2. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or more time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free experience with a focus on iconic sights, comfort, and small-group camaraderie. If you love wildlife, geothermal features, and stunning mountain scenery but don’t want to deal with logistics, this setup fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Small Group Comfort: Capped at 13 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and stories, making the scenery come alive.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Park entry fees, hotel stays, and most meals are included, simplifying planning.
• Two-Night Stay at Old Faithful Snow Lodge: Gives ample time to explore Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders at your own pace.
• Comfortable Transportation: A new Mercedes-Benz van ensures smooth, climate-controlled travel.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines sightseeing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and relaxation to satisfy a variety of interests.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Travel to Yellowstone
The journey begins with a flight into Salt Lake City, where your guide will handle airport pickup (between 10 am and 8 pm). From there, expect a roughly six-hour drive through Wyoming, with a quick stop at Flying J Travel Center for rest and refueling. We appreciate the convenience of being picked up and dropped off, removing the stress of renting a car or navigating unfamiliar roads.

Day 2: From Salt Lake City to Yellowstone and Jackson
Your first full day on the road kicks off early. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll head out for about six hours of scenic driving. Highlights include a visit to Jackson Town Square, famous for its wooden arches and mountain views, perfect for a quick stroll or a bite to eat on your own. Then, the tour moves into Grand Teton National Park, with stops at Jenny Lake and Jackson Lake Dam Overlook—both offering picture-perfect scenery and easy walking.

The West Thumb Geyser Basin, located within Yellowstone, is another highlight. Known for geothermal features set against a lakeside backdrop, it’s a gentle introduction to Yellowstone’s geothermal activity. It’s nice that the basin’s inclusion is part of the package, so you won’t need to pay extra for entry here.

Day 3: Yellowstone’s Geothermal Wonders and Wildlife
The highlight of this day is visiting Old Faithful, perhaps the most famous geyser in the world. With eruptions every 90 minutes, you’ll have plenty of chances to witness its powerful steam and water jets. The nearby Geyser Trail offers a walk among other geothermal features, including the vibrant Morning Glory Pool, with its striking blue and orange colors.

Later, the tour visits Bridge Bay Marina (season-dependent for boating), Hayden Valley, and the Upper Falls viewpoint at Artist Point—each offering stunning views and chances to see wildlife. The inclusion of Canyon Village and Mammoth Hot Springs adds layers of geothermal and geological interest, with manageable walks and photo ops.

Day 4: Final Yellowstone Highlights and Return
The last day is packed with iconic sights like Grand Prismatic Spring’s Overlook, providing a sweeping view of Yellowstone’s most colorful hot spring. The Midway Geyser Basin and Fountain Paint Pots continue the geothermal theme, with bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, and steaming springs.

A stop at Yellowstone Bear World offers a chance to see regional wildlife, especially bears, in a safe environment. The tour concludes with a transfer back to Salt Lake City around 7 pm, with ample time for your evening flight.

What Travelers Can Expect

Transportation and Comfort:
Traveling in a brand-new Mercedes Benz high-top van means comfort and climate control. Small groups (max 13) foster a more intimate atmosphere, with space for personal belongings and more personal interaction with guides.

Guided Experience:
Having an expert guide is invaluable. They point out wildlife, geothermal features, and hidden viewpoints often missed by self-guided travelers. We loved the way guides shared their insights without overwhelming, making each stop meaningful.

Sightseeing and Hiking:
Most stops involve short, easy walks—perfect for those who prefer not to hike long distances. For example, Jenny Lake and Morning Glory Pool involve less than an hour of light activity, but the itinerary still feels full.

Wildlife and Scenic Views:
Expect to see abundant wildlife—bison, elk, possibly bears—and stunning vistas of mountains and lakes. Hayden Valley, in particular, is renowned for its wildlife sightings.

Hotel Stays:
The two nights at Old Faithful Snow Lodge are a major perk, offering comfortable accommodations inside Yellowstone. The third night at SpringHill Marriott SLC Airport adds a touch of city comfort to close your trip.

Meals and Extras:
Included are hot breakfasts each morning, giving you energy for long days. Lunches and dinners are on your own, so you can explore local eateries or pack snacks. Bottled water, snacks, and binoculars are provided, enhancing the experience.

Analyzing the Value

At nearly $2,000 per person, this tour packs in a lot of value—everything from park entry fees to comfortable lodging, guided insights, and transportation. For many travelers, the convenience of having most logistics handled for them—from airport pickups to hotel bookings—justifies the price. Plus, staying inside Yellowstone for two nights means more time to relax and explore without the need for day-tripping from a base outside the parks.

However, it’s worth noting that this is a relatively intensive schedule, with long driving days, especially on Day 2. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or extra time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those wanting a rundown in a short period, it’s a solid choice.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience suits travelers who are keen to see the highlights of Yellowstone and Grand Teton with knowledgeable guides. It’s perfect for first-time visitors, wildlife enthusiasts, or those who appreciate the comfort of small groups and well-planned logistics. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, the small group environment fosters a friendly, inclusive vibe.

If your travel style leans toward a more relaxed, self-paced trip, you might prefer a different itinerary. But if you want to pack in the main sights with expert guidance, this tour offers a rewarding adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the value and experience offered, this tour strikes a good balance. It’s a well-organized, comprehensive look at Yellowstone and Grand Teton, with comfortable lodging and expert guides making the journey more enriching. You’ll love the scenic vistas, geothermal marvels, and opportunities to spot wildlife—especially if you’re traveling for the first time or short on time.

It’s particularly suited for those who want a guided, all-inclusive experience that takes the stress out of planning. The small group size means plenty of personalized attention, and the two-night stay inside Yellowstone provides more time to relax and explore than a typical day trip.

In short, if you are looking for a value-packed, immersive nature adventure with a touch of comfort, this tour could be a great fit. Just be prepared for some long travel days and a busy schedule—after all, Yellowstone is vast and full of wonders.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers airport pickup between 10 am and 8 pm at Salt Lake City International Airport, making your arrival easy and stress-free.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers hotel accommodations (two nights at Old Faithful Snow Lodge and one at SpringHill Marriott SLC), park entry fees, hot breakfasts, transportation in a new Mercedes Benz van, guided commentary, bottled water, snacks, binoculars, and a Yellowstone Bear World ticket.

Are meals included?
Only breakfasts are included daily from Day 2 through Day 4. Lunches and dinners are on your own, giving you flexibility to explore local options.

How large are the groups?
Limited to 13 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience with your guide.

What are the accommodation options?
All hotel rooms are based on two full/double beds or one king/queen bed, depending on availability. Larger groups or those requesting separate rooms should specify at booking.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most stops involve easy walking or minimal physical activity, but it’s best to check with the tour provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

What if I want to leave the tour early?
Notify your guide and sign a departure form; note that unused portions are not refunded.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days prior are non-refundable, with some options for partial refunds if canceled earlier.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

In summary, this small-group Yellowstone and Grand Teton tour offers a great balance of guided expertise, comfortable lodging, and memorable scenery. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, hassle-free adventure that highlights the best of these iconic parks. Whether you’re a first-timer or looking to revisit the area with guided insights, it promises a rewarding experience.