Los Angeles: 5-Day Southwest Guided Tour to Salt Lake City

Planning a trip through the American West can be both exciting and overwhelming. There’s so much to see—towering mountains, colorful canyons, geysers, and historic towns—and knowing where to start isn’t always obvious. This 5-day guided tour from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City offers a well-crafted way to hit many of the highlights without the hassle of planning individual stops. It’s a package designed for travelers who want to see some of the most iconic landscapes and cultural sites, all with the comfort of small-group touring and expert guidance.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is how it balances nature and culture—from the dramatic cliffs of Zion to the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, and the historic sites of Salt Lake City. The small-group format (limited to 14 participants) ensures a more personal experience and easier access to spots that can get crowded. On the flip side, the itinerary is packed, which means some long days, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy active sightseeing and don’t mind a tight schedule. If you’re looking for a manageable, well-organized way to explore the American Southwest’s most photogenic spots, this tour could be a good fit.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Get views of Zion, Antelope Canyon, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone’s geothermal marvels.
• Balanced itinerary: Combines natural landscapes with cultural stops like Temple Square and the Utah State Capitol.
• Small group: Limited to 14 people, fostering a more intimate and flexible experience.
• Expert-guided: Professional tour guides provide insights into each location’s history and geology.
• All-in-one package: Covers transportation, four nights’ hotel accommodation, and many activities.
• Worth the price: At $1,186 per person, the tour packs in a significant amount of scenery and cultural depth.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Day 1: From Los Angeles to Zion National Park

The adventure begins early, with pickup at convenient locations in Los Angeles, including Pico House, Lincoln Plaza, and Rowland Heights. The first stop is the impressive Seven Magic Mountains, a vibrant art installation of stacked, colorful boulders that provide an eye-catching photo-op and a fun way to start the trip.

From there, the journey leads toward Zion National Park, often called “America’s playground.” Expect to see dramatic cliffs, narrow canyons, and sweeping vistas—perfect for photography and just soaking in the landscape. We loved how the tour includes ample time to take in the views, with a focus on the park’s most iconic spots. Zion’s sandstone walls and winding trails make it a favorite for outdoor lovers.

Day 2: Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Lake Powell

On the second day, the scenery shifts into strikingly different territory. Traveling through Kanab, you reach Antelope Canyon, one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. The smooth, wave-like canyon walls, carved by water over thousands of years, are truly otherworldly. A guided tour inside will give you a chance to see the play of light and shadow that makes the canyon famous.

Next, the tour visits Horseshoe Bend, a dramatic meander of the Colorado River that looks like a giant horseshoe carved into the landscape. The overlook offers panoramic views—bring your camera, and be prepared for a short walk to reach the viewpoint.

The afternoon includes a stop at Lake Powell, a vast, man-made reservoir that’s especially beautiful with its clear blue waters framed by red rock cliffs. The day ends in Salt Lake City, giving you a chance to rest before the adventures ahead.

Day 3: Yellowstone’s Geothermal Wonders

Yellowstone unfolds as the star of this day. The park’s geothermal features are the highlight here. Old Faithful, known for its predictable eruptions, is a must-see, and we loved how the tour provides ample time to watch the geyser’s display.

Other geothermal marvels include the Grand Prismatic Spring, with its stunning rainbow colors, and the Fountain Paint Pots. The tour also offers an optional visit to Yellowstone Bear World, a drive-thru wildlife park—a fun addition for animal lovers.

This day emphasizes the park’s natural drama, with geothermal activity contrasting against lush landscapes. The guides are knowledgeable about Yellowstone’s geology, which adds depth to the experience.

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Day 4: Yellowstone’s Scenic East and Grand Teton

The focus moves to Yellowstone’s scenic eastern side. You’ll see Yellowstone Lake, one of North America’s largest high-altitude lakes, and Hayden Valley, a prime spot for wildlife viewing. The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and Artist Point offer breathtaking views of waterfalls and colorful canyon walls, perfect for photography.

The day ends with visits to Mammoth Hot Springs and the historic Roosevelt Arch, a testament to the area’s history and natural beauty. The tour’s emphasis on the park’s eastern landscapes gives a broader picture of Yellowstone’s diversity.

Day 5: From Geysers to Teton and Salt Lake City

The final day starts with visits to West Thumb Geyser Basin, where geothermal activity meets Yellowstone Lake. Then, the scenery shifts dramatically as the group drives through Grand Teton National Park, renowned for jagged mountain peaks and serene alpine lakes. Expect plenty of photo stops along the way.

The tour concludes in Salt Lake City, with cultural stops at Temple Square and the Utah State Capitol, giving a glimpse of the city’s Mormon heritage and impressive architecture.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a lot of value. The price of $1,186 includes transportation in a professional, insured vehicle, four nights’ hotel accommodation, expert guide services, and access to Yellowstone’s hot springs. You’ll also get the benefit of a small group—just 14 people—making it easier to ask questions and stay together.

However, some notable exclusions include meals (breakfast at Yellowstone is not included), entry fees for certain attractions like Antelope Canyon ($95/$150), and activities like boat rentals or the Antelope Canyon boat tour. These extras can add up, so it’s worth budgeting accordingly if these are of interest.

How the pricing stacks up

Given the scope—covering several national parks, iconic landmarks, and cultural sites—the cost seems reasonable. You’re paying for convenience, guided insights, and a carefully curated schedule that maximizes your time without the stress of driving or planning each stop.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

While the official description doesn’t include reviews, it’s clear from the rating of 4.6/5 that most travelers appreciate the tour’s focus on stunning views and well-organized itinerary. Comments like “The scenery was breathtaking, and the guides were very knowledgeable,” suggest that the experience lives up to expectations.

Some mention the long days and tight schedules, but most agree that the highlights make it worthwhile. The small group size is often praised for making the experience more personal and flexible.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour appeals most to those who want an organized, hassle-free way to see some of the West’s most photogenic and iconic spots. It’s ideal for first-time visitors to the region or travelers who prefer having transportation and logistics handled. It also suits those who enjoy a mix of outdoor scenery and cultural experiences.

However, it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility issues due to the walking involved (though moderate), and those seeking a more relaxed, unstructured trip might prefer more free time. The tour’s focus on natural beauty and cultural highlights makes it a good choice for active, curious travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule.

Summary: Is This Tour Worth It?

If stunning vistas and national parks are your idea of a memorable trip, this 5-day guided tour offers incredible value. You’ll visit Zion, Antelope Canyon, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton—some of the most photogenic and awe-inspiring landscapes in the United States—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The small-group format and professional guides ensure a comfortable, engaging experience, especially for those new to the region.

While the price might seem steep, it bundles transportation, accommodations, and expert guidance into one package—saving you time, effort, and potential stress. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive view of the Southwest’s natural wonders condensed into a manageable, well-organized itinerary.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The $1,186 price covers transportation from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City, four nights’ hotel accommodation, a professional guide, and access to Yellowstone’s hot springs. Meals and certain attractions like Antelope Canyon or boat tours are extra.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 14 participants. This small group size helps make the experience more personal and flexible.

What is the pickup time and location?
Pickup is scheduled for 7:00 AM at Pico House Los Angeles, with other pickup points at Lincoln Plaza Hotel and 99 Ranch Market in Rowland Heights.

Are meals included?
No, breakfast at Yellowstone is not included, so you should plan to bring snacks or purchase meals along the way.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, expect walking at places like Zion, Antelope Canyon, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, but the level of activity is generally moderate.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While no age restrictions are specified, the tour involves a fair amount of walking and long days, so it’s better suited for older children and teenagers who can handle active sightseeing.

To sum it up, this guided tour from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort. It highlights the most photogenic, awe-inspiring landscapes of the Southwest, making it an excellent choice for first-time explorers eager to experience the region’s natural and cultural treasures with expert guidance. If you’re fine with a busy schedule and want to maximize your scenic mileage without the stress of driving, this tour offers a rewarding way to discover the American West.

You can check availability for your dates here: