Salt Lake City: Yellowstone National Park 6-Day Tour

Travelers seeking a comprehensive taste of some of America’s most iconic natural wonders will find this 6-day guided tour a solid choice. Covering Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and notable landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse, this trip promises a blend of breathtaking scenery, fascinating history, and a relaxed pace. Designed for those who want to see a lot without the hassle of planning, it’s perfect for adventure lovers who appreciate good value and expert guides.

What we like most about this tour is the inclusion of Yellowstone’s famous geysers and hot springs, paired with professional guides who share insightful commentary. Plus, the accommodations are described as functional but comfortable, making it easier to focus on the sights rather than the hotel. The only potential downside is the extensive driving—some reviews mention it can be tiring, especially with the tight schedule. But for travelers eager to tick off major attractions in one trip, this package hits many highlights efficiently.

If you’re someone who enjoys a structured itinerary, value-guided insights, and a chance to see multiple states and national monuments, this tour offers a balanced experience. It’s especially suited for first-timers to the Rockies, families, or anyone wanting an overview of these stunning landscapes without the fuss of self-driving or booking multiple accommodations.

Key Points

• Expert guides enrich the experience with detailed commentary about each attraction.
• One-package convenience covers entry fees, transportation, and accommodations.
• Balance of sightseeing and free time allows personal exploration at major stops.
• Comfortable transportation in high-roof vans or buses helps manage the long drives.
• Focused itinerary ensures you see Yellowstone’s geysers, Grand Teton’s panoramas, and historic landmarks like Mount Rushmore.
• Value for money considering the included attractions, guides, and hotels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the 6-Day Yellowstone Tour

This tour is crafted to pack the most notable sights of Wyoming, Montana, South Dakota, and Utah into just over a week. It’s clear from the outset that the goal is to give travelers an overview of this region’s most iconic sites, without the need for complex planning or multiple bookings. For many, this is an excellent way to get a taste of the American West’s grandeur, especially if time or familiarity with the area is limited.

How the Tour Starts: Salt Lake City and First Impressions

The journey kicks off in Salt Lake City, Utah, a city known for its impressive Salt Lake Temple and vibrant downtown. The tour begins with travelers checking into the Clarion Inn Salt Lake City Airport, a functional base offering straightforward comfort. It’s important to note that the tour doesn’t include airport pickups, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the hotel.

The first travel day is mostly about settling in and preparing for the adventure ahead. It’s a good idea to arrive a day early if possible, to ensure a relaxed start. The tour begins the next morning with a drive towards Jackson, Wyoming, passing through scenic stops like the Flyin J Travel Center, where restrooms and quick snacks are available.

Day 2: Exploring Jackson, the Tetons, and Yellowstone’s Geysers

Day 2 is the start of the sightseeing in earnest. We loved the way this itinerary balances stunning scenery with interactive stops, giving travelers a real sense of place. The visit to Jackson Square, with its iconic elk antler arches, is a charming start. It captures the classic Old West vibe and provides excellent photo opportunities.

The highlight here is the Grand Teton National Park, particularly Teton Point Overlook, which offers panoramic views of the rugged mountain range. The tour then moves to Yellowstone’s West Thumb Geyser Basin, where colorful hot springs and bubbling geysers by Yellowstone Lake demonstrate nature’s geothermal power.

Most travelers will find watching Old Faithful erupt as a true bucket-list moment. The tour dedicates about an hour to this, allowing enough time to appreciate the spectacle without feeling rushed. The colorful Prismatic Spring and Fountain Paint Pot bubbling mud pots are also worth the quick hikes, giving a glimpse into Yellowstone’s geothermal activity.

From reviews, we gather that guides tend to be knowledgeable, providing insights that elevate the experience. One traveler remarked, “Hotels were functional, the stations we visited were sometimes amazing and made the whole thing unforgettable.” Expect a mix of awe-inspiring sights and practical travel.

Day 3: Yellowstone’s Geysers, Waterfalls, and Thermal Features

Day 3 covers a broad swath of Yellowstone’s highlights. Visiting Norris Geyser Basin, the park’s hottest thermal area, allows travelers to see the tallest active geyser, Steamboat Geyser. This is a highlight for geology buffs and those interested in natural phenomena.

The Upper Falls at Yellowstone River and Artist Point provide breathtaking views of the canyon’s grandeur. Many reviews mention these vistas as unforgettable. The Mud Volcano area offers a close-up look at bubbling mud pots and colorful pools, offering both visual interest and educational commentary from guides.

This day also includes a visit to Cody, Wyoming, for a well-deserved lunch break and rest. The combination of geothermal wonders and stunning waterfalls makes this a well-rounded day.

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Day 4: From Wyoming to South Dakota — Devils Tower, Mount Rushmore, and Crazy Horse

The journey continues with a long drive through Wyoming and South Dakota. The stop at Devils Tower is a standout experience. This sacred Native American site is a striking geological formation rising dramatically from the landscape, perfect for moderate hikes and photos.

Next, the tour features Mount Rushmore, an unmistakable symbol of American history. The guided visit gives context to the carved presidents and the national monument’s significance. Following that, the Crazy Horse Memorial offers a cultural perspective, with a museum explaining its Native American heritage.

Reviewers appreciate guides who provide insights into the cultural importance of these sites. One noted, “Ongoing sculpture honoring Native American heritage,” which helps deepen understanding beyond just sightseeing.

Day 5: Historic Landmarks and Return to Salt Lake City

On day 5, the focus shifts to historic sites. Independence Rock, a key Oregon Trail landmark, is a fascinating stop where pioneers’ inscriptions tell stories of perseverance. The tour then heads back towards Salt Lake City, stopping at the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square. These landmarks showcase the city’s architectural beauty and religious history.

The journey ends with a relaxed drive into Salt Lake City, allowing travelers to reflect on the week’s sights. The hotel stay at the Clarion Inn provides a simple but comfortable base for the night.

Day 6: Great Salt Lake and Farewell

The final morning is dedicated to the Great Salt Lake, arguably one of the most unique ecosystems in the U.S. Its vast, salty waters and surrounding wetlands create a starkly beautiful landscape. A brief visit here gives you a sense of Utah’s natural diversity before transferring to the airport.

The tour concludes by 10 AM, so booking a flight after noon is recommended to avoid rushing. The included transportation to the Salt Lake City International Airport simplifies departure logistics.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

The comprehensive price of $1,398 per person covers hotel stays, park entry fees, guided commentary, and transportation in a high-roof van or bus. This bundle offers good value, especially considering the number of major attractions visited and the convenience of seamless transfers.

However, meals, personal expenses, travel insurance, and airfare are not included. Most reviews suggest that the tour’s value lies in the experience and expert guidance rather than luxury accommodations. Rooms are designed to sleep 2-3 guests, with options for King or Queen beds, which is typical for this kind of group tour.

It’s worth noting that airport pickup isn’t provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer into Salt Lake City at the start. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for unaccompanied minors or pregnant women over 24 weeks, emphasizing safety.

The Guide Experience and Group Dynamics

From multiple reviews, guides seem to be a strong point. Travelers describe guides like Christopher and Johnny as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. One reviewer mentioned, “Johnny had used both English and Mandarin when delivering information,” showing the effort to accommodate diverse groups.

The group size isn’t explicitly stated, but the mention of multiple languages spoken and the organized nature suggests a considerate, small-group atmosphere. Expect to share space and time with fellow travelers from different backgrounds, which can enrich the experience.

Scenery and the Travel Pace

The highlight of this tour is undeniably the scenery. Yellowstone’s geysers, the Teton Range, and Mount Rushmore are visual spectacles. As one traveler put it, “The scenery and drive itself is all worth it.” But the extensive driving—often in long stretches—means you’ll want to be prepared for some fatigue.

The schedule involves a fair amount of early mornings and quick stops, so packing snacks and being flexible about some tight timings will serve you well. The balance of guided sightseeing and free time at each stop means you can choose to linger or explore independently when given the chance.

Final Thoughts on Value and Suitability

This tour offers a well-rounded experience of some of America’s most celebrated landmarks, guided by knowledgeable professionals. For those wanting a rundown without the hassle of planning, it’s an efficient, cost-effective way to see the highlights.

While the long drives and packed itinerary might not suit travelers seeking a leisurely pace, the included sights and expert guidance more than make up for it. It’s best suited for first-time visitors, families, or anyone eager to tick off key attractions in a structured way while enjoying the comfort of group travel.

This 6-day Yellowstone tour from Salt Lake City is a good choice for travelers wanting a broad, engaging overview of the American West’s most iconic sites. The combination of spectacular scenery, insightful guides, and value-packed inclusions makes it a practical option for those pressed for time but eager to see the best.

Expect a busy schedule, but also plenty of awe-inspiring moments—whether it’s watching Old Faithful erupt, marveling at Mount Rushmore, or wandering around Devils Tower. The tour hits the highlights effectively, with guides who help turn sightseeing into storytelling.

This experience is best for travelers who enjoy organized trips, are comfortable with long days in the van, and appreciate the convenience of having everything arranged. If you’re looking to explore the Rockies without the stress of logistics, and want a solid introduction to some of the country’s most impressive landscapes, this tour delivers real value.

Is airport pickup included?
No, the tour does not offer airport pickup. You’ll need to check into your hotel in Salt Lake City on your own.

What is the start and end location?
The tour begins at the Clarion Inn Salt Lake City Airport and ends back there, with drop-off at Salt Lake City International Airport.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You should plan to budget for breakfasts, lunches, and dinners independently.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Unaccompanied minors are not allowed. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and pregnant women over 24 weeks are not advised to participate.

What kind of transportation is used?
Travel is in a high-roof van or bus, which is comfortable enough for long drives and offers good views.

How much free time is there at each stop?
The itinerary provides designated time for sightseeing and some free time, allowing you to explore or relax as you prefer.

Travel smarter and enjoy the wonders of the American West with this well-organized, scenic, and informative tour—an excellent way to see top sights without the stress.

You can check availability for your dates here: