5Day Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park Tour from SLC

Discover the 5-Day Yellowstone and Grand Teton Tour from Salt Lake City

This 5-day guided tour offers an in-depth journey through Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks starting from Salt Lake City. Priced at $1,968 per person, it includes hotel stays, park admissions, and guided excursions designed to showcase the best of these iconic landscapes. The tour is tailored for travelers seeking a well-organized experience, with comfortable transportation, expert guides, and numerous sightseeing highlights like the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram and Old Faithful.

While the tour balances sightseeing and comfort, it is approximately five days long, making it ideal for those who want to see major highlights without the hassle of planning logistics. The inclusion of wildlife viewing, geothermal wonders, and scenic viewpoints makes this a comprehensive option for travelers eager to explore the American West’s natural treasures. Potential participants should note that the group size is limited to 13, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Key Points

• Includes all park admissions for Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone Bear World
• Comfortable hotel accommodations over four nights, with breakfast included
• Expert guides lead the way, providing insights at each stop
• Iconic stops include Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Jenny Lake, and Lamar Valley
• Exciting activities such as riding the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram and visiting geothermal areas
• Transportation and logistics handled, with a meeting point at Salt Lake City International Airport

Starting the Journey in Salt Lake City

The tour begins with arrival in Salt Lake City, where a friendly guide meets guests at the airport baggage claim. From there, travelers are transferred to Pocatello, setting the stage for the scenic adventure ahead. This initial step ensures a smooth start, with airport shuttles included for convenience. The first day mainly involves settling in and preparing for the upcoming exploration.

Scenic Drive from Pocatello to Jackson and the Teton Range

On Day 2, the journey progresses through the heart of the American West, starting with a six-hour drive from Pocatello. The landscape shifts from plains to towering mountain ranges, signaling the approach of the Grand Teton National Park. The highlight of this day is the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram, which climbs over 4,000 vertical feet in about 75 minutes, offering sweeping mountain vistas.

In Jackson, the tour allows about 75 minutes to explore the charming town famous for its elk antler arches and Old West atmosphere. Guests can browse shops or enjoy lunch at their own expense. The afternoon includes visits to Jenny Lake, where a short walk along the crystal-clear shores offers a classic view of the Dramatic Teton peaks reflected in the water. Plus, the Jackson Lake Overlook provides a panoramic view of the vast Jackson Lake and rugged mountains. The day concludes at Canyon Lodge & Cabins, where comfortable accommodations await.

Full Day in Yellowstone’s Geothermal and Wildlife Hotspots

Day 3 is dedicated to exploring Yellowstone’s most famous geothermal features and wildlife-rich valleys. The day begins early with a full 7-hour itinerary that includes stops at Artist Point, showcasing the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, and Upper Falls, a powerful water cascade over volcanic cliffs.

The tour visits Tower Fall and Lamar Valley, often called the Serengeti of North America, where wolf sightings and large herds of bison and elk are common. The geothermal highlights include the Mammoth Hot Springs, with its striking limestone terraces, and the Fountain Paint Pot, famous for bubbling mud and erupting geysers.

The day’s centerpiece is the Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone’s largest and most colorful hot spring. The tour wraps up at the Old Faithful Geyser, renowned for its predictable eruptions every 90 minutes, with a cozy stay at Old Faithful Lodge nearby.

Yellowstone’s Geothermal Wonders and Mid-Day Excursions on Day 4

Day 4 continues the exploration of Yellowstone with a focus on geothermal activity. The morning includes a 1.5-hour tour visiting Norris Geyser Basin, known as Yellowstone’s hottest geothermal area. Visitors observe steaming fumaroles, colorful hot springs, and the Morning Glory Pool, famous for its deep blue center and vibrant rings.

Next, the tour takes in Midway Geyser Basin, home to erupting geysers, steaming vents, and brightly colored pools. The journey also includes a visit to West Yellowstone, a lively town outside the park’s west entrance, ideal for a quick break. An optional stop at Yellowstone Bear World offers opportunities to view native bears, bison, wolves, and elk in a drive-through wildlife park — a family-friendly highlight.

This day provides a deeper look at Yellowstone’s geothermal diversity, with stops at Norris Geyser Basin, Geyser Basin, and Morning Glory Pool. The day concludes with travel back to Canyon Lodge for another night’s stay.

Day 5: Exploring Salt Lake City and the Great Salt Lake

The final day shifts focus to Salt Lake City, where the tour ends with a 7-hour sightseeing session. The visit includes Utah’s State Capitol, offering sweeping views of the city, and Temple Square, home to iconic architecture and historical exhibits.

A highlight is a visit to the Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. Its shimmering waters and mountain backdrop make for memorable photos. If time permits, travelers can also enjoy a 4-hour stop at the Bonneville Salt Flats, famous for land speed records and its surreal, white, flat expanse—although this is an optional add-on and not included in the base price.

The day wraps up with transportation back to Salt Lake City Airport by 2:00 pm, concluding the adventure. The tour includes breakfasts, bottled water, and snacks along the way, with gratuities for guides and drivers appreciated.

Logistics and Comfort Throughout the Tour

The tour operates with a maximum of 13 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Transportation is in comfortable, professionally maintained vehicles, and headsets are provided for better guide communication.

Participants are responsible for their own food and beverages, although breakfast is included, and optional meals and snacks are at their own expense. The tour starts at Salt Lake City International Airport, with shuttle transfers included. The accommodations are at Canyon Lodge & Cabins, offering a cozy base for the park explorations.

Unique Highlights and Activities of the Tour

One of the standout features is the Jackson Hole Aerial Tram, which provides breathtaking mountain views in just over an hour. The tour also emphasizes Yellowstone’s geothermal features, including the Grand Prismatic Spring and Old Faithful, both iconic sights that draw visitors from around the world.

The wildlife encounters at Lamar Valley and Yellowstone Bear World add an exciting dimension, offering chances to see wolves, bison, elk, and bears close-up. The combination of geothermal wonders, panoramic vistas, and wildlife viewing creates a balanced and engaging experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This organized, guided trip suits travelers who prefer a stress-free way to see Yellowstone and Grand Teton with expert narration and comfortable logistics. It’s ideal for those wanting to cover many major highlights without the hassle of planning individual routes, especially if limited on time. The inclusion of hotel stays and park admissions makes it a convenient choice for first-time visitors and seasoned adventurers alike.

Final Thoughts on the Yellowstone & Grand Teton Experience

This tour presents a comprehensive look at Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, combining nature, wildlife, and geothermal wonders in a carefully curated itinerary. The guided approach ensures informative commentary and smooth transitions between stops, making it suitable for those who value expert insights and organized schedules.

While the group size is small for a more intimate experience, travelers should be prepared for busy days and some early mornings. The cost of $1,968 reflects the inclusion of most major attractions, guided service, and accommodations. For anyone eager to experience the majestic landscapes of the American West with professional support, this tour offers good value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Included are all park admissions, four nights of hotel accommodations, guided excursions, transportation, breakfasts, bottled water, snacks, binoculars, and gratuities for guides and drivers.

How long are the drives between stops?
Drive times vary, such as a six-hour scenic transfer from Pocatello to Jackson, and shorter segments during daily excursions. The longest drive occurs on Day 2, setting the scene for the trip.

Are meals besides breakfast included?
No, lunch and dinners are not included, giving guests flexibility at stops like Jackson and West Yellowstone.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and those under 6 require a booster seat. The tour is generally family-friendly given the activities and wildlife encounters.

What are the accommodation details?
Guests stay at Canyon Lodge & Cabins, with room options for 2-4 guests, featuring a mix of beds, and policies for deposits and check-in.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The itinerary may be adjusted for weather or operational reasons, but significant modifications are at the operator’s discretion.

Is the tour accessible for mobility-impaired travelers?
The data does not specify accessibility features; interested guests should contact the provider directly.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations closer to the date may incur penalties.

Is there an option to visit the Bonneville Salt Flats?
Yes, an optional half-day tour to the Bonneville Salt Flats is available if the additional price is selected.

How large are the tour groups?
The maximum group size is 13 travelers, ensuring a more engaging experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, cash, and drinks for hydration are recommended.

This 5-day Yellowstone and Grand Teton tour from Salt Lake City offers a balance of scenic highlights, geothermal wonders, wildlife encounters, and comfortable logistics. It suits travelers eager for a well-guided, all-inclusive experience in some of the most spectacular landscapes of the American West.