7-Day Tour in Yellowstone and Las Vegas From Salt Lake City

Thinking about a trip that combines the natural wonders of Yellowstone, the iconic sights of Las Vegas, and some of Utah’s most memorable landscapes? This 7-day tour offers a bit of everything — from geysers and hot springs to neon lights and desert vistas. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, analyzing the itinerary and reviews gives us a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances iconic national parks with unique attractions like Antelope Canyon and the Great Salt Lake. Plus, the inclusion of guided tours and entrance fees means fewer worries about logistics. On the flip side, the busy schedule and long driving days might be a stretch for some — especially if you prefer slow-paced exploring or traveling with kids.

This tour seems best suited for active travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of the American West in one trip. If you’re okay with a packed itinerary and prioritizing highlights over leisurely exploration, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of natural wonders, city sights, and iconic landmarks
• Guided tours include major entrance fees, simplifying planning
• Long driving days mean you’ll spend significant hours on the road
• Variety of attractions from geysers and hot springs to neon-lit Las Vegas
• Suitable for most travelers, but best for those comfortable with busy schedules
• Optional add-ons like helicopter rides or night tours available for extra fun

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Salt Lake City

Your adventure begins with arrival at Salt Lake City, nestled in the heart of Utah. The hotel, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Salt Lake City Airport, offers a convenient base for the start of your trip. You’ll check in on your own, so it’s worth arriving early enough to settle in and maybe grab a quick meal. From here, the plan is to hit the road the next morning, heading toward some of the most striking sights in the region.

Day 2: Jackson, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone

The day kicks off with a drive from Salt Lake City to Jackson, Wyoming, a charming cowboy town famous for its Elk Antler Arches in Jackson Town Square. This is a fun photo stop and gives you a taste of the Old West vibe.

Next, you’ll cruise through Grand Teton National Park, renowned for its dramatic mountain vistas and peaceful lakes. The scenic loop drive offers some of the best views of the Teton Range, making it a highlight for nature lovers.

Finally, after a quick stop at the West Thumb Geyser Basin, you’ll arrive at Yellowstone National Park — the crown jewel of this trip. The park’s geothermal features, like geysers and hot springs, are mesmerizing, and you’ll get a brief look at the park’s famous geothermal activity during a 40-minute stop.

Day 3: Yellowstone National Park — Full Day

This is the big one. You’ll spend around seven hours exploring Yellowstone’s key sights — Norris Geyser Basin, Upper Falls, Artist’s Point, and Mammoth Hot Springs, among others. The tour hits many of Yellowstone’s most iconic spots, which means you’ll get a solid overview but also a busy day.

Highlights include the Upper Yellowstone Falls—a 109-foot cascade—and Artist’s Point, where you can admire the stunning canyon views. The Mud Volcano area offers geothermal activity and bubbling mud pots that showcase the park’s volcanic activity.

Many reviews mention the guide’s knowledge, which helps bring the sights to life. However, some travelers note that the array of stops can make the day quite packed. Still, the ability to see so many highlights in one day makes this a great option if your time is limited.

Day 4: More Yellowstone and Great Salt Lake

Today continues in Yellowstone with visits to Fountain Paint Pot and Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, some of the most photographed features in the park. The colors of Grand Prismatic are a real crowd-puller, and you’ll get a chance to marvel at the vibrant hues up close.

In the afternoon, the tour moves toward Yellowstone Bear World, a wildlife park where you can see animals in a drive-thru setting—something that appeals to animal lovers and families alike. The day wraps up with a visit to the Great Salt Lake, offering a different kind of natural wonder. The saline lake’s vast, otherworldly landscape is interesting, especially if you’re curious about unique ecosystems.

Day 5: Salt Lake City Highlights

This day is more relaxed, focusing on Salt Lake City. You’ll visit the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square, both reflecting the city’s cultural and spiritual history. These sites are free to explore and provide context about the city’s Mormon roots and architectural beauty.

In the evening, you’ll have the option to visit the famous Las Vegas Strip or enjoy some free time in Salt Lake City. This flexibility allows for a personalized end to the day, whether you’re eager for city lights or prefer a quieter evening.

Day 6: Grand Canyon West and Las Vegas

The westward journey takes you to the Grand Canyon’s West Rim, home to the Skywalk—a glass bridge offering breathtaking views down into the canyon. Many travelers find this a highlight, although some note that the West Rim is managed by the Hualapai Tribe and not part of the national park system, which might affect your expectations.

You’ll also see Hoover Dam, another iconic engineering feat. This day involves some substantial driving, but the scenery and attractions make it worthwhile. If you’ve booked the optional helicopter ride or night tour, this is your chance to add a bit of adventure and sparkle to your visit.

Day 7: Las Vegas and Return

Your last day features some fun stops in Vegas. The famous Welcome Sign is perfect for selfies, and the M&M’S store is a sweet treat, especially for those who love colorful souvenirs. The optional FlyOver attraction provides a simulated flight experience over Vegas, perfect if you want one last thrill.

Before heading home, you’ll likely stop at the Outlets at Barstow for some shopping or last-minute souvenirs, making this a busy but memorable goodbye to the trip.

What Travelers Can Expect

Guided Tours and Entrance Fees: With most major parks and attractions included, you won’t need to worry about the hassle of buying tickets on the spot. The professionalism of the guides is often praised for their knowledge and ability to keep the group engaged.

Long Days and Travel Time: Be prepared for long hours in the vehicle. The schedule packs in a lot, so patience and comfortable travel gear are a must. Some reviews mention the intense pace, but most agree the highlights are worth it.

Accommodation and Meals: The hotel in Salt Lake City is a reliable choice, but accommodations during the trip are not specified in detail, aside from the first night. The tour includes breakfast, which helps start the day well, but other meals are on your own.

Optional Extras: Add-ons like helicopter rides or night tours are available, but these come at extra costs and should be considered if you’re craving a bit more adrenaline or unique views.

Pricing and Value

At $1,135 per person, this tour is priced competitively given the amount of ground covered and included features. The major parks and attractions—Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Antelope Canyon, Great Salt Lake—are all covered in the entry fees, which adds to the value. Plus, guided commentary can enrich your experience, making the price seem more justified.

However, the busy itinerary and the need to self-arrange some aspects (like hotel stays and optional activities) mean you’re mainly paying for convenience and access. For travelers who like structure and want to tick off big sights without the planning hassle, this tour offers a lot.

Who Would Love This Experience?

If you’re someone who enjoys seeing a lot of sights in a limited amount of time and appreciates guided tours that handle logistics, this trip is a strong contender. It’s perfect for those new to the American West who want an overview of the top spots without the stress of planning every detail.

It also suits travelers who enjoy a mix of nature and city life, with opportunities to see geothermal wonders, wildlife, and vibrant urban centers. If you’re traveling with a flexible group and don’t mind busy days, this is a good way to pack in a lot of adventure.

Who Might Want to Pass?

If you prefer a leisurely pace, more time in each spot, or traveling with young children, this could feel rushed. The long drives might be tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to sitting in a vehicle for hours. If you’re looking for a more personalized or in-depth experience, you might opt for smaller, more focused trips.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour is generally open to most travelers, but keep in mind the busy schedule and long hours. Children over 6 can participate with booster seats, and the pace might be tiring for very young kids.

What are the main attractions included?
You’ll visit Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Antelope Canyon, Great Salt Lake, and the Grand Canyon West Rim, among other highlights. Entrance fees are included for most parks.

Are optional activities like helicopter rides available?
Yes, there are optional extras such as helicopter rides over the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas Night Tours. These cost extra and need to be booked separately.

How are accommodation arrangements?
The first night is at La Quinta Inn & Suites in Salt Lake City. During the trip, accommodations are not detailed but are typically in standard hotels. The tour mentions that hotel rooms can have two to four beds.

What about meals?
Breakfast is included on some days. Other meals are not included, so plan accordingly, especially if you have dietary restrictions or preferences.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and personal essentials. Since it’s a busy schedule, packing light and efficiently will make traveling easier.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day Salt Lake City to Yellowstone, Las Vegas, and beyond tour offers a practical way to see some of America’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s a robust itinerary packed with natural beauty, entertainment, and unique landscapes, making it ideal for travelers eager to check off the big names in the West.

While the pace can be quick and days long, the guided structure helps maximize your experience. For those who want a comprehensive, well-organized journey that covers major highlights and includes key entrance fees, this tour offers genuine value.

If you’re someone who loves a blend of adventure, sightseeing, and city energy, and doesn’t mind a packed schedule, this trip could be just right. For more relaxed explorers or families seeking slower-paced travel, it might be worth considering a more tailored option. Either way, you’ll leave with plenty of stories and stunning photos to share.

Happy travels, and I hope this detailed look helps you decide if this adventure is right for you!