Mt Rushmore Yellowstone & Arches National Parks 7-day Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing some of America’s most iconic landmarks, this 7-day tour from Denver might catch your eye. It covers a lot of ground—think Mt Rushmore, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Arches—making it appealing if you’re after a broad sweep of the West’s top sights. While we haven’t taken this trip ourselves, the details, reviews, and itinerary give us a good sense of what to expect and who it’s best suited for.

One thing we love is how this tour packs in stunning views and notable landmarks with a fairly accessible price point—around $1,432 for a full week. Plus, with knowledgeable guides and included tickets, it promises a fairly hassle-free experience. On the flip side, the trip involves a lot of bus time—over 3,000 miles of driving, according to reviews—and the pace can be a bit rushed, especially for Yellowstone where there’s plenty to see. So, if you’re the kind of traveler who prefers slow, leisurely exploration, this might feel a bit quick. But if you’re eager to tick off several major sights in a structured way, this could be a good fit.

This tour works best for those who want to see many of the must-see national parks without planning every detail themselves. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with long days on a bus and are okay with the group setting. Families with older children or adults looking for a straightforward, all-in-one experience might find this a practical choice. But if you’re after a more personalized or relaxed pace, you might want something more custom.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers iconic sights like Mt Rushmore, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and Arches.
• Value for money with all included tickets, accommodations, and a professional guide.
• Long bus rides are unavoidable, so patience and good company are key.
• Well-reviewed guides help make the experience informative and engaging.
• Varied stops include sightseeing, hiking, and cultural points, suitable for active travelers.
• Flexible options for hotel rooms and the potential for larger groups.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting in Denver sets a relaxed tone. You’ll meet your guide at Denver International Airport, then enjoy a short city tour that includes the Colorado State Capitol and Denver’s 16th Street Mall, famous for its historic buildings and outdoor cafes. The first day ends with an overnight stay in Cheyenne, Wyoming. This initial day is a gentle introduction—ideal for travelers arriving early or looking to stretch their legs after flying.

The real adventure begins on Day 2, heading through South Dakota. The highlight here is the Crazy Horse Memorial, an ongoing project that aims to honor Native American heritage. It’s still under construction but offers a fascinating glimpse into Native history. Next, you’ll visit the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where the carved faces of four U.S. presidents dominate the granite face—a sight that never fails to impress.

Devils Tower follows—a striking geological feature with a unique silhouette. The reviews point out that the driver, Scott, is excellent, and the tour guide, Frank, provides wealth of knowledge, making the long drives more bearable. We’re told the stops are well-paced, and the included admission tickets ease the planning for travelers.

Day 3 and 4 focus on Yellowstone, arguably the star of the trip. You’re in for geysers, hot springs, and vast landscapes. The classic Old Faithful geyser is a must-see, and you can expect to spend some time exploring the geyser basins, hot springs, and waterfalls. The itinerary mentions some easy and moderate hikes, like the Morning Glory Pool and the Upper Falls overlook, which add a bit of active exploration to the sightseeing.

A common comment from past travelers is that Yellowstone’s extensive sights can make the days feel full but rewarding. The tour’s structure ensures you see key features like Norris Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs, Artist Point, and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. As one review noted, “the Yellowstone stay was too long with many stops”, but this depends on your travel style—some may find it perfect, others a bit packed.

Day 5 shifts gears with a visit to the Grand Teton National Park and Jackson, Wyoming. Here, travelers enjoy breathtaking mountain views and the charming town square, famous for its Elk Antler Arches. Midday at Jackson is a good chance to soak in the town’s rustic Western vibe and enjoy some local cuisine.

Day 6 takes you to Utah, where the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square introduce you to Mormon culture and impressive architecture. The tour continues to Arches National Park, home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches. Stops like Balanced Rock and the Windows area provide opportunities for leisurely walks and photos, with some moderate hiking involved.

The final day includes a scenic drive through Colorado, with a stop at Vail and the impressive Red Rocks Amphitheatre—a historic concert venue carved into the mountainside, renowned for its natural acoustics. The journey back wraps up with a drop-off at Denver airport after a week packed with sights.

What to Expect on the Road and in the Hotels

Transportation is by bus, and reviewers note the driver is skilled and attentive, which makes a significant difference given the long distances covered. The group size is capped at 55, so while it’s not tiny, it’s manageable. The hotels are described as value-priced lodging—comfortable enough but not luxury. Rooms accommodate 2-4 guests, often with full/double or king beds.

Included breakfasts offer a good start to busy days, though other meals are on your own, so budgeting for food is sensible. It’s worth noting that purchasing tickets on your own isn’t an option—everything is included—which simplifies planning but means you rely on the tour provider for scheduling.

The Pros and Cons

On the positive side, this trip offers a lot of iconic sights for the price, with professional guides making the experience more engaging. The included tickets and organized itinerary mean less stress for travelers. The views are undeniably impressive, and the stops are thoughtfully chosen to maximize your time at each site.

However, the long bus rides—over 3,000 miles in total—are a major consideration. This tour is best suited for those comfortable with extended sitting and eager to see a broad swath of America’s national parks without the hassle of planning each stop. Some travelers found Yellowstone’s schedule a bit rushed, which is understandable given the scope of the trip. Also, the hotels are value options, so don’t expect luxury accommodations.

Reviews mention the tour is respectful and the group was pleasant, mostly speaking English, though one review noted it’s mostly Chinese-speaking travelers. If you prefer intimate, personalized tours, this might not be your first choice.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who want to hit major landmarks efficiently. It’s good for those who don’t mind long days on the bus and are interested in a guided overview rather than a deep dive into each location. Families with older children and adults who appreciate a structured tour will find it manageable.

If your goal is to enjoy stunning scenery and see multiple national parks in one trip without the stress of organizing logistics, this tour simplifies things. But if you’re seeking a more relaxed, flexible itinerary, you might prefer a different approach.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day tour offers a solid value and covers many of the West’s most famous sights. You’ll appreciate the professional guidance, the included tickets, and the chance to see places like Yellowstone, Mt Rushmore, and Arches—all in one packed trip. The experience is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with long drives, enjoy sightseeing on a schedule, and want a straightforward way to check off bucket list destinations.

While the pace might be quick for some—especially at Yellowstone—the highlights and the scenery more than compensate. The comfortable, if basic, hotels, along with the well-organized itinerary, make this a practical choice for those seeking convenience and coverage.

Overall, if you’re after a rundown of the American West’s natural and cultural landmarks in a week, this tour could be a good fit. Just be prepared for the long days, and remember, the memories of those breathtaking vistas will stay with you long after the trip ends.

FAQ

How many nights does the tour include?
It includes 6 nights of hotel accommodations, with overnight stays in Cheyenne, Salt Lake City, and other locations along the route.

Are admission tickets included?
Yes, all the listed tickets for attractions like Crazy Horse Memorial, Mount Rushmore, Yellowstone geysers, and Arches are included in the price.

What kind of vehicle is used for transportation?
The tour uses a bus, and the type of vehicle depends on the number of guests. It’s designed to be comfortable for long-distance travel.

Is breakfast provided?
Yes, three breakfasts are included. Other meals are not included, so plan to buy your lunch and dinner.

Can children join this tour?
While not explicitly stated, the tour might be suitable for older children or teenagers, especially those comfortable with long bus rides and walking. Children under six need a booster seat, which the company provides if needed.

How much free time is there at each stop?
Stops vary from about 10 minutes at some rest areas to over an hour at towns like Jackson or Salt Lake City, giving some flexibility for exploring or grabbing a quick bite.

Is the itinerary flexible?
The company reserves the right to adjust schedules due to weather, traffic, or other factors, but generally, the structure remains consistent.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, cash, and drinks for hydration are recommended. Pack light, since luggage is limited to a piece no larger than a standard suitcase.

Is airport transportation included?
Yes, there’s a complimentary pickup at Denver Airport between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM on the departure day, and drop-off at the airport after the tour.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 93 days in advance, which helps secure availability and better prices.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, sightseeing-heavy adventure through some of America’s most iconic national parks, this tour offers a comprehensive, affordable way to do it—all while trusting experienced guides to lead the way.