Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks: Small Group 6-Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of seeing the iconic geysers, rugged mountains, and wild landscapes of Yellowstone and Grand Teton, a guided tour might be just what you need. We haven’t personally taken this exact trip, but after reviewing the details and feedback from past travelers, we’re here to help you decide if it fits your style. This tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, outdoor activities, and some free time—perfect for those who enjoy a structured but flexible adventure.

One thing we really like about this experience is its accessibility for travelers—you won’t need to worry about driving or navigating complicated routes, as transportation and many key attractions are included. Plus, the stunning scenic views and the chance for wildlife sightings are definitely highlights. On the flip side, a potential concern is the somewhat inconsistent pace and limited free time on certain days, which might feel rushed to some. This tour suits those who want a rundown of Yellowstone and Teton, especially if they appreciate guided excursions and don’t mind a busy schedule.

If you’re the type of traveler who values seeing the major sights with knowledgeable guides, enjoys outdoor adventures like rafting and hot springs, and doesn’t mind a bit of structured travel, this tour could be a good fit. It might be less ideal if you’re seeking a more relaxed, slow-paced experience, or if you prefer to explore at your own pace without scheduled activities. Overall, it offers a practical way to pack a lot into six days while enjoying some of the most spectacular landscapes in the American West.

Key Points

• Includes major attractions of Yellowstone and Grand Teton, with scenic drives and wildlife viewing.
• Small group size (max 8 travelers) for a more personal experience.
• Activities like rafting, hot springs, and gondola rides add adventure to the trip.
• Some reviews mention a less-than-ideal schedule, with days that can feel rushed or with too much free time.
• Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and the stunning views they help you discover.
• Price point at over $3,200 per person reflects the all-in approach and included activities, but some may find it steep for what’s offered.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Starting in Salt Lake City

Your journey begins with a pickup either from the airport or your hotel in Salt Lake City. If you arrive early enough, you’ll get a chance to explore some local sights—Temple Square and the Utah State Capitol—both are quick stops but give you a taste of the city’s history and architecture. These sites are free to visit and offer great photo opportunities.

Later, you’ll visit Antelope Island State Park, famous for bison roaming freely and stunning views of the Great Salt Lake. This is a highlight for wildlife lovers and those interested in Utah’s unique desert ecosystem. The optional Hill Aerospace Museum is also included, showcasing military aircraft from WWI to stealth fighters, which adds a bit of historical flair. Keep in mind, some of these stops might be moved to the last day depending on timing.

Day 2: On the Road to Yellowstone

Traveling from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone involves a scenic drive through Idaho Falls, with an optional quick stop at Mesa Falls—impressively tall waterfalls formed after volcanic activity. You’ll then arrive at Yellowstone, the world’s first national park, sprawling across three states and packed with geothermal features, hot springs, and diverse wildlife.

Your first day in Yellowstone includes visits to iconic spots like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring, where vibrant colors and eruptions make for unforgettable moments. The park is enormous, and the guide will prioritize areas based on weather, road conditions, and group interest, which means flexibility is key.

Days 3 & 4: Full Days in Yellowstone

These days are dedicated to exploring Yellowstone’s highlights. Depending on the route taken, you might explore Northern or Southern Yellowstone, but you can expect visits to Yellowstone Lake, Mammoth Hot Springs, Norris Geyser Basin, Mud Volcano, and the Yellowstone River. The terrain is incredible, with geysers erupting, hot springs bubbling, and wildlife often visible from the bus.

One traveler noted that the schedule can be “really poor” on some days, with limited activity and lots of free time. The guide’s knowledge is appreciated, but the pacing may not suit everyone. Still, the scenery and natural wonders make up for it.

Day 5: Into the Tetons and Jackson Hole

Traveling south, you’ll leave Yellowstone behind and head into the Grand Teton National Park. Here, the scenery becomes even more dramatic—sharp mountain peaks, pristine lakes, and reflective waters. Highlights include Jackson Lake and Jenny Lake, where you can enjoy short walks or boat rides. The guide will point out wildlife like moose, wolves, and bighorn sheep, adding a chance of seeing animals in their natural habitat.

If time allows, a visit to Jackson Hole offers a charming Western town vibe—think wooden storefronts, art galleries, and great restaurants. The option to camp and cook dinner under the stars adds a rustic touch if you’re up for it.

Day 6: Last Day in Jackson and Hot Springs

Your final day begins with a tour of Jackson Hole’s iconic sights, including the Elk Refuge. Post-tour, you can relax in Lava Hot Springs or explore local wildlife refuges and parks. The day ends with a return drive to Salt Lake City, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or the airport.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer expressed disappointment with the “poor schedule” and “unprofessional tour guide,” noting that some days were overly busy while others were too relaxed. They mentioned that on Day 3, the Yellowstone visit was brief, leaving them wanting more. However, others praised the guide’s knowledge and the breathtaking views that made the trip worthwhile.

The inclusion of activities like rafting, hot springs, and scenic cruises brings an adventure vibe that many travelers enjoyed. The small group size also means more personalized attention, which can be a big plus when visiting such expansive parks.

Transportation and Group Size

With a max of 8 travelers, the group feels intimate enough for personal interactions but still manageable. Transportation is provided along the route, making the logistics simpler and more comfortable. The tour is designed to be around 6 days, with some flexibility in the itinerary, but it can feel quite packed, especially if you like to linger longer at each site.

Price and Value

At $3,295 per person, this tour isn’t exactly cheap, but it includes park entrance fees, four nights’ hotel, one night camping, some seasonal activities, and most meals. For travelers who prefer guided tours with all the logistics handled, it offers convenience and access to highlights that might be hard to arrange independently. However, some may find the schedule too tight or the price a bit steep considering the size and scope.

Family and Travel Considerations

While children five and under might face some activity restrictions, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers who can handle a busy schedule. It’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, but the outdoor nature and wildlife focus could appeal to families with older children.

Final Thoughts

This Yellowstone & Grand Teton tour offers a practical way to see some of America’s most stunning national parks without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The guided nature and scenic highlights make it ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive experience, especially those interested in wildlife, geothermal features, and mountain scenery.

However, the somewhat inconsistent pacing and limited free time might not suit everyone, particularly if you prefer a more relaxed exploration. The high price reflects the all-inclusive approach but consider whether the included activities and guided service justify the cost for your travel style.

If you’re after a guided adventure with knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and outdoor activities, this tour could be a good fit. Just be prepared for a packed schedule and some days that might feel a bit rushed.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? Yes, but you’ll need to contact the provider in advance to join a group, as a minimum of two people is required for booking.

What’s included in the tour price? The cost covers park entrance fees, four nights of hotel accommodation, one night of camping, some seasonal activities, snacks, water, and breakfast on five days.

Are there any optional activities? Yes, you can choose activities like horseback riding and scenic cruises, but these are at your own expense.

Can I participate if I’m traveling with children? Children five years or younger might find some activities challenging, and the itinerary may need adjustments. It’s best to contact the provider if traveling with young kids.

What about the schedule’s flexibility? The itinerary is somewhat fixed, but some stops might be moved or combined based on weather and road conditions. Some travelers found certain days too busy or too relaxed.

How is the guide? Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and the incredible views they help uncover, though some reviews mention a less-than-ideal schedule or organization.

What’s the best time to take this tour? The tour runs from spring through fall, with seasonal activities like cruises and rodeos scheduled accordingly. Check the specific dates for availability.

What should I pack? Expect varied weather, so layers, comfortable shoes, sun protection, and binoculars for wildlife viewing are recommended.

This detailed review should give you a solid idea of what to expect from the Yellowstone & Grand Teton 6-Day Small Group Tour. It’s a great way to check off the major sights with ease but do weigh the packed schedule and price against what you’re hoping to get out of your trip.