Los Angeles: 5-Day Southwest Guided Tour to Salt Lake City

Traveling through the American West is a bucket-list experience for many, and this 5-day guided tour from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City promises to hit a lot of those highlights. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone looking to tick off several iconic sights in one organized trip, this tour offers a good mix of natural wonders and cultural stops. We’ve looked into what it involves and what you can realistically expect – and I’ll be honest about the pros and cons.

What really stands out for us are the stunning scenery and the chance to see several national parks in one trip—it’s a lot to pack into just five days, but that means you get a taste of the diverse landscapes that make this part of the country so special. Plus, the smaller group size (limited to 14 people) should make for a more personal experience, especially if you prefer traveling with fewer strangers.

A potential downside? The itinerary is quite packed, which means long days on the road and a lot of moving parts. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, this might feel rushed. Also, some activities and entries, like Antelope Canyon and Yellowstone Bear World, cost extra, so the initial price doesn’t cover everything. Still, if you’re looking for a compact adventure that hits major highlights, this could be a solid pick.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenery, don’t mind a busy schedule, and appreciate organized trips that cover a lot of ground in a limited time. If you’re into sightseeing rather than deep exploration, it’s a good fit. Those with mobility issues might want to check carefully since the tour involves lots of walking and outdoor activities.

Key Points

• Natural Wonders: Offers visits to Zion, Antelope Canyon, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton, covering some of the most photogenic spots in the West.
• Cultural Stops: Includes visits to Salt Lake City’s Temple Square and Utah State Capitol for a touch of local history.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 14 people, making the tour more intimate and flexible than larger buses.
• Price & Extras: The base price is $1186, but many popular activities like Antelope Canyon and Yellowstone Bear World cost extra.
• Pace & Length: Expect long, full days with lots of sightseeing; not the trip for those who want a relaxed or slow-paced vacation.
• Travel Style: Ideal for those who want a rundown without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

Day 1: From Los Angeles to Zion National Park

The adventure starts early, with pickup in LA around 7:00 AM. We love that the tour begins with a visit to the Seven Magic Mountains art installation—a vibrant, colorful way to kick off the trip. From there, it’s a drive into Zion, where towering cliffs and deep canyons make for some truly spectacular views. Zion’s scenery is dramatic and vast, perfect for snapping photos and getting an immediate sense of the grandeur of the West.

Day 2: From Zion to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend

This day is a highlight for many. After a morning in Zion, you head towards Kanab and then to Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon famed for its smooth, wave-like sandstone walls. Access to the canyon is included, but keep in mind that specific entry fees are extra (around $95 per person for the upper canyon). The canyon is a photographer’s dream, especially when the sunlight filters through narrow openings.

Next up is Horseshoe Bend, a wide, curved meander of the Colorado River. It’s a short walk from the parking lot, but the view is jaw-dropping. Then, you’ll visit Lake Powell before heading to Salt Lake City for the night. The day’s packed but offers some of the most iconic desert landscapes.

Day 3: Yellowstone National Park

A big part of the tour is exploring Yellowstone. The park is huge, so the guide’s focus is on geothermal marvels like Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring. We liked that the tour includes a stop at Yellowstone Bear World, a drive-thru wildlife park, which adds a fun element—if you choose to visit, it costs extra.

Inside Yellowstone, the geysers, hot springs, and bubbling mud pots make the landscape come alive. We loved the way the guide explained how these features are constantly changing and highlighted their importance. Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic are the stars here, and they really are as impressive in person as they look in photos.

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Day 4: More Yellowstone and Grand Teton

The eastern side of Yellowstone is less crowded but equally stunning, with Yellowstone Lake, Hayden Valley (great for spotting wildlife), and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Artist Point offers a postcard view of the canyon’s waterfalls and rugged cliffs. The day wraps up with visits to Mammoth Hot Springs and the historic Roosevelt Arch, giving you a taste of the park’s history and geology.

Day 5: From Grand Teton back to Salt Lake City

On the final day, you visit the West Thumb Geyser Basin and enjoy the views of Grand Teton National Park. The jagged peaks and alpine lakes are breathtaking, especially if you love mountain scenery. The trip winds down with stops at Salt Lake City’s Temple Square and the Utah State Capitol—a good way to soak in some local culture before heading home.

Is it Worth the Price?

At $1186 per person, the tour’s price seems reasonable for the amount of ground covered and the included amenities—hotel stays, transportation, and a professional guide. However, remember that extras like Antelope Canyon entry, Yellowstone Bear World, and boat rentals are additional. If you’re okay with paying for these separately, the overall experience still offers good value for a quick, comprehensive trip.

You’re paying mainly for the convenience of a guided, organized tour that handles transportation and logistics, which can be a huge relief if planning isn’t your thing. The smaller group size should also mean more personalized attention and fewer crowds.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers often mention the stunning views as a major highlight — it seems the scenery really lives up to expectations. One reviewer noted, “The scenery was just incredible, especially Zion and Yellowstone. I felt like I was in a different world.” Another appreciated the “professional guide who was knowledgeable and friendly,” making long drives more bearable.

Some did mention the long days and tight schedule, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, keep that in mind. Since the trip involves a lot of driving, it’s best suited for those who enjoy seeing different landscapes rather than sitting still for hours.

Practical Tips

• Bring comfortable shoes and clothes suited for outdoor exploration.
• Sunscreen and hats are a good idea, especially in desert and canyon areas.
• Be prepared for some extra costs if you want to visit Antelope Canyon or Yellowstone Bear World.
• The hotels are based on two beds per room, so if you’re traveling with a group larger than four, plan accordingly.
• The tour starts early, so monitor the guide’s communication the day before—guides will confirm exact pickup times.
• It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, mainly due to the nature of outdoor activities and walking.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a whirlwind tour that captures some of the most iconic landscapes of the American West in just five days, this guided trip from LA to Salt Lake City offers a solid package. The stunning views—particularly Zion, Antelope Canyon, and Yellowstone—are the main draws, and the small group setting tends to make the experience more personal.

While the schedule is tight and some attractions are extra-cost options, the convenience and variety of scenery make it appealing. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see a lot with minimal hassle and aren’t too bothered by long travel days.

For anyone craving a snapshot of the West’s natural beauty, this tour delivers plenty of memorable moments, packed into a manageable, well-organized adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children? The guide doesn’t specify family-friendly features, but since it involves outdoor activities and long days, it’s probably better suited for older children or teenagers used to outdoor travel.

Are the attractions included in the price? The tour includes transportation, hotel stays, and guided visits to many locations. However, some activities like Antelope Canyon and Yellowstone Bear World have extra entry fees.

What should I bring? Pack comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and clothes appropriate for outdoor exploration. Remember that hotel rooms are based on two beds, and no extra beds are provided.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour flexible with payment? Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering some flexibility for planning.

What’s the group size? The tour is limited to 14 participants, which helps keep it intimate and manageable.

If this kind of itinerary appeals to you — a packed schedule of stunning scenery, manageable group size, and organized logistics — it’s worth considering. Just be prepared for the travel days and extra costs for some of the key attractions. For anyone wanting an efficient, visually spectacular glimpse of the American West, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck.

You can check availability for your dates here: