Salt Lake City: Yellowstone National Park 6-Day Tour

Planning a trip that covers some of the most iconic sights in the American West can be exciting but also overwhelming. We’ve taken a close look at this 6-day guided tour from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Mount Rushmore, and a few other historic and scenic landmarks. Whether you’re a first-timer or just want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of planning every detail, this trip aims to deliver a well-rounded adventure.

What we really like about this tour is how it packs in major attractions—Yellowstone’s geysers and waterfalls, the grandeur of the Tetons, and the impressive carvings of Mount Rushmore—all in a manageable, organized package. Plus, the inclusion of expert guides and comfortable accommodations takes some of the stress out of traveling. The downside? With such a packed itinerary, it can feel quite rushed, especially if you’re someone who loves lingering at sights or exploring at a more leisurely pace.

This tour would suit travelers who want to see a lot in a short amount of time and don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s also great for those who appreciate good value, with all entry fees and transportation covered, making it easier to budget. If you’re looking for a well-organized, guided experience that covers a lot of ground—without the need to drive yourself—this might be the tour for you.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Devils Tower, and scenic stops.
• All-inclusive pricing covers park entry fees, guiding, and accommodations, simplifying the planning process.
• Comfortable transport and hotels make the long drives more manageable.
• Expert guides help make attractions informative and engaging.
• Busy schedule might feel rushed for some travelers, especially those wanting more time at each site.
• Good value for the price when considering the number of attractions and included fees.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is designed to give you a taste of some of the most famous sights in the American West, all within six days. It starts in Salt Lake City, with a self-arranged hotel check-in, then kicks off the adventure the next day with a full schedule that’s packed but thoughtfully organized.

Day 1: Getting to Salt Lake City

You’ll arrive independently and check into the Clarion Inn Salt Lake City Airport. Since there’s no airport pickup included, you’ll need to make your way to the hotel yourself, but from there, you’re set to explore the next day.

Day 2: Journey to Yellowstone with a Stop in Jackson and Grand Teton

The trip really begins with a morning drive, stopping at the Flying J Travel Center for a quick restroom break. Then it’s on to Jackson Square—famous for its elk antler arches and Old West vibe—which makes for a charming introduction to Wyoming.

Next, you’ll take in the stunning views of the Teton Range at Teton Point Overlook. Afterwards, it’s time for Yellowstone, starting with the West Thumb Geyser Basin around Yellowstone Lake, where hot springs and geysers color the landscape. You’ll catch the eruption of Old Faithful, a true must-see, and see the vibrant colors of the Prismatic Spring.

Day 3: The Heart of Yellowstone

Expect a day packed with some of Yellowstone’s most iconic sights. Norris Geyser Basin is home to the tallest active geyser, Steamboat, and offers some moderate hiking. The Upper Falls and Artist Point provide breathtaking views of the Yellowstone River and the Canyon of Yellowstone. The Mud Volcano area adds colorful thermal pools to your experience.

Many reviewers highlight how the guides enrich the experience with detailed explanations, making the visit more meaningful. One reviewer praises the “amazing” scenery and the fact that the itinerary allows for some free time to explore or relax.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: From Wyoming to South Dakota

The day starts in Sheridan, with stops at Devils Tower—an awe-inspiring, sacred Native American site—and continues on to Mount Rushmore, with its famous presidential carvings. You’ll also visit the Crazy Horse Memorial, still under construction but worth seeing for its scale and cultural significance.

Reviews mention that guides like Johnny Xu are very knowledgeable and accommodating, especially considering the diverse group languages and backgrounds. The long drives are balanced with well-timed sightseeing, though the schedule is tight.

Day 5: Historic Stops and Return to Salt Lake City

A morning visit to Independence Rock, a key Oregon Trail landmark, is followed by a drive south. You’ll stop at the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square in Salt Lake City—a nice way to end with some city highlights. The last night’s accommodations are again at the Clarion Inn, making the transition to your departure smoother.

Day 6: Great Salt Lake and Departure

Your final stop is the Great Salt Lake—famous for its unique ecosystem and surreal landscape. You’re advised to leave by 10 AM to catch your flight, which makes for a relaxed morning before heading home.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Value

The tour’s included transportation is in a high-roof van or bus, which makes long drives more comfortable and provides ample space for luggage and comfort. Hotel stays at the Clarion Inn are functional, with rooms accommodating 2-3 guests, offering a practical base after long days of sightseeing.

Considering the price of $1,398 per person, this tour offers quite a lot: all park entry fees, guided commentary, comfortable transportation, and hotels. While it doesn’t include meals or personal expenses, the fact that you’re paying mostly upfront for the major costs simplifies your budget planning.

Many reviews agree that the value is good, especially when you factor in the extensive list of attractions you see in just six days. The guides are often praised—for their knowledge, friendliness, and effort to keep everyone informed and comfortable.

The Experience of the Guides and the Group

Several reviews highlight the importance of good guides. For example, Chris and Johnny received praise for their thoroughness, friendliness, and cultural sensitivity. One reviewer noted that Johnny used both English and Mandarin to keep everyone engaged, a nice touch for a diverse group.

One traveler mentioned that the driver, Edisun, was very conscientious but followed the program strictly, sometimes missing out on optional stops like Bighorn Forest Viewpoint. Still, most appreciated the detailed commentary during the tour.

The group size tends to be moderate, making it manageable to stay engaged without feeling lost in a crowd. The mix of languages and backgrounds can be a bonding experience, especially with guides who make an effort to communicate clearly.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable clothing and layers: Yellowstone and Grand Teton can have variable weather, even in summer.
• Plan your flights carefully: The tour ends by noon on the last day, so book flights after 12 PM.
• Self-check-in for your hotel: Since no airport pickup is included, arrange your own transfer from Salt Lake City Airport.
• Be ready for long drives: The itinerary covers multiple states, so a good attitude and snacks are recommended.
• Expect busy days: If you prefer more downtime or want to explore each site in depth, this might feel a bit fast-paced.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is a solid choice if you want a guided, all-in-one sightseeing experience that hits all the big-ticket attractions. It’s particularly suited for those who value expert commentary and convenience over a slow-paced, exploratory style. Since the tour is suitable for all ages, it can work for families or older travelers, as long as you’re comfortable with a tight schedule.

However, if you’re someone who loves spending extra days at each park or exploring off the beaten path, you might find this tour too rushed. It’s also a good pick for budget-conscious travelers who want to avoid the hassle of booking each component separately.

FAQs

Is airport pickup included?
No, the tour starts with your own check-in at the hotel in Salt Lake City. You will need to arrange transportation from the airport to the hotel yourself.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel stays for five nights, all park entry fees (Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Mount Rushmore), transportation in a high-roof van or bus, and the guided tour.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to budget for food and any personal expenses during the trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The description says it’s suitable for all ages and that children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women under 24 weeks can participate, so it’s also suitable for families or travelers with children.

How long are the travel days?
You can expect long days, with many scenic stops and sightseeing sessions. The drives between major sites can be quite lengthy, so prepare for some bus time.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 4 days in advance for a full refund. Just be sure to communicate with the provider and follow their cancellation process.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this 6-day Salt Lake City to Yellowstone and surrounding landmarks tour offers a well-organized, value-packed experience that covers the highlights of a region filled with natural and cultural marvels. Many travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the convenience of included fees and accommodations.

It’s best suited for those who want to see everything without the stress of planning or driving, and who are comfortable with a busy schedule. If your priority is quality sightseeing, good value, and a guided approach, this tour can be a really satisfying way to spend six days exploring the American West.

If you’re after a more leisurely trip or want to explore beyond the main sights, you might want to consider a more flexible option. But for a taste of Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore, and the Tetons in a compact package, this tour hits most of the must-see spots.

You can check availability for your dates here: