For this small group tour (4-15 travelers) you will be able to visit both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks in just 6 days. Let us do the work of driving, booking lodging, and getting tour guides, while you sit back and focus on the beauty of these national parks. With this tour, you will also get to enjoy natural hot springs, camp and BBQ in Grand Teton National Park, and get a complimentary seasonal activity to enjoy. We also recommend looking at our seasonal complimentary activities and planning your tour during the time frame your favorite one is in.
4-10 People
Salt Lake City
All Routes will end the day in a SLC hotel
Temple Square*
Temple Square is often seen as the heart of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), also known as the Mormons. Back in the late 1840s when LDS pioneers first reached Utah, the prophet of the time, Brigham Young, decided to build a temple so that there would be a safe place for the Saints to worship. From there, the church grew outwards across Utah, then throughout the United States, and then throughout the world. Temple Square is still the global headquarters for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to this day. Besides the Salt Lake City temple, Temple Square also contains other historic buildings such as the Tabernacle, the Beehive House, and the Conference Center.
Utah State Capitol*
Modeled after the US Capitol Building in Washington DC, the Utah State Capitol Building is stunning. This brilliant piece of architecture is the center of government for all of Utah, containing the chambers for the Utah State Legislature, the chamber for the Utah Supreme Court, and the office for the Utah Governor. In addition to its important role as the seat of government for all of Utah, the Capitol Building also holds incredible pieces of artwork depicting the history of the state.
Antelope Island State Park
With three sides surrounded by the Great Salt Lake, this island park is home to many wildlife, from the pronghorn antelope the island was named after, to bison and bighorn sheep. For those travelers interested in birdwatching, this is a great place to spot different types of birds, especially during the spring and fall seasons. If time permits, we will also have an opportunity to swim in the lake. This attraction may also be possible at the end of the trip, depending on the timing of departure flights.
Hill Aerospace Museum
Hill Aerospace Museum is the perfect place to learn about the history of military airplanes in the US. Containing over 100 planes ranging from the World War I Curtiss JN-4D to the "stealth fighter" Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk, there is something here for everyone. In addition to military airplanes, you'll also have a chance to see other exhibits featuring the World War II American Indian Code Talkers and the Wright Flier.
Idaho Falls
After starting the day with a drive, we will arrive at Idaho Falls for lunch. We will also be able to check out the long man made waterfall that the town was named after.
Mesa Falls
Mesa Falls stands out as one of the last natural waterfalls on the Snake River, untouched by dams or development. Lower Mesa Falls tumbles through volcanic rock, its waters cutting into layers of solidified lava. Upstream, Upper Mesa Falls plunges over remnants of an ancient eruption, a dramatic reminder of the region’s fiery geologic past.
Yellowstone
Spanning nearly 3,500 miles over 3 states, Yellowstone National Park is one the world's largest national parks. The park is home to nearly half of the world's thermal features. Additionally, see the only herd of bison dating to prehistoric times as well as bears, wolves and other animal life.
Over the next few days we will visit the following 18 main attractions in Yellowstone:
1. Old Faithful
2. Grand Prismatic Spring
3. Yellowstone Lake
4. The Grand Canyon of the Yellows
5. Mammoth Hot Springs
6. West Thumb Geyser Basin in the Geyser Basin
7. Geyser Basin in Norris Intercontinental Basin
8. Mud Volcano
9. Fishing Bridge Basin
10. Yellowstone River
11. Upper Interval Basin Upper Geyser Basin
12. Upper Midway Geyser Basin
13. Madison River
14. Sheepeater Cliffs
15. Hayden Valley
16. North Gate Arch (Temporarily closed due to 2022 Flooding)
17. Biscuit Basin
18. Gibbon Falls
Travel Tips: Yellowstone National Park sits on a volcanic area, which means geothermal features (like hot springs and geysers) are common near trails and bridges. Scenic spots are generally a 30-minute walk apart, so we recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes.
West Yellowstone
West Yellowstone is a small town immediately west of Yellowstone National Park. After arriving in West Yellowstone, you’ll be able to eat dinner and then explore the town’s many gift shops. Finally, we’ll drop you off at your hotel, giving you time to rest and prepare before the next day’s journey.
Today marks the first full day of exploring Yellowstone National Park. Depending on travel conditions or your preference, your tour guide will either take you to see Northern or Southern Yellowstone today.
Optional Activities (not included in the tour price)
Horseback Riding overlooking the Tetons OR Horseback Riding in Yellowstone Valley
Note: Riders must be 6 years old. Dates and times may vary depending on weather, trail conditions, and scheduling.
Here is our second full day visiting Yellowstone National Park. Depending on which route was taken the previous day, all remaining scenic destinations will be visited in today’s adventure.
Grand Teton National Park
Your tour guide will drive you through Yellowstone and reach Grand Teton National Park. This national park gets its name from the Teton Mountains that run through the park, one of the youngest mountain ranges in North America. We will take you to these mountains as well as Jackson Lake and Jenny Lake. Here you will have a chance of seeing moose, wolves, coyotes, bighorn sheep, mule deer, bison, elk, bison and more of the natural wildlife that inhibits the area. Take a cruise on Jackson Lake while also getting a good view of Mount Moran. Learn a bit about local history, geology, and folklore and take in the sights, With knowledgeable guides, you will also learn about the flora and fauna that surrounds the lake.
Jenny Lake
Jenny Lake is the second largest lake in the Greater Tetons and one of the most important attractions in the West. It is most famous for wild game and walking on the trail near Jenny Lake (10km in length). Also, enjoy a tour boat to the other side of the lake and then take the short trail called Point Trail.
*Season tickets must be booked in advance.
Complimentary Activities (pick one of the activities below)
White Water Rafting: Tackle the Class II-III rapids of the Snake River or Yellowstone river, keeping your eyes peeled for bald eagles, osprey, and great blue herons.
Fly Fishing: Cast your line into the pristine waters of the Snake River or Yellowstone River, known for their healthy populations of trout.
Jackson Hole
If any time remains, we will visit a quaint Western town in Wyoming called Jackson Hole, known for its artwork and antler arches. Head on down to Town Square where 19th century log cabins sit side by side with contemporary Western architecture while exploring the downtown area.
Following the day’s adventure, your tour guide will either take you to a hotel in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, or to a campsite just outside of Grand Teton National Park, depending on preference.
If camping (optional): Your tour guide will set up camp and prepare dinner, allowing you to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Depending on the itinerary, there may be a BBQ dinner at Grant Campground. Vegetarian diets can be accommodated with prior request. If you would like to secure the BBQ dinner, please contact us so we can make a that a priority.
Jackson Hole
After departing from your campsite or hotel, your guide will take you on or finish your tour of Jackson Hole and the area around it. Since Jackson Hole is the southern entrance, we will be able so spend a bit more time in Grand Teton National Park as well. Here you can take pictures of Mormon Row and hike up to Snake River Overlook, following the footsteps of conservationist, photographer and writer, Ansel Adams.
Some Restaurant recommendations (at your own expense and reservation)
Snake River Grill
Local Restaurant and Bar (“Local” is a part of the restaurant's name)
White Buffalo Club
Mangy Moose Steakhouse and Saloon
National Elf Refuge
Most of the elk depart from the refuge in late April to go to their summer grazing grounds. Once the elk are gone, they leave a vast open landscape with incredible views of the plains and rolling hills of glacial outwash.
Lava Hot Springs
Here, we’ll take some time to relax and soak in natural mineral hot springs. The water temperatures range from 102–112°F, offering a soothing and rejuvenating experience.
Note: Depending on time and group preferences, guests who choose not to participate in the hot springs activities may have the option to visit alternate destinations such as Bear Lake State Park, the American West Heritage Center, or the Bear River Bird Refuge. This refuge is known for offering some of the most exceptional water bird viewing opportunities in the western United States.
Salt Lake City
We will then head south, returning to Salt Lake City. When you arrive to Salt Lake city, the tour guide will either drop you off at the airport or at a hotel of your choosing.
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Looking for more info? Send a question to the tour agent to find out more.
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