6-Day Yellowstone, Grand Teton & Colorado Hot Springs Road Tour
Drive from Salt Lake City through Yellowstone’s steaming basins and the jagged Tetons, touch dinosaur-era fossils, and finish with a soak in Colorado’s hot springs. This six-day road tour packs geology, wildlife viewing, and alpine scenery into a single, carefully paced itinerary.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start before sunrise
Wildlife is most active at dawn—arrive early at lookout points to avoid crowds and see bison, elk, and bears from safe distances.
Bring layers for altitude swings
Temperatures can drop rapidly above 7,000 ft; pack a lightweight insulating layer and a waterproof shell.
Stay on boardwalks and marked trails
Thermal areas are fragile and dangerous—obey signs and keep children close to avoid burns or environmental damage.
Reserve hot spring time windows
Popular public hot springs and private facilities can fill; book or confirm access ahead to secure evening soak times.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lava Hot Springs, ID — smaller, less crowded pools with a classic small-town soak experience
- •Dinosaur Quarry Exhibit Hall — touch in-situ fossils and see the original sandstone slabs up close
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
Stay on trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and carry out all trash; these parks rely on visitor care to protect thermal features, fragile soils, and animal habitats.
The route crosses land shaped by vastly different eras: Yellowstone’s hydrothermal landscape stems from a supervolcano, while Dinosaur National Monument preserves river-deposited fossils from the Jurassic period.
Photographer's Notes
- • Grand Prismatic overlook (Midway Geyser Basin)
- • Jenny Lake shoreline looking at the Tetons
- • Rocky Mountain alpine viewpoints above tree line
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Good traction and ankle support are useful for boardwalks, rocky viewpoints, and short alpine trails.
Layered clothing (base, insulating, shell)Essential
Temperature and weather change quickly with elevation—layers keep you comfortable all day.
Reusable water bottle with filter or purificationEssential
High elevation and dry air increase dehydration risk; water access can be limited on long drives.
Quick-dry swimsuit and sandals
For visits to Lava Hot Springs, Yellowstone hot springs, and Steamboat Springs soaking pools.
Common Questions
How much driving is involved each day?
Expect several long driving legs—typically 3–5 hours between major stops, with full sightseeing days in Yellowstone and the Tetons.
Are meals included?
Breakfast is included for most mornings; other meals and snacks are generally the traveler's responsibility, though some snacks and water are provided.
Can children participate?
Children can join but some activities may not be suitable for those under five; notify the operator so the itinerary can be adjusted.
Will I see wildlife?
Wildlife sightings are common but not guaranteed—bison, elk, and bighorn are frequent; bears and wolves are possible but elusive.
Do I need park entrance fees?
All entrance fees are included in the tour price according to the itinerary details.
What happens in bad weather?
Itineraries may change for safety due to road or weather conditions; the operator may offer alternatives but refunds are not provided for weather-related changes.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 days
Location
Salt Lake City, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in reasonable health who can handle long days of sightseeing, short hikes, and occasional stairs or uneven surfaces.
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