Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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6-Day Yellowstone, Grand Teton & Mount Rushmore Guided Tour from Salt Lake City

6-Day Yellowstone, Grand Teton & Mount Rushmore Guided Tour from Salt Lake City

Drive from Salt Lake City into a parade of American icons—Grand Teton’s serrated skyline, Yellowstone’s steam and color, and the carved faces of Mount Rushmore—on a six-day guided loop that pairs comfortable hotels with daily, guided exploration.

Salt Lake City, Utah
6 days
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Layer for high and low elevations

Temperatures swing from near-freezing mornings to warm afternoons—bring breathable base layers and a warm insulating layer.

Stay on boardwalks

Thermal areas are fragile and dangerously hot; only walk designated boardwalks and obey signage.

Carry water and snacks for long drives

Expect multiple 3–6 hour driving segments with limited services; one large water bottle and compact snacks keep energy up.

Keep distance from wildlife

Bison and elk look calm until they don’t—observe from a distance with binoculars and never approach.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • West Thumb Geyser Basin boardwalk at dusk (fewer crowds, strong lake contrast)
  • Early-morning Artist Point views before the tour buses arrive

Wildlife

  • Bison
  • Elk

Conservation Note

Geothermal features and the shrinking Great Salt Lake are sensitive; stay on paths, carry out trash, and be mindful of water use and local guidelines.

The route threads together Indigenous cultural landscapes and pioneer routes—sites like Independence Rock preserve the inscriptions of Oregon Trail travelers while the Black Hills area holds deep significance for Lakota communities.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Sunrise, Golden hour, Early morning
Key viewpoints:
  • Grand Teton Teton Point overlook
  • Artist Point above the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
  • Grand Prismatic Spring overlook
Subjects to capture:Thermal pools and steam, Mountain silhouettes and ridgelines, Wildlife from a safe distance

What to Bring

Sturdy day hiking shoesEssential

Comfortable traction for boardwalks, short trails, and uneven overlooks.

Layered clothing (fleece + shell)Essential

Altitude and desert-like diurnal swings demand easy layers for warmth and sun protection.

BinocularsEssential

Essential for safe wildlife viewing and picking out details on distant monuments and ridgelines.

Sunscreen and wide-brim hatEssential

High altitude sun is intense even on cool days—protect skin and eyes.

Common Questions

Are park entrance fees included?

Yes—Yellowstone and Grand Teton entrance fees are included in the tour price.

How much walking is required each day?

Most stops involve short, easy walks (boardwalks, overlooks). Expect 15–60 minute walks at major sites; no long backcountry hikes are required.

Can the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?

Guides can assist with options, but meals are generally at diners and lodges—notify at booking for best accommodations.

What wildlife might we see?

Common sightings include bison and elk; sightings of bears or wolves are possible but rare—always observe from a safe distance.

Is tipping expected for the guide and driver?

Tipping is customary; consider typical ranges of $5–10 per person per day for drivers and guides depending on service.

What if I need special accessibility accommodations?

The tour notes wheelchair accessibility for some vehicles—contact the operator in advance to confirm specific needs and availability.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

6 days

Location

Salt Lake City, Utah

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Light to moderate fitness—able to handle short hikes, boardwalks, and long days of sightseeing from a vehicle.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Salt Lake City?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

Check Availability & Book Now