Yellowstone & Grand Teton 5-Day Guided Tour from Salt Lake City — Old Faithful to Jackson Hole
Five days of highways, boiling springs and serrated peaks: this fully guided Salt Lake City departure strings together Grand Teton and Yellowstone’s headline sights — Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic, Artist Point — with expert logistics and hotel nights in West Yellowstone. Expect long scenic drives, short hikes, and close-up wildlife viewing with practical guidance for every season.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for rapid weather changes
Temperatures can swing dramatically; pack a windproof shell and insulating mid-layer to be comfortable from dawn wildlife watches to midday boardwalks.
Respect wildlife distances
Stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves, and 25 yards from elk and bison; carry binoculars rather than approaching animals.
Stay on boardwalks near geothermal features
Thermal ground is fragile and scalding; all geyser basins require staying on marked paths for safety.
Hydrate for altitude
Elevations around 6,000–8,500 ft mean you’ll dehydrate faster — carry 1–2 liters for daily outings and refill whenever possible.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Oxbow Bend at first light for mirror reflections of the Tetons
- •Bechler ‘Cascade Corner’ region — remote waterfalls if you explore independently in summer
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Grizzly bear
Conservation Note
Stay on trails and boardwalks to protect fragile thermal features, never feed wildlife, and pack out all trash — visitor behavior directly affects park ecosystems.
Yellowstone was designated the world’s first national park in 1872; Grand Teton’s dramatic uplift records recent tectonic movement and has long been part of Indigenous hunting lands.
Photographer's Notes
- • Artist Point (Canyon), Oxbow Bend (Tetons), Grand Prismatic overlook from the viewing platform
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provides traction on boardwalks, rocky overlooks and short dirt trails.
Layered clothing (insulating mid-layer + waterproof shell)Essential
Necessary for sudden weather shifts and chilly mornings at elevation.
Binoculars and camera with telephoto lensEssential
Ideal for scanning Lamar Valley and photographing wildlife from a safe distance.
Sunscreen & wide-brim hatEssential
High-elevation sun is intense even on cool days — protect exposed skin.
Common Questions
Are park entrance fees included?
Most park admission fees and listed attraction tickets are included in the tour price, though optional extras like the Bonneville Salt Flats detour may incur a surcharge.
How much driving is involved each day?
Expect several hours of coach travel on travel days with frequent stops — many days include 3–6 hours of driving broken by sightseeing and short hikes.
Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
The tour includes short, accessible walks and boardwalks; however, some stops involve uneven terrain and vehicle transfers — contact the operator ahead for accessibility accommodations.
Will I see wildlife?
Yes — dawn and dusk in places like Lamar Valley offer reliable chances for bison, elk and other large mammals, though sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Can I add the Bonneville Salt Flats half-day on this trip?
Yes — a half-day Bonneville Salt Flats option is offered as a surcharge and must be selected according to the tour’s booking options.
What should I tip the guide or driver?
Tipping is customary for driver-guides; plan on $8–15 per person per day as a general guideline depending on service level.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 days
Location
West Yellowstone, Montana
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers who can handle multiple hours of light-to-moderate walking per day and tolerate long coach transfers; not strenuous but expect early starts.
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