Yellowstone, Grand Teton & Grand Circle: 9-Day Seven-Park Road Trip from Salt Lake City
Nine days, seven parks and a handful of unforgettable landscapes: geothermal basins, jagged Tetons, red-rock canyons, and canyon rims that make you reconsider scale. This guided loop from Salt Lake City pairs scenic drives with optional hikes, wildlife viewing, and seasonal extras like lake cruises or Antelope Canyon.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for big temperature swings
Mornings at high elevation can be cold even in summer; bring an insulating mid-layer and a waterproof shell for afternoon storms.
Give wildlife space
Stay at least 100 yards from bears and 25 yards from bison and elk; use binoculars provided rather than approaching animals.
Permit check for Angel’s Landing
Angel’s Landing requires a permit; if that’s a priority, enter the lottery or plan alternative hikes like Canyon Overlook.
Hydrate and pace yourself
High elevation increases dehydration; carry 1–2 liters of water each day and snack regularly to maintain energy for canyon walks and boardwalk loops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Antelope Island’s shorelines for sunrise bison silhouettes
- •Montezuma’s Well near Sedona for a quiet archeological site and rare springs
Wildlife
- •American bison
- •Elk (seasonally)
Conservation Note
Follow Leave No Trace and park rules closely; thermal features and fragile desert crusts are sensitive—stay on boardwalks and avoid off-trail travel to reduce impact.
The route traces both volcanic and human history—Yellowstone sits on a caldera that shaped the basin, while Mormon settlers and Indigenous nations shaped settlement patterns across the corridor.
Photographer's Notes
- • Grand Prismatic Spring overlook
- • Horseshoe Bend rim
- • Jackson Lake shoreline beneath the Tetons
What to Bring
Daypack with water reservoirEssential
Keeps hydration, layers, and camera gear accessible during short hikes and viewpoint stops.
Sturdy hiking shoes (trail runners or boots)Essential
Provides traction on boardwalks, slick sandstone, and uneven trails like Navajo/Queen’s Garden.
Insulating mid-layer and waterproof shellEssential
Layering manages rapid temperature and weather changes across elevations.
Binoculars
Handy for distant wildlife and scanning geothermal basins without crowding sensitive areas.
Common Questions
Are park entrance fees included?
Yes—park entrance fees are included in the tour price as listed in the itinerary inclusions.
Can I choose Antelope Canyon or the Page Cessna tour?
Yes—guests choose one complimentary seasonal activity (Antelope Canyon tour with a Navajo guide or a Page area plane flight) at booking or during confirmation.
Is bear spray provided or required?
Bear spray is not provided; guests traveling in Yellowstone country should carry their own and know how to use it—your guides will brief on wildlife safety.
How much driving is involved each day?
Daily driving varies; the full loop totals roughly 1,800–2,200 miles with several 2–6 hour drive segments between major parks and towns.
Are hikes strenuous?
Most included hikes are short to moderate (0.5–4 miles); there are optional strenuous routes like Angel’s Landing that require higher fitness and a permit.
What if I need pickup from Salt Lake City Airport?
Airport pick-up from SLC is offered with scheduled pick-up windows; late arrivals may require itinerary adjustments or extra fees—confirm arrival times when booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9 days
Location
Salt Lake City, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
You should be comfortable walking 2–4 miles with elevation gain on some days and tolerate long periods in a vehicle; basic stamina and mobility for short hikes is sufficient.
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