5 Day Temple Square Shared Minivan Tour

Introducing the 5 Day Temple Square Shared Minivan Tour

If you’re dreaming of a road trip through some of America’s most stunning landscapes, this 5-day small-group adventure might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a comfortable journey with luxury van seating, visits to famed natural wonders, and even two nights inside Yellowstone’s lodges.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the intimate group size keeps the experience personal and relaxed. Second, the carefully curated stops span from Zion’s dramatic cliffs to the geothermal marvels of Yellowstone. Lastly, the inclusion of lodging within Yellowstone offers a rare opportunity to experience the park beyond just a day visit.

A key consideration? The price of $1,708 per person packs in a lot, but it’s worth weighing whether the included accommodation and access to major sights justify the cost. This tour is perfect for travelers craving a well-organized, immersive experience with a mix of natural beauty and cultural highlights.

Good To Know

Comfort and Convenience: Luxury van seating and hotel stays within Yellowstone make for a hassle-free adventure.
Diverse Landscapes: From Zion’s towering red rocks to Yellowstone’s geothermal features, it’s a visual feast.
Expert Guidance: The presence of professional guides ensures you get insightful commentary and smooth logistics.
Time-Efficient Itinerary: Covering major sites in 5 days means a packed but manageable schedule.
Limited Group Size: Small groups mean more personalized attention and fewer crowds.
Value for Money: Lodging, transportation, and guided tours included provide a comprehensive experience.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Zion National Park & Seven Magic Mountains

Starting from Los Angeles, your first stop is Zion — Utah’s flagship national park. Covering 229 square miles, Zion is celebrated for its towering cliffs, steep canyons, and vibrant rock formations. You can expect to spend about an hour and a half exploring Zion’s scenic viewpoints, hiking options depending on your energy level, or simply soaking in the vistas. The guide will likely share interesting facts about Zion’s geological history — a must for photography enthusiasts or nature lovers.

Then, just 30 miles south, you’ll visit the Seven Magic Mountains art installation. These seven colorful, stacked boulders make for an eye-catching photo-op in the desert landscape. The time here is brief — about 30 minutes — but it’s a fun contrast to the natural scenery, adding an artistic touch to your day.

Day 2: Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend & Lake Powell

Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon carved by erosion, is famed for its swirling, wave-like formations and the beams of light that pierce through narrow openings. While the tour mentions that the admission ticket isn’t included, most travelers find this addition worth considering, as it’s one of the most photographed spots in Arizona.

Next, you’ll visit Horseshoe Bend, recognized as one of America’s top photography locations. The view of the Colorado River curving around the cliffside is stunning and best captured from the outlook. The included admission makes this stop easy to access.

Finally, a quick stop at Lake Powell offers a chance to appreciate its vastness and crystal-clear waters. While no admission fee is required, the scenic surroundings add to the overall experience.

Day 3: Salt Lake & Yellowstone Begins

The day kicks off with the Great Salt Lake, the second-largest saltwater lake worldwide. Its expansive, shimmering surface creates an otherworldly feel. Here, about 30 minutes are devoted to absorbing this unique landscape.

Optional visits include Yellowstone Bear World, a drive-through wildlife park that features bears, bison, and elk. It’s a flexible stop, with the guide accommodating guest interest — a nice touch for wildlife lovers.

The highlight of the day is Old Faithful Geyser. Named for its predictability, Old Faithful erupts roughly every 90 minutes, shooting water up to 180 feet into the air. The 1.5-hour visit allows time for viewing the eruption and exploring the geothermal area, which is packed with bubbling mud pots and steaming vents.

Day 4: Exploring Yellowstone’s Core

This day dives deep into Yellowstone’s iconic features. You’ll visit Yellowstone Lake, the park’s largest high-altitude body of water, and Hayden Valley, renowned for wildlife viewing.

The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is a breathtaking sight, with the Upper and Lower Falls creating dramatic waterfalls framed by colorful canyon walls. Artist Point provides a spectacular vantage point overlooking this natural masterpiece.

The tour includes multiple stops at geothermal hotspots, including Yellowstone Hot Springs and Mammoth Hot Springs, where mineral terraces and steaming pools showcase the park’s volcanic activity. The Roosevelt Arch at the park’s north entrance rounds out the day with a historical touch.

Day 5: Teton National Park & Salt Lake City Highlights

The final day starts with the geothermal West Thumb Geyser Basin beside Yellowstone Lake, offering peaceful views of bubbling pools and thermal activity.

Next, Grand Teton National Park beckons with rugged peaks and pristine lakes. Its famous peaks are a favorite for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The 1.5-hour stop allows for a taste of the Teton wilderness.

Finally, the tour concludes in Salt Lake City with a visit to the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square. The Capitol’s neoclassical architecture and the spiritual significance of Temple Square provide cultural insights into Utah’s history and faith.

What Travelers Will Love About This Tour

Knowledgeable Guides and Smooth Logistics
The presence of professional guides makes a big difference. They don’t just drive — they share insights about geology, history, and local stories, enriching the experience. Multiple reviews mention guides’ expertise and friendly attitude, making complex sites easier to understand and appreciate.

Breathtaking Views and Iconic Sites
From Zion’s majestic cliffs to Yellowstone’s geothermal marvels, the scenery is truly memorable. Many travelers appreciated the opportunity to see these landmarks with minimal hassle, thanks to the well-planned stops and included admissions.

Comfort and Convenience
Traveling in a luxury van with small groups means more space, less crowding, and a more personal experience. The two nights spent inside Yellowstone’s lodges are a highlight — a rare chance to sleep within the park rather than just visit as a day trip.

Well-Balanced Itinerary
The schedule strikes a good balance between sightseeing, rest, and travel time. It’s intensive but manageable, giving you enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Potential Considerations

While the tour offers lots of value, it’s important to remember that it’s quite packed. Some travelers might find certain days long, especially with early starts and full days of sightseeing.

The price may seem steep, but when factoring in the included accommodations, guided tours, and entrance fees, it becomes easier to justify. However, you should consider whether optional activities like Antelope Canyon are worth additional costs depending on your interests.

Weather can also influence your experience — some sites like Antelope Canyon are best viewed in certain lighting conditions, and hot or rainy days might impact your enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day tour provides an all-encompassing snapshot of some of the Southwest and Yellowstone’s most stunning sites, with an emphasis on comfort, expert guidance, and small-group intimacy. It’s ideal for travelers who want a curated experience that combines natural beauty with cultural insights without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

The inclusion of Yellowstone lodges makes it uniquely appealing — you wake up inside one of the world’s most remarkable parks, not just visit it. If you’re looking for a hassle-free, immersive adventure with plenty of opportunities to photograph and learn, this tour offers good value.

This experience suits those with a moderate to high budget who appreciate guided tours, are comfortable with a busy schedule, and want to maximize their time in these iconic destinations. For anyone craving a structured but authentic journey through some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes, it’s a compelling choice.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for the entire tour?
Yes, your journey from Los Angeles to Salt Lake City is covered in a professional, insured tour vehicle, making logistics seamless.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included. You’ll need to budget for food, but there may be opportunities to purchase meals during stops.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but the itinerary involves some walking at sites like Zion, Antelope Canyon, and Yellowstone. It’s best to consider your comfort level.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and easier group management.

Are gratuities included?
Gratuities are not included, but a suggested amount of $20 per person is appreciated for guides and drivers.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for variable weather, comfortable shoes, a camera, and any personal items needed for outdoor excursions.

To sum it up, this 5-day small group tour offers a thoughtfully planned itinerary that balances natural wonders, cultural sites, and comfort. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and included lodgings, it’s well-suited for travelers eager to make the most of a short but immersive adventure through some of the most iconic landscapes in the United States. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, this trip promises memorable sights and smooth logistics at a fair value.