7 -Day Tour from Las Vegas to Yellowstone National Park

Exploring the 7-Day From Salt Lake City to Yellowstone and Beyond: A Practical Review

Traveling through some of America’s most breathtaking sights in just a week sounds ambitious — and with this 7-day tour from Salt Lake City, it’s a real possibility. This organized adventure offers a chance to see the grandeur of Yellowstone, the Black Hills’ iconic monuments, and even a taste of Las Vegas, all with a guided group.

What We Love About This Tour
First, the convenience of organized transportation and guided tours means you can relax and enjoy the sights without stressing about logistics. Second, the tour hits key attractions — from Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring to Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse — ensuring a well-rounded exploration of top landmarks. Lastly, the value for money is noteworthy, especially considering the included park fees, guided commentary, and hotel stays.

One consideration: the itinerary is quite packed, which might mean limited time at some stops. If you’re someone who loves lingering over each view or exploring at a leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Nevertheless, the tour suits travelers eager to tick off major sights in a short timeframe, especially solo travelers or those new to American national parks.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore, Devils Tower, and Las Vegas highlights.
• All-Inclusive Value: Covers most entrance fees, guiding services, and accommodations.
• Group Travel Advantage: Suitable for solo travelers and small groups wanting to meet like-minded adventurers.
• Variety of Sights: From geothermal wonders to iconic monuments and stunning mountain vistas.
• Travel Logistics: Organized transport and hotel stays simplify the journey, but expect a dynamic schedule.
• Active Days: Expect a mix of sightseeing, walking tours, and short hikes at some stops.

The Itinerary: An In-Depth Look

Day 1: Arrival in Salt Lake City

Your adventure begins with arrival in Salt Lake City. The tour starts with guests checking into the Clarion Inn Salt Lake City Airport, a conveniently located hotel close to the airport. Since this day doesn’t include activities, it’s a good time to relax, prepare your camera, and get ready for an early start the next day.

Day 2: Jackson, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone

This day kicks off with a visit to the Elk Antler Arches Square in Jackson, a quirky and memorable spot made entirely of elk antlers. The reviewer Anthony mentions that this is “an unforgettable place to discover,” and it’s a fun photo op that captures the spirit of Wyoming.

Next, the tour heads into Grand Teton National Park — famed for its towering peaks and shimmering lakes. With just about an hour here, you’ll get a taste of its majestic scenery. The guide’s commentary, as noted by reviewers, is usually well-informed and adds context to the stunning views.

In the afternoon, Yellowstone takes center stage. Stops include West Thumb Geyser Basin, Old Faithful, and the Grand Prismatic Spring. The geysers are predictable but always fascinating, with Old Faithful erupting roughly every 91 minutes. The Grand Prismatic, with its vibrant colors, is particularly photogenic and often considered Yellowstone’s poster child.

Day 3: Exploring Yellowstone’s Geothermal Marvels and Canyons

Yellowstone’s volcanic landscape is vast. The day includes visits to Norris Geyser Basin, known as the hottest geyser basin, and Upper Yellowstone Falls, which drops 109 feet. Artist Point offers panoramic views of the canyon’s colorful walls, often described as “spectacular,” providing excellent photo opportunities.

The Mud Volcano area, despite its less glamorous name, offers insight into Yellowstone’s geothermal activity. The tour moves through the Hayden Valley, famous for wildlife sightings, and the Fishing Bridge area, rounding out the day’s exploration.

Day 4: Devils Tower, Mount Rushmore, and Crazy Horse

A different type of natural wonder awaits with the Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming. Known for its distinctive hexagonal columns, it’s a striking sight. One reviewer highlights that the tower “rises 1,267 feet above the valley,” and the unique igneous rock formations make it a bucket-list photo spot.

Then, the tour moves south to South Dakota for Mount Rushmore, where you can get up close with the colossal faces of four U.S. presidents carved into the granite. The experience is both awe-inspiring and convenient — the 1.5-hour stop allows plenty of time for photos and exploring the visitor center.

Finally, the Crazy Horse Memorial offers a glimpse into Native American culture and ongoing monument construction. While still a work in progress, it provides a meaningful contrast to Mount Rushmore’s finished grandeur.

Day 5: Historic Landmarks and Salt Lake City

This day begins with a visit to Independence Rock — a key trail landmark for pioneers heading west. It’s a brief stop but packed with history, especially for those interested in America’s westward expansion.

Later, you’ll see Utah’s State Capitol, an impressive building symbolizing Utah’s governance, followed by a walk through Temple Square in Salt Lake City, home to the Mormon historic sites. Both are free attractions and provide insight into the local culture.

Day 6: The Great Salt Lake and Las Vegas

The Great Salt Lake is an extraordinary sight — the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, known for its high salinity and unique landscape. Expect a quick visit that allows for photos and a taste of Utah’s natural beauty.

The optional evening tour in Las Vegas features the famous Strip, with highlights like the Mirage Volcano and Bellagio Fountains. While only about 3 hours, it offers a lively snapshot of Sin City’s vibrant nightlife.

Day 7: Las Vegas Highlights and Outlets

Your final day offers a chance to visit the Las Vegas Welcome Sign for classic photos, explore Seven Magic Mountains, and do some shopping at Barstow Outlets. For those ending their trip in Vegas, the tour provides a fun, scenic send-off with options for optional activities like the FlyOver Las Vegas experience.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Group Dynamics

The tour utilizes professional vehicles tailored to the group size, providing comfortable transportation across long distances. The accommodations are based on hotel rooms for 2-4 travelers, with options for those wanting separate rooms or larger groups. Many reviewers note the hotels are generally convenient and well-located, though some mention the rooms are typical for group tours — functional but not luxurious.

The group size is capped at 55, which helps keep the experience intimate without feeling crowded. Traveling with a guide ensures commentary that enhances visits, especially at sites like Yellowstone, where understanding the geothermal activity adds depth to the experience.

The Value and Price Point

At $1,232 per person, this tour offers solid value considering most major entrance fees are included, along with guiding services and hotel stays. This kind of all-in-one package saves travelers from the hassle of booking each component separately, especially when visiting popular and sometimes crowded sites like Yellowstone or Mount Rushmore.

From the reviews, it’s clear that many find the guides knowledgeable and the itinerary well-paced for a group adventure. The inclusion of attractions like Devil’s Tower and Crazy Horse adds uniqueness that many other tours might skip.

However, the packed schedule means you’ll need to be comfortable with early mornings and limited downtime. For travelers eager to see all the highlights in a short window, the tour strikes a good balance between comprehensive sightseeing and manageable travel days.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 7-day tour from Salt Lake City caters well to solo travelers, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a taste of the American West’s most famous sights without the hassle of planning. It’s ideal if you value guided insights, convenience, and covering a broad area in a limited time. Those seeking a relaxing, leisurely exploration might find the schedule a little tight, but for adventurous souls eager to see as much as possible, it’s a fantastic option.

If you’re keen on exploring stunning landscapes, iconic monuments, and vibrant cities all within one trip, this tour offers a practical, value-packed experience with memorable sights and friendly guides.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is friendly for solo travelers, with group discounts and the opportunity to meet others during the trip.

Are all accommodations included in the price?
The tour includes 6 nights of hotel stays, with rooms based on double or king-sized beds, accommodating up to four guests per room.

Can I end the tour in Las Vegas?
Yes, the tour ends in Las Vegas, and guests are asked to notify the provider if they plan to leave in Vegas, as it may affect the itinerary.

What attractions are included in the tour?
Most major attractions like Yellowstone’s geysers, Grand Teton, Devils Tower, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, and the Great Salt Lake are included, with fees covered.

Is transportation provided throughout?
Yes, professional vehicles are used based on the number of guests, making travel between sites comfortable and efficient.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is optional and available during the trip, but other food and beverages are not included in the package.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, cash, and drinks for hydration. Be prepared for outdoor activities and variable weather.

This 7-day guided journey offers a neat package for those wanting to see the highlights of Yellowstone, the Black Hills, and Las Vegas with minimal fuss. It’s a practical choice for travelers who prioritize value, guided insight, and a balanced mix of natural wonders and historic landmarks.