6-Day Yellowstone and Mount Rushmore Tour from Salt Lake City

Planning a trip that covers some of America’s most celebrated landmarks can feel overwhelming. This 6-day guided tour from Salt Lake City promises to streamline the experience, taking you through jaw-dropping scenery, historic monuments, and geothermal wonders — all with expert guidance and comfortable accommodations.

What we love about this tour is its well-balanced itinerary that maximizes sightseeing without making you feel rushed. The standout features include the incredible variety of sights—from Yellowstone’s geysers to the Black Hills’ massive sculptures—and the ease of having all logistics handled, so you can focus on the views. Plus, with a small group size (up to 55 travelers), you get a more personal experience.

That said, it’s a hefty itinerary with a lot of driving, which might not suit those looking for a more relaxed pace. Still, if you’re eager to see nature’s masterpieces across a broad swath of the American West, this tour offers good value and memorable moments.

Who will love this? Adventure seekers, photography enthusiasts, and history buffs eager to soak in natural beauty and American icons all in one trip will find this tour fitting.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation ensures a smooth ride through long drives
• Expert-guided sightseeing enhances your understanding of each landmark
• Stunning views and landmarks like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Mount Rushmore
• Well-structured itinerary balances activity and rest over 6 days
• All entry fees included make planning easier
• Limited group size fosters a more intimate experience

The Details of the 6-Day Adventure

This tour offers a comprehensive look at some of the most iconic landscapes in the western United States. It’s designed to blend natural wonders, historic sites, and cultural landmarks into an accessible package for travelers eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail.

Day 1: Arrival in Salt Lake City

Your journey begins with a flight into Salt Lake City, a hub that offers easy access and a mix of urban charm and outdoor appeal. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and assisted in reaching your hotel (the Clarion Inn Salt Lake City Air). Check-in begins at 3 pm, giving you a little time to relax before the adventure kicks off the next day.

Day 2: Yellowstone’s Geothermal Marvels

The first real day of exploring starts early, with a roughly six-hour drive into Yellowstone. The group stops at Flying J Travel Center—a quick restroom break and a chance to stretch your legs—before heading into the park.

Your first Yellowstone highlights include Jackson Town Square, renowned for its elk antler arches and rustic charm, and stunning views from Teton Point Overlook, which offers a sweeping vista of the Teton Range. Here, expect plenty of opportunities for photos and a chance to get your bearings in this breathtaking landscape.

The day ramps up with visits to West Thumb Geyser Basin, where colorful hot springs and steaming fumaroles create a surreal landscape, and Old Faithful, the most famous geyser in Yellowstone. Reviewing feedback from past travelers, we know that the geyser erupts roughly every 90 minutes—so timing your visit to see it in action is key. The surrounding boardwalks and geothermal features make it a must-see.

The tour also includes Grand Prismatic Spring, which impresses with its rainbow hues and depth of color. Fountain Paint Pot, with its bubbling mud pots and geysers, showcases Yellowstone’s geothermal activity at its most active. These stops are especially popular with photographers, as the vibrant colors and dynamic landscapes demand your attention.

Day 3: Exploring Yellowstone’s Depths

The next morning continues the Yellowstone adventure, with visits to Norris Geyser Basin, one of the hottest and most dynamic geothermal areas in the park. Reviewers note that Norris is a “hotspot” of activity, with steaming vents and colorful pools.

Further exploration includes the Upper Yellowstone Falls, where you can stand at The Brink, feeling the power of the rushing water beneath you. Artist Point provides an iconic view of the Lower Falls framed by the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone—often described as a ‘must-photograph’ spot.

The day wraps with a visit to Mud Volcano, a bubbling, sulfuric landscape that exemplifies Yellowstone’s geothermal vigor. Travelers have appreciated the moderate hikes here, which offer close-up views of bubbling mud pots and steaming vents.

Day 4: From Yellowstone to the Black Hills

Leaving Yellowstone behind, you’ll travel to Wyoming to visit Devils Tower, a striking monolith that rises over 1,200 feet above the valley. A reviewer praised the “hexagonal columns” of Devils Tower, calling it “truly unique and rare.” Many note it’s also a sacred site for Native American tribes, adding cultural significance to the natural wonder.

The journey continues south to Mount Rushmore, where the carved faces of four U.S. presidents await. This spot needs little introduction, but travelers often comment on the impressive scale and artistry of the sculptures. The tour includes about 1.5 hours here, enough for photos and a decent overview.

Next is Crazy Horse Memorial, still under construction, but already awe-inspiring. The ongoing sculpture honors Native American heritage and offers a museum that adds context to this cultural landmark. Visitors tend to enjoy the combination of history and artistry.

Day 5: Historic Trails and Cultural Landmarks

This day takes you through Wyoming’s historic landmarks, starting at Independence Rock—an iconic Oregon Trail milestone. Reviewers find it fascinating to stand on a piece of pioneer history, imagining the hundreds of thousands of travelers who passed this way.

The drive continues through Green River, with a break for lunch, before arriving back in Salt Lake City. Here, you’ll explore the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square, where the architecture and gardens offer a peaceful contrast to the wilderness.

Day 6: The Salty Finale

Your final stop is the Great Salt Lake, often called “America’s Dead Sea” for its high salinity and unique landscape. Expect panoramic views and an otherworldly atmosphere—something different from the lush parks and mountains visited earlier.

After soaking in the scenery, the tour concludes with transfer to Salt Lake City International Airport. Most travelers book flights after 12 pm on the last day, giving ample time from the tour’s end to catch their flights.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Value

Travel is in a comfortable high-roof van or bus, with air conditioning and enough space for all travelers. The small group size of up to 55 people fosters a more personal atmosphere, which is appreciated in busy parks and scenic stops.

Accommodations include 5 nights in well-located hotels, offering decent comfort and convenience. All entry fees to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Mount Rushmore, and Crazy Horse are included, which simplifies budgeting and ensures you won’t face surprise costs.

At $1,398 per person, this tour offers good value considering the scope of sights and included features. When you factor in expert guides, seamless transportation, and park fees, it’s a cost-effective way to see a large swath of the American West without the hassle of self-planning.

Real Insights from Past Travelers

Many reviewers highlighted the knowledgeable guides—especially praising “Mr. Yang,” who managed time well and kept the group engaged. One noted that “Edison, the driver, was very skilled,” especially in Yellowstone’s sometimes tricky roads. The guides’ enthusiasm and expertise add a lot to the experience, turning a sightseeing trip into a mini-lesson on geology and history.

They also appreciated the pacing; even with long drives, there’s enough time to enjoy the stops and take photos. However, some travelers mentioned that the heavy driving can be tiring, so it’s best suited for those prepared for several hours in transit each day.

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing—the weather can vary significantly across parks. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat are must-haves for outdoor sightseeing. Also, since meals are not included, packing snacks or planning for meals at stops like Jackson or Cody can be helpful.

Book your flights to arrive in Salt Lake City by early afternoon on Day 1 and depart after 12 pm on Day 6 for a smooth experience. Make sure to confirm your pick-up details ahead of time, as transportation to the meeting point isn’t included.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience of the American West’s natural and cultural highlights. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer having logistics handled and enjoy learning from knowledgeable guides.

Travelers with a sense of adventure and an appreciation for scenic drives will find this itinerary rewarding. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace with fewer long drives, this might feel a bit packed.

It’s also a great choice for first-timers to Yellowstone and the Black Hills, as it offers highlights that are difficult to see independently in such a short period.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day tour from Salt Lake City hits many of the must-see sights in the western US, combining natural beauty, iconic monuments, and history into one package. The value is evident in the included park entry fees, expert guides, and comfortable transportation—making it a practical choice for those eager to tick off several bucket-list destinations without the stress of planning.

While the schedule is busy, it’s designed to give you a full taste of these extraordinary landscapes. If you’re after an immersive, well-organized journey with a friendly group, this trip delivers on all fronts.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed adventure perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to see a lot in a short time. It’s especially recommended for those who prioritize guided comfort and want to maximize their sightseeing opportunities.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The cost covers 5 nights of hotel accommodations, all park entry fees (Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Mount Rushmore), transportation in a comfortable van or bus, and a professional guide.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not part of the package, so travelers should plan accordingly for breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trip.

How long are the drives each day?
Most days involve several hours of driving—around 6 hours on Day 2 and similar durations on other days—so be prepared for long road time.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
Hotel rooms are equipped with either two full/double beds or a king/queen bed, with a maximum occupancy of four per room.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women can join if under 24 weeks by the trip’s end.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, sun protection, cash or cards for meals, and snacks for the day are recommended.