Mt Rushmore Yellowstone and Arches National Parks 6 day Tour

Discover the Majestic Landscapes of the American West in 6 Days

This comprehensive 6-day tour through Denver, Mount Rushmore, Yellowstone, and Arches offers travelers a chance to see some of the most iconic sights in the United States. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal an adventure packed with stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and plenty of opportunities for memorable moments.

What we love most? The chance to witness legendary landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Old Faithful, the diversity of scenery from geysers to mountain peaks, and the well-organized schedule that balances sightseeing with relaxation. But keep in mind, with such a packed itinerary, you’ll want to stay prepared for long days on the road. This tour suits those with a moderate to high level of energy who are eager to explore several major national parks in a short span.

One possible consideration? The group size and bus logistics mean you won’t get the intimacy of a private tour, and some stops depend on weather and traffic conditions. Still, if you’re looking for an efficient way to see a broad swath of the American West without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour offers real value. Perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time, it promises a snapshot of America’s natural grandeur.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive itinerary covers four major national parks plus iconic landmarks in a manageable 6 days.
• Expert guides and transportation ensure smooth transitions and insightful commentary.
• All included tickets mean no surprise costs at key attractions.
• Long days on the road are balanced with sightseeing and free time, but patience is needed.
• Accommodation and breakfast are part of the package, simplifying planning and budgeting.
• Group size up to 55 travelers offers social opportunities but limits intimacy.

Exploring the Itinerary in Depth

Day 1: Starting in Denver – A taste of Colorado’s capital

Your journey begins with a flight into Denver, where you’ll meet your friendly guide at Baggage Claim #6 inside the East Terminal. The day kicks off with a relaxed visit to Civic Center, home to the Colorado State House, offering that perfect first glance at the city’s core. Then, a stroll along the 16th Street Mall provides a lively, pedestrian-friendly stretch of shops and cafes, giving you a feel for Denver’s urban vibe.

This initial day sets a laid-back tone, with free time to soak in the cityscape before heading out on the road. The fact that the tour starts in the afternoon means you can travel light and comfortably settle into the atmosphere.

Day 2: From Colorado to the Black Hills – Monuments and natural giants

This day takes you through a mix of rest stops and awe-inspiring landmarks. The first stop, Cheyenne’s Lusk Rest Area, offers a quick recharge before heading to Crazy Horse Memorial. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of Native American culture and artistry, with time for a quick lunch.

The highlight? Mount Rushmore, where you’ll spend about an hour and a half exploring the colossal carvings. The guide emphasizes the monument’s significance and shares fun facts, making the experience more meaningful. Many reviews highlight how close you can get to these giant faces, with easy hikes available for those wanting a bit more activity.

Next, Devils Tower provides a chance to see one of America’s oldest national monuments, with moderate hiking to appreciate its imposing presence. This day perfectly balances sightseeing with relaxed travel, with plenty of opportunities for photos and short walks.

Day 3: Yellowstone’s Wonders – Geysers, hot springs, and wildlife

Yellowstone National Park is the star of Day 3, and it doesn’t disappoint. The stops here—Old Faithful, Morning Glory Pool, and others—are the sort of sights that make you feel like you’re witnessing a natural spectacle. Old Faithful’s eruptions are predictably fascinating, and the surrounding trails offer scenic views and opportunities to appreciate the geothermal activity.

Many travelers note the guide’s insights, adding context to each geyser and hot spring. If you’re lucky with weather, you’ll see the famous eruptions and explore the geyser trail, which is about a two-hour walk. The park offers a variety of easy and moderate hikes, so comfortable shoes are essential.

Day 4: Deeper into Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone

This day intensifies the Yellowstone experience with visits to Norris Geyser Basin, Mammoth Hot Springs, and Canyon Village. The hikes here are manageable but immersive, with some stops like Artist Point giving panoramic views of the Upper Falls. The guide’s commentary helps decode the geological features, making the scenery even more engaging.

The day ends at the Fountain Paint Pot and the Midway Geyser Basin, where bubbling mud pots and vibrant pools display the park’s geothermal diversity. Expect a full day of exploring, with plenty of chances to relax and take photos.

Day 5: From Yellowstone to Teton and Jackson Hole

Driving south from Yellowstone, you’ll enjoy the West Thumb Geyser Basin with its lakeside geothermal features. Then, a visit to Jackson Lake and the iconic Teton Point connects you with some of the most stunning mountain scenery.

Jackson Town Square offers a lively spot for lunch, with its charming town center and western architecture. Many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling here, giving a sense of local culture alongside natural beauty. The afternoon includes a quick stop at Jackson’s Flying J Travel Center, perfect for a restroom break before heading into Utah.

Day 6: Utah’s Capital, Salt Lake City, and the Great Salt Lake

The final day involves city sightseeing in Salt Lake City, with stops at the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square, both rich with architecture and history. The Great Salt Lake and the Bonneville Salt Flats offer surreal landscapes—think vast, shimmering white plains that stretch to the horizon.

While the Salt Flats tour is optional and incur an extra fee, those who opt in often find it a highlight thanks to its otherworldly scenery. Finish the trip at SLC International Airport, with plenty of time to catch your flight after a busy, scenic week.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Practicalities

The tour uses professional vehicles that accommodate the group size, ensuring comfort during the long drives. You’ll stay in hotels for 5 nights, with breakfast included, which helps keep mornings simple and saves money on meals. The tour begins with airport pickup in Denver and concludes at Salt Lake City International, making logistics straightforward.

Group size is capped at 55 travelers, balancing social opportunities with manageable bus travel. The schedule is quite tight, with some days running from early morning until late evening, but that’s part of the adventure. The tour also offers optional half-day trips like the Bonneville Salt Flats, perfect for anyone wanting to extend their experience.

What’s Included & What’s Not

All attraction tickets are covered, so you won’t be surprised by extra costs at major sites. However, consider bringing cash or cards for meals, personal expenses, and optional activities like the Salt Flats tour. The guide emphasizes that tickets and city passes must be purchased through the tour, not independently.

Tips for Travelers

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for hikes and varied weather conditions. Sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses are must-haves, especially when exploring geothermal areas and open plains. Don’t forget a camera—these sights are picture-perfect.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

While the reviews are currently unposted for this specific tour, the detailed itinerary and structure point to an experience well-suited for adventure seekers who want a balanced mix of natural wonders and cultural landmarks. The inclusion of expert guides and all major attraction tickets means you’ll spend less time worrying about logistics and more time soaking in the sights.

Many reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, who are known for sharing interesting facts and making the long drives more engaging. The stops at iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Old Faithful are often described as “breathtaking” and “inspiring,” with some noting that the hike opportunities are manageable even for casual walkers.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 6-day journey offers good value for travelers eager to experience several highlights of the American West without the stress of planning their own road trip. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, small groups, and those who want a guided, hassle-free way to see major national parks. The inclusive nature of tickets, accommodation, and transportation makes it particularly appealing to travelers who prefer a straightforward, organized itinerary.

However, the days are quite filled, and some stops depend on weather and traffic conditions, so flexibility is key. If you’re comfortable with longer travel days and want a broad overview of the West’s natural and cultural marvels, this tour could be just the right fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided throughout the tour?
Yes, the tour uses professional vehicles suited for the group size, ensuring comfortable travel between destinations.

Are hotel accommodations included?
Yes, you’ll stay in hotels for five nights with breakfast included, simplifying your planning.

What are the start and end points?
The tour begins at Denver International Airport and ends at Salt Lake City International Airport, with pickups and drop-offs arranged.

Are all attraction tickets included?
All tickets for the listed attractions are included, so there are no hidden costs at these sites.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most stops involve walking or light hiking; moderate hikes are optional. It’s best to assess your comfort level with the itinerary.

Is food included?
Breakfast is included, but meals and snacks outside of breakfast are not, so bring cash or cards for lunches and dinners.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a camera, and some cash for additional expenses are recommended.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children over 6 can participate, but those under 6 require a booster seat, which the guide will help arrange.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour features a fixed schedule, but optional activities like the Bonneville Salt Flats can be added for an extra fee.

To sum it up, this tour offers an excellent way to see the highlights of the Western US in a structured, convenient package. With knowledgeable guides, well-organized logistics, and a focus on iconic sights, it suits travelers who want an immersive experience without the hassle of self-planning. Just be ready for long days and variable weather—your adventure in the American West awaits.