Lodging at Old Faithful-Yellowstone&Grand Teton Small Group 5-Day

Unlocking the Magic of Yellowstone & Grand Teton in Just 5 Days

Our review covers a 5-day small-group tour that promises an in-depth exploration of some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the American West. With an intimate group size capped at 13, this experience is ideal for travelers who prefer personalized attention and detailed insights from knowledgeable guides. The highlight? A luxurious 2-night stay at the iconic Old Faithful Snow Lodge, combined with stunning stops across Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.

What immediately stands out are three key elements: the luxury transportation in a brand-new Mercedes Benz high-top van, the well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing with comfort, and the expert guides who bring the parks’ stories to life. That said, a potential consideration is that this tour does not include meals beyond breakfast, so you’ll need to plan for lunches and dinners. This tour suits those eager to see Yellowstone’s major highlights without the hassle of planning, especially if you value comfort and small-group intimacy.

Good To Know

• Intimate Group Size: Tours limited to 13 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Luxury Transport: Brand-new Mercedes Benz van for comfort and reliability.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Park entry fees, airport pickup, hotel stays, and breakfasts included.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides who enhance your understanding of the parks.
• Stunning Lodging: Two nights at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge, providing a true Yellowstone experience.
• Flexible Add-ons: Option for a half-day Salt Flats tour, adding a unique Utah landscape to your trip.

The Experience: An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Arrival and Day 1: Ease into the Journey

Your adventure begins in Salt Lake City, where you’ll be greeted with an airport pickup between 10AM and 8PM. While the details of this initial transfer might seem straightforward, early arrivals allow you to settle in comfortably before the adventure truly kicks off. The convenience of a pre-arranged pickup means no stress about transportation after a long flight, setting a smooth tone for the trip.

Day 2: The Road to Yellowstone with a Scenic Stop in Jackson

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, you’ll hit the road for a six-hour drive through some of the most iconic scenery. The journey takes you through Wyoming, with a pit stop at Flying J Travel Center — a good chance to stretch your legs and grab a quick refreshment.

Next, you’ll explore Jackson Town Square, famed for its charming wooden architecture and mountain views. While the guide will give you some context, this is also a chance to enjoy lunch on your own. Expect about an hour here, so bring some cash or a card for snacks or a quick bite.

From Jackson, the tour moves into the Grand Teton National Park with stops at Jenny Lake — where an easy 45-minute hike offers stunning mountain vistas and alpine lakes — and Jackson Lake Dam Overlook, showcasing the grandeur of Jackson Lake framed by the Tetons. These sites aren’t just pretty pictures; they are real highlights that make the drive memorable.

Day 3: Yellowstone’s Geysers and Hot Springs

The second full day in Yellowstone is packed with must-see sights. Your first stop is Old Faithful, known worldwide for its reliably timed eruptions. The approximately 1.5-hour visit will include watching the geyser erupt and exploring the geyser trail. Guides often share fascinating details, making it more than just a visual spectacle.

Next, you’ll visit Morning Glory Pool, a colorful hot spring whose vibrant hues and deep circular shape make it a must-see. The brief hike is manageable but offers a close-up view of Yellowstone’s geothermal activity.

The Bridge Bay Marina (seasonal) provides a different perspective, especially if boating is available from mid-June to early September. Here, travelers have the chance for scenic boat rides, adding a relaxing element to the day.

Later, the tour moves to Hayden Valley, a renowned wildlife hotspot, where, if luck is on your side, you’ll spot bison, elk, and possibly even wolves. The Brink of Upper Falls offers an up-close look at Yellowstone’s powerful waterfalls, and Artist Point delivers one of the most iconic views of the Lower Falls, often considered Yellowstone’s postcard image.

The day wraps up in Canyon Village, a central hub where you can grab dinner or just soak in the views before heading to Mammoth Hot Springs for some geothermal marvels created by mineral-rich waters.

Day 4: Exploring Yellowstone’s Geothermal Marvels

This day is a geothermal feast. You’ll visit the Grand Prismatic Spring Overlook, where a moderate hike rewards you with panoramic views of the rainbow-colored hot spring. It’s an Instagram-worthy moment, but also an opportunity to appreciate Yellowstone’s geothermal diversity.

Midway Geyser Basin is next, home to some of the park’s largest geysers and hot springs, including the impressive Grand Prismatic. Fountain Paint Pots showcase bubbling mud and fumaroles, illustrating the geothermal activity that makes Yellowstone so unique.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit West Yellowstone, a quaint town serving as a gateway for park visitors. It’s your chance to grab lunch and explore local shops or relax before heading to Yellowstone Bear World, where you can observe bears and other native animals in a wildlife park setting.

Day 5: Salt Lake City and Optional Salt Flats Tour

Your final day begins with breakfast before heading towards Salt Lake City. Stops include the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square, where the architecture and history make for a quiet, reflective end to your trip.

A quick visit to the Great Salt Lake offers a glimpse of one of America’s most saline bodies of water, with options to extend your adventure by adding a half-day tour of the Bonneville Salt Flats — a surreal landscape that looks like a mirror reflecting the sky, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Transportation & Comfort

The use of a brand-new Mercedes Benz high-top van elevates the experience, ensuring comfort during long drives and giving a sense of luxury often missing in standard tours. The small group size guarantees personalized interaction, and the guides—who are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach—make all the difference in understanding the parks’ features.

Lodging & Meals

Staying two nights at Old Faithful Snow Lodge provides an authentic Yellowstone experience, with the cozy atmosphere and the chance to see geysers from your doorstep. While breakfast is included at the hotel, other meals are on you, which allows flexibility for personal tastes and budget.

Activities & Sights

Each stop on the itinerary is thoughtfully chosen to balance must-see landmarks with scenic downtime. Many reviews highlight how guides share little-known facts and stories, turning sightseeing into engaging learning moments. For instance, the guides’ knowledge about geothermal features, wildlife behavior, and park history adds layers of enjoyment.

Pricing & Value

At $2,078 per person, the cost covers hotel stays, park entry fees, transportation, breakfast, and guided expertise. For travelers seeking an all-in-one Yellowstone adventure with hotel comfort, small-group intimacy, and expert leadership, this fee is reasonable. The inclusion of unique experiences like the Salt Flats add extra value, especially for those keen on exploring beyond Yellowstone.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts who want to see Yellowstone’s iconic sights without the stress of planning. Wildlife watchers will appreciate the knowledgeable guides, and those who enjoy comfort in their travel will value the luxury vehicle and cozy lodge accommodations. It’s also suitable for travelers who prefer a small group setting, where personalized attention and engaging conversations enhance the experience.

However, if you’re more of a foodie or prefer a fully catered experience, you might need to budget extra for meals. Also, those with mobility issues should review the hiking involved, though most stops are accessible and short.

Final Thoughts

This small-group Yellowstone & Grand Teton tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to experience some of America’s most stunning landscapes. Knowledgeable guides, luxurious transport, and a balanced itinerary ensure you get the most out of your five days, whether it’s witnessing geyser eruptions, spotting wildlife, or relaxing at a cozy lodge with spectacular views.

It’s an excellent option if you’re after an authentic, immersive experience with minimal hassle and maximum scenic beauty. For travelers eager to explore Yellowstone’s highlights, learn fun facts from passionate guides, and enjoy the comfort of a small group, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price covers all hotel accommodations, park entry fees, airport pickup, breakfast on days 2-5, transportation in a brand-new Mercedes Benz van, bottled water, snacks, binoculars, and a ticket to Yellowstone Bear World (seasonal). Optional Salt Flats tour is available at an extra cost.

Are meals provided besides breakfast?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, giving you the flexibility to choose where and what to eat. The tour includes breakfast at the hotel, providing a good start to each day.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 13 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and easier interactions with guides.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Travelers under 6 years old need a booster seat, and pregnant women can join if they are under 24 weeks by the trip’s end.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A brand-new Mercedes Benz high-top van offers comfortable, reliable transport for all the scenic drives.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations up to 6 days in advance are fully refundable. Cancellations made less than that may incur fees or no refund, depending on timing.

In essence, this tour offers a fantastic balance of guided expertise, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable scenery, making it an ideal choice for those looking to experience Yellowstone without the stress of self-planning.