6-Day Yellowstone to Mount Rushmore Guided Tour from Salt Lake City
This six-day guided loop from Salt Lake City threads through Grand Teton and Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders before crossing into the Black Hills to see Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse. Expect long days, interpretive guides, hotel stays, and close-up encounters with dramatic geology and living history.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early for light and wildlife
Wildlife viewing and soft morning light are best before 9 AM—plan to be on site early and keep binoculars handy.
Bring layered clothing
Temps swing from hot midday to brisk evenings; a light insulated layer and waterproof shell will handle most conditions.
Hydrate and snack between towns
Long drives and altitude can dehydrate; carry 1–2 liters of water and energy snacks for gaps between stops.
Respect geothermal safety
Stay on boardwalks and marked trails around hot springs and geysers—ground can be thin and dangerously hot.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •West Thumb Geyser Basin boardwalk for lakeside hydrothermal views
- •Independence Rock inscriptions—an Oregon Trail milestone often missed by fast itineraries
Wildlife
- •American bison
- •Great blue heron (near marshes and Great Salt Lake)
Conservation Note
Park visitation carries impact—stay on trails and follow ‘pack it in, pack it out’ rules; water use around the Great Salt Lake is an ongoing regional conservation concern.
The route crosses lands significant to Native American peoples and pioneers; Independence Rock was a major Oregon Trail landmark and Mount Rushmore reflects 20th-century national commemoration.
Photographer's Notes
- • Teton Point overlook for range panoramas
- • Artist Point for canyon and waterfall compositions
- • Grand Prismatic overlook for aerial color contrast
What to Bring
Hiking shoes or trail runnersEssential
Good traction handles boardwalks, short hikes, and slick geothermal areas.
Layered jacket (insulating + waterproof shell)Essential
Protects from sudden wind, rain, or chilly canyon mornings.
Reusable water bottle (1–2 L)Essential
Hydration during long drives and high-altitude stops is essential.
Camera with mid-range zoom and tripod
Captures wide vistas, geothermal detail, and low-light sunrise/sunset shots.
Common Questions
Are park entry fees included?
Yes—Yellowstone and Grand Teton entry fees are included in the tour price.
How active are the hiking portions?
Most walks are short and on boardwalks or easy trails; none require technical hiking ability.
Can I bring children or infants?
Yes; infants must sit on a lap and children under 6 may require booster seats per state law—check booking requirements.
What is the accommodation like?
Hotels and motels are used, typically 2–3 star properties in towns such as West Yellowstone, Sheridan and Casper.
Will we see wildlife up close?
You may see bison, elk, bighorn sheep and numerous birds, but sightings cannot be guaranteed and depend on season and luck.
What should I book my return flight time for?
Book flights departing Salt Lake City after 12:00 PM on the final day to allow for the airport drop-off provided by the tour.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 days
Location
Salt Lake City, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers who can manage multiple short walks (15–60 minutes) and several long bus travel days; basic stamina for getting on/off vehicles is required.
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