Adventure Collective Journal

The Adventure Collective Journal publishes in-depth travel stories, destination guides, and adventure features that celebrate discovery and wonder. A digital magazine for explorers and dreamers alike.

← Back to Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

7-Day Road Tour: LA to Vegas to Yellowstone — Grand Canyons, Antelope, Bryce and the Great Salt Lake

7-Day Road Tour: LA to Vegas to Yellowstone — Grand Canyons, Antelope, Bryce and the Great Salt Lake

From neon to geysers in seven days: travel LA to Las Vegas, the Grand Canyon, Lake Powell and Lower Antelope, Bryce Canyon, Grand Teton and Yellowstone, finishing at the Great Salt Lake. This guided tour blends big vistas with curated stops and optional upgrades for deeper adventures.

West Yellowstone, Montana
7 days
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Hydrate for high elevations

Carry 1–2 liters of water and sip frequently—Bryce and Yellowstone sit well above 7,000 ft where exertion and sun can dehydrate you quickly.

Footwear for varied terrain

Closed, grippy hiking shoes handle slot-canyon sand, boardwalks in thermal areas and short hikes at overlooks better than sneakers or sandals.

Respect Navajo land rules

Lower Antelope Canyon tours are on Navajo Nation land and require staying with the guide; follow instructions and avoid wandering for safety and cultural respect.

Timing for photography

Plan sunrise or late afternoon at Bryce and Grand Canyon to avoid harsh midday light and crowded viewpoints; Yellowstone’s thermal colors pop in low-angle sun.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Sunrise at Bryce's Sunrise Point before crowds arrive
  • Late-afternoon lookout near Horseshoe Bend upstream for different river light

Wildlife

  • Bison
  • Elk

Conservation Note

These parks face pressure from visitation and sensitive ecosystems; stick to trails, pack out trash, and follow tribal and park rules to minimize impact.

The route crosses lands shaped by Native American tribes (including Navajo stewardship of Antelope Canyon) and later 19th-century frontier and Mormon settlement; Yellowstone, established 1872, is the world’s first national park.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour, Sunrise, Late afternoon
Key viewpoints:
  • Artist Point (Yellowstone Canyon)
  • Horseshoe Bend overlook
  • Bryce sunrise viewpoints
Subjects to capture:Thermal pools and geysers, Slot-canyon textures, Panoramic canyon rims and hoodoos

What to Bring

Sturdy hiking shoesEssential

Provides traction and support for sandy slot canyons, rocky overlooks and boardwalks in thermal zones.

Layered clothing (base, insulating, wind shell)Essential

Handles big temperature swings between desert heat and high-elevation mornings and evenings.

Hydration pack or reusable water bottleEssential

Keeps water accessible during hikes and long park stops where shade is limited.

Daypack with sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Carries camera, snacks, layers and sun gear for long viewpoint waits or optional excursions.

Common Questions

How many miles of driving are included each day?

Daily driving varies widely; expect 3–6 hours on travel days (roughly 150–400 miles), with one full-day loop in Yellowstone where you spend most time sightseeing rather than driving long distances.

Are park entrance fees included?

All national parks listed in the itinerary are included in the tour package; verify optional extras like the helicopter or kayaking which are add-ons and charged separately.

Can I customize nights or skip sections of the tour?

This is a shared, fixed multi-day tour. Leaving early is permitted but requires notifying your guide and signing a departure form; refunds are not provided for unused portions.

What about altitude sickness?

Some stops are above 7,000 ft—stay hydrated, avoid heavy exertion on arrival days, and consult your doctor if you have a history of altitude sensitivity.

Are children and pets allowed?

Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult; infants must sit on laps. Pets are not allowed on the tour vehicle.

What should I bring for Yellowstone’s thermal areas?

Closed shoes, a wind layer, and strict adherence to boardwalks and signage — off-trail access near thermal features is extremely dangerous and prohibited.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

7 days

Location

West Yellowstone, Montana

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers in average fitness; expect long bus days plus short to moderate walks and some stairs or uneven surfaces

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore West Yellowstone?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

Check Availability & Book Now