7-Day Yellowstone and Southwest Grand Ring: From LA to Old Faithful and Monument Valley
Cross the Mojave at dawn, watch Old Faithful cleanse the air with steam, and stand beneath Monument Valley’s towering mesas. This seven-day loop from Los Angeles stitches the Southwest and Yellowstone into a single, picture-ready road trip—ideal for travelers who want maximum sights with minimal backcountry logistics.
The Experience
Before You Go
Early starts for wildlife
Lamar Valley and Hayden Valley are best at sunrise—arrive before 7 a.m. for the highest chance of bison, elk, and wolf sightings.
Respect thermal areas
Stay on boardwalks and marked trails around hot springs; ground can be thin and temperatures lethal beneath the surface.
Carry day water
Long driving days and high-elevation viewpoints require at least 1–2 liters per person during outings; refill where available.
Camera and power
Bring extra batteries and a small tripod for low-light eruptions, sunrise at Bryce, and Monument Valley night skies.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Biscuit Basin boardwalk—less crowded thermal pools near Old Faithful
- •Lamar Valley pullouts for dawn wildlife viewing (bring binoculars)
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
Thermal features are fragile—stick to boardwalks and marked trails. Practice Leave No Trace around viewpoints and respect seasonal wildlife closures.
Monument Valley sits on Navajo Nation land and has been a cultural landscape for Indigenous people long before it became a cinematic symbol of the American West.
Photographer's Notes
- • Grand Prismatic overlook (via Fairy Falls trail)
- • Artist Point at Yellowstone Canyon
- • Monument Valley Mittens viewpoint at dusk
What to Bring
Light insulated jacketEssential
High-elevation mornings and Yellowstone nights can be cold even in spring—pack layers you can shed.
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Support and traction for broken sandstone, boardwalks, and short hikes like Delicate Arch.
Daypack with water reservoirEssential
Keeps water, sunscreen, camera, and snacks organized during repeated short walks and overlooks.
Wide-angle lens or smartphone wide attachment
Captures sweeping vistas—canyons, arches and the expanse of Monument Valley—more effectively than telephoto alone.
Common Questions
Do I need to buy park entrance fees separately?
The tour itinerary notes park admissions may or may not be included; confirm at booking—Yellowstone and other national parks typically require separate entrance fees or passes.
How much driving is involved each day?
Expect several long driving segments—this is a point-to-point 7-day tour with multi-hour transfers between major parks; plan for early departures and rest stops.
Is this trip suitable for children or seniors?
The tour is paced for general travelers and lists as suitable for all fitness levels, but people with limited mobility, heart or spinal issues should consult the operator due to frequent transfers and some stair/uneven terrain at attractions.
Can the operator arrange tickets for Antelope Canyon?
Guides can assist with purchasing Lower Antelope Canyon tickets en route, but entrance is on Navajo Nation lands and requires separate ticketing and timed tours—reserve in advance if possible.
What wildlife safety rules should I follow?
Stay a minimum of 25 yards from most wildlife and 100 yards from bears and wolves, never feed animals, and keep food secured—follow ranger guidance at all times.
Is tipping expected for guides and drivers?
Tipping is customary in U.S. tours; consider 10–20% of the tour cost distributed between driver and guide depending on service quality.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 days
Location
West Yellowstone, Montana
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with average mobility; involves short, moderate hikes (up to ~3 miles) and extended periods on a coach.
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