Old Faithful to Grand Teton: 5-Day Small-Group Snow Lodge Adventure
A five-day small-group loop from Salt Lake City to Old Faithful and Grand Teton that combines two nights inside Yellowstone at Old Faithful Snow Lodge with guided drives, short hikes, and wildlife viewing. Ideal for travelers who want big park highlights without planning every detail.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for high-elevation swings
Days span cool mornings and strong sun—pack a warm insulating layer plus a windproof shell to adapt quickly.
Boardwalk etiquette
Stay on boardwalks around geothermal features—surface crusts are fragile and dangerously hot beneath.
Wildlife distance
Carry binoculars (provided) but keep 100+ yards from bears and wolves, 25+ yards from other wildlife; follow guide directions.
Timing for photos
For the Grand Prismatic Overlook and Hayden Valley, arrive early to avoid crowds and catch softer light and active wildlife.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the quieter boardwalks around Upper Terraces at Mammoth before noon for fewer crowds
- •Park-run viewpoints like Jackson Lake Dam Overlook capture Teton reflections with short stops
Wildlife
- •Bison
- •Elk
Conservation Note
Stay on designated trails and avoid feeding wildlife; the tour operator follows park rules to minimize group impact and supports park education about ecosystem protection.
Yellowstone was set aside as the first national park in 1872; Grand Teton’s dramatic range emerged from a late-Cenozoic fault block uplift and glacial sculpting.
Photographer's Notes
- • Old Faithful promenade (for eruptive action)
- • Grand Prismatic Overlook (panoramic color)
- • Artist Point/Brink of Upper Falls (river canyon framing)
What to Bring
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Provides traction on boardwalks, gravel trails and short hikes around thermal areas.
Layered clothing (base, fleece, shell)Essential
Temperature and wind can change quickly between morning wildlife drives and midday hikes.
Reusable water bottle (2L capacity)Essential
Hydration is crucial at altitude and during long drives; refill options available at lodges.
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Improves wildlife viewing in Hayden Valley and across Yellowstone's wide basins.
Common Questions
Is park entry included?
Yes—park entry fees and the listed admissions are included in the tour price.
What are the walking distances and difficulty?
Most on-foot segments are easy to moderate boardwalks or short hikes (0.5–2 miles), suitable for average fitness levels.
Can the itinerary change for weather or wildlife?
Yes—the guide may adjust the schedule for safety, road conditions, or wildlife closures; alternatives are provided when a site is inaccessible.
Is Old Faithful Snow Lodge heated and open year-round?
The Snow Lodge operates seasonally; this product includes two consecutive nights as advertised—confirm dates with the operator.
Are meals included?
Hot breakfast is included each morning; other meals are on your own unless otherwise noted for special inclusions.
How strict are pickup/drop-off policies at SLC?
Pickup is offered between 10:00 AM–8:00 PM at SLC; you must provide arrival details and contact the operator at least three days prior if not selected at booking.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 days
Location
Old Faithful (Yellowstone National Park), Wyoming
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average physical condition who can walk 1–3 miles on uneven boardwalks and short uphill trails; must tolerate multi-hour vehicle transfers.
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