7-Day Lower Antelope, Las Vegas, Yellowstone, Salt Lake City Tour

Exploring the 7-Day Lower Antelope, Las Vegas, Yellowstone, Salt Lake City Tour: An Honest Look

This comprehensive review takes you through a popular 7-day tour that promises glimpses of some of America’s most famous natural and cultural treasures. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, we’ve gathered insights from real travelers who have. If you’re dreaming of diverse landscapes—from the swirling colors of Antelope Canyon to the geysers of Yellowstone—this tour might catch your eye.

What we genuinely like about this experience is the chance to see notable sites like Horseshoe Bend and Grand Teton National Park without the hassle of planning every detail. Plus, the inclusion of Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders and Salt Lake City’s historic sites offers a well-rounded adventure.

However, a key consideration is the long driving hours—up to 10 hours per day—meaning you’ll need patience and a good playlist. This tour works best for travelers who enjoy a busy schedule and don’t mind hitting the road often.

In the end, this trip is ideal for those who want a cost-effective, guided experience that hits many highlights with minimal fuss. If you’re craving a mix of natural beauty, iconic landmarks, and a structured itinerary, this could be a fitting choice. Now, let’s unpack the details.

Key Points

• Diverse Landscapes: From desert canyons to geothermal parks, this tour encapsulates the variety of the American West.
• Guided Convenience: With a professional driver-guide and included park entry fees, you avoid the logistical headaches.
• Long Days of Travel: Expect substantial driving times, so bring patience, snacks, and entertainment.
• Authentic Experiences: Stops like Horseshoe Bend and Yellowstone offer memorable, photo-worthy moments.
• Mixed Reviews on Group Dynamics: Some travelers praise guides and scenery; others report frustrations with group size and language issues.
• Value for Money: At around $1,267 per person, the tour covers many highlights, but some may find it tight on free time or optional extras.

A Deep Dive into the 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: From Los Angeles to Las Vegas and Mojave Desert

Your adventure begins early in Los Angeles with a drive eastward through the Mojave Desert, a landscape sprinkled with Joshua trees and rugged terrain. This stretch offers a classic California-to-Nevada experience—think arid beauty and wide-open sky. Once you arrive in Las Vegas, the tour transitions from urban to natural scenery. This initial leg sets the tone: a mix of desert vistas and the promise of adventure ahead.

Day 2: Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon, Horseshoe Bend

The highlight here is Lower Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon famed for its swirling, wave-like rock formations. Arriving on Navajo land, you’ll step into a world of light filtering through narrow openings, creating kaleidoscopic patterns. Expect about 1.5 hours for this visit—note that admission tickets are not included, so plan accordingly.

Next, you’ll pass Glen Canyon, a massive reservoir behind Lake Powell, which provides stunning views of blue waters contrasted against red rocks. Passing by Lake Powell’s 96 side canyons offers a grand perspective of the region’s scale.

A visit to Horseshoe Bend is often the tour’s standout. The river’s sharp bend in the shape of a horseshoe creates a breathtaking vista, especially at sunset. The tour includes admission, and you’ll spend about an hour here.

Day 3: Salt Lake City, Jackson, Grand Teton, Yellowstone

This day kicks off with a morning departure from Salt Lake City. The drive toward Jackson, a charming western town, offers views of antler-adorned Jackson Town Square—a quirky, photogenic spot. You’ll then enter Grand Teton National Park, where mountain vistas and reflective lakes provide classic Wyoming scenery.

Later, you’ll visit Yellowstone National Park, the first national park in the U.S. and a natural wonderland of geysers, hot springs, and wildlife. Key stops include Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Fountain Paint Pot. The entry fees are included, making it easier to enjoy these geothermal attractions.

Some travelers have noted that the itinerary may shift depending on weather or traffic, but the core highlights remain. The tour guides are praised for their professionalism and knowledge, although some reviews mention group sizes and language issues.

Day 4: Yellowstone’s Iconic Geysers and Hot Springs

This full day explores Yellowstone’s geothermal marvels. Expect visits to Norris Geyser Basin, Artist’s Point, Hayden Valley, and Yellowstone Lake. The seven-hour schedule means you’ll see a lot but may also feel a bit rushed. Highlights like Old Faithful erupting and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring are truly memorable.

One traveler shared, “We loved the way the guide explained each geyser’s eruption cycle,” highlighting how knowledgeable guides can enhance the experience. The geological diversity displayed here is unmatched, offering countless photo opportunities.

Day 5: West Yellowstone and More Yellowstone

Continuing your Yellowstone adventure, you’ll visit Yellowstone Bear World, a drive-thru wildlife park. This optional stop is particularly popular among families or wildlife enthusiasts. Expect to see bears, moose, and other animals in a semi-natural environment.

Later, you’ll revisit Yellowstone’s geothermal sites, including Fountain Paint Pot and the Grand Prismatic Spring, perhaps with different viewpoints or trails. The day emphasizes both geothermal and terrestrial scenery, giving you a broader sense of Yellowstone’s ecosystem.

Day 6: Salt Lake City Attractions and Lake

The tour moves back towards Salt Lake City, with visits to the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square—two sites rich in history and architecture. Expect about 7 hours of sightseeing, giving a taste of Utah’s capital.

The Great Salt Lake caps the day, offering a surreal landscape of briny waters and salt flats—a must-see for its otherworldly scenery. This stop is brief but memorable, with good photo ops.

Day 7: Las Vegas and Return to Los Angeles

The final day begins with a selfie at the Las Vegas Welcome Sign, followed by optional activities like FlyOver Las Vegas, a virtual flight ride that offers views of the Strip from above (additional fee). You’ll also pass through Seven Magic Mountains, those towering, colorful stone sculptures that have become a visual icon.

The journey concludes with a stop at Outlets at Barstow for shopping and a final drive back to Los Angeles. If you choose to stay in Vegas, the tour company advises notifying them in advance.

Analyzing the Value

At $1,267 per person, this tour packs in a lot—several national parks, iconic landmarks, and unique geological formations—with most entry fees and some extras included. For travelers who prefer not to navigate logistics or drive long hours themselves, this guided experience offers convenience and structure.

However, the long travel days can be tiring. Reviewers have expressed mixed feelings; one called it “full cheating,” citing language barriers and group dynamics, while another found it “very enjoyable,” praising guides and site access. It’s clear that group size and guide quality significantly impact the experience.

Notably, the optional activities, like FlyOver or night tours, are extra costs, so budget accordingly if those appeal to you. Also, since the tour is designed to hit the highlights, it may not leave much free time for spontaneous exploration or relaxing at your own pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is best suited for first-time visitors eager to see major landmarks without the hassle of planning. If you enjoy a structured schedule and appreciate guided commentary, you’ll likely find this worthwhile. It’s also attractive for those wanting value for money, as it consolidates many expensive park entry fees and logistical details.

However, if you prefer more flexibility, smaller groups, or more personalized experiences, you might find the itinerary too packed or the group dynamic challenging.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day tour offers a broad sweep of some of the most photogenic and iconic sites in the American West. With knowledgeable guides and included park entry fees, it provides a hassle-free way to see the highlights. The scenery—from towering mountains to geothermal springs and colorful canyons—is undeniably stunning and worth the long hours on the road.

It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want a rundown in a relatively short time and don’t mind the crowds or the tight schedule. While some reviews highlight room for improvement—especially regarding group size and optional costs—it remains a good option for those seeking value and convenience in a guided adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 can participate if accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind the long driving hours and outdoor activities.

Are all park entry fees included?
Most entry fees for Yellowstone, Grand Teton, Salt Lake City attractions, and Horseshoe Bend are covered. Some optional extras like FlyOver are additional.

What should I bring for this trip?
Comfortable shoes and clothes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), cash, and drinks for hydration are recommended.

How much free time will I have?
The itinerary focuses on sightseeing with limited free time, especially during Yellowstone visits, so plan accordingly.

Can I join the tour in Las Vegas instead of Los Angeles?
Yes, but you need to notify the tour operator in advance, as the standard start point is Los Angeles.

What about hotel accommodations?
Hotels are included for nights with specific references, generally 2-4 guests per room. Upgrades or separate rooms require separate bookings.

Will the itinerary change?
Yes, the tour operator may adjust plans due to weather, traffic, or other factors, but core sites remain.

How long are the driving days?
Expect around 10 hours of travel on some days, so prepare for a lot of sitting and scenery.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely, as it’s a group experience. Just be aware of the group size and dynamics.

What is the best time to take this tour?
The tour runs from spring through fall, but note that the East Gate of Yellowstone opens around May 2, 2025.

In sum, this 7-day adventure is a solid choice for those looking to tick off major sights with guided ease. It balances natural wonders with cultural stops, making it suitable for travelers eager to experience the diversity of the American West without the stress of self-driving. Just pack your patience and sense of adventure, and you’re in for some unforgettable views.