From Salt Lake City: 7-Day Yellowstone and Las Vegas Tour

Travelers eager to explore some of the most iconic sights in the western United States will find this 7-day tour from Salt Lake City offers an excellent mix of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and fun experiences. Designed for those who love seeing national parks and vibrant cities without the hassle of planning every detail, this trip promises memorable moments and comfortable logistics.

What we love about this tour is the combination of nature and urban excitement—you’ll get to stand in awe of Yellowstone’s geothermal marvels and then experience the bright lights and lively atmosphere of Las Vegas. The second big plus? The expert guides who share their knowledge and add personality to the journey.

A potential consideration is the tight schedule; with so many stops packed into 7 days, some travelers might find the pace a bit brisk, especially during long travel days or short sightseeing windows. Still, if you’re looking for an efficient way to see a lot without renting a car or managing logistics yourself, this guided tour makes perfect sense.

This tour suits travelers wanting an all-in-one experience—nature, culture, and entertainment—especially those who appreciate guided insights, comfort, and the chance to meet other wanderers. It’s great for first-time visitors or those returning to the West who want a guided overview.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combines national parks, cultural landmarks, and city sightseeing.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local knowledge and storytelling.
• Comfortable accommodations are included for six nights, making logistics easier.
• Value for money includes entry fees, transportation, and some optional activities.
• Limited free time on some days means quick visits—ideal for those eager to see many sights.
• Accessible for most travelers but not suitable for wheelchair users.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect Day by Day

Day 1: Arrival in Salt Lake City

Your adventure begins with check-in at the Clarion Inn Salt Lake City Airport. Since arrivals are on your own, it’s a good opportunity to settle in, maybe explore the hotel’s nearby amenities, and prepare for the early start the next morning. The hotel’s location near the airport means you’re conveniently positioned for the journey ahead.

Day 2: From Salt Lake City to Jackson, Grand Teton, and Yellowstone

Traveling from Salt Lake City, the first stop is Jackson, Wyoming—a charming cowboy town famous for its Elk Antler Arches and lively town square. It’s a classic Western scene that’s more than just a photo op; it’s a chance to feel the spirit of the American West.

After exploring Jackson, you’ll head into Grand Teton National Park. Here, the guide’s commentary enriches your visit, helping you appreciate the towering peaks and pristine scenery. The park’s rugged beauty is a highlight, but with only an hour allocated, don’t expect to cover every trail.

In the afternoon, it’s on to Yellowstone National Park, the star of this trip. Expect to see Old Faithful, erupting like clockwork, and the Grand Prismatic Spring, with its vivid colors that make it a photographer’s dream. Wildlife sightings—bison, elk, maybe even a bear—are also on the menu, providing excellent chances for memorable photos. Spending the night in West Yellowstone offers a convenient base.

Day 3: Yellowstone’s Wonders and Scenic Mountain Crossings

This day is dedicated to deepening your Yellowstone experience, exploring Norris Geyser Basin and the stunning Upper Yellowstone Falls. The guide’s insights make understanding the geothermal activity much more rewarding than just admiring pretty pools.

Crossing the Rocky Mountains later, you’ll enjoy scenic vistas that remind you why many consider this the most beautiful part of the country. The journey from Yellowstone to Gillette offers photo-worthy views, even during brief stops.

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Day 4: From Gillette to Iconic Landmarks

The day kicks off with a visit to Yellowstone’s Norris Geyser Basin and Upper Yellowstone Falls—amazing geothermal and waterfall sights. Then, it’s a drive through Wyoming’s rugged landscape to Devil’s Tower, a striking monolith famous from movies and Native American legends.

Next, you’ll visit Mount Rushmore, where the carved presidents dominate a granite face, and the Crazy Horse Monument, another impressive tribute with ongoing construction that offers cultural context. Arriving in Casper, you’ll settle in for the night.

Day 5: Casper to Salt Lake City

A laid-back day begins with a visit to Independent Rock—a site with historic significance for westward travelers. Crossing back into Utah, you’ll stop at the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square in Salt Lake City. These sites offer a glimpse into the city’s history and religious heritage, with enough time to snap photos and maybe wander the grounds.

Day 6: Salt Lake City to Las Vegas

A quick trip to Great Salt Lake lets you experience one of North America’s most saline bodies of water—and maybe take a selfie floating! Then it’s onto Las Vegas, where the energy shifts dramatically. You can opt for an evening tour to see the city lights and maybe catch a show.

Day 7: The Vegas Highlights and a Taste of the Southwest

Your final day covers iconic sights like the Las Vegas Welcome Sign and stops at M&M’S World and the Coca-Cola Store—fun for those who enjoy pop culture shopping. The Seven Magic Mountains art installation offers a colorful contrast to the desert landscape. Finally, a stop at Outlets at Barstow provides a chance to pick up souvenirs or just stretch your legs before heading home. Ending in Los Angeles or Las Vegas, the trip wraps up with plenty of memories.

What the Included Features Mean for You

This tour’s price of $1,232 per person covers the essentials—transportation, six nights of hotels, entry fees to major parks, and a professional guide. That’s a reasonable deal considering the number of sights packed into just a week, especially since accommodations and park entries are usually significant expenses when traveling independently.

The guided aspect enhances value, offering insights you wouldn’t get from a map or a guidebook, especially at sites like Yellowstone and Mount Rushmore. The hotels are comfortable and centrally located, helping you rest up after busy days.

Optional extras like the Las Vegas Night Tour with Helicopter or FlyOver Las Vegas are available if you want to splurge, but even without them, you’ll find plenty of entertainment and sightseeing.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses professional transportation, which means no worries about navigating unfamiliar roads or traffic. The vehicle size varies depending on the number of guests—more people might mean a bus, which is comfortable for long drives. Smaller groups tend to be more intimate, and the guide’s ability to answer questions and tailor the experience is often better.

Timing and Pace

While most days follow a fairly structured schedule, the days are long, often with multiple stops and scenic drives. Some travelers have noted the pace is brisk, with limited free time, but this is balanced by the convenience of not having to plan or execute logistics. It’s a good choice for those eager to see many sights without the stress of independent travel.

Authentic Highlights and Traveler Insights

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, who make the experience informative and engaging. One reviewer mentioned how the guide’s storytelling made Yellowstone’s geothermal features come alive. Others appreciated the stunning views at each park, emphasizing how well the itinerary captures the diversity of the American West.

On the downside, some found the short visits at key sites a bit rushed, especially at Yellowstone’s geothermal areas. Still, most felt the trip struck a good balance between seeing a lot and enjoying meaningful experiences.

The Practical Side: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided seven-day adventure fits travelers who want a rundown of iconic Western landmarks without the hassle of self-driving or booking multiple hotels. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting an introduction to Yellowstone, the Tetons, and beyond, as well as those looking for a hassle-free way to explore.

If you prefer a leisurely pace or have mobility restrictions, this might not be the best fit, as the schedule is quite packed. But for active travelers ready for a busy, sightseeing-focused week, it delivers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

This Salt Lake City to Las Vegas tour offers a well-rounded taste of the American West’s natural and cultural treasures. The combination of national parks, historic sites, and lively cities keeps the experience fresh and engaging. The guides’ knowledge and the included entry fees add great value, making this a practical choice for those wanting to maximize their time and budget.

While the pace may be quick, those who enjoy having a set itinerary and learning from experienced guides will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors, families, or groups eager to see many highlights in one trip.

Overall, for around $1,200, you get a memorable, organized experience that covers some of the most scenic and iconic destinations in the western U.S. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this tour deserves a serious look.

FAQ

Is hotel accommodation included?
Yes, the tour includes six nights at hotel accommodations, with stays in Salt Lake City, West Yellowstone, Gillette, Casper, and Las Vegas.

What’s the cost of the tour?
The tour costs $1,232 per person, which covers transportation, hotels, entry fees, and services of a professional guide.

Are meals included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, so you’ll need to budget for those separately.

Can I opt for additional activities?
Yes, optional activities like the Las Vegas Night Tour with Helicopter or FlyOver Las Vegas are available if you choose the “All Tickets Inclusive” option.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not recommended for wheelchair users, as some sites and accommodations may not be accessible.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering some flexibility in case your plans change.

This guided 7-day trip offers a well-balanced exploration of the American West’s natural wonders and urban attractions. It’s perfect for those who want an immersive, hassle-free experience, packed with iconic sights and expert insights.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby