Yellowstone & Grand Teton National Parks: Small Group 3-Day Tour

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are two of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the American West. This small group tour offers an intimate exploration of these iconic landscapes, promising an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. With a focus on the parks’ rich history and diverse wildlife, the tour provides guided insights that elevate the experience beyond a typical sightseeing trip. From the geyser-filled Yellowstone to the majestic peaks of Grand Teton, this three-day itinerary immerses travelers in the stunning scenery. However, the true allure of this tour lies in the opportunity to uncover the hidden gems that make these parks truly exceptional.

This experience made our list of the 11 Best National Park Tours In Salt Lake City.

Key Points

• A 3-day small group tour (max 8 participants) that visits Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, starting and ending in Salt Lake City.
• Highlights include Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and the majestic Grand Teton mountain range, with opportunities for wildlife spotting and scenic hikes.
• Inclusions cover park entrance fees, 2 nights of hotel accommodation, some meals, and guide services, while airfare and some activities are excluded.
• Flexible pickup and drop-off locations in Salt Lake City and Jackson, with a minimum of 2 people required to schedule the tour.
• Cancellation policy offers credits or partial refunds, and there are restrictions for children under 5 and individuals with serious medical conditions.

Tour Overview

The 3-day tour of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks begins in Salt Lake City.

Highlights of the journey include encounters with Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the majestic Grand Tetons.

The small-group experience is capped at 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized adventure.

The itinerary covers city sights on the first day, travel to Jackson Hole and the national parks on the second day, and in-depth exploration of the parks on the final day.

This tour provides an opportunity to take in the natural wonders of these iconic American landscapes through a carefully curated and intimate excursion.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes the park entrance fees, 2 nights of standard hotel accommodation, snacks, water, and breakfast on 2 days. However, the tour excludes airfare, meals not listed in the itinerary, travel and cancellation insurance, guide gratuities, and expenses from activities not included. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Included	Excluded
Park Entrance Fees	Airfare
2 Night Hotel Stay	Meals Not Listed
Snacks & Water	Travel Insurance
2 Breakfasts	Guide Gratuities
	Optional Activities

Guests should be aware of these inclusions and exclusions when budgeting for the tour.

Pickup and Drop-off Details

Where are the pickup and drop-off locations for this tour?

The tour offers pickup in Salt Lake City between 9:00 AM and 10:00 PM, and in Jackson between 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM.

Drop-off locations are in Salt Lake City between 3:00 PM and 10:00 PM, and in Jackson between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM.

Additional charges may apply for after-hours service.

The guides are based in Salt Lake City, and guests can choose their preferred pickup and drop-off locations.

It’s important to note that a minimum of 2 people is required to schedule a tour, and solo travelers can join existing groups.

Exploring Yellowstone

Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park, beckons visitors with its awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse wildlife.

From the majestic Old Faithful geyser to the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring, the park’s geothermal wonders captivate and amaze. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the stunning Yellowstone Canyon, with its towering waterfalls and dramatic rock formations.

Wildlife enthusiasts will thrill at the chance to spot bison, elk, and even the elusive grizzly bear in their natural habitat.

The tour’s knowledgeable guides will provide insights into the park’s rich history and ecology, ensuring a truly immersive and educational experience for all.

Prepare to be awed by the raw power and natural beauty of Yellowstone.

Highlights of Grand Teton

The majestic Grand Teton mountain range dominates the skyline of Grand Teton National Park, beckoning visitors with its towering peaks and pristine alpine landscapes.

Highlights of the park include:

1. Spotting iconic wildlife like moose, grizzly bears, and pronghorn antelope roaming the valleys and meadows.
2. Hiking the scenic trails to viewpoints like the famous Inspiration Point, offering breathtaking vistas of the Teton range.
3. Floating down the Snake River, surrounded by the dramatic mountain backdrop and opportunities to observe bald eagles, ospreys, and other bird species.

Immersed in this stunning natural setting, visitors can truly appreciate the raw power and beauty of the American West.

Itinerary: Day 1

Travelers kick off their Yellowstone and Grand Teton adventure on Day 1 with a scenic drive from Salt Lake City to the charming town of Jackson, Wyoming. Along the way, they’ll stop at highlights like the Mormon Temple and the Utah State Capitol building. Upon arrival in Jackson, they’ll have time to explore the town’s historic square, lined with Western-style shops and restaurants. The evening includes dinner at a local favorite and a chance to take in the breathtaking views of the Teton mountain range.

Time	Activity	Highlights
9:00 AM	Depart Salt Lake City	Mormon Temple, Utah State Capitol
2:00 PM	Arrive in Jackson, WY	Historic Town Square, Teton views
6:00 PM	Dinner in Jackson	Local cuisine, mountain vistas

Itinerary: Day 2

After exploring the charming town of Jackson, the group departs early the next morning for the national parks.

The itinerary for Day 2 includes:

1. Driving through the breathtaking Grand Teton National Park, taking in views of the iconic mountain range.
2. Stopping at the Menor’s Ferry Historic District to learn about the area’s pioneer history.
3. Entering Yellowstone National Park and visiting the awe-inspiring Grand Prismatic Spring, one of the park’s most vibrant and stunning geothermal features.

The day is filled with stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and the opportunity to witness the immense power of Yellowstone’s hydrothermal wonders.

Reaching the hotel in Jackson Hole in the evening, the group prepares for another day of adventure in the parks.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations made 30 days or more prior to the tour’s start date are eligible for a credit towards a future tour or a 50% refund.

Cancellations within 30 days of the tour receive a 50% credit for a future tour.

Booking early is recommended due to limited availability.

Children under 5 may have restricted participation in certain tour activities.

The tour provider doesn’t accept those who are pregnant or have serious medical conditions.

A minimum of 2 people is required to schedule the tour, but solo travelers can join existing groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and snacks on the tour. The tour includes water and snacks, but travelers may want to pack additional items to supplement the provided meals and refreshments.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to 4 or More Days?

The tour company doesn’t offer an option to extend the 3-day tour to 4 or more days. Customers can book multiple tours or explore the parks independently if they’d like a longer experience.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Hikes?

The tour company recommends packing sturdy hiking boots, waterproof layers, sun protection, and a daypack with snacks and water. While specialized equipment isn’t required, these essentials will ensure a comfortable and safe hiking experience in the national parks.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator doesn’t offer specific discounts for seniors or students, but they recommend checking if visitors qualify for America the Beautiful Senior or Military passes which provide free or reduced entry to national parks.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of the Small Group?

Yes, customers can request a private tour instead of the small group option. A private tour provides a more personalized experience and allows the customer to customize the itinerary to their preferences. Additional fees may apply for a private tour.

Recap

This small group tour offers an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. With expert guided insights, travelers can enjoy the parks’ rich history, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking natural wonders. From iconic Old Faithful to the vibrant Grand Prismatic Spring, this 3-day adventure provides an intimate and comprehensive exploration of the American West’s most awe-inspiring destinations.