Embark on a journey through some of America’s most iconic landscapes, including the world’s first national park, Yellowstone, and the world’s first national monument, Devils Tower. Starting in Salt Lake City, this expedition takes you through the majestic Grand Teton Mountains, vibrant geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, and ends with the historic landmarks of Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial
This tour offers an immersive blend of natural beauty and historical significance, providing travelers with a captivating exploration of the American West.
Trip Type: Custom-Made Travel
Region: Utah, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Nevada
Travel Date: Available from December 15th to March 15, Annually
Tour Summary
Located in the northwest corner of Wyoming in the Midwestern United States, extending northwest into Idaho and Montana. It is an astounding 8,956 square kilometers and is the world's first national park. Yellowstone Park is one of the largest active volcanoes in the world.
Grand Teton National Park is in the glacier mountainous area of northwestern Wyoming, USA. It was built in 1929 and covers an area of 310,000 acres. It currently holds the title of "the most beautiful national park". Grand Teton National Park is in the Rocky Mountains. Grand Teton National Park is home to magnificent mountain scenery, sparkling mountain lakes and wildlife. The snowy Teton Mountains stand majestically, and we will stay at the best photo spots, so you can savor the beauty of the Teton Mountains and Jackson Lake.
If you arrive at Salt Lake City Airport before 12:00 PM, your tour guide will pick you up, and you will then be taken to see various sites in Salt Lake City, including Temple Square, Utah State Capitol, and the Beehive House. If you arrive at Salt Lake City Airport after 12:00 PM, you will be taken directly to the Salt Lake City Hotel to rest. If it is too late to visit the attractions, we will not refund the fee.
Your tour guide will start the day by picking you up at Salt Lake City Airport or hotel of your choosing. Depending on your flight's arrival time, your guide will decide which of the following attractions to visit:
Upon arrival in Salt Lake City, begin your adventure with a visit to Antelope Island State Park, located in the heart of the Great Salt Lake. This beautiful destination is known for its diverse wildlife, including herds of bison, pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and a variety of bird species. The island offers breathtaking views of the Great Salt Lake and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains, with Frary Peak providing the most spectacular vistas.
After exploring Antelope Island, unwind in one of Utah’s natural hot springs, famous for their mineral-rich waters. The hot springs, ranging from 102°F to 113°F, offer a soothing and therapeutic experience—the perfect way to relax after your journey.
In the evening, transfer to your hotel in Jackson, Wyoming, where you can settle in and rest before the next day’s adventures.
Accommodations:
Snow King Resort, Hampton Inn Jackson Hole, SpringHill Suites Jackson Hole, or equivalent accommodations.
Meal arrangements:
Early in the morning, your tour guide will come to pick you up from your accommodation. Your day begins with an exciting visit to the National Elk Refuge. After being picked up from your hotel, you'll embark on a sleigh ride through a herd of over 5,000 wild elk. This one-hour tour offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, taking you up close to these magnificent animals as they migrate south for the winter. With the snow-covered landscape and thousands of elk in sight, it’s a spectacle you won’t forget—so be sure to bring your camera!
After the sleigh ride, you’ll head to Grand Teton National Park, where winter transforms the rugged mountains into a winter wonderland. The Teton Range boasts soaring peaks, some reaching over 13,000 feet, offering spectacular views. Keep an eye out for wildlife like moose, wolves, bison, and bighorn sheep. Stops at Jenny Lake and the Snake River Overlook provide picture-perfect views of the jagged Tetons and pristine winter landscapes.
After lunch in Jackson Hole, your journey continues with a scenic drive through Idaho along the western slopes of the Tetons. Marvel at Grand Teton, the highest peak in the range, rising to an impressive 13,777 feet.
End the day with a festive farewell dinner in West Yellowstone at a local restaurant, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Accommodations:
Yellowstone Lodge, Gray Wolf Inn, Three Bear Lodge, Stagecoach Inn, Kelly Inn, or a similar quality hotel in West Yellowstone., or equivalent option.
Meal arrangement:
Early in the morning, your tour guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you on an unforgettable journey through Yellowstone National Park. Begin your day with a snow coach ride from West Yellowstone, offering breathtaking views of the park's stunning winter scenery. Along the way, you’ll stop at key landmarks, including the West Thumb Geyser Basin, Continental Divide, and Shoshone Point Overlook.
A highlight of the day is your visit to the Old Faithful area, the world's most famous geothermal basin. Here, you’ll witness the impressive eruptions of Old Faithful itself, along with other iconic geysers like Castle, Daisy, Riverside, and Grand. The tour also includes a stop at the mesmerizing Fountain Paint Pots, where bubbling mud creates a captivating display.
At Old Faithful Lodge, you can watch the geyser erupt, enjoy lunch, or relax inside the cozy lodge. If you're looking for adventure, you have the option to go snowmobiling or snowshoeing through the pristine winter landscapes. Keep your camera ready for incredible wildlife sightings, especially bison, who often gather near the geothermal pools to warm up.
You have chance to witness the lives of 7 types of ungulates (bison, moose, elk, pronghorn, etc.), 2 bear species, and 322 more species. These include 16 species of fish and 67 other mammals. Wild animals they are often elusive and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
After a full day of exploration, you’ll return to West Yellowstone for dinner and some leisurely shopping before heading back to your hotel for the night.
Please note:
In winter, if certain attractions in Yellowstone National Park are closed due to snow, road maintenance, or other reasons, the tour guide will adjust the itinerary accordingly. We kindly ask for your understanding and acceptance of these changes.
Accommodations:
Yellowstone Lodge Gray Wolf Inn, Three Bear Lodge, Stagecoach Inn, Kelly Inn,or similar hotels near Yellowstone, or you can choose a special hotel/villa (upgrade fees applied) or equivalent accommodation
Meal arrangement:
Later, enjoy a box lunch before heading to Lamar Valley, known as the “Serengeti of North America” for its abundant wildlife. This vast U-shaped valley, carved by glaciers millions of years ago, is an ideal spot to observe Yellowstone’s wildlife. With a spotting scope, you can search for herds of elk and bison, while keeping an eye out for coyotes, eagles, and the elusive wolves.
Depending on weather and traffic, you’ll head toward Livingston or Billings, Montana for the evening.
Finally, we will drop you off at your hotel, allowing you time to rest and prepare for the next day’s journey.
Yellowstone in winter is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. The park offers opportunities to see grizzlies, black bears, wolves, mountain lions, elk, bison, pronghorn, moose, and bighorn sheep. In addition, you may spot a variety of bird species, including bald eagles soaring overhead. Please noted that wild animals they are often elusive and sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Overnight in Gardiner, Livingston, or Billings, Montana, depending on weather and traffic conditions.
** Tip: Yellowstone National Park is a volcanic area with various geothermal phenomena. The estimated average time to walk to each scenic spot is around 30 minutes. It is recommended to wear a comfortable outfit and a good pair of hiking shoes.
Accommodations:
Lodging options include Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel & Cabins, Fairfield Inn & Suites, or equivalent accommodation.
Meal arrangement:
This day offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural learning, and a taste of Old West history.
Travel east today toward Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming. Along the way, you’ll pass through the stunning Bighorn Mountains, offering incredible winter vistas of snow-covered peaks and valleys.
Arrive at Devils Tower in the afternoon and take a short winter hike around the base of this unique geological structure. Known for its striking hexagonal columns, Devils Tower is the world’s first national monument and a premier rock-climbing destination. More than just a geological wonder, it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for Native American tribes, who continue to honor the site to this day.
After your hike, continue on to Spearfish Canyon for more scenic beauty before reaching Deadwood Town, a historic Old West town famous for its rich history and lively atmosphere.
Notes: Dates and times are subject to change based on dates, weather, and trail conditions.
Accommodations:
La Quinta Inn & Suites, Holiday Inn Express & Suites, or equivalent accommodations.
Stay in the nearby towns of Gillette, Sundance, or Deadwood, depending on weather and traffic conditions.
Meal arrangement:
This day offers a rich blend of American history, Native American culture, and outdoor adventure in one of the most scenic areas of the United States.
Today, head east into South Dakota toward the Black Hills, where you’ll spend the day exploring iconic American landmarks.
First, visit the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where the faces of four famous U.S. Presidents—Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln—are carved into the granite cliffs. Established in 1925, these 60-foot carvings have become a symbol of American freedom and democracy. Take in the majestic beauty of the Black Hills and learn about the history and preservation of this national treasure.
Next, consider an optional visit to the Crazy Horse Memorial, the largest statue in the world, still under construction since 1947. This impressive monument, nearly 600 feet tall, honors the Lakota warrior Crazy Horse. Sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski envisioned the statue as a tribute to Native American pride and heritage. At the memorial, explore the Native American museum to learn more about the rich culture and history of the Lakota tribe.
Afterward, visit Custer State Park, a stunning natural area named after General George Custer. The park is known for its granite peaks, rolling plains, and diverse wildlife. Here, you can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities.
At the end of the day, guests have the option to stay overnight in Keystone, South Dakota, Rapid City, or Casper, Wyoming. The next morning, you can either depart from Rapid City International Airport or continue with the tour guide for an overnight stay in Casper.
Accommodations:
Stay at Grand Stay Residential Suites Hotel in Rapid City, C'mon Inn in Casper, or equivalent accommodations.
Meal arrangement:
You have the option of driving back to SLC with your tour guide and departing from SLC International Airport. If you choose to drive back with the tour guide, please book your flight for 8 PM or later due to the 6-hour drive.
Today marks the final leg of your journey as you travel westward back to Salt Lake City. Along the way, stop at Independence Rock, a historic landmark along the Oregon Trail, where pioneers once carved their names into the rock as they journeyed westward. Take a moment to explore this significant site and reflect on the history that shaped the American frontier.
Continuing your drive along I-80, you’ll have opportunities to stop in Rock Springs or Evanston to break up the trip and enjoy some scenic views of Wyoming’s rugged landscapes.
Arrive back in Salt Lake City by late evening. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time to explore more of the city before departing. We recommend booking your flight for 8:00 PM or later, or staying overnight for a next-day departure to fully enjoy the end of your adventure.
This itinerary has provided a rich blend of stunning natural landscapes, wildlife encounters, and historic landmarks, ensuring an enriching and unforgettable experience.
Accommodations:
Not included
Meal arrangement:
Information about Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) pick-up and drop-off:
Arrival
Departure
Notification: Due to the complicated road conditions, and in order to ensure quality of experience, we regret that we cannot bear all the losses of miss the light caused by the delay of the trip. To be conservative, we suggest you schedule departure flights on the next day.
Cancellation received 60 days or more before the departure of the first product or service in the relevant booking: The Lifetime Deposit will be held by the Tour Operator in accordance with these Terms. The remainder of the payments made to the Tour Operator for the cancelled product will be refunded.
Cancellation received 59-30 days before the departure of the first product or service in the relevant booking: The Lifetime Deposit will be held by the Tour Operator in accordance with these Terms. An amount equal to 50% of the remaining payments made to the Tour Operator for the cancelled Tour will be refunded.
Cancellation less than 30 days before the departure of the first product or service in the relevant booking: The Lifetime Deposit will be held by the Tour Operator in accordance with these Terms, and no further refund will be provided.
There’s a lot to do in Yellowstone, but here are three things you should definitely not do.
Every year, a handful of tourists in Yellowstone pull a series of stunts that endanger their lives and that of wildlife. Sometimes, their actions can lead to the death of animals. Find out what happened when tourists broke the rules and learn three things not to do when you are in the park.
1. Don’t Stray Off the Boardwalks
2. Don’t Stand Near or Try to Touch Wildlife
3. Don’t Jump in Hot Springs
The best tourist season for the park is from June to September. The majority of Yellowstone Park is located above an altitude of 1800 meters (without altitude sickness), and the climate is unstable. It can rain or snow in any month of the year, so visitors should bring rain gear and warm clothing regardless of when they come.
June/July/August: The daytime temperature is around 25°C, and it cools down at night, with some high-altitude areas dropping below 0°C. Most roads and facilities are open. Weather forecast: check here.
May and September/October: The daytime temperature ranges from 0°C to 20°C, and the night temperature ranges from -5°C to -20°C. Snow is common, and some roads may be temporarily closed while some facilities are still open.
Winter (November to April): The daytime temperature ranges from -20°C to -5°C, and the night temperature is below 0°C. The historical lowest temperature record is -54°C. Only the north gate of the park is open.