
moderate
4 days
Suitable for travelers in reasonable health who can manage long vehicle days, short moderate hikes, and variable altitude; not strenuous but expect early starts.
Two nights at Old Faithful Snow Lodge and a small-group, guided loop through Grand Teton and Yellowstone concentrate the parks' geothermal spectacle, wildlife, and high-country views into four managed, camera-ready days. Expect long drives, early starts, and close-up geology lessons from experienced guides.
The tour begins in the low, clean air of Salt Lake City and ends with Old Faithful's clockwork roar filling the evening. Travelers step from a Mercedes-Benz high-top van into a landscape where the ground literally breathes — steam hisses from pools, and geysers line the basin like an old city's chiming towers. Over four days the group threads through Grand Teton's serrated skyline into Yellowstone's geothermal heart, with two nights at Old Faithful Snow Lodge to ground the experience in one of the park's most atmospheric accommodations.

Temperatures vary dramatically day to day; pack insulating mid-layers and a waterproof shell to manage wind, sun, and sudden cold.
Bison, elk, and bears are common—stay at least 100 yards from bears and wolves and 25 yards from bison and elk; use binoculars for close views.
The tour provides bottled water and snacks, but a refillable bottle saves money and reduces waste during long drives and hikes.
Airport pickup runs 10am–8pm on day one; operator recommends flights home after 9pm on day four to avoid missed connections.
Yellowstone became the world’s first national park in 1872; the area around Old Faithful has been a destination for scientific study and tourism since the late 19th century.
Stay on boardwalks and marked trails to protect fragile geothermal features and microbial mats; pack out trash and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Quick temperature changes and wind make lightweight insulating layers and a waterproof shell essential.
Supportive footwear is useful for boardwalks, short trails, and uneven geothermal surfaces.
Effective deterrent for close wildlife encounters—store appropriately and know local regulations.
summer specific
A small pack holds water, snacks, camera gear, and extra layers for dawn and dusk outings.