San Francisco to Yellowstone, Grand Canyon and Las Vegas 7-Day Tour

Start your morning with a self-guided tour of California’s State Capitol in Sacramento! Then, sit back and enjoy the scenic drive to the stunning shores of Lake Tahoe. We’ll wrap up the day with an overnight stay in Reno — the Biggest Little City in the World.

——————————

Itinerary：

San Francisco → Sacramento → Sacramento State Capitol → Lake Tahoe → Reno

——————————

Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe was formed around two million years ago as part of the Lake Tahoe Basin, with its current shape taking form during the ice ages. It is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and the breathtaking mountain views that surround it.

——————————
Hotel：Circus Circus Reno Hotel Casino; or similar

——————————

This morning, we’ll depart from Reno and journey through the Great Basin Desert, taking in the diverse landscapes of the American West. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the impressive Perrine Bridge and the stunning Shoshone Falls before settling in for the night in Pocatello, Idaho.

——————————
Itinerary:

Reno → Perrine Memorial Bridge → Shoshone Falls → Pocatello

——————————

Perrine Memorial Bridge

When it was completed in 1927, the Perrine Bridge in south-central Idaho was the highest bridge in the world, standing at approximately 3,600 feet above sea level. Today, it remains a popular destination for visitors from around the globe.

——————————
Shoshone Falls

Known as the “Niagara of the West,” this stunning Idaho waterfall stands 25 feet taller than Niagara Falls and spans over a thousand feet across. Its most powerful and picturesque flow occurs in the spring.

——————————
Hotel：La Quinta by Wyndham Pocatello; or similar

——————————

Get ready for a full-day adventure in Yellowstone National Park! Discover the park’s natural wonders, including Yellowstone Lake, Fishing Bridge, the Mud Volcano, Upper Falls, Artist Point, Mammoth Hot Springs, the Yellowstone River, and Norris Geyser Basin. Keep an eye out for wildlife—you might spot elk herds, buffalo, or even a bald eagle! In the evening, unwind with an overnight stay at Grant Village by Yellowstone Lake (free upgrades available on a first-come, first-served basis) or in West Yellowstone.

——————————

Itinerary:

Pocatello → Yellowstone National Park In-depth Tour (Stops will be at the Norris Geyser Basin, Upper Falls, Artist Point, Hayden Valley, Mud Volcano, Fishing Bridge, Old Faithful Geyserm, Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, Fountain Paint Pot, Morning Glory and other attractions. The arrangement of attractions will be adjusted according to the actual situation of the day.)

——————————
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park—the first national park in the United States—is a must-see treasure filled with year-round scenic beauty. It offers incredible opportunities to observe wildlife as animals migrate in and out of the park throughout the seasons. No matter where you go in Yellowstone, you’re likely to spot some of its iconic residents, including bears, wolves, moose, elk, bison, and more!

——————————
Norris Geyser Basin

Norris Geyser Basin, named after one of Yellowstone’s early superintendents, is considered the hottest geyser basin in the park. The Porcelain Basin within it features a stark, barren landscape shaped by its highly acidic environment, which makes it difficult for plants, algae, and bacteria to thrive. Instead, the basin’s vivid colors come from mineral oxides—iron creating shades of pink, red, and orange, and sulfur and iron sulfates producing bright yellows. This basin is also home to Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world. Though its eruptions are infrequent, when it does erupt, it can shoot water nearly 380 feet into the air in a dramatic spectacle.

——————————
Upper Yellowstone Falls

Just a quarter mile upstream from the larger Lower Falls, the Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River cascade 109 feet over a rugged lava cliff into the basin below. The area beneath the falls has experienced more intense erosion compared to the calmer stretch above.

——————————
Artist Point

Artist Point is one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Canyon Area of Yellowstone National Park. The canyon’s sheer walls plunge 700 feet to the river below, with the majestic Lower Falls visible upstream. Downstream, the canyon expands and deepens to a maximum depth of 1,540 feet. While the canyon walls are primarily yellow, they also display vibrant hues of blue, red, orange, and brown—colors that shift and intensify, especially after rainfall followed by bright sunshine.

——————————

Mud Volcano Area

The Mud Volcano violently erupted in the early 20th century, leaving behind a striking crater that remains visible today. Surrounding the site are several fascinating geothermal features, including the Mud Cauldron, Black Dragon’s Caldron, and Dragon’s Mouth Spring, each offering a unique glimpse into Yellowstone’s dynamic geothermal landscape.
——————————

Old Faithful Geyser

Old Faithful, located in Yellowstone’s Upper Geyser Basin, is one of the park’s most iconic natural landmarks. Renowned for its reliability, this cone geyser erupts approximately every 91 minutes, delighting visitors with its regular displays.

——————————

The Grand Prismatic Hot Spring

The Grand Prismatic Spring, measuring about 370 feet (110 meters) in diameter and 160 feet (50 meters) deep, releases around 560 gallons (2,100 liters) of 160°F (70°C) water every minute. It is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. The spring’s vibrant colors are created by microbial mats that thrive around the edges of the mineral-rich water.
——————————

Fountain Paint Pot

The Fountain Paint Pot gets its name from the rich reds, yellows, and browns of the mud, which are caused by varying oxidation levels of iron. Like other hot springs in the area, geothermal heat from the caldera pushes pressurized water to the surface, creating bubbling mud pools. The bubbling effect is also influenced by rising gases and changes with the seasons.

——————————

Hotel：Grant Village Yellowstone (Free Upgrade, First Come First Served) or Terra Nova or West Yellowstone or similar
——————————

Join us for another exciting day as we continue exploring the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park! From there, we’ll journey along the scenic Snake River to the stunning landscapes of Grand Teton National Park. Next, we’ll head to Jackson—a legendary cowboy town and world-famous vacation spot. Don’t miss a stroll through Jackson Town Square, home to the iconic Elk Antler Arches.

Our adventure continues as we make our way to Salt Lake City, where we’ll stop by the Great Salt Lake for a breathtaking view. Then, we’ll visit Temple Square, the spiritual heart of the LDS Church. Here, we’ll be guided by Mormon missionary sisters to learn about the church’s rich history and core beliefs.

——————————

Itinerary: 

Yellowstone National Park (stop at West Thumb Geyser Basin) → Grand Teton National Park → Jackson → Jackson Town Square with Elk Antler Arches → Salt Lake City → Temple Square → Hotel
——————————

West Thumb Geyser Basin

The West Thumb Geyser Basin is located on the western edge of a large bay along the shores of Yellowstone Lake. This area lies within the West Thumb caldera, formed by a volcanic eruption approximately 174,000 years ago. The bay itself is a smaller caldera nested within the larger Yellowstone caldera, which later filled with water to form the bay seen today.

——————————

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park, nestled in the Rocky Mountains of northwest Wyoming, is renowned for its breathtaking mountain views and sparkling alpine lakes. The park is also a haven for diverse and abundant wildlife, making it a true natural treasure.
——————————

Jackson Town Square with Elk Antler Arches

Jackson Town Square features four distinctive arches made from thousands of elk antlers, creating a truly unique landmark. It’s a remarkable place to explore, offering a memorable experience for every visitor.

——————————

Temple Square

Temple Square is a 10-acre complex in the heart of Salt Lake City, owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). It features several historic and religious landmarks, including the Salt Lake Temple, Salt Lake Tabernacle, Assembly Hall, the Seagull Monument, and two visitors’ centers. In 1964, Temple Square was designated a National Historic Landmark District in recognition of the LDS Church’s role in the settlement of Utah.
——————————

Hotel：Provo Marriott Hotel & Conference; Embassy Suites by Hilton Salt Lake West Valley City; or similar
——————————

This morning, we’ll spend more time exploring the stunning landscapes of Bryce Canyon National Park. Then, we’ll travel to Page, Arizona, where you can visit the breathtaking Lower Antelope Canyon (at your own expense) and take in the incredible views at Horseshoe Bend. We’ll end the day in Tuba City, Arizona, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy authentic Native American cuisine and entertainment, also at your own expense.

——————————

Itinerary: 

Hotel → Bryce Canyon National Park → Lower Antelope Canyon (Optional) → Horseshoe Bend → Tuba
——————————

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is best known for its unique landscape of giant natural amphitheaters rather than a single canyon. These formations line the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau and are famous for their striking hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock shaped by frost weathering and erosion. The park’s vivid red, orange, and white rock layers create breathtaking views that make Bryce a truly unforgettable destination.

——————————

Lower Antelope Canyon (Optional)

Lower Antelope Canyon is a stunning slot canyon located on Navajo land just east of Page, Arizona. Upon arrival, you’ll step off the truck and into a breathtaking desert landscape. As you journey through the narrow sandstone walls, your Navajo guide will share fascinating insights into the canyon’s geology, history, and cultural significance. Walking through the sculpted passageways, you’ll be fully immersed in the natural beauty of this remarkable place.
——————————

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is one of the most iconic and frequently visited landmarks within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. It’s been featured as a highlight for surrounding regions, including Grand Canyon National Park, the cities of Page, AZ; Kanab, UT; St. George, UT; and the Navajo Nation—whose borders are all nearby. Located just nine miles upstream from the official start of Grand Canyon National Park, Horseshoe Bend has become a social media favorite and a must-see destination in the American Southwest.

——————————

Hotel：Moenkopi Legacy Inn & Suites Tuba City; or similar
——————————

Today, we’ll explore one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—Grand Canyon National Park! Our visit includes both the East Rim and South Rim, offering breathtaking and unforgettable views. After soaking in the scenery, we’ll head toward Las Vegas, passing by the iconic Hoover Dam along the way. Once in Las Vegas, you’ll have the option to join an exciting Night Tour of the famous Strip (at an additional cost) or enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace.

——————————

Itinerary:

Tuba →  East Rim → South Rim → Hoover Dam (pass by) → Las Vegas
——————————

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park, located in northwestern Arizona, is the 15th national park established in the United States. Its centerpiece is the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, a massive gorge carved by the Colorado River and often regarded as one of the natural wonders of the world. Spanning over 1.2 million acres across Coconino and Mohave counties, the park welcomed over six million visitors in 2017—making it the second most visited national park in the U.S., after the Great Smoky Mountains. In recognition of its global significance, the Grand Canyon was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

——————————

Hotel：Fontainebleau Las Vegas; or similar
——————————

Today marks the final day of our tour. We’ll depart from Las Vegas and make our way back to the San Francisco Bay Area. Along the journey, we’ll travel through the vast Mojave Desert—the largest desert in the western United States—home to the world’s largest solar power station and impressive wind energy farms. We’ll arrive in the San Francisco Bay Area by evening, concluding our unforgettable adventure.

——————————

Itinerary:

Las Vegas → Welcome To Fabulous Las Vegas Sign → San Francisco
——————————