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Itinerary

A road trip from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone is the kind of journey that really captures the spirit of the American West, where wide open spaces, nature, and long drives become a core part of the experience. We’ll start in Salt Lake City, an easygoing and well-organized hub, before quickly heading out on the road toward more remote and scenic areas.

Along the way, we’ll balance driving with meaningful stops, including time to unwind at natural hot springs and enjoy slower moments surrounded by nature. We’ll then enter Yellowstone, where we’ll experience its unique geothermal features such as geysers, vivid colors and constantly changing landscapes, along with great chances to spot wildlife in its natural habitat.

The road trip continues toward Cody, where the atmosphere shifts to a more traditional Western feel. Here, we’ll get a taste of local culture, including the must-see rodeo experience, a true symbol of this region. From there, we’ll head to Grand Teton National Park, known for its dramatic mountain scenery and lakes, before reaching Jackson, a lively mountain town that perfectly captures the spirit of the area.

The return to Salt Lake City brings the road trip full circle, keeping the same balance between nature, driving, and authentic experiences, right through to the end of the journey.

A map showing a loop itinerary with several stops, starting and ending in Salt Lake City.
A white UTA Trax tram on a track running down a tree-lined city street next to modern buildings.

Arrival in Salt Lake City and hotel check-in

The welcome meeting is scheduled for the afternoon, giving everyone time to settle in and ease into the trip after the journey. We’ll start with a short orientation walk around downtown, including a visit to the Utah State Capitol, one of the city’s main landmarks, and begin getting familiar with both the surroundings and the group.

In the evening, we’ll gather for our first dinner together, the perfect way to break the ice, get to know each other better, and officially kick off the road trip!

A long, straight asphalt road with a yellow line leads through a vast desert landscape toward distant mountains.

First miles, hot springs and open spaces

We’ll start the day with a short walking tour of Salt Lake City, including a visit to Temple Square, the heart of the Mormon community and one of the most important landmarks in the city. It’s a great way to get a better sense of the local culture before hitting the road.

After that, we’ll pick up our vehicles and officially begin our road trip. As we leave the city behind, the scenery quickly opens up into wide landscapes and long stretches of road, setting the tone for the days ahead.

Along the way, we’ll stop at Lava Hot Springs, where we’ll have time to relax in the natural hot pools or just take a break and enjoy the surroundings.

By late afternoon, we’ll reach Idaho Falls, where we’ll check in and wind down after our first full day on the road.

A rugged mountain peak with snow patches rises above a layer of clouds, overlooking a pine forest and a yellow-green field.

Our first real contact with the park

Today we’ll head toward one of the highlights of the trip: Yellowstone National Park. As we get closer, the landscape starts to shift, and once inside, it becomes clear this is unlike any other place.

We’ll spend the day exploring areas like Norris Geyser Basin and Mammoth Hot Springs, where geothermal activity shapes the landscape in unique ways. It’s a great introduction to the park, with a mix of colors, steam, and constantly changing scenery.

In the afternoon, we’ll continue exploring at a relaxed pace before heading to West Yellowstone, where we’ll spend the night just outside the park.

Vibrant orange mineral deposits surround a steaming geothermal hot spring with a forested hill under a bright blue sky.

Geysers, colors and wildlife

Today we’ll dive deeper into Yellowstone, exploring some of its most iconic spots. We’ll visit places like Grand Prismatic Spring and Old Faithful, where the geothermal activity becomes even more impressive and visually striking, with colors and landscapes that feel almost unreal.

As we move through the park, we’ll also pass through Hayden Valley, one of the best areas to spot wildlife. With some luck, we may see bison and other animals moving freely in their natural habitat, often surprisingly close to the road.

There will be time to stop along the way, take in the views, and enjoy the scale of the park before continuing the drive.

In the afternoon, we’ll leave Yellowstone behind and continue toward Cody, where we’ll spend the night and start experiencing a more western atmosphere.

A cowboy rides a bucking horse in mid-air during a rodeo competition as an audience watches from behind a fence.

Cowboys, rodeo and outdoor activities

Today is all about experiencing the Western side of the trip. We’ll spend the day in Cody, a town that still holds onto its strong connection to cowboy culture and local traditions.

We’ll visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, one of the most important museums in the area, and for those who want something more active, there’s the option to go rafting on the Shoshone River. It’s a great way to experience the landscape from a different perspective.

In the evening, we’ll attend a rodeo, a must-see experience that gives a real insight into the local culture and traditions.

A jagged mountain range with patches of snow is reflected perfectly in a calm lake, with autumn foliage on the shore.

Between peaks, lakes and wide-open views

Today we’ll head toward Grand Teton National Park, where the landscape shifts once again, moving from open plains to sharp mountain peaks and clear alpine lakes.

We’ll spend time exploring some of the park’s most scenic areas, including Jenny Lake, the Snake River viewpoints, and Mormon Row, known for its iconic barns set against the mountains. It’s a great place to slow down, take in the views, and enjoy the quieter side of the trip.

There will be time to relax by the water, take photos, and simply enjoy the surroundings at our own pace.

In the afternoon, we’ll continue toward Jackson, a lively mountain town where we’ll spend the night and enjoy the atmosphere of the area.

A low-angle shot of a winding asphalt road with yellow lines running through a mountain valley at golden hour.

Last miles and the final stretch

This morning is left open to enjoy Jackson at our own pace. We can take it easy with a walk around town, grab a coffee, or simply enjoy some free time before heading out.

By late morning, we’ll hit the road for the drive back to Salt Lake City. It’s one of the longer drives of the trip, but still smooth and manageable, and a good moment to take in the changing landscapes one last time.

We’ll arrive in the afternoon, return the cars, and have some free time to relax, pack, or explore a bit more.

In the evening, we’ll wrap up the trip with a final dinner together, celebrating the end of the trip and everything we’ve experienced along the way.

A city skyline with tall buildings and mountains in the background, illuminated by the warm glow of a sunset.

Last moments in Salt Lake City

Depending on our flight times, we may have some extra time to enjoy the city one last time. We can take a final walk, pick up a few souvenirs, or simply spend a bit more time together before heading to the airport.

What's included

What's not included

Roundtrip flight to/from destination
  • Food and beverages when not specified
  • Gas/petrol, parking, toll fees 

  • All the extras you'll be able to fit in your backpack
  • Anything not mentioned in the "What's included" section

Optional activities

Please see below extra optional activities that you can experience during your trip. Your Group Leader will be happy to assist with organizing these activities for the group. Availability may vary depending on location and group preferences. Please note these activities are provided by third party suppliers and liability rests exclusively with these third party suppliers.

  • Walking tour of Salt Lake City and visit to Temple Square - approx. USD40

  • Entrance to Lava Hot Springs - approx. USD22

  • Rodeo ticket in Cody - approx. USD30

  • Entrance to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West - approx. USD4

  • Rafting on the Shoshone River - approx. USD60

Additional info

Learn more about accommodation, transport, and other useful travel information.
  • Accomodation

    6 nights in a twins room with private bathroom and breakfast included

  • Drive-yourself tour

    This is a Drive-yourself tour - it isn’t compulsory to drive, however if you are willing to, then please tick the box when booking your trip.

  • Info on private roomsShow all details

Why WeRoad

  • Small groups, on average 11 people

  • Move or change your trip for free up to 31 days before departure

  • Book with $ 0. Pay the $ 100 deposit only once the trip is confirmed

The Group Leaders

Our Group Leaders are chosen because they’re people just like you: passionate travelers who share the experience authentically, while having the skills to take care of the organisation, and help you get the most out of every moment of the trip.

Find your flight

For this trip, we recommend arriving and departing from these airports.

ArrivalSalt Lake City (SLC)
ReturnSalt Lake City (SLC)
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WeRoadX

This is a WeRoadX

A trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader.

This is a trip designed and created entirely by an experienced WeRoad Travel Group Leader. They organise the whole trip: from defining the itinerary to selecting accommodation and on-site experiences. On the WeRoad website you can book the trip and manage it in MyWeRoad, just like any other WeRoad.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

About this trip

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$ 2,519
Book with $ 0
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