The Classic Lodges & Parks of the West
The Classic Lodges & Parks of the West
The Classic Lodges & Parks of the West
11 Days Starting in Rapid City, South Dakota and ending in Salt Lake City, Utah
Visiting: Rapid City, South Dakota, Rapid City, Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, Cody, Wyoming, Yellowstone National Park, Jackson, Salt Lake City, Utah, Salt Lake City
Tour operator:
Tour code:
AY-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on "The Classic Lodges & Parks of the West" adventure tour, a journey through some of America's most iconic landscapes and historic sites. Begin in Rapid City, South Dakota, and explore the stunning Badlands National Park, Custer State Park, and the legendary Mount Rushmore. Experience the Wild West in Deadwood and the serene beauty of Spearfish Canyon. Traverse the vast plains of Wyoming, visit the historic Ucross Ranch, and delve into the frontier history at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody. Discover the natural wonders of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and unwind in the charming town of Jackson. Conclude your adventure in Salt Lake City, Utah, with its rich pioneer history and vibrant downtown. This tour offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking scenery, all while staying in classic lodges that reflect the spirit of the American West.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Rapid City,South Dakota
Location: Rapid City, South Dakota
Accommodation Name: The Rushmore Hotel
At 6pm, meet your traveling companions for a welcome drink. Your Tour Director will prepare you for your upcoming adventure.
ARRIVE IN RAPID CITY, SOUTH DAKOTA Welcome to Rapid City! At 6pm, meet your traveling companions for a welcome drink. Your Tour Director will prepare you for your upcoming adventure.CUSTER-STATE-PARK-BLACK-HILLS.jpg
Day 2: Rapid City,Badlands National Park,Custer State Park
Location: Rapid City
Accommodation Name: State Game Lodge at Custer State Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
RAPID CITY–BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK–CUSTER STATE PARK Legends of the West After breakfast, enjoy an orientation tour of Rapid City. Visit Badlands National Park to see some of the most spectacular scenery in the region. Afterward, there’s time to explore Wall Drug, known for its quirky roadside signs. Continue to Custer State Park for a backcountry adventure; a [LF] Buffalo Safari with a local expert and Chuckwagon Cookout. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITE WHERE THE BUFFALO ROAM Awaken your adventurer’s spirit on a Buffalo Safari in Custer State Park. This U.S. national mammal and historic mainstay of indigenous peoples, the American Bison is a native species of North America whose numbers were reduced from some 60 million across the great bison belt grasslands from Alaska to the Atlantic to a mere 540 or so by the late 1880s. Standing 6 feet tall and weighing up to 2,000 pounds, these formidable and majestic mammals have been restored in numbers due to conservation efforts of the 20th century. TOUR HIGHLIGHTACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Enjoy an overnight stay at the historic State Game Lodge in Custer State Park. This gracious stone and wood lodge is set in a beautiful mountain valley, surrounded by a ponderosa pine forest. Built in 1920 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the lodge served as the “Summer White House” for President Calvin Coolidge and was visited by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.BADLANDS-NATIONAL-PARK.jpg
Day 3: Custer State Park. Excursion To Hot Springs & Crazy Horse Memorial
Location: Custer State Park
Accommodation Name: State Game Lodge at Custer State Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
CUSTER STATE PARK. EXCURSION TO HOT SPRINGS & CRAZY HORSE MEMORIAL Wild & Wooly Discoveries Travel to Hot Springs to visit the world’s largest [LF] Mammoth Site. Next, Crazy Horse Memorial, built in honor of the fearless Sioux Chief whose renown is derived from the Battle of Little Bighorn. The remainder of the day is yours to relax in Custer State Park. Perhaps try some fly-fishing, mountain biking, or take a nature walk. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITEHISTORIC SITES Dig deeper into prehistoric South Dakota with a visit to the Mammoth Site and Museum. Tour the world’s largest mammoth research facility and active dig site, where scientists are currently excavating remains of mammoths that were trapped and died in the pond more than 26,000 years ago. After a short tour, you’ll have time to stroll the sidewalks of the dig area and see the paleontology laboratory. Imagine this landscape when the more than 60 Mammoths found to date roamed and ruled in the Pleistocene era in North America. HOT-SPRINGS-MAMMOTH-FOSSILS.jpg
Day 4: Custer State Park,Mount Rushmore,Deadwood,Spearfish Canyon
Location: Mount Rushmore
Accommodation Name: Spearfish Canyon Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
CUSTER STATE PARK–MOUNT RUSHMORE–DEADWOOD–SPEARFISH CANYON Statesmen, Sheriffs & Sharpshooters Visit one of the world’s largest stone monuments – Mount Rushmore National Memorial – to see the solid granite faces of four legendary American presidents majestically carved more than a thousand feet overhead. Continue to the historic Old West town of Deadwood for a tour with a Local Guide. Afterwards, drive the scenic Spearfish Canyon for an overnight at the exclusive Spearfish Canyon Lodge. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT LEGENDS & LORE The legendary town of Deadwood is home to the ghosts of the Wild West, where bold frontiersmen and optimistic gold miners set down stakes in this untamed mining town. Hear the rip-roaring stories of legends like Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, and Potato Creek Johnny while exploring the streets where shoot-outs and sheriffs ruled the day.MOUNT-RUSHMORE.jpg
Day 5: Spearfish Canyon,Ucross Ranch,Wyoming,Cody
Location: Cody, Wyoming
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Buffalo Bill Village - Cody
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
SPEARFISH CANYON–UCROSS RANCH, WYOMING–CODY Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch... Continue across the grassy plains of Wyoming and soak in the expansive blue skies. Enjoy lunch at the historic [LF] Ranch at UCross with free time to enjoy a variety of activities. Next, cross the Bighorn Mountains via Shell Creek Canyon to Buffalo Bill’s Wild West town of Cody, Wyoming. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES You’re invited to lunch at The Ranch at UCross – smack in the middle of the Wyoming landscape that’s rich in the history of the American West. Explore activities to get in the cowboy spirit in the region where writers, sculptors and artists have found inspiration for years. See gentle horses, sweeping scenery, and plenty of trout in the river make this the perfect place to get away from it all. BIGHORN-MOUNTAINS.jpg
Day 6: Cody,Yellowstone National Park
Location: Yellowstone National Park
Accommodation Name: Yellowstone National Park Lodges
Meals Included: Breakfast
CODY–YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK Frontier Treasures Visit Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a fascinating tribute to frontier America. Depart for Yellowstone National Park, America’s first national park, where wild animals roam freely in vast meadows and forest. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT LEGENDARY LIVES The mission of the Buffalo Bill Center of the West is to connect people to the stories of the American West. Here in the town named for Bill Cody (Buffalo Bill), you’ll find a wealth of historic artifacts, artwork, and amazing insight to the historic American West and Native American culture in this complex founded in 1917 to continue the vision of Col. William F. Cody – named by the NY Times as ‘among the nation’s most remarkable museums.’YELLOWSTONE-NATIONAL-PARK--PRONGHORN-ANTELOPE.jpg
Day 7: Yellowstone National Park
Location: Yellowstone National Park
Accommodation Name: Yellowstone National Park Lodges
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK America’s First National Park A full day’s adventure in this vast national park! See the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone with its Upper and Lower Falls. Watch for herds of bison in Hayden Valley, and view many of Yellowstone’s geothermal sites, including Old Faithful Geyser. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT NATURAL WONDERS Designated as a national park by law 150 years ago, President Ulysses S. Grant worked to preserve and protect the wild landscapes, native heritage, spectacular wildlife, and extraordinary geologic and ecological phenomena that make this Rocky Mountain paradise a treasure today and for future generations to treasure. From geysers to grizzlies and great bison, no one leaves the park without being changed forever by the natural wonder witnessed in any of its 2.2 million acres of pristine wilderness. YELLOWSTONE-NATIONAL-PARK-OLD-FAITHFUL-ERUPTING.jpg
Day 8: Yellowstone National Park,Jackson
Location: Yellowstone National Park
Accommodation Name: Rustic Inn at Jackson Hole Creekside
Meals Included: Breakfast
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK–JACKSON Glacial Giants This morning, tour Grand Teton National Park on your way to Jackson for a 2-night stay at the Rustic Inn at Jackson Hole. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT NATURAL WONDERS Is it any wonder that Grand Teton National Park draws millions of visitors each year? With its magnificent peaks and glacial landscapes, this Rocky Mountain marvel is the perfect pairing of natural grandeur and frontier spirit of the town of Jackson. Find serenity on the shores of gorgeous glacier-fed Jenny Lake and stroll along the shore before continuing to Jackson. This evening, why not visit the Antler Arches, enjoy a drink at the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, or shop for the perfect cowboy hat?GRAND-TETON-NATIONAL-PARK-BARN.jpg
Day 9: Jackson
Location: Jackson
Accommodation Name: Rustic Inn at Jackson Hole Creekside
Meals Included: Breakfast
JACKSON Peak Experiences Today is at your leisure to explore on your own, enjoy your resort, or perhaps take an optional float trip down the Snake River. (B)FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE in Jackson with an optional float trip along the Snake River, stroll along the downtown boardwalks to enjoy a drink at one of the local saloons, or explore one of the many galleries that call Jackson home.JACKSON-WYOMING.jpg
Day 10: Jackson,Salt Lake City,Utah
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel Downtown Salt Lake City
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
JACKSON–SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH This is the Place! Follow the Snake River and lovely Star Valley en route to Utah. Wind along the shores of beautiful Bear Lake before climbing through the Wasatch Mountains and on to the Great Salt Lake Basin and Salt Lake City. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner hosted by your Tour Director. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOT The capital city of Utah was first established in 1847 by early pioneer settlers led by Brigham Young, who exclaimed, “This is the right place,” upon seeing its vistas and verdant landscapes. More recently, the city played host to the 2002 Olympics and now offers a vibrant downtown with a variety of stores, attractions, and restaurants.SALT-LAKE-CITY.jpg
Day 11: Salt Lake City
Location: Salt Lake City
Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel Downtown Salt Lake City
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Want more time to explore Salt Lake City? Additional nights are available for purchase.
SALT LAKE CITY Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Want to explore more in Salt Lake City? Additional nights are available for purchase. (B)SALT-LAKE-CITY-SKYLINE.jpg
What's Included
-
Accommodation
Accommodation in various lodges and hotels including The Rushmore Hotel in Rapid City, State Game Lodge at Custer State Park, Spearfish Canyon Lodge, Holiday Inn Buffalo Bill Village in Cody, Yellowstone National Park Lodges, Rustic Inn at Jackson Hole Creekside, and Radisson Hotel Downtown Salt Lake City.
-
Meals
Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, and 5 dinners.
-
Tours and Activities
Orientation tour of Rapid City, visit to Badlands National Park, Buffalo Safari in Custer State Park, visit to the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, tour of Crazy Horse Memorial, visit to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, tour of Deadwood, lunch at Ucross Ranch, visit to Buffalo Bill Center of the West, full day adventure in Yellowstone National Park, tour of Grand Teton National Park, and farewell dinner in Salt Lake City.
-
Local Guides
Expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides.
-
Small-Group Discoveries
Limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure, ensuring extra space and personalized experiences.
What's Not Included
-
Additional Nights
Additional nights in Salt Lake City are available for purchase but are not included in the tour package.
-
Optional Activities
Optional float trip down the Snake River in Jackson is not included.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 5 dinners
Notes
Routes and areas visited in Yellowstone are subject to weather and road conditions. This vacation visits national parks and other remote locations where some facilities may not meet the first-class standard you expect from Globus. Some lodges within the parks do not feature televisions and other routinely expected amenities.
Small Group
Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on select North America dates. A Small-Group Discovery is limited to an average of just 24 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
Yellowstone National Park
Accommodation
Stay at The Rushmore Hotel in Rapid City, State Game Lodge at Custer State Park, Spearfish Canyon Lodge in Spearfish, Holiday Inn Buffalo Bill Village in Cody, Yellowstone National Park Lodges, Rustic Inn at Jackson Hole Creekside, and Radisson Hotel Downtown Salt Lake City.
Mode of Transport
Travel by coach through the scenic landscapes of South Dakota, Wyoming, and Utah, with stops at national parks, historic sites, and charming towns along the way.
Check out our Q&As
-
What activities are available at Custer State Park?
At Custer State Park, you can enjoy a backcountry adventure with a Buffalo Safari led by a local expert, followed by a Chuckwagon Cookout. Additionally, you have the option to relax, try fly-fishing, mountain biking, or take a nature walk.
-
What can I expect to see at Badlands National Park?
At Badlands National Park, you will see some of the most spectacular scenery in the region. The park is known for its dramatic landscapes, including sharply eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires.
-
What is special about the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs?
The Mammoth Site in Hot Springs is the world's largest mammoth research facility and active dig site. It features remains of mammoths that were trapped and died in a pond more than 26,000 years ago. You can tour the site and see the paleontology laboratory.
-
What historical figures are associated with Deadwood?
Deadwood is associated with legendary figures of the Wild West such as Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, and Potato Creek Johnny. The town is known for its rich history of frontiersmen and gold miners.
-
What can I do at Ucross Ranch in Wyoming?
At Ucross Ranch, you can enjoy lunch and have free time to engage in various activities that capture the cowboy spirit. The ranch offers a scenic landscape with gentle horses, sweeping scenery, and trout-filled rivers.
-
What will I see at Yellowstone National Park?
At Yellowstone National Park, you will see the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone with its Upper and Lower Falls, herds of bison in Hayden Valley, and many geothermal sites including the famous Old Faithful Geyser.
-
What can I do in Jackson on my free day?
In Jackson, you can explore on your own, enjoy your resort, or take an optional float trip down the Snake River. You can also stroll along the downtown boardwalks, visit local saloons, or explore the many galleries in the area.
-
What is the significance of the Buffalo Bill Center of the West?
The Buffalo Bill Center of the West is a tribute to frontier America and offers a wealth of historic artifacts, artwork, and insights into the historic American West and Native American culture. It was founded to continue the vision of Col. William F. Cody, also known as Buffalo Bill.
-
What can I expect to see in Grand Teton National Park?
In Grand Teton National Park, you will see magnificent peaks and glacial landscapes. You can find serenity on the shores of glacier-fed Jenny Lake and enjoy the natural grandeur of the Rocky Mountains.
-
What is the historical significance of Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City was established in 1847 by early pioneer settlers led by Brigham Young. It is known for its vistas and verdant landscapes and played host to the 2002 Olympics. The city offers a vibrant downtown with a variety of stores, attractions, and restaurants.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Thursday - Sunday
May 22, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025Thursday - Sunday
Jun 19, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025Thursday - Sunday
Jul 10, 2025 - Jul 20, 2025Thursday - Sunday
Aug 14, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025Thursday - Sunday
Aug 21, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025Thursday - Sunday
Aug 28, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025Saturday - Tuesday
Sep 06, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025Thursday - Sunday
Sep 11, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025Thursday - Sunday
May 21, 2026 - May 31, 2026Thursday - Sunday
May 28, 2026 - Jun 07, 2026Thursday - Sunday
Jun 11, 2026 - Jun 21, 2026Thursday - Sunday
Jun 18, 2026 - Jun 28, 2026Thursday - Sunday
Jul 09, 2026 - Jul 19, 2026Thursday - Sunday
Jul 30, 2026 - Aug 09, 2026Thursday - Sunday
Aug 20, 2026 - Aug 30, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Aug 22, 2026 - Sep 01, 2026Thursday - Sunday
Aug 27, 2026 - Sep 06, 2026Thursday - Sunday
Sep 03, 2026 - Sep 13, 2026Thursday - Sunday
Sep 10, 2026 - Sep 20, 2026Saturday - Tuesday
Sep 12, 2026 - Sep 22, 2026Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Globus requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of globus charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.