Temple Square

Temple Square is often seen as the heart of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS), also known as the Mormons. Back in the late 1840s when LDS pioneers first reached Utah, they decided to build a temple that would be the center of their religious society. From there, the church grew outwards across Utah, then throughout the United States, and then throughout the world. Temple Square is still the headquarters for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints to this day, containing other historic buildings such as the Tabernacle, the Beehive House, and the Conference Center. You'll love observing the beautiful architecture of these buildings while learning about the history of these early pioneers.

Utah State Capitol

Modeled after the US Capitol Building in Washington DC, the Utah State Capitol Building is stunning. This brilliant piece of architecture is the center of government for all of Utah, containing the chambers for the Utah State Legislature, the chamber for the Utah Supreme Court, and the office for the Utah Governor. In addition to its important role as the seat of government for all of Utah, the Capitol Building also holds incredible pieces of artwork depicting the history of the state.

Antelope Island State Park

Located near Salt Lake City, Antelope Island is home to free-ranging bison, pronghorn (antelope), bighorn sheep, and many other desert animals. In addition to these larger animals, millions of birds line the shore offering unmatched bird watching opportunities. Here you also have amazing views of the Great Salt Lake and the opportunity to take a dip in the lake.

Lava Hot Springs

World famous hot springs located near the Idaho Utah border. Take a minute to relax and soak in the mineral hot springs. Temperatures range from 102 - 112 degrees Fahrenheit.

Idaho Falls

Located between Salt Lake City and Yellowstone National Park, Idaho Falls is the ideal stopping point to eat lunch and stretch your legs. While there, you’ll be able to check out the long man made waterfall that the town is named after.

Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole is a quaint Western town in Wyoming known for its artwork and cowboys. Due to its proximity to numerous ski resorts and Grand Teton National Park, this lively town is a great stopping point. One of the most recognizable aspects of Jackson is the town square, where the four corners of the park are marked with arches made entirely out of antlers.

Grand Teton National Park

Located in Northwestern Wyoming, be prepared for stunning mountain views and diverse wildlife. The Teton mountain range dominates the skyline rising to heights over 13,000 feet. Witness the range up close while exploring locations within the park such as Jenny Lake and Coulter Bay at Jackson Lake. During the summer, wildflowers paint the valley floor with rich vibrant colors. This area is a great place for photos to send home or post on your social media accounts.

Yellowstone National Park

Spanning nearly 3,500 miles over 3 states, Yellowstone national park is one of the world's largest national parks. The park is home to nearly half of the world's thermal features. Additionally, see the only herd of bison dating to prehistoric times as well as bears, wolves and other animal life. Over the next few days we will visit the following 13 main attractions: 1. Old Faithful 2. Grand Prismatic Spring 3. Yellowstone Lake 4. The Grand Canyon of the Yellows 5. Mammoth Hot Springs 6. West Thumb Geyser Basin in the Geyser Basin 7. Geyser Basin in Norris Intercontinental Basin 8. Mud Volcano 9. Fishing Bridge Basin 10. Yellowstone River 11. Upper Interval Basin Upper Geyser Basin 12. Upper Midway Geyser Basin 13. Madison River Please note: we will not visit all of the attractions in one day.

West Yellowstone

The town of West Yellowstone, Montana, is located just outside the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, is a year-round, family-friendly destination. Nestled among majestic mountain peaks, and surrounded by natural scenic wonders, the town is rich in history and activities. After arriving, you’ll be able to eat dinner and explore the town’s many gift shops. After, we’ll drop you off back at your hotel, giving you time to rest and prepare before the next day’s journey.

Yellowstone National Park

See remaining attractions from yesterdays list of 13 attractions

Cody

After exploring Yellowstone National Park, you can continue your journey by driving through Shoshone National Forest to reach your hotel in Cody. This town, located east of the park, is named after its native son, Buffalo Bill Cody, and is celebrated for its strong Western heritage and association with the legendary figure, who established the town in the late 1800s. One of the top draws of Cody is the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, comprising five museums dedicated to showcasing the rich history and culture of the American West. You can plan to visit this notable attraction the following morning.

Cody

This morning, we'll be visiting the Buffalo Bill Center, where we'll learn about the iconic legacy of William Cody. He was a remarkable man who had a diverse range of skills and experiences, including being a cavalry scout, Pony Express rider, ranch hand, wagon train driver, city planner, railroad contractor, bison hunter, fur trapper, gold prospector, Native American advocate, feminist, and even the inventor of modern show business. Cody's legend serves as a symbol of the unlimited possibilities that the early American West held. He gained recognition for his outstanding horsemanship and sharpshooting skills, which caught the attention of the U.S. Army, while his Wild West shows endeared him to the aristocratic audiences of Europe. After our visit to the Buffalo Bill Center, we'll continue our journey by driving to Sheridan. We'll have the pleasure of enjoying lunch at a local family-run restaurant, which is renowned for embodying true Rocky Mountain hospitality.

Sheridan

Sheridan, Wyoming is a unique and beautiful town that offers a blend of Western history, natural beauty, and modern amenities. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of the American West. It is often referred to as "Wyoming's Jewel" due to its natural beauty and rich history. The town was founded in 1882 and quickly became an important center of commerce and culture in the region.

Devils Tower National Monument

An astounding geological feature located in the plains of the Black Hills, Devils Tower is the world's first national monument. With its peculiar hexagonal columns, Devil's Tower is home to some of the best crack rock climbing in North America. The tower is considered sacred to Native Americans and their modern descendants come to keep their spiritual and physical connection to the area. Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota, home to iconic natural wonders, rich history, and unforgettable adventures. Explore and you'll discover the best this destination has to offer, from world-renowned landmarks like Mount Rushmore and Badlands National Park to hidden gems like winding mountain roads and charming small towns. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, you'll find something to suit your interests in the Black Hills and Badlands.

Deadwood

Spending an evening at Legends & Lore in Deadwood promises to be a fascinating journey into the Wild West and a chance to experience the town's rich history and legendary characters firsthand. It would be an exciting and memorable experience! Deadwood has a rich history as a mining town in the Wild West, and it's known for its colorful characters and stories of adventure and danger. It 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. Discover a community steeped in rich history. Finally, you might want to visit some of Deadwood's famous saloons and casinos, where you can imagine yourself in the midst of a wild shootout or playing a hand of poker with the town's notorious characters.

Spearfish

Drive through one of the most scenic routes in the nation, featuring stunning waterfalls, towering cliffs, and abundant wildlife. From breathtaking natural wonders to rich cultural heritage, the Black Hills and Badlands are brimming with wonders just waiting to be explored. Start planning your adventure today and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Crazy Horse Memorial

This privately funded statue is the largest in the world. Beginning in 1947 and standing at nearly 600 feet tall, this statue is still being carved. Sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski was commissioned to create a memorial to Crazy Horse in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Dedicated to this warrior, Ziolkowski wanted to allow the Lakota Tribe to feel pride and preserve their heritage and culture. Come enjoy this memorial and look around in the surrounding Native American museum, learning about their culture, and Witness the massive carving of Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

The Black Hills, with their rough charm and untamed tranquility, embody the spirit of the American West and its indigenous history, from the four visages carved high on Mount Rushmore's granite peak to the rocky spires of granite. It's an experience that will remain etched in your memory. Immerse yourself in the remarkable tribute to Chief Crazy Horse, the valiant Sioux leader known for his role in the Battle of Little Bighorn, at the awe-inspiring memorial. Explore the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which displays the immense likenesses of four esteemed U.S. presidents - Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt - etched into the mountainside. Take a leisurely walk along the Presidential Trail for an up-close view of this poignant monument or drop by the Information Center. Mount Rushmore is a symbol of America's ideals and freedoms since its inception in 1925 As you revel in the breathtaking beauty of the Black Hills region, learn about the conservation of American

Custer State Park

Named after the Army General, Custer State Park is surrounded by granite peaks and grassy plains. Within the park is an abundance of wildlife, hiking, swimming, and many other adventures. There is something here for everyone to enjoy.

Custer

Choose 1 of the following adventure activities --Ziplining --Rushmore Mountain coaster --Horseback riding

Rapid City

--Berlin Wall --Museum of Geology --South Dakota Air Museum

You can choose to fly out either tonight or tomorrow morning. If you opt to leave today, kindly schedule your flight for 7 PM or later to allow for any potential traffic we may encounter on our journey. We will drop you off at Rapid City International Airport in the afternoon, or you may choose to spend the night in Casper, WY, and return to Salt Lake City the following day. To accommodate any possible traffic delays during our trip, please ensure that your flight is scheduled for 7 PM or later.

Casper

Experience a night in Casper City, also known as "The Oil City," with a rich history of oil boomtown and cowboy culture. In 2010, Forbes magazine recognized Casper as the highest-ranked family-friendly small city in the West and eighth overall in the nation on their list of "the best small cities to raise a family." Additionally, Casper City hosts various annual events, such as the Central Wyoming Fair and Rodeo and the Casper Marathon. --National Historic Trails Interpretive Center --Nicolaysen Art Museum --Tate Geological Museum

Rapid City

If you are flying out today, your tour guide will drop you off at the Rapid City airport early in the morning. You also have the option of driving back to SLC with your tour guide and flying out of SLC international airport. If you decide to drive back with the tour guide, please book your flight for 10 PM or later because of the 11 hour drive.

Salt Lake City

Today will return to Salt Lake City the following day. Without making any stops, a trip of 412 miles from Casper City to Salt Lake City is expected to take approximately 6 hours and 32 minutes. To accommodate any possible traffic delays during our trip, please ensure that your flight is scheduled for 7 PM or later.

Independence Rock State Historic Site

on the way will have a chance to see Independence Rock, which is a granite monolith located in central Wyoming, and it played an important role as a landmark for pioneers traveling westward along the Oregon Trail in the mid-19th century. The rock is about 130 feet tall and covers an area of about 24 acres. The name "Independence Rock" was given to the formation by early explorers and fur traders, who often reached the site on July 4th and saw it as a symbol of American independence. The rock was also a popular resting spot for pioneers on their journey west, and many of them carved their names into the rock's surface, leaving behind a historical record of their travels. Today, Independence Rock is a state historic site and a popular destination for visitors interested in learning about the history of the Oregon Trail and the pioneers who traveled it.