Enjoy two relaxing nights at the historic read more State Game Lodge in Custer State Park, once known as President Calvin Coolidge’s “Summer White House. Settle into the warm, rustic charm of Yellowstone’s legendary park lodges, where geysers, wildlife, and dramatic scenery are just outside your door. Then, unwind during a two-night stay at the Rustic Inn in Jackson Hole beneath the majestic Teton Range.
Along the way, stand before the monumental faces of Mount Rushmore, enjoy exclusive access at Crazy Horse Memorial, marvel at the striking formations of Badlands National Park, stroll the steaming terraces of Mammoth Hot Springs, and take in the awe-inspiring beauty of Grand Teton National Park.
With smaller group sizes, immersive experiences, and more time in the places that matter most, this journey through South Dakota and Wyoming blends natural wonder, Western heritage, and authentic local connections.
Itinerary
Welcome to Rapid City!
At 6:00 p.m., meet your traveling companions for a welcome drink. Your Tour Director will prepare you for your upcoming adventure. Small groups lead to big experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour!
Legends of the West
After breakfast, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Rapid City. Depart Rapid City to explore Badlands National Park with a local Lakota guide and gain a deeper understanding of the land through the stories, history, and traditions of the Lakota people. Journey beyond the scenery to learn how this landscape is connected to cultural heritage and sacred places. Then change gears and visit Wall Drug, an iconic roadside stop full of Western charm and nostalgia, known for its quirky roadside signs. Continue to Custer State Park for a backcountry adventure; a Buffalo Safari with a local expert and traditional cookout.
LOCAL FAVORITE - Awaken your adventurer's spirit on a Buffalo Safari in Custer State Park. The U.S. national mammal and historic mainstay of indigenous people, the American Bison is a native species of North America, whose numbers were reduced from more than 60 million across the great bison belt grasslands from Alaska to the Atlantic to less than 600 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 HIGHLIGHT - Enjoy a two-night 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.
Wild & Wooly Discoveries
Today's journey showcases the rich history, dramatic landscapes, and frontier spirit of the Black Hills. Begin in Hot Springs with a visit to the fascinating Mammoth Site and Museum, home to one of the world's largest concentrations of Ice Age mammoth fossils.
Discover the remarkable story of these prehistoric giants and the ancient sinkhole where their remains were preserved for thousands of years. Continue to the awe-inspiring Crazy Horse Memorial, a tribute to the legendary Lakota leader who fiercely defended his people and culture. During an exclusive Small Group Discovery experience, enjoy a special storyteller-guided visit to the base of the mountain carving (weather permitting) for an unforgettable close-up view and deeper insight into the history, vision, and craftsmanship behind this monumental work.
This afternoon, travel the spectacular Needles Highway and view towering granite spires, winding mountain roads, and breathtaking overlooks. Stop at Sylvan Lake, one of the Black Hills' most beloved scenic gems, before returning to Custer State Park. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace—whether relaxing at the lodge, exploring a nature trail, taking a guided horseback ride through the French Creek Nature Area, or enjoying the beauty of the park on two wheels.
LOCAL FAVORITE - 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 North America during the Pleistocene Epoch.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Explore the Crazy Horse Native American Cultural Center and artist's studio at Crazy Horse Memorial. The world's largest mountain carving is still in progress, honoring Native American heritage with the Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse on horseback pointing to his tribal land.
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 high into the mountainside. Continue to the historic Old West town of Deadwood for a tour with a Local Guide. Visit Mount Moriah Cemetery then drive to the scenic Spearfish Canyon for a hike, dinner and an overnight stay at the exclusive Spearfish Canyon Lodge.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - The legendary town of Deadwood is home to the ghosts of the Wild West, where bold frontiersmen and optimistic gold miners set stakes in this untamed mining town. Hear the rip-roaring stories of legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane while exploring the streets where shoot-outs and sheriffs ruled the day.
Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch...
Continue across the grassy plains of Wyoming and soak in the expansive blue skies. Enjoy lunch at The Ranch at UCross. Next, cross the Bighorn Mountains via Shell Creek Canyon to Buffalo Bill's Wild West town of Cody, Wyoming.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Enjoy lunch at The Ranch at UCross, set in the heart of Wyoming's historic Western landscape. Explore activities that capture the spirit of ranch life in a place that has long inspired writers, sculptors, and artists. With its wide-open scenery and trout-filled river, it's an ideal setting to step away from everyday life and take in the surroundings.
Explore the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a comprehensive museum of historic weapons and art on a private guided Small Group Exclusive experience. Go behind-the-scenes with an expert to view artifacts and hear insider stories that bring the collections to life. In the town named for Bill Cody (Buffalo Bill), you'll find a wealth of amazing insight to the historic American West and Native American culture in this complex founded in 1917. Depart for Yellowstone National Park, America's first national park, where wild animals roam freely in vast meadows and forests.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - 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 pioneer of modern entertainment spectacles, William Cody's legend rides on as a symbol of the unbridled possibilities of the early American West. “Buffalo Bill” Cody's horsemanship and sharpshooting skills gained notice by the U.S. Army, and his Wild West shows endeared him to the elite audiences of Europe.
America's First National Park
Spend an unforgettable day exploring the untamed beauty and extraordinary natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Journey through one of America's most iconic landscapes as you visit Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, where powerful Upper and Lower Falls plunge into a dramatic canyon painted in vibrant shades of gold, red, and ochre. Be ready to snap photos as you travel through Hayden Valley, one of the park's best wildlife-viewing areas, where roaming herds of bison, elk, and perhaps even wolves or grizzly bears may appear against the sweeping mountain scenery.
Throughout the day, discover Yellowstone's world-famous geothermal features—from bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles to colorful hot springs and the legendary Old Faithful Geyser, whose towering eruptions have captivated visitors for generations. With every stop, Yellowstone reveals another layer of its wild beauty, geological power, and timeless wonder.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - More than 150 years ago, Yellowstone became the world's first national park, preserving an extraordinary landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth. Protected under President Ulysses S. Grant, this vast wilderness remains a sanctuary of dramatic canyons, erupting geysers, abundant wildlife, and pristine forests spread across 2.2 million acres. From the thunder of waterfalls to the sight of bison grazing beneath endless skies, Yellowstone offers memorable moments at every turn. As part of Globus family of brands Lighthouse Project, this historic site is one example of our commitment to supporting the people and places we share with you.
Glacial Giants
This morning, depart Yellowstone National Park and tour Grand Teton National Park. While Yellowstone is expansive and geologically complex centered on a volcanic caldera, Grand Teton is composed of alpine lakes, open meadows, and continuous sightlines to the mountains. Visit Jenny Lake, framed by towering peaks, for cinematic views and clear, still water. Find serenity on the banks of the gorgeous glacier-fed lake and stroll along the shore before continuing to Jackson for a two-night stay at the Rustic Inn at Jackson Hole.
Enjoy free time in Jackson this evening. Consider a visit to the Antler Arches, a drink at the iconic Million-Dollar Cowboy Bar, or shop for the perfect cowboy hat downtown.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa at Jackson Hole blends rugged beauty with easy urban access, close to Jackson's downtown and near the National Elk Refuge. The Flat Creek Preserve and Wetlands Walk onsite is a highlight, offering quiet, immersive connections to the land without even leaving the property. Walking paths, fire pits, and a backdrop of stunning Teton scenery are a perfect finale for this Small Group Discovery tour.
Peak Experiences
Enjoy a free day in Jackson to explore on your own, relax at the resort, or perhaps take an optional float trip down the Snake River. Join your Tour Director and travel companions for a farewell dinner tonight at a local restaurant.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - Explore more in Jackson with an optional float trip on 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.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Want more time to explore Jackson? Additional nights are available for purchase.
Trip Inclusions
- Orientation tour of Rapid City, gateway to the Black Hills and western South Dakota
- Visit to Badlands National Park with scenic views and photo stops showcasing its dramatic rock formations and vast prairie landscapes
- Buffalo Safari and western-style cookout in Custer State Park [LF] home to one of North America's largest publicly owned bison herds
- Tour of the Mammoth Site and Museum in Hot Springs, [LF] an active paleontological excavation featuring Ice Age mammoth remains
- Visit to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, one of America's most recognizable monuments
- Small group exclusive visit to Crazy Horse Memorial, including a private guided tour and close-up view from the base of the mountain
- Guided sightseeing tour in Deadwood, the legendary Black Hills town known for its gold rush history and Wild West heritage
- Visit to Spearfish Canyon, renowned for its limestone cliffs, waterfalls, and scenic beauty
- Lunch at the historic Ranch at UCross in Wyoming, a working ranch with deep roots in the American West
- Small group exclusive docent led visit to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, exploring the art, history, and culture of the American frontier
- Guided sightseeing in Yellowstone National Park, featuring geysers, canyons, waterfalls, and opportunities to spot wildlife
- Visit to Grand Teton National Park, including Colter Bay, Jackson Lake, and Jenny Lake beneath the park's dramatic mountain peaks
- Overnight stays at iconic lodges including two nights at the State Game Lodge in Custer State Park, two nights in Yellowstone lodges, and two nights at the Rustic Inn at Jackson Hole
- Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, 5 dinners
- Rapid City: The Rushmore Hotel (First-Class):
The Rushmore Hotel Rapid City is a great place to rest after spending a busy day in Rapid City exploring everything the city offers. The hotel is an eco-friendly hotel representing sustainability in South Dakota. The rooms have a fun decor showcasing the beauty and flavor of South Dakota. - Custer State Park: State Game Lodge at Custer State Park (First-Class):
Located in Custer State Park, this historic Lodge is set in a beautiful mountain valley, surrounded by a ponderosa pine forest. Sit on the front porch and watch as bison and deer stroll across the lawn. A short drive to the area's attractions as well as Rapid City Airport. The Lodge has a restaurant, bar, gift shop, and Internet access. Activities in the park include a buffalo jeep safari, fly fishing, hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. - Spearfish: Spearfish Canyon Lodge (First-Class):
Log structure, log timbers set over massive stone pillars - Heart of the Canyon. The main lodge, with heavy log walls & nature's artifacts, is open throughout every beautiful canyon season; Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall. - Cody: Holiday Inn Buffalo Bill Village - Cody (First-Class):
Located downtown, the Holiday Inn Cody is minutes away from local shops, restaurants, and attractions. Amenities at the hotel include an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a gift shop, and 189 guestrooms. - Yellowstone National Park: Canyon Lodge - Yellowstone National Park (National Park):
Canyon Lodge and Cabins is a sprawling facility, featuring the most accommodations in Yellowstone with more than 500 rooms and cabins. Canyon Lodge is part of a collection of lodges operated by the National Parks; space fills up quickly at these lodges and is therefore based on availability. We will endeavor to secure your lodge of choice, however in the event space is not available an alternate lodge of similar category will be secured. Please note that all park accommodations are non-smoking and reflecting the natural surroundings of the park, rooms are not equipped with televisions, radios, air conditioning or Wi-Fi. - Yellowstone National Park: Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel - Yellowstone National Park (National Park):
On the historic site of Fort Yellowstone, this traditional hotel is nestled in the trees alongside the mountains. The features of this hotel include high ceilings, pine wood accents, and 211 cozy guestrooms. Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel is part of a collection of lodges operated by the National Parks; space fills up quickly at these lodges and is therefore based on availability. In the event that space is not available at this hotel, an alternate lodge of similar category will be secured. - Yellowstone National Park: Yellowstone National Park Lodges (National Park):
Each Yellowstone National Park Lodge has its own unique setting and atmosphere. The specific lodge for your vacation will be confirmed closer to departure. Lodges featured in Yellowstone National Park are the Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, Grant Village, Canyon Lodge, and Old Faithful Snow Lodge. - Yellowstone National Park: Old Faithful Inn - Yellowstone National Park (National Park):
The most popular of the lodges, Old Faithful Inn is a national historic landmark. This rustic style lodge, was first built in 1904 and offers rustic charm, complete with a large lobby fireplace and shingled exterior. The lodge offer a full service restaurant, cafeteria, deli, and lounge for dining as well as a gift store and an activities desk. Old Faithful Inn is part of a collection of lodges operated by the National Parks; space fills up quickly at these lodges and is therefore based on availability. In the event that space is not available at this hotel, an alternate lodge of similar category will be secured. - Jackson: Rustic Inn at Jackson Hole Creekside (First-Class):
The Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa welcomes guests with warm Western hospitality. Outdoor enthusiasts and hedonists alike indulge in the lavishly appointed historic lodging accommodations and luxury log cabins.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- Routes and areas visited in Yellowstone are subject to weather and/or road conditions. The order of sightseeing subject to change.
- Maximum elevation on tour: 9,033 ft (2,753 m).
- 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.
Don't waste your precious time queueing up, skip the lines with special VIP access at the must-see sites. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of the USA. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great holiday. Savour the flavours of the USA through its regional cuisine. Read more
Globus' selection of hotels in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more
Globus' coaches offer one of the most comfortable, stress-free and eco-friendly ways to travel. Read more
Do as the locals do and enjoy unique experiences that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
Trip Reviews (6)
The buffalo safari allowed us to get especially close to wildlife and the vastness of Badlands National Park was hauntingly beautiful. And we saw so much wildlife including bear, coyote, bison, elk, sheep, deer, etc. Being located at Yellowstone for 2 days, at various parts of the park, allowed us to explore most of the points of interest. I felt the lunch stop in Montana and driving via Idaho to Salt Lake City were surprise add-ons as well. I felt the Beartooth Highway from Cody into the Yellowstone area was one of the most scenic drives I have every done. All in all, it was a wonderful trip that surpassed our expectations, creating new friendships and new memories, and wondering why I had not discovered this region years earlier.
The tour was excellent - easy paced and not at all rushed, helped in part by one of the best tour directors we have ever come across. Steve was a wealth of information having lived and worked in Yellowstone for over ten years. There was nothing he did not know about the areas we visited. Kirt, our driver, was also excellent.
The fact that there was still a lot of snow lying around just added to the beauty of the scenery. One of the highlights was the float trip down the Snake River as well as the abundance of wildlife we saw - bears, moose, bison just to mention a few.
We had only 17 on our tour - three Aussies - and everyone got on well. The smaller group size made for ease of moving around and plenty of space on the coach. Hotels in Rapid City and Salt Lake City were a few minutes walk from the town centres.
We couldn’t fault Jemma’s handling of our booking with every query answered promptly and efficiently. Looking forward to our next booking with Global Journeys.
Dates & Pricing
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Enquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Globus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
