Tar Heel Travel
National Parks & Lodges of the Old West
May 29 - June 6, 2026
Additional trip details and brochure
- Overview
- Itinerary and Map
- Pricing Details
- Conditions
- Resources
Join fellow Tar Heels and friends on an immersive adventure through the heart of America's most captivating landscapes, traversing the wildlife-rich terrain of Custer State Park, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Park. Each engaging day is its own journey, highlighted by exploration of iconic monuments, leisurely hikes, educational discussions and authentic Old West charm.
Highlights
- Marvel at local history.
- Admire the grandeur of Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial and visit the world's largest mammoth site.
- Appreciate nature's inspiration. With endless panoramic vistas, dramatic geological wonders, lush grasslands and a myriad of flora and fauna, the Old West is the perfect backdrop for relaxation, contemplation and reflection.
- Gain perspective and insight. This journey is led by a premier guide from Orbridge’s Expedition Leader team — many of whom have served as U.S. National Park Rangers — whose expertise brings the landscapes, wildlife and history of this region to life like no other.
- Explore at leisure. As time allows between scheduled touring, explore Yellowstone's variety of thermal features, hiking trails, and visitor center and museum independently.
- Rest in comfort. After fulfilling days, retreat to well-appointed properties and various landmark lodges that are national treasures themselves.
Day 1 - Arrive Rapid City, SD
Day 2 - Rapid City | Badlands National Park | Custer State Park
Day 3 - Mammoth Site | Crazy Horse | Custer State Park
Day 4 - Custer | Mount Rushmore | Spearfish Canyon
Day 5 - Spearfish Canyon | Cody, WY
Day 6 - Cody | Yellowstone National Park
Day 7 - Yellowstone National Park
Day 8 - Yellowstone National Park | Grand Tetons National Park | Jackson
Day 9 - Depart for home city
Day 2 - Rapid City | Badlands National Park | Custer State Park
Day 3 - Mammoth Site | Crazy Horse | Custer State Park
Day 4 - Custer | Mount Rushmore | Spearfish Canyon
Day 5 - Spearfish Canyon | Cody, WY
Day 6 - Cody | Yellowstone National Park
Day 7 - Yellowstone National Park
Day 8 - Yellowstone National Park | Grand Tetons National Park | Jackson
Day 9 - Depart for home city
Base Price: From $5,895 per person based on double occupancy
- $7,895 for single occupancy
Airfare not included
Inclusions:
- 8 nights in landmark properties including 2 nights within Yellowstone National Parke.
- 8 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 7 dinners, including special welcome and farewell meals.
- See cobranded web page for details and brochure.
- Tar Heel Travel is a member exclusive perk.
- There must be one Carolina Alumni member in a room. Membership is open to anyone. Learn more.
- By reserving on this tour, you agree to the terms and conditions specific to this tour which are set by the tour operator. This information can be found in the tour brochure.
- The Carolina Alumni Travel Office and tour operator reserve the right to to decline or accept a reservation should a person's health, mental condition, physical infirmity or attitude jeopardize the operation of the tour or the rights, welfare, or enjoyment of other participants. Refunds will be made in accordance with the cancellation policy listed in the tour brochure.