Explore the National Parks of the U.S West - Las Vegas to San Francisco

Welcome to Las Vegas! Arrive at your hotel via airport shuttle or local taxi and settle in after your long journey. Take time to relax this evening in preparation for the great adventures ahead. Airport transportation options vary in cost and convenience, you can choose based on your preferences and schedule. Overnight: Tuscany Suites & Casino, 1 night

Meals:  Nil

Meet your group in the lobby at 8 am for introductions before leaving Las Vegas and ascending to the Colorado Plateau through the Virgin River Gorge. Along the way you will enjoy the spectacular scenery of Snow Canyon State Park, where you’ll walk over petrified sand dunes. This evening we’ll arrive in St. George, Utah where you have the evening to explore and grab some dinner on your own, be sure to check with your guide for some suggestions. Overnight: Ramada by Wyndham - St George, 1 night Drive time: 120 mi / 200 km, or 2 hrs. Lava Tube to Moqui Marbles: 3 mi / 5 km, 2-3 hrs, +/-150 m

Meals:  B,L

Zion National Park is an 800 m deep sandstone canyon carved by the mighty Virgin River. The scenery is stunning. Zion is famous for it's iconic hikes through many slot canyons. We have all day to explore this fabulous park. You have the option to enjoy a hike to Emerald Pools, where water cascades into shaded pools. Or, maybe you are interested in wading through the Virgin River into the Narrows? Which ever you choose, you will not be disappointed. If you finish hiking early, there is free time to explore the charming town of Springdale. Overnight: Days Inn - Hurricane, 1 night Drive time: 90 mi / 150 km, or 2 hrs Emerald Pools: 3 mi / 5 km, 2-3 hrs, +/-200 m

Meals:  B,L

Leaving our hotel early, we soon reach Bryce Canyon National Park. For many, Bryce is the most beautiful of the American National Parks. Long ago, tectonic forces uplifted an ancient lakebed exposing the soft sandstone deposit to the elements. Over time, the frost and wind erosion continued to chisel them and created a truly wonderful display of rocks. Marvel at Thor's Hammer, sandstone arches and the expansiveness of the park. Hiking paths wind through radiant red and pink towers of stone, known as Hoodoo's, which contrast beautifully with blue skies and green pines. At sundown, be awed by an unforgettable color play on the formations. Those wanting can take a horseback ride through Bryce's rock formations (approx. $65, not included) or hike with the group on the Navajo and Queens Garden Trail. In the summer, opt for a Western Cowboy dinner show back in Bryce Canyon City (not included). Overnight: Bryce View Lodge, 1 night Drive time: 140 mi / 220 km, or 2.5 hrs Queens Garden and Navajo Loop: 3 mi/5 km, 3 hrs, +/-200 m Rim walk, Bryce Point to Sunset: 2 mi/4 km, 1 hr, +/-50 m

Meals:  B,L

We depart this morning for Lake Powell. Once damed, the Colorado River created a giant lake with 3000 km of shoreline. Deep red sandstone walls reflect in the deep blue waters, offering unforgettable images. The area is famous for its rock formations and deep canyon carvings like Horseshoe Bend. walk around this natural wonder where the Colorado River meanders in a tight, horseshoe-shaped curve around a sandstone escarpment. This iconic viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the river’s emerald, green waters contrasted against the red rock canyon. Late afternoon we’ll make our way to Navajo Bridge to scout for Condors soaring over the Colorado river. In the evening, settle into your accommodations and look forward to another day of exploration after a restful evening. Overnight: Clarion Inn Page - Lake Powell, 1 night. Drive time: 140 mi / 220 km, or 2.5 hrs Horseshoe Bend: 1.5 mi/2.4 km, 45 min, +/-40 m

Meals:  B,L

Today we head to the Hollywood famous destination of Monument Valley. Giant red towers of stone rise out of the valley and offer fantastic photographic motifs. For decades, this area has been used as a backdrop for the cameras of Hollywood films including Forrest Gump. We recommend an unforgettable Jeep tour through the valley led by the local Navajo Indians (starting at US$100, not included), where secluded views of the panoramas of Ear of the Wind and Big Hogan await. In the afternoon, a 2.5 hr trip returns us to the Grand Canyon via its eastern entrance. We will stop along the way to enjoy some scenic viewpoints. With luck, we arrive in time for a stunning sunset. Our hotel is just south of the park entrance. Overnight: The Red Feather Lodge, 2 nights Drive time: 300 mi / 450 km, or 4.5 hrs

Meals:  B,L

A full day to relax and explore at the Grand Canyon. With it being 277 miles long and 18 miles wide, there is not way to see it all in one day. We recommend an easy hike along the West Rim to the beautiful Hermit’s Rest overlook where you'll be treated to an ever-changing, colorful panorama of the canyon's unique rock formations. If you are looking for a bit more action, there are some recommended hikes that will take you into the canyon itself. Note that you have to come up as far as you went down so keep that in mind to ensure you have enough food, water and plenty of time. It will take you twice as long to return to the rim as it did for you to descend. *Note: Hikes in Grand Canyon National Park are self-guided due to permit regulations. For those searching for a little excitement, helicopter tours, bike rentals and an IMAX theater (to be paid locally, not included in tour package) are available as well. Overnight: The Red Feather Lodge Havasupai Gardens via Bright Angel Trail: ~9 mi/14.4 km, 4-5 hrs, +/-940 m Cedar Ridge via South Kaibab: ~3 mi/5 km, 3-4 hrs, +/-300 m Hike along the rim: up to 8 mi/13 km, up to 4 hrs, +/-50 m

Meals:  B,L

In the early afternoon, we depart once again for Las Vegas via the famous Route 66. We'll stop for some photo opportunities on our way to the city. Once we check-in to our hotel in Las Vegas the evening is yours to rest up for tomorrow’s adventure or to explore the city known for its vibrant nightlife, opulent resorts and thrilling entertainment. Should you choose to visit the iconic Strip, you can immerse yourself in the city’s luxurious casinos, extravagant shows, and gourmet dining. Overnight: Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino, 1 night Drive time: ~270 mi / 440 m, or 4 hrs

Meals:  B,L

The environment of Death Valley stands in stark contrast to the red deserts of Utah and the green mountains of Yosemite we will see later this week. More than 3.3 million acres of spectacular desert make up the scenery, along with rare desert wildlife, complex geology, undisturbed wilderness and sites of historical interest abound. This area is known for extreme weather conditions and temperatures, and is one of the hottest places on earth. In summer, temperatures can reach over 49°C. Additionally, being in a rift valley, Death Valley is also the lowest point in the Western Hemisphere at 86 m below sea level. We have time to explore its golden sand dunes, its myriad of brackish pools and springs as well as the fascinating rock erosion formations of Zabriskie Point. If temperatures allow, we will even hike to the Badlands. Then we drive along the 14,000-ft (4300 m) ridge of the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California to our hotel located in the renowned ski resort of Mammoth Lakes. Overnight: Mammoth Mountain Inn, 1 night Drive time: 330 mi / 530 km, or 6 hrs Badlands Loop: 2.6 mi / 4.2 km, 1-2 hrs, +/-120 m

Meals:  B,L

In the morning, we head to the famed Yosemite National Park to encounter Mono Lake, one of the oldest lakes on Earth. It is known for its bizarre white limestone “tufa tower” formation. Up and over the the breathtaking Tioga Pass we drive and admire the sheer cliffs of the Sierra Nevada ridge, at which we reach 3,000 m. We'll take time to hike in the national park, a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site, this afternoon before spending the evening in the heart of the valley at Curry Village. The accommodation here is in rustic twin share tent cabins with beds, canvas walls and communal bathrooms. The evening is reserved for wildlife watching, and enjoying an amazing sunset in Yosemite Valley. With a little luck we will see deer, coyote or bear. Overnight: Curry Village (Tent Cabins with communal bathrooms), 1 night Drive time: 120 mi / 200 km, or 4 hrs **Note: Trips starting before the end of May or in late October may have to detour via Sonora Pass due to snow closure on Tioga Pass Road in Yosemite National Park. Tioga Pass generally opens Memorial Day, which is the last weekend in May. It closes with the first heavy snow of the year.

Meals:  B,L

Yosemite National Park which was established in 1890 and encompasses stunning mountain vistas and valleys housing meadows and forests surrounded by high cliffs and waterfalls. Today we get to discover more of Yosemite. In the morning, our group takes a leisurely drive to Glacier Point, the most impressive viewpoint of the national park. Big tour buses cannot access this viewpoint, but our smaller van is allowed. We have some time this morning to explore the park by foot utilizing one of the many trails that start at Glacier Point. From here we marvel at the perfect view of the valley and the impressive walls of Half Dome. Next we head towards the historic gold-mining town of Sonora to check-in to our hotel and relax for the evening. Overnight: Heritage Inn, 2 nights. Drive time: 100 mi / 160 km, or 2-3 hrs. Panorama Trail: 9.1 mi / 14.6 km, 4-6 hrs, +/-700 m Sentinel Dome & Taft Point Loop: 7.2 mi / 11.5 km, 4-5 hrs, +/-575 m

Meals:  B,L

A full day to enjoy the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. We spend the morning hiking among a hidden grove of Giant Sequoia, at the Calaveras Big Trees State Park, a breathtaking sanctuary showcasing giant sequoias, including some of the world's largest and oldest trees. Choose from multiple hiking options and enjoy solitude among these quiet giants. Then we continue to Columbia State Park - a preserved Gold Rush town, where you can travel back in time to explore authentic 19th-century buildings in this living history museum dedicated gold rush area. This afternoon you can explore Senora’s charming shops, enjoy a wine tasting (not included) or perhaps pay a visit to the local hotel where Mark Twain once stayed. Overnight: Heritage Inn Drive Time: 125 mi / 200 km, or 2 hrs Various walks: 5 mi / 8 km, 2-3 hrs, +/-100 m

Meals:  B,L

We'll spend our final day exploring what the locals call, SF. This vibrant city is known for its iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and breathtaking views. After a quick drive into the city, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the bustling waterfront at Fisherman’s Wharf, marvel at the Golden Gate Bridge, and wander through the historic streets of Chinatown. No visit is complete without a ride on the city's famous cable cars, offering a unique way to experience the steep hills and stunning skyline. From the art-filled alleys of the Mission District to the serene beauty of Golden Gate Park, you’re certain to find many hidden treasures throughout this fabulous metropolis. Overnight: Hotel Caza Fisherman's Wharf, 1 night Drive time: 120 mi / 200 km, or 2.5 hrs City tour: 3-4 mi / 5-7 km, 3-4 hrs, +/-100 m

Meals:  B,L

Today concludes your western adventure. Departure is on your own today. You have a few transportation options to San Francisco International Airport (SFO), each option offers a different balance of convenience, cost, and travel time, you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

Meals:  B