Grand Canyon's Ooh Aah Point with a lookout

Operated by Intrepid Travel

Western USA Encompassed

From

Price on request

Duration

21 days

Countries

United States

Activity

easy

Group size

Max 12

The adventure

Set out on a 21-day adventure that mixes the vastly varied landscapes of western USA with some of its most famous cities. Start in the red canyon country of the southwest with visits to Zion and Bryce Canyon national parks, take a Navajo-guided tour of Monument valley and walk the rim of the Grand Canyon. After a stop in Vegas it’s across the Mojave and into California, where the towering timber of Sequoia and Redwood national parks awaits. Stay in San Francisco, spend two nights exploring Yosemite National Park, see the deepest lake in the US at Crater Lake National Park, stop for a wine tasting in Oregon’s Willamette Valley and take in the Multnomah Falls in Columbia River Gorge. Add in a break in Portland, a visit to Olympic National Park and Hoh Rainforest before ending in Seattle.

Zion National Park - Walks

Bryce Canyon - Leader-led Walk

Horseshoe Bend Visit

Navajo Tribal Park - Lower Antelope Canyon Tour

Monument Valley - Navajo guided 4x4 Jeep tour including traditional lunch

Sequoia National Park

Day by day

Day 1Las VegasWelcome to Las Vegas! The real wild west is home to some of the USA’s most incredible scenery. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, there’s plenty to do – maybe wander along the famous strip, be entertained by impersonators and street performers, or catch a live show. After your meeting, maybe head out to dinner with the group to get to know your new travel mates.

Las Vegas

Welcome to Las Vegas! The real wild west is home to some of the USA’s most incredible scenery. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, there’s plenty to do – maybe wander along the famous strip, be entertained by impersonators and street performers, or catch a live show. After your meeting, maybe head out to dinner with the group to get to know your new travel mates.

Day 2Zion National ParkHop in a private van to Zion National Park today and join your leader for an exploration in the wild landscapes of the park on a guided hike. Zion is known for its towering sandstone cliffs and maze of narrow canyons, and you’ll get to see it for yourself as you hike right through the middle of it all. Then, spend the night in Springdale – the gateway to the park.

Zion National Park

Hop in a private van to Zion National Park today and join your leader for an exploration in the wild landscapes of the park on a guided hike. Zion is known for its towering sandstone cliffs and maze of narrow canyons, and you’ll get to see it for yourself as you hike right through the middle of it all. Then, spend the night in Springdale – the gateway to the park.

Day 3Bryce Canyon National Park / PageAfter breakfast this morning, it’s time to head to Bryce Canyon National Park. Take a short drive in your private vehicle, then spend the morning hiking through the landscapes of the park. Walk along the canyon rim and stare up at hundreds of unique sandstone towers known as hoodoos that jut out from the natural amphitheatre. After, break for lunch and take in your surroundings, then hike down into the canyon for a closer look at the hoodoos. Then, drive on to the town of Page, where you’ll spend the night.

Stunning panoramic view of Bryce Canyon in winter with snow-covered hoodoos and clear blue skies.

Bryce Canyon National Park

After breakfast this morning, it’s time to head to Bryce Canyon National Park. Take a short drive in your private vehicle, then spend the morning hiking through the landscapes of the park. Walk along the canyon rim and stare up at hundreds of unique sandstone towers known as hoodoos that jut out from the natural amphitheatre. After, break for lunch and take in your surroundings, then hike down into the canyon for a closer look at the hoodoos. Then, drive on to the town of Page, where you’ll spend the night.

Explore the breathtaking rock formations and winding river of Smith Rock State Park on a sunny summer day.

Your journey through

United States

Day 4Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend / PageThis morning, join a local Navajo guide for an adventure through Lower Antelope Canyon – known for its wave-like structure and the distinct light beams that shine down into the canyon’s openings. Learn how the Navajo culture has thrived in the region, then set out for a gentle walk along Horsehoe Bend before returning to Page for the evening.

Antelope Canyon

This morning, join a local Navajo guide for an adventure through Lower Antelope Canyon – known for its wave-like structure and the distinct light beams that shine down into the canyon’s openings. Learn how the Navajo culture has thrived in the region, then set out for a gentle walk along Horsehoe Bend before returning to Page for the evening.

Showing Days 5-11

10-day itinerary

Day 5Monument Valley / Grand CanyonStart the day with a drive to Monument Valley – one of the world’s most iconic sights. If this landscape dotted with towering sandstone buttes looks familiar, that’s because Monument Valley has been the filming location for lots of famous Western films. More importantly, this is the native land of the Navajo. When you arrive, you’ll hop in a 4WD for a Navajo-guided tour, where you’ll have the chance to learn more about their culture and history before sitting down to a traditional home-cooked, family-style Navajo lunch. After, continue your journey to the iconic Grand Canyon for some walks along the rim at sunset.

Monument Valley

Start the day with a drive to Monument Valley – one of the world’s most iconic sights. If this landscape dotted with towering sandstone buttes looks familiar, that’s because Monument Valley has been the filming location for lots of famous Western films. More importantly, this is the native land of the Navajo. When you arrive, you’ll hop in a 4WD for a Navajo-guided tour, where you’ll have the chance to learn more about their culture and history before sitting down to a traditional home-cooked, family-style Navajo lunch. After, continue your journey to the iconic Grand Canyon for some walks along the rim at sunset.

Day 6Route 66 / Las VegasThis morning it's time to return to Las Vegas. You’ll make a stop on the way along Historic Route 66, then you’ll arrive back in Las Vegas where your adventure will come to an end around 4pm. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Route 66

This morning it's time to return to Las Vegas. You’ll make a stop on the way along Historic Route 66, then you’ll arrive back in Las Vegas where your adventure will come to an end around 4pm. If you’d like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Day 7Las VegasToday is free to explore Las Vegas. The city may be the gambling capital of the world, but there's plenty to do if gambling isn't your thing. Hit the shops, feel your stomach drop on a rooftop roller coaster or simply stroll along the Strip, soaking up the glitz and gaudiness. There will be a meeting at 5 pm tonight to welcome any new travellers to the trip. After the welcome meeting, perhaps feast on an 'all you can eat' buffet or check out one of the many shows on offer – book in advance if you can, to get the best deals – or party the night away in a Vegas nightclub.

Las Vegas

Today is free to explore Las Vegas. The city may be the gambling capital of the world, but there's plenty to do if gambling isn't your thing. Hit the shops, feel your stomach drop on a rooftop roller coaster or simply stroll along the Strip, soaking up the glitz and gaudiness. There will be a meeting at 5 pm tonight to welcome any new travellers to the trip. After the welcome meeting, perhaps feast on an 'all you can eat' buffet or check out one of the many shows on offer – book in advance if you can, to get the best deals – or party the night away in a Vegas nightclub.

Day 8Las Vegas to VisaliaLeaving Sin City in your dust, you’ll road trip across state lines and through the Mojave Desert today, then around to Sequoia National Park. It’s a long drive, but it’ll give you the chance to see the changing geography of the American west – watch on as the desert gives way to the peaks of the southern Sierras. Settle into your accommodation near Sequoia National Park in the afternoon, and then head out for an included dinner at a local restaurant with your group.

The iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign illuminated at night, representing the city's vibrant tourism.

Las Vegas to Visalia

Leaving Sin City in your dust, you’ll road trip across state lines and through the Mojave Desert today, then around to Sequoia National Park. It’s a long drive, but it’ll give you the chance to see the changing geography of the American west – watch on as the desert gives way to the peaks of the southern Sierras. Settle into your accommodation near Sequoia National Park in the afternoon, and then head out for an included dinner at a local restaurant with your group.

Day 9Sequoia National ParkToday is simply about seeing the best of the USA’s Sequoia National Park. After breakfast, you’ll embark on leader-led walks around Sequoia, driving from stop to stop as you get to feel small next to the staggering size of General Sherman, the Giant Forest and other specimens of Sequoia’s towering timber. You may even drive through a tree at Tunnel Log, peer into Tharp’s Log and spot marmots, black bears and recently re-introduced bighorn sheep.

Sequoia National Park

Today is simply about seeing the best of the USA’s Sequoia National Park. After breakfast, you’ll embark on leader-led walks around Sequoia, driving from stop to stop as you get to feel small next to the staggering size of General Sherman, the Giant Forest and other specimens of Sequoia’s towering timber. You may even drive through a tree at Tunnel Log, peer into Tharp’s Log and spot marmots, black bears and recently re-introduced bighorn sheep.

Day 10Yosemite National ParkAfter breakfast, you’ll hit the highway headed for the world-famous Yosemite National Park. To start, get acquainted with the awe-inspiring Yosemite Valley during a guided hike. Strewn with dramatic waterfalls, gigantic granite outcrops and lush meadows, this is one of the most spectacular spots in the country. Your leader will also teach you about the ecologically diverse landscape along the way. After sunset, you’ll join a Naturalist from the Yosemite Conservancy for a guided stargazing program. The park’s minimal light pollution makes it an excellent place to see the stars while learning about astronomy, constellations and local lore. For the next two nights, you'll be staying in a hotel just a few minutes from the park's main entrance.

Stunning landscape of Yosemite Valley with El Capitan and lush forest below.

Yosemite National Park

After breakfast, you’ll hit the highway headed for the world-famous Yosemite National Park. To start, get acquainted with the awe-inspiring Yosemite Valley during a guided hike. Strewn with dramatic waterfalls, gigantic granite outcrops and lush meadows, this is one of the most spectacular spots in the country. Your leader will also teach you about the ecologically diverse landscape along the way. After sunset, you’ll join a Naturalist from the Yosemite Conservancy for a guided stargazing program. The park’s minimal light pollution makes it an excellent place to see the stars while learning about astronomy, constellations and local lore. For the next two nights, you'll be staying in a hotel just a few minutes from the park's main entrance.

Day 11Yosemite National ParkToday, Yosemite is all yours to explore! In the morning there’ll be leader-led walks around some of the park’s best trails. If it’s a clear day you may also drive up to Glacier Point for a view you won’t soon forget, looking down over the valley and across to the iconic Half Dome. The afternoon is yours to fill how you’d like. You might choose to hike along the breathtaking Mist Trail with its many fabulous views, hire a bicycle and pedal along some of the 12 miles of designated (and flat) path or immerse yourself in the park’s history at the Ahwahnee Hotel. Once you’ve seen the sights, the day will be capped off with a pizza picnic in the park for dinner.

Breathtaking view of mountains and lush greenery in Yosemite Valley, California.

Yosemite National Park

Today, Yosemite is all yours to explore! In the morning there’ll be leader-led walks around some of the park’s best trails. If it’s a clear day you may also drive up to Glacier Point for a view you won’t soon forget, looking down over the valley and across to the iconic Half Dome. The afternoon is yours to fill how you’d like. You might choose to hike along the breathtaking Mist Trail with its many fabulous views, hire a bicycle and pedal along some of the 12 miles of designated (and flat) path or immerse yourself in the park’s history at the Ahwahnee Hotel. Once you’ve seen the sights, the day will be capped off with a pizza picnic in the park for dinner.

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Breathtaking view of Delicate Arch in Arches National Park at sunset, showcasing vibrant skies and rugged landscape.

Your journey through

United States

Day 15Redwood National Park / Crescent CityToday is all about exploring Redwood National Park – known for these towering giants, the park is also home to oak woodlands, a rugged coastline and a condor restoration program. Your trip leader will choose some hikes and walks for the day based on the group’s abilities and desires. Maybe discover the ancient trees among a forest of ferns, head to natural lakes and springs or explore Trillium Falls. Return to Crescent City in the evening, then head out for a group dinner at a local restaurant.

Explore a serene wooded trail surrounded by majestic redwoods in Muir Woods National Monument.

Redwood National Park

Today is all about exploring Redwood National Park – known for these towering giants, the park is also home to oak woodlands, a rugged coastline and a condor restoration program. Your trip leader will choose some hikes and walks for the day based on the group’s abilities and desires. Maybe discover the ancient trees among a forest of ferns, head to natural lakes and springs or explore Trillium Falls. Return to Crescent City in the evening, then head out for a group dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 16Crater Lake National ParkCross into Oregon this morning and head to Crater Lake National Park – formed when an eruption triggered the collapse of a tall mountain peak 7700 years ago. It’s now home to the deepest lake in the USA, a scenic wonder fed by rain and snow that has attracted artists, photographers and sightseers worldwide. Explore the Rim Drive viewpoints with your group and stop for a couple of walks for the best views and overlooks of one of the most pristine lakes on Earth. Spend the night at a nearby motel, where you’re free for dinner.

Stunning snow-capped mountains overlooking Crater Lake under a blue sky, capturing nature's beauty.

Crater Lake National Park

Cross into Oregon this morning and head to Crater Lake National Park – formed when an eruption triggered the collapse of a tall mountain peak 7700 years ago. It’s now home to the deepest lake in the USA, a scenic wonder fed by rain and snow that has attracted artists, photographers and sightseers worldwide. Explore the Rim Drive viewpoints with your group and stop for a couple of walks for the best views and overlooks of one of the most pristine lakes on Earth. Spend the night at a nearby motel, where you’re free for dinner.

Day 17Willamette Valley / Portland, ORThis morning, you’ll explore Oregon’s wine country in the Willamette Valley – this is a popular wine region in the US that boasts numerous accolades for its beauty, Pinot Noir and quality wineries. Visit one of these local wineries for a tasting and enjoy a picnic lunch with your group with a view of rolling hills, towering trees and sprawling vineyards. Then, you’ll continue to Portland, Oregon’s largest city, where your leader will take you on an orientation walk to get your bearings. You’re free for dinner, so maybe keep the party going and head to a local bar in the shadow of Mount Hood. This city hosts a thriving arts scene, so there are plenty of trendy spots to eat and hit the nightlife – just ask your leader for recommendations.

Broadway Bridge over the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon, on a clear day.

Willamette Valley

This morning, you’ll explore Oregon’s wine country in the Willamette Valley – this is a popular wine region in the US that boasts numerous accolades for its beauty, Pinot Noir and quality wineries. Visit one of these local wineries for a tasting and enjoy a picnic lunch with your group with a view of rolling hills, towering trees and sprawling vineyards. Then, you’ll continue to Portland, Oregon’s largest city, where your leader will take you on an orientation walk to get your bearings. You’re free for dinner, so maybe keep the party going and head to a local bar in the shadow of Mount Hood. This city hosts a thriving arts scene, so there are plenty of trendy spots to eat and hit the nightlife – just ask your leader for recommendations.

Your journey through

United States

Day 18Columbia River Gorge / Portland, ORThis morning, you’ll visit the nearby Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, known for the spectacular river canyon and gorgeous views of cliffs, spires and ridges set against the peaks of Cascade Mountain Range. Explore the park and the famous Multnomah Falls – the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest and approximately 189 m (620 ft) tall. Walk along the scenic bridge that sits almost in the middle of the falls and feel the water on your face as the cascades fall below. Spend your afternoon exploring, and then spend another night in Portland.

Columbia River Gorge

This morning, you’ll visit the nearby Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, known for the spectacular river canyon and gorgeous views of cliffs, spires and ridges set against the peaks of Cascade Mountain Range. Explore the park and the famous Multnomah Falls – the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest and approximately 189 m (620 ft) tall. Walk along the scenic bridge that sits almost in the middle of the falls and feel the water on your face as the cascades fall below. Spend your afternoon exploring, and then spend another night in Portland.

Day 19Olympic PeninsulaThis morning, you’ll cross into Washington State and the Olympic Peninsula – home to the popular Olympic National Park. This is a bit of a long drive, so grab a window seat if you can and watch the gorgeous scenery pass you by. When you arrive, you’ll visit Kalaloch Beach – one of the beautiful Pacific Northwest beaches with giant trees washed up on the shore, scattered across the sand. Maybe head to the Tree of Life (or the Tree Root Cave). Tonight sit down for an included group dinner at your lodge.

Dramatic coastal landscape in Seattle with lush greenery and ocean view at sunset.

Olympic Peninsula

This morning, you’ll cross into Washington State and the Olympic Peninsula – home to the popular Olympic National Park. This is a bit of a long drive, so grab a window seat if you can and watch the gorgeous scenery pass you by. When you arrive, you’ll visit Kalaloch Beach – one of the beautiful Pacific Northwest beaches with giant trees washed up on the shore, scattered across the sand. Maybe head to the Tree of Life (or the Tree Root Cave). Tonight sit down for an included group dinner at your lodge.

Day 20Hoh Rainforest / SeattleThis morning, visit the Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park – an enchanting canopy of moss and ferns that might remind you of an anime or fairy film. Take a walk with your leader, appreciating a moment of peace in this temperate rainforest, before continuing to Seattle. When you arrive in the seaport city, your leader will take you on an orientation walk, pointing out the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and maybe some popular spots for live grunge music, which the city is known for. Tonight, maybe head out with your group for a farewell dinner in one of the trendy local spots and cheers to an amazing trip!

Hoh Rainforest

This morning, visit the Hoh Rainforest in Olympic National Park – an enchanting canopy of moss and ferns that might remind you of an anime or fairy film. Take a walk with your leader, appreciating a moment of peace in this temperate rainforest, before continuing to Seattle. When you arrive in the seaport city, your leader will take you on an orientation walk, pointing out the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and maybe some popular spots for live grunge music, which the city is known for. Tonight, maybe head out with your group for a farewell dinner in one of the trendy local spots and cheers to an amazing trip!

Day 21SeattleWith no activities planned today, your trip will come to an end. If you’d like to stay longer and explore Seattle’s cool city hubs and sprawling parklands, just speak to your booking agent.

Seattle

With no activities planned today, your trip will come to an end. If you’d like to stay longer and explore Seattle’s cool city hubs and sprawling parklands, just speak to your booking agent.