Experience Overview
On a mission to visit as many of the west coast's stunning national parks as you can? This 16-day tour will get you most of the way there with plenty of challenging but rewarding hikes along the way. Embark on a steep climb out of the valley on the Mist Trail (with incredible views for your efforts) and embark on a jaw-dropping hike through The Narrows in Zion National Park. You'll have plenty of time to catch your breath in between, whether it's star gazing in Capitol Reef's designated gold-tier International Dark Sky Park or enjoying some evening s'mores at Bryce Canyon National Park to recharge for the next adventure.
Highlights
- Explore the geologic wonders of Capitol Reef National Park
- See sunrise from the Delicate Arch View Point
- Go on the Narrows river hike in Zion National Park
- Hike to the world's largest tree in Sequoia National Park
- Get sprayed by the waters of Nevada and Vernal Fall in Yosemite National Park
- Challenge yourself to complete the strenuous Snow Creek Trail
Trip Details
Product Code: 2575
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Basic
Transport: Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking.
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles: Budget
Supplier Code: NUSW
Starts: Las Vegas, United States
Finishes: San Francisco, United States
Duration: 16 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating: Demanding
Includes
Activities
- Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
- Petroglyphs at Capitol Reef National Park
- Stargazing in a Dark Sky Park
- Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument Visit
- Queen's Garden and Navajo Loop Hike
- Scout Lookout Hike
- The Narrows Hike
- General Sherman Giant Forest Hike
- Buena Vista Peak Hike
- Little Baldy Hike
- Entrance fees to all national parks and monuments with hiking and walking excursions
- Self-inflating mattresses and dome tents
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Accommodation
- Hotel (2 nts), participation camping (13 nts).
- 13 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 12 dinners
Transport
- Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking.
Group Leader
- 1 CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 4799 (CAD 300 /day)
Itinerary
Day 1: Las Vegas
Arrive at any time.
There are no planned activities today until the evening welcome meeting, so check out the strip or Fremont Street.
This tour leaves Las Vegas in the morning on Day 2; if you would like to spend any additional time here, we recommend booking pre-tour accommodation.
Day 2: Las Vegas/Bryce Canyon National Park
Hit the road from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon, travelling past towering cliffs and massive canyon walls, stopping at several viewpoints along the way. Upon arrival the group will set up camp before setting off to explore this unique national park in the fading light. After the sun goes down, don't forget to look up to check out this renowned night sky while enjoying s'mores around the fire.
Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park/Moab
Set off early this morning in Bryce Canyon National Park, and stare in wonder at the largest collection of hoodoos in the world as the sun rises. Take a hike into the amphitheater of Queen's Garden and Navajo Loop to walk amongst the hoodoos, walls and fins that make up this geological wonder. In the afternoon, continue to Moab, an adventure capital of the southwest and the gateway to both Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Set up camp upon arrival and spend the evening enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the great outdoors.
Day 4: Arches National Park
Enjoy breakfast at camp before driving to Arches National Park. Spend the first part of the day exploring the densest concentration of arches in the world. Take a hike through Devils Garden to Landscape Arch, and continue to Double O Arch, bouldering over rocks to reach the pinnacle views. Head back to Moab in the afternoon where you can take advantage of free time to try some of the optional activities available in the area. Opt to visit Delicate Arch Viewpoint in the evening for a sunset walk. Stand in awe at the over 2,000 sandstone arches ranging in size and shape that make up this park.
Day 5: Canyonlands National Park
Travel to the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. Stop at Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument, the largest known collection of petroglyphs in the Southwest. Spend the day hiking through desert lands to explore eroded towers of sandstone and fissures in the ground on the Joint Trail to Chesler Park.
Day 6: Capitol Reef National Park
Travel to Capitol Reef National Park. Known for its geologic monocline, discover the cliffs, canyons, petroglyphs and orchards that make up the park. Learn about the geology and the ancient inhabitants who created the petroglyphs still visible on the cliff walls. In the evening check into the cabins we'll be staying in while in Capitol Reef. Then, take advantage of your free time after dark to look up at the starry night. This national park has been designated a Gold Tier "International Dark Sky Park".
Day 7: Capitol Reef National Park/Zion National Park
Today, travel along the scenic highway through the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Take in the mesas, canyons and arches that make up this diverse geological region. Set off on a hike in Kodachrome Basin State Park to enjoy the vast open landscape before continuing to Zion National Park. Travel past towering cliffs and massive canyon walls, stop at several viewpoints along the way, and enjoy a free evening in the Springdale area with panoramic views of the rising sandstone rock.
Day 8: Zion National Park
Spend the day discovering Zion National Park. First hike to Scout Lookout, a challenging, but rewarding 4 mile hike which passes through the iconic Walter's Wiggles before reaching the lookout point along a flat saddle with incredible views of the Zion Canyon.
Head to the valley floor to trek through the river on one of the most popular hikes in the park, the Narrows. Admire monumental sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that tower into the sky and opt to turn around at any point. Experience diverse plant and animal life in this narrow slot canyon as the park transitions from desert to forest. Gaze at the awe-inspiring beauty of the high plateaus, striking towers, temples, mesas, and the earth's tallest-known sheer sandstone walls. After returning to camp, head into the charming town of Springdale to celebrate the accomplishments of the last week.
Day 9: Zion National Park/Las Vegas
Take the short drive from Zion to Las Vegas. Upon arrival, enjoy free time in Las Vegas. Explore the strip, try your luck at a casino, or take in a glitzy show.
Day 10: Las Vegas/Sequoia National Park
Leave the bright lights of Las Vegas behind and spend the day travelling through the desert to the granite cliffs and ancient giant trees of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Though these two parks were granted National Park status roughly 50 years apart, they are currently managed together by the National Park system. After setting up camp, slow down to relish the natural setting, and roast s'mores around the fire.
Day 11: Sequoia National Park
Enjoy a full day in Sequoia National Park. Hike the half mile down to General Sherman, at 83 meters (275 feet) high, its the world's largest tree. Continue to trek through the Giant Forest on Congress Trail to see more of these colossal trees. Enjoy a picnic lunch amongst the giant trees. In the afternoon, choose to venture further into the park. The Marble Fork of the Kaweah River leads to inspiring granite cliffs of Tokopah Canyon, and in early summer, the 1200ft cascading Tokopah Falls is sure to impress.
Day 12: Kings Canyon National Park
Rise early and head out for a final day in Sequoia National Park. Hike through the trees to the peak of Little Baldy for panoramic vistas of the surrounding Sierra Nevadas. After, travel to Buena Vista Peak trailhead. At just 2 miles, this round-trip hike packs a punch with 360-degree views from the top of the granite peak to see not only the High Sierra, but also the valley below. After a picnic lunch, continue exploring the park through the network of trails among the towering trees of Grant Grove before traveling back to camp.
Day 13: Sequoia National Park/Yosemite National Park
Upon arrival in the Yosemite Valley, we first witness the iconic sights of Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall. This afternoon, we get ourselves oriented among the Valley trails along the Lower Yosemite Falls trail and learn more about the park. After lunch, enjoy free time to walk trails from the Valley floor, simply relax under the towering granite monoliths, or choose to do a portion of the Valley Loop Trail where you can follow many of the Valley's first east-west trails and wagon roads through meadows and along talus slopes at the base of the granite cliffs, and near the Merced River. On our way to camp, we stop and stand in awe of El Capitan, looking for climbers on the sheer rock face.
Day 14: Yosemite National Park
From the valley floor, take the park shuttle system to one of the most iconic trails in the park. Hike alongside the Merced River to climb the Mist Trail, getting sprayed by the waters of Vernal Fall. See the water rushing over the edge before crossing the river and climbing the steps to Nevada Fall. Enjoy lunch from the top, taking in the views of the High Sierra including Half Dome, Liberty Cap, Mount Broderick. On the return trip, take the John Muir Trail down to truly understand this visionaries passion for park. Enjoy free time to walk the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, Bridalveil Fall Trail, or relax under the towering granite monoliths of Half Dome or El Capitan. On the way back to camp, stop at stand in awe of El Capitan, looking for climbers on the sheer rockface.
Day 15: Yosemite National Park
Today we get off the beaten path for a challenging hike, bringing us face to face with the granite domes and slopes that make this park so iconic. Rising from the valley, we search for one last breathtaking view of Half Dome and a chance to overlook the Valley below. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, Yosemite is dynamic and weather patterns can see dramatic shifts year to year. Seasonally, weather and trail conditions may require the CEO to assess which trail to take, but while the routes may change with the seasons, the views all share equal splendour and require comparable effort for the epic payoff. Our aim will be to set off for the roughly 9 mile hike to North Dome from Tioga Pass.
Day 16: Yosemite National Park/San Francisco
Drive from the Sierra Nevadas to the San Francisco Bay. Tour ends on arrival. Onward travel should be booked no earlier than 7pm.
Tour Operator
G Adventures
G Adventures is an operator of small-group escorted tours. It is based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada with 28 offices worldwide. It offers more than 700 itineraries in more than 100 countries, and carries 200,000 travelers from 160 countries each year.
In Business Since 1990
Reviews
Vera E. - Traveled, September 2023
The whole experience was very good.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/16/2023
Ashleigh S. - Traveled, September 2023
Brilliant tour that anyone would be able to enjoy.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/16/2023
Thomas V. - Traveled, September 2023
There was no aspect of the trip that I could fault. It was full of adventure, wonder and comradery.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/16/2023
Gary P. - Traveled, September 2023
I was unsure at the beginning because I was not use to travelling in USA or in Nevada and Californa. The climate was a big change from Ireland, the water was very weird. The group I met were friendly, quirky and fun I must say, Kristi did an awesome job, handling and accessing are capabilities, though the 1st night and wake up was very frosty and chilly. Now, it is general to expect not everything goes according plan. But, throughout the trip was very enjoyable with a lot of twist and turns, by means of adjusting the schedule from the iterinary and national park issue and delays and coming up with suitable options that would not offended or dampen the groups mood. I'm just being honest, just the water purity in America is the just reason I gave it an 8, I do not know why they need to add unusually compounds for normal water that not normally needed, just my complaint, I know it cannot be helped. It was a very pleasant trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/16/2023
Edwina T. - Traveled, September 2023
Fantastic tour leaders, itinerary, food, safety, travel group, van.. everything was great
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/28/2023
Sven S. - Traveled, September 2023
I had a great group and 2 amazing CEOs. I had a blast every Day and had my expectations easily met.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/28/2023
Allison C. - Traveled, September 2023
G is great for anyone wanting to travel, especially as a solo person. they'don't make you feel excluded and do a fantastic job making the trip special.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/28/2023
Joanne E. - Traveled, September 2023
G Advnetures provided us with the experiences we were looking for and more! We were thrilled with our experiences.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2023
Jamie E. - Traveled, September 2023
The trip lived up to all expectations and more! Our CEO was fantastic and our travelling group really got along so well. The camping and hiking was brilliant and so much fun.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2023
Monika R. - Traveled, September 2023
overall past positive experience, organisation/programme/diversity
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2023
Nessalynn N. - Traveled, August 2023
My experience was excellent! I had the best view of some of the beautiful National Parks of the US.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/11/2023
Kaitlyn J. - Traveled, August 2023
This trip pushed me to my limits but only because I had the support of our CEO and other travellers! Kristi always gave us other options if we didn't feel comfortable so I know anyone could do it
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/11/2023
Matthias W. - Traveled, June 2024
There is room for Improvemts.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/11/2023
Erin M. - Traveled, August 2023
I would recommend this tour to all my friends and family. We organised trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/11/2023
Bethany M. - Traveled, August 2023
I have and will continue to recommend this trip to everyone and anyone who listens. It was a jam packed itinerary that showed us amazing landscapes of all different kinds. The trip was everything I could',ve wanted and more in terms of views and hikes - I literally struggle to pick juts one favourite when people ask me. For me, I really enjoyed the opportunities we got to travel to quieter parks (Canyonlands and kings canyon for example) and/or walk the less popular trails (North dome etc) as they were equally stunning but you got to really appreciate the space without being interrupted by long lines of other people. We were also lucky with the weather and only encountered rain twice. The second time it rained we were in Zion and this actually became a highlight of the whole show. Seeing longhorn sheep, the trees become a healthy green colour and the water streaming down the canyons creating waterfalls everywhere felt surreal. Between all of these activities combined with the camping in tents and participation cooking - it really made it feel like you were on school camp with your best friends again (in the best way possible.) We were all giddy with excitement half of the time and it's certainly a trip that I',ll never forget.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/11/2023
Rachel C. - Traveled, August 2023
It was a great itinerary, our CEO Ernesto was very personable, passionate and professional and the overall organisation was faultless.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Eva S. - Traveled, August 2023
Excellent trip and great value for money.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Aaron K. - Traveled, August 2023
Overall despite the issues I experienced with G Adventures in 2020 the tours that I have been on have definitely been worth it. I enjoy the style of travel and doing a flexible tour takes the hassle out of planning and executing your own holiday but allows enough freedom to explore.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Hayet E. - Traveled, August 2023
Ernesto our guide was perfect, always smily, he shared lot of information about the places we have visited, good itinerary, excellent food, he cooked every time different meals. We saw lot of sun rise and sunset. It is the fourth tour i am doing and he is the Best guide I had.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Alesia R. - Traveled, August 2023
Fantastic organisation in terms of itinerary, tour guide and variation of the locations we visited.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Robert B. - Traveled, August 2023
Excellent guide
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Aaron K. - Traveled, August 2023
Overall despite the issues I experienced with G Adventures in 2020 the tours that I have been on have definitely been worth it. I enjoy the style of travel and doing a flexible tour takes the hassle out of planning and executing your own holiday but allows enough freedom to explore.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/24/2023
Andrea B. - Traveled, July 2024
Everything was well organized
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/07/2024
Lisa C. - Traveled, July 2024
I would mostly suggest these trips to like minded people. People who maybe solo travellers. Or some couples who are happy to sit back and not have to worry about organising
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/07/2024
Kathryn N. - Traveled, July 2024
I really enjoyed my trip, it was the first time I had done anything like it and I thoroughly enjoyed it
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/07/2024
Ailsa W. - Traveled, July 2024
This was my third tour with G Adventures and I have loved every minute of them. This tour in particular was incredible. So many amazing hikes and each one felt like it was perfectly tailored just for our group. Our guide (Ernesto) knew so much about the landscape, the animals, the best picnic spots and his enthusiasm for the national parks was infectious. I had such an amazing and unique experience and I have already recommended G Adventures and this trip in particular to colleagues and friends.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/07/2024
Edith M. - Traveled, July 2024
The overall experience was great. Well organized, good choice of hikes, ate like kings everyday, Ernesto made everyday very enjoyable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/20/2024
Jonathan W. - Traveled, June 2024
I really liked the variety of parks, and our tour guide Charlie was fantastic and made the trip a memorable one.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/10/2024
Sophie A. - Traveled, July 2024
Everything was well organized and delivered as promised. Staff were amazing
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/10/2024
Shawn B. - Traveled, June 2024
the group trips make take a journey more enjoyable. G takes the stress out of planning
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/03/2024
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