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Ultimate Western USA

18 days, Los Angeles to Los Angeles

Map of the route for Ultimate Western USA
Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18

When arranging your transportation, such as flights, please take into consideration the below time restrictions for joining and departing from your group. With these times, we have taken into account travel time to/from the airport in the given destination and required time for check-in or baggage collection/immigration.

Your flight must arrive by or before: 12:00 on Day 1
Your flight must depart no earlier than: 14:00 on Day 18

Itinerary

Day 1Los Angeles/Palm Springs

Become acquainted with your group and CEO in Los Angeles during a brief orientation before transferring directly to the hotel in Palm Springs. Once here enjoy dinner at your leisure and maybe take a dip in the refreshing waters of the hotel pool.

Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Morning

Today, the adventure begins. Be sure to arrive in time to meet your group. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your trip.

Private Vehicle
Los Angeles – Palm Springs2h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.

Sonder The V Palm Springs (or similar)
Hotel

Day 2Joshua Tree

Venture further into the desert today to explore Joshua Tree National Park. Wander through the park’s famous rock formations and snap some photos of the park’s namesake tree in this desolate landscape. In the evening head back to Palm Springs where you’ll have free time to relax and unwind from the heat of the day.

Private Vehicle
Palm Springs – Joshua Tree National Park1h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Joshua Tree National Park Visit
Joshua Tree National Park

Discover the rugged rock formations and iconic Joshua trees that gave this National Park it's name. Go for a hike, keep a sharp eye out for desert wildlife, and take in the incredible scenery.

Private Vehicle
Joshua Tree National Park – Palm Springs1h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time
Palm Springs Evening

Take advantage of free time this evening to enjoy Palm Springs. Sit by the pool at your hotel and cool off after spending the day in the desert heat, or opt to head into downtown Palm Springs where you can find a hip place to grab food and hang out.

Accommodation

Sonder The V Palm Springs (or similar)
Hotel

Day 3Palm Springs/Zion National Park

Today, travel northeast to Las Vegas where you’ll have some free time to explore the strip or opt for lunch. You’ll depart Las Vegas in the late afternoon for the hotel that you’ll be staying at near Zion National Park.

Private Vehicle
Palm Springs – Las Vegas4h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time
Las Vegas Afternoon

Take advantage of some free time to explore the strip or opt for lunch.

Private Vehicle
Las Vegas – Zion National Park2h30m-3h270km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott (or similar)
Hotel

Day 4Zion National Park

It’s all about Zion today as you get a chance to wander this beautiful national park in Southwest Utah. Take the shuttle into the park and spend the day exploring and hiking with your fellow travellers.

Admire the monumental sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that tower into the sky and remember you can choose to turn around on these hikes at any point. In the evening, relax at your hotel as you reflect on your day in this wonderful piece of paradise.

Please note that while the trail to Angels Landing is not included in this itinerary, it is available to be done independently. If you’re interested in continuing to the top, you must apply ahead of time for a permit via the National Park’s lottery system at this website: https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/angels-landing-hiking-permits.htm.

Zion National Park Visit
Zion National Park

Admire monumental sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that tower into the sky. Experience diverse plant and animal life, and wade through water in a 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.

1

Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow

The Narrows Hike
Zion National Park 6km
Free

Known as one of Utah's best slot canyon hikes, The Narrows takes you through towering canyon walls along the Virgin River (and yes, this means walking in water!). Enjoy some of the park's best scenery, stop to take photos, and don't forget to watch your footing. Opt to make your way back at any point.

Hiking distance: 6.4km (4 mi) Elevation change: 102m (334 ft).

Accommodation

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 5Zion National Park/Bryce Canyon National Park

Depart Zion in the morning and travel with the group to Bryce Canyon National Park. The group will enjoy an included lunch along the way. Once in the park enjoy free time to hike through the wild and weird rock formations fondly known as hoodoos. Visit Inspiration Point, hike the rim trail. Opt to hike the Queen’s Garden and Navajo loop trails or take in the incredible view with a walk along the rim. Head back to the park after dinner for sunset. At night look up and see the magic of the stars in a place that has been designated an International Dark Sky Park.

Private Vehicle
Zion National Park – Bryce Canyon National Park2h140km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Bryce Canyon National Park Visit
Bryce Canyon National Park

See a sight like no other at this giant forest of stone made up of collection of massive natural amphitheaters. This park contains hundreds of thousands of eroded spires, pinnacles, and other shapes as far as the eye can see.

Free Time
Bryce Canyon National Park Evening

Spend your free time wandering this wonderful national park. Check out the Queen's Garden and Navajo loop trails, walk along the rim trail, visit Sunrise point and Inspiration point and take plenty of pictures of the famed hoodoos.

1

Optional Activities - Day 5 HideShow

Queen's Garden and Navajo Loop Hike
Bryce Canyon National Park 5km
Free

Trek through the most popular trail in Bryce Canyon to see its famous hoodoos - tall, thin spires of rock that seem to magically balance upon their dusty, red rock base. Begin your hike at Sunrise Point and make your way toward Queen Victoria, the trail's namesake rock formation. Continue through the amphitheater on Navajo Loop past Wall Street or Thor's Hammer, depending on trail conditions. Exit at Sunset Point before walking the Rim Trail back to our starting point. Soak in the views one last time - you'll want to take it all in.

Hiking distance: 4.6km (2.9 mi) Elevation change: 183m (600 ft).

Accommodation

Bryce View Lodge (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 6Bryce Canyon to Monument Valley

We'll jet off this morning to Page, Arizona, the gateway to famous Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.

Here, travellers can choose to join a local Navajo guide and explore Antelope Canyon on an optional tour. This stunning natural sandstone slot canyon is located on tribal lands and once inside, you can admire the blue sky above from the bottom of the canyon. Make sure you bring your camera to take loads of photos.

Afterwards, visit Horseshoe Bend for a short hike to stand atop the steep cliffs overlooking the natural bend in the Colorado River. Today’s adventure will end in Monument Valley where you will have time to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Bryce Canyon National Park Visit
Bryce Canyon National Park

See a sight like no other at this giant forest of stone made up of collection of massive natural amphitheaters. This park contains hundreds of thousands of eroded spires, pinnacles, and other shapes as far as the eye can see.

Private Vehicle
Bryce Canyon National Park – Page3h-3h30m250km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Horseshoe Bend Hike
Horseshoe Bend1h 1km

Take a short hike to this spectacular horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River. Stand atop steep orange-coloured sandstone cliffs and look out at Horseshoe Bend. Peer down more than 300m (1,000 ft) at the emerald river below.

Private Vehicle
Page – Monument Valley2h-3h200km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

1

Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow

Antelope Canyon Tour
Antelope Canyon
105USD per person

Named for the pronghorn that used to roam the land, Antelope Canyon is a natural sandstone cathedral created by years of flash flooding, wind, and rain. Tour this breathtaking canyon to discover beams of light, flowing rock walls, and spiral arches and soak in the natural beauty of this surreal place.
Book this optional activity on-site with your CEO.

Accommodation

Hampton Inn Kayenta (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast | Lunch

Day 7Monument Valley/Grand Canyon National Park

This morning you’ll be treated to a sunrise Navajo guided jeep tour of Monument Valley. Admire the majesty and magnetic atmosphere of this special place before continuing on toward the Grand Canyon. En route, stop for lunch on your own at a Navajo-inspired restaurant and trading post, before arriving at the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon just in time for a spectacular sunset.

Monument Valley Jeep Tour
Monument Valley

Explore this magical and sacred place on a jeep tour. See magnificent colours, miles of mesas, buttes, and pinnacles that make Monument Valley a truly wondrous experience.

Private Vehicle
Monument Valley – Grand Canyon3h30m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Grand Canyon Sunset
Grand Canyon National Park

Head to the rim of the Grand Canyon at sunset. Point your camera in any direction and capture memorable shots as the shifting light plays off the layers of red, yellow, and brown rock. This is truly one of the great wonders. Enjoy the moment.

Accommodation

Red Feather Lodge (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Breakfast

Day 8Grand Canyon National Park

Marvel at the out-of-this-world views as you get up close and personal with the Grand Canyon today. Spend a full day exploring and hiking from the South Rim. There are a variety of hikes to choose from that will take you deeper into the canyon where you can really appreciate the size and depth of this national park. Choose whichever trail you wish or do short bursts of multiple hikes, just make sure you bring plenty of water and take your time.

If you wish to see this natural wonder from a bird’s eye view with an experience you’ll never forget, opt to book the Grand Canyon helicopter tour.

Grand Canyon Hike
Grand Canyon1h-4h 1-10km

Opt to hike along the rim or down into the canyon. Experience breathtaking scenery with spectacular views. Bring lots of water, a hat and plenty of energy. Remember -- hiking down is optional, hiking back up is mandatory!

2

Optional Activities - Day 8 HideShow

Bright Angel Trail Hike
Grand Canyon National Park3h-9h 14-19km
Free

Hike towards the heart of the Grand Canyon on the spectacular Bright Angel Trail. Descend into the canyon to experience its natural beauty in a way most visitors miss. Journey to Indian Garden, and depending on group fitness and the season, continue on to Plateau Point. 

Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour
Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon helicopter ride is a must! Enjoy a bird's-eye view for 45 to 50 minutes as you fly over the canyon, taking in the stark contrast of the blue-green Colorado River against the thousand shades of red rock found in the canyon. From above, you can fully appreciate the greatness of the gorge and see why it is one of the seven natural wonders of the world.

Accommodation

Red Feather Lodge (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Lunch

Day 9Grand Canyon/Las Vegas

Head to Las Vegas from the Grand Canyon this morning where you can spend time in this vibrant city. Explore the strip, grab something to eat, see a glitzy show, or test your luck gambling in one of the casinos.

Private Vehicle
Grand Canyon National Park – Las Vegas6h460km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time
Las Vegas Half Day

Today you'll have free time to get the most out of your time in Las Vegas. Walk around the strip, find a restaurant or cafe to hang out in and people watch, see one of the many entertaining shows, or try your hand at gambling in one of the casinos. Live large and remember "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas".

Accommodation

Golden Nugget Las Vegas (or similar)
Hotel

Day 10Las Vegas, Death Valley and Bakersfield

In the morning, the group will depart Las Vegas and head to Death Valley. You’ll visit the country's hottest, driest, and lowest national park. Death Valley is a land of extremes and you’ll get a sense of the striking contrast of this park’s landscapes with visits to Furnace Creek, Badwater Basin, and Zabriskie Point. In the evening, settle into your hotel and get some rest for tomorrow’s adventure.

Private Vehicle
Las Vegas – Death Valley National Park2h30m-3h230km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Death Valley National Park Visit
Death Valley National Park

Death Valley is one of America’s most extreme locations – from sand dunes and desert, to badlands, towering peaks, and a basin that actually registers below sea-level, this is sure to be an unforgettable stop. Hottest. Driest. Lowest. There’s a bit of everything here on the border of California and Nevada.

Private Vehicle
Death Valley National Park – Bakersfield3h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Four Points Sheraton Bakersfield (or similar)
Hotel

Day 11Sequoia National Park

Spend the day travelling to Sequoia National Park, home to granite cliffs and ancient giant trees. Once you arrive, set out on a short afternoon hike to explore and stare up in wonder at the tallest trees in the world. Walk the half mile down to General Sherman to see the world’s largest tree at 83 meters (275 feet) high. Trek through the Giant Forest on Congress Trail to see more of these colossal trees. Later, we head to the hotel in Visalia

Private Vehicle
Bakersfield – Sequoia National Park3h

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Sequoia National Park Visit
Sequoia National Park

Walk amongst giants - giant sequoia trees, that is - in Sequoia National Park, where more than 8,000 colossal sequoias have lived for thousands of years. Visit the largest tree on earth, General Sherman, and gaze as far as you can up into the canopy. At the heart of the park, find the Giant Forest, home to half of the earth's largest and oldest trees.

Private Vehicle
Sequoia National Park – Visalia1h30m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

General Sherman Giant Forest Hike
Sequoia National Park 12km

Hike amongst some of the most impressive living things on Earth, giant Sequoias. This trip through the misty heights of the Sierras will take you through the home of General Sherman, the largest tree alive. Tour the other enormous trees and catch some amazing views of the mountains through the forest on this epic hike.

Hiking distance: 12km (7.5 mi) Elevation change: 549m (1800 ft)

Accommodation

Wyndham Visalia (or similar)
Hotel

Day 12Sequoia National Park

Immerse yourself in Sequoia with a full day to hike in the park. Visit Grant Grove for more opportunities to marvel at these rare giants among the forest. If you’re looking for 360-degree views head up the 2 mile round-trip Buena Vista Peak trailhead to see the High Sierra and the valley below.

Private Vehicle
Visalia – Sequoia National Park1h30m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Sequoia National Park Visit
Sequoia National Park

Walk amongst giants - giant sequoia trees, that is - in Sequoia National Park, where more than 8,000 colossal sequoias have lived for thousands of years. Visit the largest tree on earth, General Sherman, and gaze as far as you can up into the canopy. At the heart of the park, find the Giant Forest, home to half of the earth's largest and oldest trees.

Buena Vista Peak Hike
Sequoia National Park 1km

Take a quick hike up to Buena Vista Peak, and experience some of the best views in the entire park. With minimal elevation change, you'll have plenty of time and energy to explore and take pictures along the mountain top.

Hiking distance: 3.2km (2 mi) Elevation change: 125m (413 ft).

Private Vehicle
Sequoia National Park – Visalia1h30m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Accommodation

Wyndham Visalia (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Lunch

Day 13Yosemite National Park

Hit the road again and travel north through the Sierras to the south entrance of Yosemite National Park. Head straight into the park to take in iconic sights like Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall.

Private Vehicle
Visalia – Yosemite National Park3h30m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Yosemite National Park Visit
Yosemite National Park

Picturesque valleys, vast wilderness, powerful waterfalls, elusive wildlife, ancient sequoias and more than 16 types of granite make up this internationally recognized national park. Hike the trails, get up close to ancient rock formations and take panoramic photos of this gorgeous landscape. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and coyotes.

Accommodation

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oakhurst (or similar)
Hotel

Day 14Yosemite National Park

It’s all about getting active and exploring the landscapes of Yosemite today. 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. From the top enjoy views of the High Sierra including Half Dome, Liberty Cap, and Mount Broderick.

Later, enjoy free time to walk the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, Bridalveil Fall Trail, relax under the towering granite monoliths of Half Dome or El Capitan, or opt to rent bikes and cruise around the valley.

Yosemite National Park Visit
Yosemite National Park

Picturesque valleys, vast wilderness, powerful waterfalls, elusive wildlife, ancient sequoias and more than 16 types of granite make up this internationally recognized national park. Hike the trails, get up close to ancient rock formations and take panoramic photos of this gorgeous landscape. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and coyotes.

Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls Hike
Yosemite National Park5h-6h 11km

Take the storied Mist Trail as it traverses up the valley, with visits to Vernal and Nevada Falls. Return along the John Muir Trail. Be prepared for a long hike, and incredible scenery!

Distance: 11.2km (7 mi), Elevation Change: 610m (2000 ft)

2

Optional Activities - Day 14 HideShow

Yosemite National Park Hike
Yosemite National Park1h-6h 1-15km
Free

Panoramic vistas, gushing waterfalls, and elusive wildlife await. Bring water, wear a hat and sunscreen, and hike Yosemite NP. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and coyotes.

Yosemite Bike Rental
Yosemite National Park
30-40USD per person

Set your wheels in motion with tandem, hand crank or mountain bikes, and opt to cycle some of the 20km (12mi) of paved trails throughout the valley floor. Bring a water bottle, stop to shoot photos, and enjoy some of the most picturesque spots in Yosemite NP.

Choose between a half-day rental or a full-day, and be aware that this activity is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note the price for a half-day bike rental is $30 USD and the price for a full-day bike rental is $40USD.

Accommodation

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oakhurst (or similar)
Hotel

Meals included:

Lunch

Day 15Yosemite National Park/San Francisco

Leave Yosemite in the morning and drive across the Central Valley with the group to San Francisco. Join your CEO for a driving tour through some of San Francisco's most iconic highlights. We will drive to the bohemian neighborhood of Haight Ashbury for lunch, followed by a drive through the Golden Gate park. What trip to San Fran would be complete without seeing the Golden Gate Bridge? Depending on time, step foot on this famous red suspension bridge or find a great viewing point to take some photos. There is free time in the evening to explore the colorful Fisherman's wharf.

Private Vehicle
Yosemite National Park – San Francisco6h230km

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Free Time
San Francisco Evening

Take advantage of free time to see all that the Bay City has to offer. Opt to visit the Golden Gate Bridge, chill out on Baker's Beach, take pictures of The Painted Ladies, go to a book or record store in the Haight-Ashbury neighbourhood, or grab some seafood at Fisherman's Wharf.

2

Optional Activities - Day 15 HideShow

Cable Car Ride San Francisco
San Francisco1h-3h
7USD per person

Iconic to San Francisco, travel back in time and hop on the world's last manually operated cable car system.

Sunset Sailing San Francisco (Mon-Wed)
San Francisco

Depart from Fisherman's Wharf and catch a glimpse of marine life as we sail around San Francisco Bay. Admire the city's remarkable skyline, get up close and personal with the infamous Alcatraz Island, and sail underneath the Golden Gate Bridge. Enjoy the sunset and make a mental note to return.

Accommodation

Stanford Court Hotel (or similar)
Hotel

Day 16San Francisco/Monterey

Wake up in San Francisco and spend the morning as you wish. Grab a coffee at a local cafe, take a walk, or hop on a cable car and coast up and down the city's many hills. Then the group will drive to the coastal town of Monterey where you'll have free time. Head to the Monterey Aquarium, walk down by the water to visit Old Fisherman's Wharf, or visit Cannery Row to check out art galleries and other boutique shops.

Free Time
Monterey Half Day

Check out all of the beauty that Monterey has to offer. From art galleries to delicious seafood restaurants and wine tastings, there is plenty for you to do during your time here.

Private Vehicle
San Francisco – Monterey2h15m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

1

Optional Activities - Day 16 HideShow

Cable Car Ride San Francisco
San Francisco1h-3h
7USD per person

Iconic to San Francisco, travel back in time and hop on the world's last manually operated cable car system.

Accommodation

Hotel Abrego (or similar)
Hotel

Day 17Monterey/Santa Maria

Drive from Monterey to Santa Maria, along the way take in the stunning coastal scenery of Monterey along the 17-Mile Drive. Then, continue on to the largest city of Santa Barbara County, known for its wineries and barbecue. Opt to window shop, sip a glass of wine maybe two, or simply hangout in the sunny climate of this Southern California city.

Private Vehicle
Monterey – Santa Maria3h15m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

17-Mile Drive Monterey
Monterey

Drive along this 17-mile dramatic stretch of coastline on the Monterey Peninsula. Encounter wind-sculpted cypress tree forests and rock strewn beaches winding up along the Pacific. Along the way enjoy great views of some of the most envy-inducing homes in the world and the celebrated golf courses of Pebble Beach. You'll be planning how to live here before you're through with the drive.

Free Time
Santa Maria

There are plenty of outdoor activity options in Santa Maria. Choose to visit some of the city’s vineyards or wineries. Try the famous barbecue at a local spot, have a picnic in the park, or shop for souvenirs. The choice is yours.

Accommodation

Historic Santa Maria Inn (or similar)
Inn

Day 18Santa Maria/Los Angeles

Leave the hills and vineyards of Santa Maria behind and continue driving south to Los Angeles where the tour ends on arrival.

Please note that your flight must depart no earlier than 14:00.

Private Vehicle
Santa Maria – Los Angeles3h45m

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Ultimate Western USA

| 18 days - Los Angeles to Los Angeles - from $6599 USD