Compare The Great Lakes Trail Self-Drive by Audley Travel vs Wonders of the American West by Insight Vacations

Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.

Trip	The Great Lakes Trail Self-Drive by Audley Travel 5 \| Excellent 3574 Reviews Trip Details Save Trip Customize	Wonders of the American West by Insight Vacations 5 \| Excellent 12684 Reviews Trip Details Save Trip Reserve

Duration	17 days	11 days
Price From	$ 4,794	$ 4,395
Price Per Day	$ 282	$ 400
Highlights	N/A	Choose between two carefully selected activities Grand Canyon National Park: Join your Local Expert, Canyon Tim, for an informative talk about the wonders of the Grand Canyon. With over seven years of experience in geology, you'll learn about the origins of the five-million-year-old canyon, its rock formation and its current impact. You'll also discover the local flora and fauna, and find out where you might be able to spot elk, mule deer, coyotes, grey foxes, bobcats and mountain lions. Grand Canyon: Join your Travel Director for a relaxed hike along the rim of the Grand Canyon from Mather Point to Yavapai Point. 1.4 miles (2.25 kilometres) roundtrip, this scenic hike will provide spectacular views of the canyon's unique geology. : Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches. : Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travel Directors, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols. : Our Well-Being Directors take a proactive approach to your welfare ensuring all well-being regulations are met (available on tours with 21 or more guests). : Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day. : We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues. Monument Valley: Take a journey through Monument Valley Navajo Tribal park, meeting Navajo Local Experts on a guided journey across tribal land. Learn about Navajo history, culture and heritage, plus the careful balance maintained here between the tribes and the land. : "It’s magical to see how a group of guests come together over the course of our trip. I can always tell when that’s happening because they start planning their own ‘post-arrival’ activities before the travel day has finished." Las Vegas: At 18:00, join your Travel Director and companions for a Welcome Dinner with wine at the Bacchanal Buffet, with an award-winning spread that spans over 25,000 square feet where you can indulge on flavors from around the globe. Moab: Enjoy a Dine-Around evening as you choose from a hand-picked selection of mouthwatering restaurants. Bryce Canyon National Park: Get together with your new friends for a memorable Celebration Dinner within the park's beautiful surroundings. Dining Summary: 5 Dinner with Wine (DW), 9 Breakfast (B), and 1 Lunch (L) Grand Canyon National Park: Join your Local Expert, Canyon Tim, for an informative talk about the wonders of the Grand Canyon. With over seven years of experience in geology, you'll learn about the origins of the five-million-year-old canyon, its rock formation and its current impact. You'll also discover the local flora and fauna, and find out where you might be able to spot elk, mule deer, coyotes, grey foxes, bobcats and mountain lions. Glen Canyon Dam: Later today, you’ll stop by the Glen Canyon Dam where you’ll learn about its history and impact on the Colorado River. Mesa Verde National Park: Make your way to Mesa Verde National Park, See the ancient pueblo cliff dwellings, known as the Cliff Palace. As the day draws to a close, your lodge awaits you inside the park. Be in awe of the sweeping vistas that surround and reach into three states. Monument Valley: Meet your Navajo Local Experts and board all-terrain vehicles (waiver required) with open sides for a private, off-the-beaten path exploration of this magical valley. Learn about Navajo history, culture and heritage from your expert as you travel deeper in the natural wonders of this unique landscape. Mesa Verde National Park: See the ancient pueblo cliff dwellings, known as the Cliff Palace. Arches National Park: Enjoy views of the natural formations, including the iconic Delicate Arch. Canyonlands National Park: Venture to Canyonlands National Park for a drive onto the Island in the Sky - a mesa resting 1,000 feet (305 metres) above the surrounding countryside, offering spectacular views over the dramatic sandstone formations. Capitol Reef National Park: Join your Travel Director to see the natural sights along Capitol Reef's Waterpocket Fold, known as “a geological wrinkle on earth”. The geologic monocline extends almost 100 miles and is filled with cliffs, canyons, domes and bridges. Admire petroglyphs and the domed shaped sandstone walls along the canyon. Bryce Canyon National Park: Head to the sandstone cliffs of Bryce Canyon National Park in Southern Utah. Here you will be met by pine trees and red rock pillars. Take a leisurely walk along Sunset Point while you view the great amphitheatres of the odd-shaped monoliths, known as hoodoos. Bryce Canyon National Park: The Park is home to the most spectacular collection of hoodoos - tall skinny shafts of rock that protrude from the bottom of arid basins. While hoodoos are scattered throughout these areas, they are most abundant in the northern section of Bryce Canyon National Park. Zion National Park: See the grandeur and natural features of the canyon in total comfort while traveling via private open-air tram with live on-board commentary. Grand Canyon: Join your Travel Director for a relaxed hike along the rim of the Grand Canyon from Mather Point to Yavapai Point. 1.4 miles (2.25 kilometres) roundtrip, this scenic hike will provide spectacular views of the canyon's unique geology. Monument Valley: Experience true authentic dining as you explore Monument Valley with a traditional Navajo cookout. Prepared by Navajo women in their tribal lands, this experience demonstrates their culture and supports the community. Dine on delicious steak and tasty Navajo Tacos, or try the or veggie option, all served with fried bread, corn on the cob and beans.
Trip Style	Private guided tour	Group tour
Lodging Level	Standard	Premium
Physical Level	1- Very easy	0- Wheelchair accessible
Travel Themes	Cultural Nature & Wildlife 50 plus Local Immersion & Homestays National Parks	Cultural 50 plus
Countries Visited	United States	United States
Cities and Attractions	Lake Michigan Mackinac Island	Bryce Canyon National Park Grand Canyon Lake Powell Las Vegas Mesa Verde Monument Valley
Flights & Transport	Ground transport included	Airfare included
Activities	Culture Historic sightseeing History Homestays & Cultural Immersion Nature	Culture
Meals Included	N/A	N/A
Description	Oversized objects and other Americana along Route 66, the beaches and glitzy cities of California’s coast, steaming geysers in Yellowstone National Park… on a tailor-made holiday to the USA with Audley, you’ll see the highlights — and much more — your way. We’ll design your ideal trip with you, paying close attention to your interests, your travel style and your budget. Our USA specialists know the country inside out and can lead you to experiences you won’t find in a guidebook. New England’s crimson, yellow and orange fall foliage. After-hours art gallery tours in New York. Utah’s red-rock landscapes. Wild West towns and abandoned Puebloan cliff dwellings… What excites you? Travel at your own pace, in your own style, with the confidence that we’ll show you the best options, wherever you go.	See the best of the American West on this 10-Day guided tour. Join a Local Expert at Grand Canyon National Park for a one-of-a-kind experience: Allow the expert to guide you through the park while teaching you about how this national treasure was formed. On the way to picturesque Lake Powell, stop at the Glen Canyon Dam, then lounge at the pool of your hotel. In Page, enjoy a Navajo inspired taco buffet dinner and performance. Meet a Navajo guide in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, where you will board ATVs, explore the valley and learn about the tribe’s history. Later, eat a traditional Navajo lunch amid the valley’s beautiful buttes and mesas. In Moab, see the ancient pueblo dwellings in Mesa Verde National Park, where the Ancestral Pueblo people once lived. Travel to Bryce Canyon National Park to explore its rock pillars and natural amphitheaters — then feast with your fellow travelers overlooking the park’s iconic orange rock formations.

Itinerary: The Great Lakes Trail Self-Drive

Day 1 : Detroit

Today you begin your journey by boarding your international outbound flight to Detroit. Arrive in Detroit and make your own way to your downtown hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax after your journey.

Day 2 : Detroit

Spend a day exploring the car manufacturing city of Detroit which is enjoying rapid rejuvenation. Don't miss a visit to the fascinating nearby Henry Ford Museum.

Day 3 : Whitehall

Collect your hire car and drive through the heart of Michigan to the little town of Whitehall on Lake Michigan's east coast.

Day 4 : Traverse City

Drive along the coast of Lake Michigan to Traverse City. There are some delightful state parks to visit on the way, many of which offer glorious coastal views.

Day 5 : Traverse City

Spend a full day exploring the amazing, and huge, sand dunes in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. You may wish to take the ferry to the little islands of North and South Manitou or take the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Other options include a visit to Grand Traverse Lighthouse or go wine tasting at some of the nearby wineries.

Day 6 : Mackinac Island

Enjoy another scenic lake-edge drive today as you make your way to Mackinac Island. This coastline is dotted with small villages and pretty state parks. Park your car at Mackinaw City and then take the foot passenger ferry over to Mackinac Island. The afternoon is free to explore this car-free island.

Day 7 : Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is a delightful natural retreat, with plenty of lovely walking and cycling paths affording magical sea views. Most of the island is a state park and transportation is confined to horse and carriage. Visit historic Fort Mackinac and the island's lovely limestone bluffs and emerald green forests.

Day 8 : Marquette

Return to your car and drive across the Straits of Mackinac to Marquette in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. This is a delightfully scenic drive through Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and past Munising Falls and Rock River Falls Canyon.

Day 9 : Marquette

Michigan's Upper Peninsula is lightly populated and full of picturesque forests, lakes and mountains. Its many state parks are a haven for wildlife including black bears, wolves, and birdlife. Moose in particular thrive in large numbers here. There is also a wide variety of outdoor activities to enjoy including wonderful walking trails, fishing, kayaking and mountain biking. Marquette itself offers two lake-side beaches and is a diving hotspot.

Day 10 : Isle Royale

Your drive takes you inland today, past the Huron Mountains, Baraga State Park and along the shore of Keweenaw Bay. Park your car and then take a thrilling seaplane flight from Houghton to Isle Royale National Park.

Day 11 : Isle Royale

Isle Royale National Park is the largest island in Lake Superior. Largely forested, this beautiful and isolated place is known for significant populations of wolves and moose, and is a haven for walkers, kayakers and wildlife enthusiasts. Enjoy a day breathing in the pure air and discovering this natural island gem.

Day 12 : Bayfield, Wisconsin

Return by seaplane to Houghton and then take the scenic drive past the Porcupine Mountains into Wisconsin. Your base for the next two nights is the village of Bayfield, ideally located for exploring the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

Day 13 : Bayfield, Wisconsin

Take a scenic cruise to the Apostle Islands that consist of 21 islands at the northern tip of Wisconsin. See extraordinary standing rocks, sea caves and lighthouses whilst also keeping a look out for deer, eagles and bears.

Day 14 : Minneapolis - Saint Paul

Leaving behind the shores of Lake Superior, head inland to the twin cities of Minneapolis - St. Paul.

Day 15 : Minneapolis - Saint Paul

Spend a full day in Minneapolis - St. Paul. The cities are known for excellent shopping, restaurants and nightlife, but there are also great museums and sports venues to visit.

Day 16 : International return flight

Drop off your hire car prior to boarding your onward flight.

Day 17 : International return flight

Arrive home today to complete your journey.

Itinerary: Wonders of the American West

Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas

Welcome to glittering Las Vegas. On arrival at Las Vegas International Airport, your transfer will take you to your hotel. At 18:00, join your Travel Director and companions for a Welcome Dinner with wine at the award-winning Bacchanal Buffet.

Caesars Palace, Las Vegas.

Dinner with Wine

Day 2: The Wonders of the Grand Canyon

Journey on to Grand Canyon National Park. Choose to hike along the scenic Rim Trail with your Travel Director. Alternatively join a Local Expert, Canyon Tim, for a fascinating discussion on the wonders of this natural phenomenon, and learn about the local flora and fauna, and find out how you might be able to spot the local wildlife.

Grand Canyon National Park Lodge

Breakfast

Day 3: Grand Canyon and Lake Powell

Wake up to the backdrop of the Grand Canyon and enjoy some peace and tranquility before the day trippers arrive. You may take an optional flight-seeing helicopter ride for stunning views over the Grand Canyon before departing for the majesty of Lake Powell. Stop at Glen Canyon Dam to learn about its impact on the Colorado River before arriving at your lakefront resort. Check in to your room and enjoy the evening at leisure. Watch the sunset as you dine or relax by the pool.

Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas.

Breakfast

Day 4: A Leisurely day at Lake Powell Relaxed Start

Spend the day doing entirely as you please. Perhaps join an optional float trip (signed liability waiver required) down one of the most scenic stretches of the Colorado River or take to the skies and see the sights of Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, and Horseshoe Bend with a 20 Minute landing on Tower Butte. The incredible 360-degree panoramic view this high is unlike any other. In the evening, enjoy an authentic dinner and performance at Red Heritage, a Navajo owned and operated performing arts theatre.

Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 5: Monument Valley and the Navajo Nation

Journey on through the barren beauty of the desert to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, where you will MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®. Board a Jeep 4x4 to explore the valley with your Navajo guide. These sturdy all-terrain vehicles offer open sides for spectacular views and a roof to protect you from the sun. Learn about Navajo history from your guide and more about life on their beautiful land. The area is also the backdrop for many Western Hollywood hits, including "Stagecoach" and "Fort Apache." Inspired by these iconic movies, you’ll find “John Wayne’s cabin” at nearby Goulding’s Lodge. This small structure was used for exterior shots in "She Wore a Yellow Ribbon," starring Wayne himself. The venue also holds a cinema dedicated to Wayne and his impressive movie portfolio. Enjoy a Navajo cookout Highlight Lunch amid the giant buttes and mesas of this unique landscape before making your way to Mesa Verde National Park, where the day draws to a close. Your lodge inside the park offers sweeping vistas reaching into three states.

Far View Lodge, Mesa Verde.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with Wine

Day 6: Mesa Verde and Moab

Enjoy a comprehensive visit to the fascinating Mesa Verde National Park. View the ancient pueblo dwellings known as Cliff Palace. Settle in for a relaxing stay at your modern hotel superbly located on the charming Main Street. Later, enjoy a Dine-Around evening and choose from a hand-picked selection of excellent restaurants.

Homewood Suites, Moab.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 7: Delve into Canyonlands and Arches National Parks

In the morning, visit Arches National Park, housing the greatest concentration of natural arches in the world. Stop and take a short hike to the Delicate Arch Viewpoint to view the iconic arch. Then it's on to Canyonlands National Park for a drive onto the Island in the Sky, a mesa resting 1,000 feet (305 metres) above the surrounding countryside, offering spectacular views over the dramatic sandstone formations. Back at the hotel, your evening is at leisure. Perhaps enjoy the outdoors or relax in this beautiful natural setting.

Homewood Suites, Moab.

Breakfast

Day 8: Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon National Parks

Magnificent scenery awaits at Capitol Reef National Park, best known for its Waterpocket Fold, a 100- mile-long (160 kilometre) warp in the earth's crust. Journey along scenic Byway 12 - one of the most beautiful roads in the world, winding through the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. End the night at The Lodge inside Bryce Canyon National Park. Officially designated as a Dark Sky Park, brightly hued sunsets and starry nights are likely to be found here.

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon.

Breakfast

Day 9: Whimsical Bryce Canyon National Park Relaxed Start

Start the day traveling through Bryce Canyon National Park, the great natural Amphitheatre. These whimsical eroded rock formations that characterize this Utah National Park are some of most unusual shapes imaginable, having an abstract artistic feel to them. Learn how wind, erosion and iron oxidation created the spellbinding hoodoos with your Travel Director. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a memorable Celebration Dinner set overlooking the park's vivacious orange and red rock formations.

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 10: Zion National Park, back to Las Vegas

Enjoy a last look at Bryce Canyon, glowing in the early morning light. Head on to Zion National Park - one of the most scenic canyons in the United States. Here, join a guided tour by a private Zion Canyon Shuttle, with live commentary, and views of the park's best sites. Your journey ends with a departure transfer to Las Vegas International Airport, arriving at 16:00.

Breakfast