Compare National Parks of the American West by G Adventures vs Yellowstone and Rocky Mountain and California Desert Explorer 11 days YELTDYSCAMP/LODGEPRT by Bindlestiff Tours

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 get tickets to a show for this evening.

Day 2 Las Vegas/Zion National Park

Depart for the sandstone slot canyons of Zion, Utah's oldest national park, where monumental cliffs of cream, pink, and red pierce the sky. In the afternoon we get our first glimpse of the park as we hike along The Watchman Trail. This unpaved trail climbs 368 ft (112 m) to a magnificent viewpoint of the Watchman, Temples and Towers, lower Zion Canyon, and the Town of Springdale.

Day 3 Zion National Park

Set out on an unforgettable guided hike to the famed Narrows. Splash, wade, and swim in the cool water of the river that cuts through this stunning slot canyon. Soak up the beauty of the high plateaus, towers, temples, mesas, and some of the planet’s tallest sheer sandstone walls.

The canyon is narrow, and the river covers the bottom in many places, which means you will have to wade or swim to proceed. Prepare to get wet but the cool water makes this hike particularly pleasant during the hot summer months. During the cooler months, there are available gear rentals including Gore-Tex dry pants, canyon shoes, and neoprene socks. Hiking poles are available for rent year-round. Hiking is not permitted when the river is high from runoff or flash flooding. Runoff mostly occurs in April and early May. Late summer thunderstorms can occasionally produce flooding. If the hike is not possible due to weather, it will be replaced with another activity.

This is a moderate level hike of 4 to 5 hours, during which you are wading through water which could be ankle or waist deep, depending on local conditions. As well, the terrain is often rocky and uneven. We recommend bringing water shoes with a hiking tread. Should you choose to not do the hike, you can stay and relax at the lodge or discuss with your CEO other optional activities that may be available (at additional cost).

Day 4 Zion National Park/Page

This morning, hike through Bryce Canyon National Park, famed for its maze of multi-coloured rock pinnacles called hoodoo. Keep your camera at the ready to snap shots of these spectacular natural towers that cover the canyon floor. Continue on to Page, Arizona, the gateway to Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the beautiful Lake Powell.

Day 5 Page/Grand Canyon National Park

Join a local Navajo guide for a thrilling exploration of Antelope Canyon, a stunning natural sandstone cathedral located on Navajo land and accessible only with an authorized guide. Later, go on a short hike to Horseshoe Bend, and stand on steep vermillion cliffs overlooking a spectacular natural bend in the Colorado River. Enjoy lunch at a family-owned Navajo food truck, a G Adventures–supported project, before continuing on to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon.

Marvel as the Grand Canyon unfolds before you but don't get too close. The land drops almost straight down for more than 1,000m (3,280 ft) into the serpentine canyons below! The gorge is filled with rocky buttes, sheer limestone cliffs, and deep canyons all arrayed in a rainbow of colors. Words defy. This is truly one of the most magnificent sights on earth.

Day 6 Grand Canyon National Park

Spend the day exploring this ancient gorge with an expert from the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute. Set out on foot along the South Rim and gain insights on the unique geology and botany of this geological phenomenon, as well as the local human history. After, view iconic park structures at the Historic Village District, then descend below the canyon rim along the Bright Angel Trail to see 2,000-year-old rock art and 250-million-year-old fossils.

Day 7 Grand Canyon National Park/Las Vegas

This morning, visit Lowell Observatory for a tour of the giant telescopes and to learn about the study of astronomy, and enjoy a lecture. Continue back to Las Vegas, but not before getting your kicks on Route 66 in Seligman, Arizona — the birthplace of this famed highway.

Day 8 Las Vegas/Death Valley National Park

Enjoy a scenic drive through the desert to Death Valley National Park—the lowest, hottest, and driest place in North America. Experience the extremes of this landscape as you pass through the multi-hued badlands of Twenty Mule Team Canyon and descend into Badwater Basin, cradled 282 feet below sea level. Cap off the day at Zabriskie Point as the sun sets over the distinctive Furnace Creek formation.

Drive through the spectacular landscape of Death Valley. Take in the views of diverse geological features as far as the eye can see. Drive through Twenty Mule Team Canyon to see the different shades of the badlands. Then descend into Badwater Basin, the lowest, hottest, driest point in North America that sits 282 feet below sea level. Continue to the Furnace Creek Visitor Center to get out of the sun for a further look into this unique park. Once the heat of the day has passed, head to the most photographed spot in the park, Zabriskie Point for sunset.

Expect high temperatures of 100°F to over 120°F (38°C to over 49°C). Drink plenty of water and carry extra supplies. Avoid hiking at mid-day.

Day 9 Death Valley National Park/Sequoia National Park

Begin the day searching for animal tracks amid the otherworldly landscape of Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, where shifting sands soar up to 100 feet high. Then discover Father Crowley Vista Point, where an easy hike offers an epic payoff: a sweeping view over Rainbow Canyon and Panamint Valley. Keep an eye out for fighter jets practicing between the cliffs. Continue around the Sierra Nevada mountains to California’s Sequoia National Park.

Day 10 Sequoia National Park

Enjoy a full day to explore the legendary trees of Sequoia National Park. Walk in the shadow of its formidable giants—including General Sherman, the planet’s largest known living single-stem tree—alongside a naturalist from Sequoia Parks Conservancy. On an afternoon hike along Big Tree Trail, hear how, in 1916, National Geographic deeded tracts of giant trees here to the National Parks Service for safekeeping. This evening, return to the park for an evening of stargazing with a local expert; or, if skies are cloudy, set out on a nighttime walk to witness nocturnal life.

In cases where the night sky is cloudy, we will replace the star gazing activity with a nighttime nature walk in the National Park. Embark on a one-mile walk to experience the dramatic changes of the soundscapes and nocturnal biodiversity of the area. This engaging walk will awaken awareness and provide an in-depth experience of Sequoia’s nocturnal plants and animals.

Day 11 Sequoia National Park/Kings Canyon National Park

Embark on a spectacular drive, watching as the scenery changes from towering sequoias to one of the deepest canyons in the United States. On a journey from Grant Grove to Cedar Grove, be awed by the glacially carved Kings Canyon, and keep an eye out for the endangered Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep and other majestic wildlife.

Day 12 Kings Canyon National Park/Yosemite National Park

Head north through the Sierras to the south entrance of Yosemite National Park, a natural wonderland of picturesque valleys and ancient granite formations.

We recommend viewing the documentary Free Solo prior to your trip or downloading this film on your devices to watch during today's drive. This National Geographic film follows the incredible world-first free solo (without ropes or safety features) of Yosemite's iconic El Capitan climbing wall. Watch as free climber Alex Honnold grapples with the route, his body and his mind to conquer this rock face that is about 3,000 feet high.

Please note: Glacier Point Road is closed in the winter and has varying opening dates based on snowfall. When Glacier Point Road is closed, we will substitute with a hike in the old growth forest of Mariposa Grove: Stop Mariposa Grove, the largest old growth forest in the park to enjoy picnic lunch and a hike amongst these magnificent trees.

Day 13 Yosemite National Park

This morning, join a Yosemite Conservancy naturalist on a guided excursion around the park, gaining an insider’s perspective on the human, natural, and geological history of the region. Hike through the heart of Yosemite while hearing about its flora and fauna, and learn how this rugged backcountry became the U.S.’s first protected state park in 1864—and, with the help of John Muir, a national park in 1890. Enjoy the rest of the day on your own; choose your own adventure amid majestic waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, lush meadows, and pristine groves. Keep an eye out for glacial erratics, rock climbers, and a diversity of wildlife. Opt to visit the Ansel Adams Studio or relax by the river with Half Dome as the backdrop.

Carved by glaciers, Yosemite National Park became the first protected state park in the US in 1864. It took until 1890 to gain National Park status, with the work of John Muir. Though 95% of the park is backcountry, there is still plenty to explore via hikes or the shuttle system. Spend the day hiking amongst Giant Sequoias, granite cliffs, and rushing waterfalls and understand why around 4 million people come to the park each year.

Day 14 Yosemite National Park/San Francisco

Pass through the Central Valley of California, stopping at a local farm stand to sample some of the region's best produce. Drive over the Bay Bridge on the way into one of America's most vibrant cities, San Francisco, where your CEO-led guided driving tour of the city begins. Make a visit to Haight-Ashbury, Golden Gate Park, walk across a portion of the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge, Continue past the Palace of Fine Arts and Union Square en route to our hotel. This evening, consider joining an optional sunset sail in the San Francisco Bay, departing from Fisherman’s Wharf to glide past notorious Alcatraz Island and underneath the spectacular Golden Gate Bridge.

Day 15 San Francisco

Depart at any time.

DAY 1 – LAS VEGAS TO BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK VIA CEDAR BREAKS
A beautiful drive today takes us to a 10,000 ft summit through Cedar Breaks for spectacular views of ancient lava flows and the Sevier River Valley below. Arriving in Bryce Canyon National Park in time for a delicious rim side picnic lunch you will have a full afternoon of hiking. Choose a relaxing stroll along the rim of the world-famous Amphitheater or a hike deep into the depths of the canyon and get up close and personal with the hoodoos that make up this unique landscape. Take in a ranger program and learn the geology of this fascinating and thrilling park.
Spend the evening around a campfire and enjoy a soak in the outdoor hot tub under the stars after a tasty all American BBQ.
Camp Ruby’s CG Bryce- full service campground with electricity, flush toilets, hot showers, Wi-Fi and outdoor hot tub.
DAY 2 – BRYCE CANYON TO SALT LAKE CITY
This morning takes us North to Salt Lake City Utah, home to the tabernacle choir, for an afternoon of exploring Mormon Pioneer history. Enjoy magnificent Salt Lake Mormon Temple and see the State Capital Building and founder Brigham Young’s Territorial Governor’s Mansion.
Hotel stay -Best Western or similar.
DAY 3 – GRAND TETONS NATIONAL PARK
The Grand Tetons Mountain Range rises above a scene rich with abundant wildlife, pristine lakes, and spectacular mountain peaks. Take a walk to Inspiration Point or enjoy a scenic stroll around Jenny Lake while gazing up in awe at the surrounding landscape. Have a picnic, spot and moose or even a grizzly bear and enjoy the serenity of this remarkable place.
Camp Grand Tetons National Park- campground with electricity, flush toilets.
DAY 4 – YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
The crown jewel of the National Parks! The world’s first national park. A mountain wilderness, home to grizzly bears, wolves, and herds of buffalo and elk. Visit Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Pool, Yellowstone Canyon, explore geysers throughout both the North and South loop. Spend two days exploring this huge and fascinating national park with your expert Guide. Don’t forget your bathing suit for a soak in Mammoths natural hot springs!
Camp Yellowstone- full service campground with electricity, flush toilets, hot showers.
DAY 5 – YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
Continue to discover Yellowstone with your guide. Go on hikes ranging from easy to moderate and 2 to 5 miles (3 to 8 km) in length, and see more spectacular volcanic features. Your guide will tailor hikes to your group’s abilities and interests.
Camp Yellowstone- full service campground with electricity, flush toilets, hot showers.
DAY 6 – YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK AND ROCKY MOUNTAINS
Get up close and personal with some wildlife with a fun and educational visit to the Yellowstone Grizzly Bear and Wolf Discovery Center this morning. This afternoon get ready for more spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery. With three major canyons, the Provo Lake Region offers phenomenal views of the Rockies, fantastic walks and is the perfect spot for some lakeside fun and a BBQ blow out!
Camp Rocky Mountains Lake Provo- full service campground with electricity, flush toilets, hot showers.
DAY 7 – VALLEY OF FIRE AND LAS VEGAS
En route back to the bright lights of Sin City, explore the trails and dunes of Nevada’s first state park- Valley of Fire state park. With bright red Aztec sandstone outcrops nestled in gray and tan limestone this state park is a real treat. Your day concludes in Las Vegas in the late afternoon in time explore this fabulous fun city by night!
Hotel Las Vegas- twin share.
DAY 8 – DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
Heading to California this morning you will embark on a guided tour of Death Valley National Park. Enjoy photo stops and shorts walks at Zabriskie Point , Artist’s Palette, Badwater Basin Salt Flats, Furnace Creek Visitor Center, Devil’s Golf Course and the Mesquite Sand Dunes. After a picnic lunch, drive spectacular scenery to the old Gold Rush Historic town of Bishop for your night stop.
Camp/Hotel Bishop- full service campground with electricity, flush toilets, hot showers or 3-star hotel if selected.
DAY 9 – TIOGA PASS TO YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK
Crossing the Tioga Pass* this morning provides an extremely scenic route passing by highlights such as Olmsted point, Lake Tenaya, Tuolumne Meadows and Mono lake en route to Yosemite Valley. Visit the Valley visitor center and exhibits, take a mini tour and get ready for a full day of exploration tomorrow.
Camp/Hotel Yosemite -full service campground with electricity, flush toilets, hot showers or 3-star hotel if selected.
* Weather permitting- In the event that the Tioga Pass is closed this tour will reroute through Lake Isabella instead of Bishop.
DAY 10 – YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK- FULL DAY
Spend a full day exploring the walks offered in the park. There are countless walks ranging from easy to strenuous or opt for a guided tour with your expert guide to the premier panoramas within the park such as Bridalveil falls, Lower Yosemite Falls, views of Half Dome and El Capitan. You can also opt for some free time relaxing or cycling along the Merced River.
Camp/Hotel Yosemite -full service campground with electricity, flush toilets, hot showers or 3-star hotel if selected.
DAY 11 – YOSEMITE TO SAN FRANCISCO
Today we head to City by the Bay- San Francisco! Your 4-day adventure concludes with a fully guided city tour of this vibrant city. Stops include Fisherman’s Warf, Pier 39, Haight Ashbury and the Golden Gate Bridge. Tour ends approx. 5pm