The highlights of this tour include Yellowstone, Bryce, Zion, and Grand Canyon National Parks. From Old Faithful to the flame-red hues of Red Canyon, the tour is filled with memorable sights. If you have not had the opportunity to visit the great national parks of the American West before now, take advantage of this spectacular tour.
ITINERARY
Depart for Moses Lake - September 2, Tuesday
After crossing the international border, enjoy a complimentary lunch in Everett with your travelling companions. Then journey through the Cascade Mountains via Snoqualmie Pass to Ellensburg in Central Washington. Tonight's accommodation overlooks beautiful Moses Lake.
Moses Lake to Missoula - September 3, Wednesday
Eastward today, from the wheat fields of Washington, past Spokane and Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Change your watch to Mountain Time as you cross Look-out Pass in the Bitterroot Mountains. Overnight in Big Sky Country: Missoula, Montana.
Missoula to West Yellowstone - September 4, Thursday
This morning's route takes you through the mining town of Butte, Montana, known as the richest hill on earth. Stop for lunch in Bozeman, before venturing into the wilderness country of Yellowstone National Park where you will spend the night.
Yellowstone National Park - September 5, Friday
A full-day tour of Yellowstone is planned today. Your tour escort will show you Fountain Paint Pots, Old Faithful geyser, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and much more. Watch for moose, elk, bear and bison.
Yellowstone to Jackson - September 6, Saturday
Continue from Yellowstone to the Grand Tetons and the valley of Jackson Hole. The Tetons are a striking sight, rising dramatically from the valley floor to heights of 13,000 feet. Rest comfortably tonight in the colourful western town of Jackson. Unique local shops and the town square, with elk antler archways, make for interesting exploring.
Jackson to Salt Lake City - September 7, Sunday
From the ski resort of Jackson to the Valley of the Great Salt Lake, you proceed southward. En route, enjoy the scenery of Bear Lake and Logan Canyon. You have two nights in downtown Salt Lake City, right near Temple Square, sightseeing attractions, and shopping.
Salt Lake City - September 8, Monday
This morning join the group for a city tour of Utah's capital. With a local guide you will see Capital Hill, the University of Utah, This is the Place Monument, and Trolley Square. Attend a noon organ concert at the Mormon Tabernacle, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon.
Salt Lake City to Bryce Canyon - September 9, Tuesday
Follow the Wasatch Mountains through Central Utah to Nephi for a morning break. Then go along the Sevier River and see the Big Rock Candy Mountain. Today you are in colour country - with all its marvellous sights and eroded forms. Tonight's accommodation is close to Bryce National Park.
Bryce to Kanab - September 10, Wednesday
Photographers, have your cameras ready. Get set for the unforgettable scenery of Bryce and Zion Canyons today. In the morning, the beautiful red spires, pinnacles, and pillars of Bryce's Fairyland are before you. After lunch, descend into the rugged gorge named Zion Canyon. Spend the evening in Kanab, Utah, once known as Little Hollywood.
Kanab to Lake Powell - September 11, Thursday
Glen Canyon National Recreational Area extends along the Colorado River and includes 186-mile-long Lake Powell. Today's highlight is the Navajo Tapestry Cruise on beautiful Lake Powell. Overnight at Wahweap Lodge on the shores of the lake.
Lake Powell - Grand Canyon - September 12, Friday
See more of the Arizona desert and native Indian lands today. Eat lunch and shop at a Navajo Trading Post on the way to Grand Canyon National Park. A stop at the famous Watchtower will offer you a first glimpse of the awesome Canyon. Your accommodation is in Grand Canyon Village, on the South Rim.
Grand Canyon - September 13, Saturday
The day is yours to explore the South Rim. Use the free tram service to see the Yavapai Museum, Bright Angel Lodge, Hopi House, El Tovar, Hermit's Rest, and all the places of interest at the Grand Canyon.
Grand Canyon to Las Vegas - September 14, Sunday
From Canyon Country, the landscape changes dramatically as you drive through the Arizona desert to Kingman. Stop for picture-taking at Hoover Dam and cross the Colorado River, once again, into Nevada. This evening your accommodation is on The Strip at the fabulous Excalibur Hotel Casino.
Las Vegas to Reno - September 15, Monday
A full travel day takes you through the small towns of Nevada. In Beatty, stop at the Burro Inn, and visit Tonopah's Station House Casino for lunch. Hawthorne's well-known El Capitan Casino welcomes you this afternoon. Tonight try your hand with Lady Luck, see the glittering night lights, and take in some evening entertainment in Reno, the Biggest Little City in the World.
Reno - September 16, Tuesday
A full day for gaming, sightseeing, relaxing or shopping. Good luck!
Reno to Springfield - September 17, Wednesday
From Nevada, through California, to Oregon today. There is time for lunch in Klamath Falls before crossing the Cascades via Willamette Pass to your friendly accommodation in Springfield.
Springfield to Victoria - September 18, Thursday
On this last travelling day, bid farewell to new friends, reminisce about the exciting events of your journey to the Canyonlands, and start planning your next trip. We look forward to seeing you again soon!
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