4
Introductory

Traveler Rating

 

Activities
  • 8 day walks
Accommodation
  • 13 nights hotel/lodge
Meals
  • 12 Lunches
  • 13 Breakfasts

Price

14 daysfrom

$4920USD

Overview

Trip code: GCR

Trip highlights


  • Hike and spot wildlife in stunning Yellowstone National Park
  • Marvel at the punctuality of Old Faithful geyser
  • Trek into the Grand Canyon
  • Walk among the imposing, red rock formations of Monument Valley
  • Take in the views of Grand Teton National Park
  • Explore UNESCO-designated Mesa Verde
  • Learn why Maroon Bells is one of the most photographed places in Colorado
  • Visit Horseshoe Bend and beautiful Antelope Canyon
  • Live it up in Las Vegas

On this superb hiking adventure we bring to life western USA's most famous parks, home to some of the most dramatic wind and water sculptured landscapes in the world. During a series of selected hikes, we absorb the geysers, giant waterfalls, prolific wildlife and valleys full of boiling mud pots in Yellowstone, trek in the Grand Canyon, visit Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon and hike in the dramatic Rocky Mountains. From Aspen and Glenwood Springs we undertake some world class day hikes in the Rockies and enjoy picture postcard vistas, such as Maroon Bells. Linking the parks and hikes are stunning drives such as the 'Million Dollar Highway', considered to be the most scenic in North America. A visit to Mesa Verde UNESCO World Heritage Site and Monument Valley and our final night in Las Vegas rounds off this exhilarating adventure.


Itinerary

Welcome to Salt Lake City! Arrive at your hotel via airport shuttle or local taxi and settle in after your long journey. Take time to relax this evening in preparation for the great adventures ahead. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Crystal Inn - SLC, 1 night

Meals:  Nil

This morning we have an 8:00am introductory meeting (leave your packed bags in your room and meet your group after breakfast in the lobby). We start off with an enjoying stroll through the vibrant streets of Salt Lake before jumping in the van to head north towards the Teton Mountains. *At Grand Targhee we take the chairlift up the mountains to 2000 ft (620 m) in elevation to enjoy unsurpassed views of the amazing peaks of the Grand Teton Mountain Range. From there, we head back to Idaho to spend the night. (The Grand Targhee Chairlift is open from mid June to mid September. If closed we will walk uphill to enjoy the views). *authorized permittee of Grand Teton National Park _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Hampton Inn - Rexburg, 1 night • Drive time: 350mi / 560 km, or 5.5 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ • Hiking: 2 mi/ 3 km, 2 hrs, +/-200 m (more if chairlift closed)

Meals:  B,L

Head into the world’s oldest National Park today, Yellowstone National Park. It protects the world’s most impressive geothermal area, along with one of the densest collections of mega fauna outside of Africa which includes bison, wolf, elk, moose and, of course, bear. The slow-moving Yellowstone River meanders across the valley from south to north, attracting a diverse array of animals – keep your eyes peeled for grizzlies and bison. We’ll enjoy a hike to some scenic lookouts and possible views of falls in the ‘Grand Canyon of Yellowstone’ as we hike along on the Wapiti Trail on the south side of the river. There is also a chance to walk along Uncle Tom's Trail and enjoy the amazing waterfall views. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Alpine Motel, Cooke City, 2 nights • Drive time: ~200 mi / 320km, or 4 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ • Hiking: 4.5 mi / 7.2 km, 3-4 hrs, +/-200 m

Meals:  B,L

Today we explore the world's largest geothermal area starting in the Mammoth Hot Spring area at the remote northern end of the park. We'll continue to explore the Upper and Lower Geyser Basins, which highlight Yellowstone's geothermal wonders. Expect a day filled with walking and discovery as we marvel at the vibrant hues of the Grand Prismatic Spring, with its striking shades of orange and blue, alongside bubbling, hissing, and steaming springs. At Old Faithful, you’ll have the opportunity to traverse boardwalks past various erupting geysers and witness the iconic eruption of Old Faithful. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Alpine Inn, Cooke City • Drive time: 200 mi / 320 km, or 4 hrs Various hikes and boardwalks: 5-7 mi / 8-12 km, 3-4 hrs, +/-100m

Meals:  B,L

Exploring this spectacular area continues today heading to the steaming hot pools at West Thumb Geyser. *We continue the day heading into Grand Teton National Park where we will walk along Jenny Lake with the towering peaks above (possible side extension to Inspiration Point). Enjoy a ferry ride across Jenny Lake, included in your tour, meeting your tour director at the end of the hike with your transport to continue on. You’ll have time to stroll the historic streets of the bustling western town of Jackson, Wyoming, before we settle into our hotel for the evening in the small cowboy town of Pinedale. *authorized permittee of Grand Teton National Park _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Pinedale Hotel & Suites, 1 night • Drive time: 250 mi / 400 km, or 6 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ • Hiking: 6 mi / 10 km, 3 hrs (2 mi / 3 km extra to Inspiration Point. Shorten the hike by using the ferry)

Meals:  B,L

In the rain shadow of the Rockies we drive south into the heart of Colorado’s Rockies. We cross the vast expanse of the “Great American Desert” that challenged many pioneers, heading west. We follow part of the old ‘Oregon Trail’ through the dry prairie, before we enter the green hills of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. You'll be treated to spectacular views of the mountains, including Vermillion Falls in Wilson Place, Colorado. If the timing is right we’ll take a moment to admire the striking red-hued waterfall cascading over rugged terrain. We stop for the night in the famous hot springs town of Glenwood Springs. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Courtyard Marriott - Glenwood Springs, 2 nights • Drive Time: ~340 mi / 550 km, or 6 hrs

Meals:  B,L

This morning we head off hiking through dense aspen forests in the Elk Mountains towards the pristine, glacial Maroon Valley. You will enjoy the spectacular twin peaks of Maroon Bells reflecting in the tranquil alpine lakes (due to park regulations this hike is self-guided). This afternoon you are free to explore Aspen. One of the most picturesque towns in the USA, Aspen started as a gold rush town and is now a famous ski and outdoor adventure town. Visit some of the towns renowned boutiques, relax with a coffee, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Courtyard Marriott - Glenwood Springs, 1 night • Hiking: 6 mi / 10 km, 3-4 hrs, +/-200m

Meals:  B,L

Today, we follow spectacular remote mountain roads south through the Rockies to Mesa Verde. En route, your guide takes you to ride the famous Durango-Silverton Narrow Gauge railroad, voted among the world’s 10 best railroad journeys, from Silverton to Durango. Your guides will meet you in Durango where you'll have time to spend exploring this historic town nestled in the San Juan Mountains. The train ride is included in your trip cost. Tonight, we overnight at the entrance to Mesa Verde National Park. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Best Western Turquoise Inn - Cortez, 2 nights • Drive time: 300 mi / 480 km, or 5.5 hrs (less if taking the train instead)

Meals:  B,L

Today we explore Mesa Verde, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its well-preserved Ancestral Pueblo cliff dwellings. We’ll embark on a ranger led hike through ancient ruins that have stood for over 1,000 years, gaining insights into the lives of their early inhabitants. After our hike we'll continue the journey and visit Spruce Canyon and Petroglyph Point Trails where short hikes will lead you stunning of dramatic landscapes and intriguing rock carvings. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Best Western Turquoise Inn - Cortez • Drive time: 60 mi / 100 km, or 2 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ • Hiking: 5-6 mi / 8-10 km, 3-4 hrs, +-/300 m

Meals:  B,L

We travel through the amazing red desert of the Colorado Plateau where a short drive drops us at the magical Monument Valley of the Navajo Indians. Hit the ground running on an unforgettable Jeep tour through the valley led by the local Navajos, where you’ll take in panoramic views of Ear of the Wind and Big Hogan. This tour is included in the cost of your trip. In the afternoon we continue to Page on Lake Powell. Stretch your legs at Horseshoe Bend also referred to as the 'east rim of the Grand Canyon'. Take in the natural wonder where the Colorado River meanders in a tight, curve around a sandstone escarpment. This iconic viewpoint in the evening light offers stunning vistas of the river’s emerald green waters contrasted against the red rock canyon. We’ll settle in to our accommodations and look forward to another day of exploration after a restful evening. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Clarion Inn Page - Lake Powell • Drive time: 250 mi / 400 km, or 4.5 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ • Hiking: 1.5 mi / 2.5 km, 1 hr

Meals:  B,L

This morning, take a guided tour of Antelope Canyon, an impressive slot canyon known for its incredible rock formations, colours and lights and is one of the most photographed slot canyons in the world. This guided tour is included as a part of your trip. This afternoon we head to the grandest of all canyons - the Grand Canyon. We’ll make stops at scenic views along the way. As we arrive at the Grand Canyon, we can be certain to walk along the rim waiting for the sun to set over this magnificent sight before checking in to our hotel nearby. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Red Feather Lodge Hotel, 2 nights • Drive time: 140 mi / 225 km, or 2.5 hrs _____________________________________________________________________________ • Hiking: ~5-6 mi / 8-10 km, 2-3 hrs (depending on the excursions you choose)

Meals:  B,L

We have all day today to relax at the Grand Canyon. The Canyon is 277 miles long, up to 18 miles wide, and over a mile deep, showcasing nearly two billion years of Earth's geological history. While it is impossible to see it all in a day, we recommend an easy hike along the West Rim to the beautiful Hermit’s Rest overlook where you'll be treated to an ever-changing, colorful panorama of the canyon's unique rock formations.. If you are looking for a bit more action, there are some recommended hikes that will take you into the canyon itself. Note that you have to come up as far as you went down so keep that in mind to ensure you have enough food, water and plenty of time. It will take you twice as long to return to the rim as it did for you to descend. *Note: Hikes in Grand Canyon National Park are self-guided due to permit regulations. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Red Feather Lodge Hotel _____________________________________________________________________________ • Havasupai Gardens via Bright Angel Trail: ~9 mi / 14.4 km, 4-5 hrs, +/-940 m • Cedar Ridge via South Kaibab: ~3 mi / 5 km, 3-4 hrs, +/-300 m • Hike along the rim: up to 8 mi / 13 km, up to 4 hrs, +/-50 m

Meals:  B,L

Today will be an early start for those who choose to take an optional helicopter flight. Those who opted out can enjoy a leisurely morning enjoying the park until our late-morning departure. As we head towards our final destination, via the famous Route 66, we’ll take time for lunch and few photos stops before reaching Las Vegas. Here we’ll check-in to our final hotel of the trip and you have all night to spend exploring the city that never sleeps. _____________________________________________________________________________ • Overnight: Tuscany Suites & Casino, 1 night • Drive time: 270 mi / 440 km, or 4hrs

Meals:  B,L

Today makes the end of our time together. Feel free to depart at a time that works best for you depending on your travel plans. The hotel offers a free airport shuttle for your onward flights.

Meals:  B


Inclusions

  • 13 nights accommodation in tourist class hotels and lodge
  • 13 breakfasts, 12 picnic lunches plus trail snacks on hikes
  • Private transport throughout
  • Services of an experienced driver-guide
  • National park entry fees, trekking permits, tours and sightseeing as specified

  • Flight and airport taxes
  • Meals not included in the itinerary
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Visas
  • Optional excursions
  • Medical treatment
  • Personal expenses
  • Tour leader tip (USD$15-20 per day)
  • Cost of laundry, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages

About Your Leader

All of our USA tour leaders are certified in First Aid and CPR and registered as official guides with the national parks. All of them are trained to guide hikes. Your tour leader is from the USA and may have grown up here or may have moved here from another country - As many Americans do.


Suitability

Introductory

4


Departure dates


Notes

1
IMPORTANT NOTE: This tour is conducted in English as well as another language, typically German or Spanish.

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Priceper person from

$4920USD

* All prices subject to applicable taxes

Options & Supplements*
  • Grand Canyon and Rocky Mountain Trails - Single SupplementUSD$1700
* Prices listed are per person. All prices subject to applicable taxes.

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Our Expertise

Everyone who works with us, from our office staff, ground staff and guides is the ‘’real deal’’. Our team is comprised of actual hikers and cyclists who have explored or live in the region in which you will be traveling. Our entire network is highly-specialised in active travel.

Great Value

Quality services at the best price make our active trips great value for money. Having essential items included like National Park fees, accommodations, most meals, bikes for cycling trips, maps and support for peace of mind. Our inclusions allow you to better budget for your big adventure.

Innovative Itineraries

We look beyond the horizon to find new and exciting adventures. We’re passionate about shaping the next generation of outdoor travel in North America, and constantly seek different ways, routes and alternatives to exceed our clients’ dreams.

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We are committed to responsible travel and true sustainability, formed when the company was established, and in the face of a multitude of threats to the environment, our commitment is stronger than ever. We aim to "leave no trace" in both an environmental and cultural sense.