$195
/person
25% Off 3 or more tickets, so bring friends!
Valley of Fire
Wonderful day visiting Nevada Oldest and first State Park.
Hiking the National Parks of the West
North Dome, Yosemite N.P.
- Photo Friendly
- 13 Nights & 14 days
- 4-14 People
- Hiking
- Starts in San Francisco
- All weather
Hiking the National Parks of the West
Join our small groups of hikers to discover the legendary national parks of the Western United States. On this remarkable journey you will not only see all the highlights of the West, but also uncover its hidden gems, spending ample time within each park. Our small vans allow us access to special sites, which are closed to large buses. Come with us and discover Yosemite, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Grand Canyon, and Monument Valley in addition to the world-renowned cities of Las Vegas & San Francisco! There will be time to explore the parks on foot, by jeep, on a raft or even by horse. Each night we stay in centrally located, well-appointed hotels within or near the entrance to the national parks. Join us for this once in a lifetime journey and discover the wonder of the American West! Half board (breakfasts and picnic lunches) 11 nights in tourist class hotels of 3* and two nights in fixed tent cabins in Yosemite Valley (communal bathrooms) 12 picnic lunches 13 breakfasts *Guided, easy to medium hikes of 3-6 hours - shorter walks or longer hikes can be offered for those wanting to increase or decrease the walks *Opportunities for fantastic optional trips: helicopter flights over the Grand Canyon, horseback riding through Bryce Canyon, Jeep tours in Monument Valley, walking tour of Alcatraz and Antelope Canyon *A chance to hike into the Grand Canyon *A chance to trek to the top of Half Dome in Yosemite *2 days in San Francisco with guided city tour *Ample time to explore each national park in depth *Famous and hidden natural wonders *Mostly centrally located hotels in the parks or at the entrance to the parks *Balanced mix of nature, cities, and world famous sights *Small Group tours with a maximum of 14 pax *Small group size allows tour director to address individual desires of each group *Expertly trained, dedicated, local tour directors Please note: Due to COVID-19, Active Tours West USA offers flexible departure dates on all multi-day tours. Please feel free to contact us to discuss your specific travel wants, dates and needs.
Amazing Views
We design our tours to give you plenty of time to have photo opportunities.
Family Friendly
This tour is perfect for a family holiday and is an excellent opportunity to learn about the West and make memories that your kids and you will remember forever.
Professional Guide
Active Travel West USA ‘s professional guides will ensure your safety and help you maximize your time on tour. At the same time, our guides take great pride in showcasing the amazing destinations throughout the American West.
Photo Rich Environment
You like to take photos and videos, this tour is a photographer's dream.
Trip Itinerary
Day 1. Arrival in San Francisco
Arrival in San Francisco, guests are responsible for individual transfer from the airport to the hotel. Our hotel is centrally located. Whitcomb Hotel or similar (3-star), 2 nights
Day 2. San Francisco
8 AM: Your guide will welcome you at the hotel. In the morning, we explore the city on foot and by cable car to unveil such hidden wonders as Union Square, Chinatown and Fisherman’s Wharf. We then enjoy amazing views of the city and surrounding area from Coit Tower. You will be given a day pass for the cable car, allowing you to explore the city all afternoon on your own. We also recommend a harbor cruise and/or a tour of Alcatraz (please pre-book online, departing after 3 pm). Excursions are not included, various fees apply.
City tour: approx. 3-4 hours, 2-3 miles / 4-7 km, elevation difference: +/-100 m
Day 3. Golden Gate and Giant Sequoia Trees
In the morning, we leave the city via the famous Golden Gate Bridge, providing the opportunity to walk across for those who wish to savor the views. We will then head for Yosemite National Park, where we will enjoy the spectacular experience of strolling beneath mighty stands of colossal Sequoia trees. This family of ancient giants have been seen to grow to 275 feet tall (84 meters), and aged to be over 2,000 years old! Our accommodations are in the heart of Yosemite Valley at Curry Village, the hub of activity in the valley, providing direct access to all of the hiking trails.
We will spend two nights here in “tent cabins”, which are rustic cabins with beds and bedding, concrete floors, canvas walls, and communal bathrooms. The benefit of this accommodation is the direct access to hiking trails for those who wish to hike Half Dome. (2 nights
Drive time: 250 miles / 400 km or 4-5 hrs
Day 4. Exploring Yosemite on foot, bear watching
Those up for the Half Dome climb can leave at 6 am to challenge themselves on this extraordinary peak. The rest of the group will take a more leisurely morning, with breakfast followed by a drive up to Glacier Point, the most impressive viewpoint in the park. From here, high above the valley, we may survey the stunning walls of Half Dome and gaze down at the valley floor far below. Three different walks, varying in length, difficulty, and views are available from Glacier Point: two walks head down into Yosemite Valley (self-guided) or you may enjoy a loop walk with your hiking guide along the valley rim.
The afternoon is free for you to enjoy relaxing in the valley. We recommend you rent a bike and visit the waterfalls, or on a hot summer day, soak up the scenery floating the Merced River (floating is only possible during times of safe water levels). In the evening, we can watch for bears and coyotes in the apple groves!
Panorama Trail from Glacier Point: 4-6 hrs, approx. 7 miles / 12 km, elevation difference: +200 m/-900 m
Four Mile Trail: 4-5 hrs, approx. 6 miles / 10 km, elevation difference: -900 m
Sentinel Dome & Taft Point Loop: approx. 4 hrs, approx. 6 miles / 10 km, elevation difference: +/-200 mDrive time: 240 miles / 400 km or 4 hr
Badlands: 2-3 hrs, approx. 3 miles / 5 km, elevation difference: +/-200 m
Day 5. Hiking in Tuolumne Meadow and Mono Lake
In the morning, we depart Yosemite National Park via Tioga Pass, crossing over the Sierra Nevada Mountains at 10,000 feet (3048 m). Time and weather permitting, we may hike and scramble to the top of Lembert Dome, offering expansive views over the Tuolumne Meadow. The day will conclude with a short exploration of Mono Lake, one of the world’s oldest lakes, famous for its white Tufa towers formed by hot springs. Our hotel is in the small ski town of Mammoth Lakes. Sierra Lodge, or similar (3-star), 1 night.
Drive time: 120 miles / 200 km or 2 hrs
Lembert Dome: 3 hrs, approx. 5 miles / 8 km, elevation difference: +/-300 m
Day 6. Through the Valley of Death
After a short drive, we reach Death Valley National Park. This area is known for extreme weather conditions and temperatures, and is one of the hottest places on earth. In summer, temperatures can reach 50° Celsius. Additionally, being in a rift valley, Death Valley is also the lowest location in the Western Hemisphere at 100 m below sea level. We will explore the golden sand dunes, which contrast with the stark brown and black hillsides; Badwater with its poisonous springs; the Devil’s Golf Course formed by salt deposits; and the colorful formations at Zabriskie Point. Temperature permitting, we may hike through the “Badlands”. Our hotel is close to the entrance of Death Valley National Park. Longstreet Casino (3-star) or similar, 1 night. Drive time: 240 miles / 400 km or 4 hr
Badlands: 2-3 hrs, approx. 3 miles / 5 km, elevation difference: +/-200 m
Day 7. Into the Grand Canyon
In the morning, we travel via Route 66 through the hot deserts of Nevada and into the world famous Grand Canyon. The opportunity for a breathtaking helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon (not included, flights start at approx. $249) will be available. Our pleasant hotel is at the entrance to the park. The Red Feather Lodge, or similar (3-star), 2 nights.
Drive time: 320 miles / 500 km or 5 hrs
Day 8. All Day at the Grand Canyon
We have all day to spend at this amazing sight. The Grand Canyon is a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site and although plenty of tourists visit the area, hit the trail for a hike. If you prefer, you can hike into the canyon to Plateau Point or walk along the West Rim, where incredible views await. There will be time to enjoy an unforgettable sunset. (Hikes in Grand Canyon National Park are self-guided due to permit regulations.)
Kaibab Ridge: 3-4 hrs, approx. 3 miles / 5 km, elevation difference: +/-300 m
Plateau Point: 8-12 hrs, approx. 12 miles / 20 km, elevation difference: +/-1150 m
Hike along the rim: up to 4 hrs, up to 8 miles / 13 km, elevation difference: +/-50 m
Day 9. Exploring Monument Valley with Navajo Native Americans
In the morning, we depart via the east entrance, stopping to see the sights of the East Rim, and head for the world famous Monument Valley of the Navajo tribe. Here giant rock domes and mesas rise out of the valley into the blue sky, offering impressive photo opportunities. For decades, the area has been used by Hollywood as a favorite movie backdrop. We highly recommend an unforgettable Jeep tour with the Navajos through the valley (not included, approx. $70) to hidden beauty spots such as “Ear of the Wind” and “Big Hogan”. From here, after a short drive, we reach Lake Powell, where we spend the night in Page, AZ. Quality Inn Page or similar (3-star), 1 night
Drive time: 300 miles / 450 km or 5 hrs
Day 10. Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon
Lake Powell was created by the damming of the Colorado River. The deep blue waters reflect sheer dark red stone towers in an amazing display of color, offering unforgettable impressions. We have all day to explore the area and recommend a Jeep tour to Antelope Canyon, “the classic slot canyon” (not included, approx. $70). There is time to hike to famous Horseshoe Bend. In late afternoon we drive to our next destination, Bryce Canyon. Bryce View Lodge or similar (3-star), 2 nights
Drive time: 150 m / 240 km or 2.5 hrs
Day 11. Bryce Canyon National Park
For many visitors Bryce Canyon ranks among the most beautiful in the United States. We have all day to enjoy this amazing park. Hiking trails wind through red and pink stone towers glowing in the sunlight. The color contrast between the red rocks, green pines, and blue sky delight every photographer and nature lover. Those wanting to explore the formations on horseback can do so (not included, approx. $65). We enjoy sunrise or sunset at this beautiful park.
Queens Garden / Peek-A-Boo Loop: 5 hrs, ca. 8 miles / 13 km, elevation difference: +/-300 m
Additional walks are available.
Day 12. To Zion National Park
In the morning, we drive to the spectacular Zion National Park where you may take a hike to Angel’s Landing (self-guided), a huge sandstone dome that rises over the narrow valley of the Virgin River offering unforgettable views. If you wish, you can hike all the way to the top. Time permitting, we may rent river boots and wade through the famous Narrows of the Virgin River. Our accommodations await at the Ramada St George or similar, 1 night.
Drive time: 120 m / 190 km or 2.5 hrs
Angel’s Landing: 4-5 hrs, approx. 5 miles / 8 km, elevation difference: +/-450 m
Narrows: 1-2 hrs, approx. 2-3 miles / 3-5 km, elevation difference: +/-0 m
Day 13. Hidden trails & Dinotracks at Snow Canyon State Park
We hike over beautiful slick rock, past a lava tube, and over moqui marbles. Then we marvel at the remarkable dinosaur footprints (entrance included). Our tour concludes with a drive to Las Vegas. La Quinta or similar (3-star), 1 night
Drive time: 100 miles / 160 km or 2 hrs
Lava Tube loop: 2-3 hrs, ca. 3 miles / 5 km, elevation difference: +/-100 m
Day 14. Tour Over, Departure Las Vegas
We highly recommend you spend additional days in this vibrant city. Departure is at your own leisure and additional days may be booked upon request at the La Quinta (approx. $98/night) or you may arrange for individual reservations. There is a complimentary shuttle from the hotel that you may sign up for at the front desk.
Tour Pricing
Student
Age 11-25 Valid Student ID
$2950/person
- Entrance fees to National Parks, State Parks, and Monument Valley
- Cable car pass San Francisco
- City tour of SFO
- 12 nights hotel accommodations in 3-star hotels with private facilities
- 1 night in rustic tent cabins with communal bathroom in the heart of Yosemite Valley
- Breakfasts every morning – Mostly Continental (cold) breakfasts and some hot breakfasts
- 12 self-made picnic lunches (breads, cold cuts, cheeses, trail mix, snacks, fruit) while traveling in the parks
- Highly trained driver/guide that also conducts national park visits and walks
- Transport in 15-passenger vans with or without trailer depending on group size, or any other vehicle depending on group size
- Languages: English, German, French, Spanish, and Italian.
Adult
18+ years
$3490/person
- Entrance fees to National Parks, State Parks, and Monument Valley
- Cable car pass San Francisco
- City tour of SFO
- 12 nights hotel accommodations in 3-star hotels with private facilities
- 1 night in rustic tent cabins with communal bathroom in the heart of Yosemite Valley
- Breakfasts every morning – Mostly Continental (cold) breakfasts and some hot breakfasts
- 12 self-made picnic lunches (breads, cold cuts, cheeses, trail mix, snacks, fruit) while traveling in the parks
- Highly trained driver/guide that also conducts national park visits and walks
- Transport in 15-passenger vans with or without trailer depending on group size, or any other vehicle depending on group size
- Languages: English, German, French, Spanish, and Italian.
Have a Question?
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