American Southwest: National Parks Greatest Hits Tour with Lexi
Your TourHero
Hey y’all, I’m Lexi! I’m originally from Texas, but I’m currently studying at OU – Go Sooners! There are so many cool places to see in this beautiful country, which is why I created this tour through a bunch of national parks out west. I’ve been dying to see the Grand Canyon since I was a kid! I hope you’ll join me on this incredible adventure where we’ll hike through some of the best parks in the world. Let’s get wander-lost!
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Jun 16 - 22, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
5 – 14
Transportation
Van, 4x4
Tour Price
Your Fellow Explorers
Age range
18 - 30
Travel interest
Hiking, nature, wildlife, exploring
Your Local Guide
Bindlestiff Tours are group adventure travel experts with over 15 years of experience leading USA Southwest tours under their belt. With a team consisting of guides who’ve lived and worked all over the world, they are able to connect with guests who share the same passion for adventure and travel. Each tour offered is meticulously researched and designed by tour leaders who have extensive knowledge about the destinations involved in order to ensure guests remain safe on excursions and get the maximum amount of enjoyment out of their trips. Let Bindlestiff Tours take the stress out of planning your next trip — let them guide you through the most spectacular scenery that America has to offer!
The American Southwest is home to some of the most beautiful national parks in the world! Come explore six of them with us on a 7-day adventure through their majestic canyons and diverse terrain. Starting in Vegas, we’ll make our way through Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, and Yosemite, taking all the pictures we can muster along the way. We’ll also experience a guided 4x4 tour through Monument Valley, along with a guided tour of San Francisco, the final destination on our journey. Don’t miss out on this trip of a lifetime!
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
Your TourHero
Hey y’all, I’m Lexi! I’m originally from Texas, but I’m currently studying at OU – Go Sooners! There are so many cool places to see in this beautiful country, which is why I created this tour through a bunch of national parks out west. I’ve been dying to see the Grand Canyon since I was a kid! I hope you’ll join me on this incredible adventure where we’ll hike through some of the best parks in the world. Let’s get wander-lost!
Duration
7 days · 6 nights
Travel Date
Jun 16 - 22, 2022
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
5 – 14
Transportation
Van, 4x4
The American Southwest is home to some of the most beautiful national parks in the world! Come explore six of them with us on a 7-day adventure through their majestic canyons and diverse terrain. Starting in Vegas, we’ll make our way through Zion, Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, and Yosemite, taking all the pictures we can muster along the way. We’ll also experience a guided 4x4 tour through Monument Valley, along with a guided tour of San Francisco, the final destination on our journey. Don’t miss out on this trip of a lifetime!
Timeline
- Day 1 · Zion National Park & Bryce Canyon National Park
- Arrive in Las Vegas
- Transfer from Las Vegas to Zion National Park
- Half-day hike in Zion National Park (lunch included)
- Half-day hike in Bryce Canyon
- Check-in at Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 2 · Monument Valley
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Guided 4x4 tour of Monument Valley (lunch included)
- Check-in at Goulding’s Lodge (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 3 · Grand Canyon
- Breakfast (not included in price)
- Check out of accommodation
- Free time to explore the Grand Canyon (lunch included)
- Transfer from the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas
- Check-in at Alexis Park (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 4 · Death Valley National Park
- Breakfast (not included in price)
- Check out of accommodation
- Guided tour of Death Valley (lunch included)
- Visit historic town of Bishop
- Check-in at Comfort Inn Bishop (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 5 · Yosemite National Park
- Breakfast and check out of accommodation
- Drive Tioga Pass to Yosemite
- Free afternoon to explore Yosemite (lunch included)
- Check-in at Yosemite Valley Lodge (or similar according to availability)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 6 · Yosemite National Park
- Breakfast (not included in price)
- Free day to explore Yosemite (lunch included)
- Dinner (not included in price)
- Day 7 · Departure
- Breakfast (not included in price)
- Check out of accommodation
- Transfer from accommodation to San Francisco
- Guided city tour
- Journey ends
Details
Day 1
From Vegas to Zion – let the journey begin!
Welcome to fabulous Las Vegas! Don’t get too comfortable in the city of sin. Upon arrival, we’ll start our journey to some of the most beautiful national parks in America! Our first stop is at Zion National Park where you’ll have time to explore the Navajo sandstone cliffs, the petrified sand dunes, and the Emerald Pools on the canyon floor. The park offers trails for all ability levels, so take your pick! Check out the Temple of Sinawava, the Great White Throne, or Weeping Rock. Zion was home to various indigenous groups throughout the centuries, such as the Anasazi and Paiute people, who farmed and cared for the land. Head to the Human History Museum and chat with a park ranger to learn more about the stories of this land.
Travel to Bryce Canyon and admire the towering hoodoos
After lunch, we’ll head to Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its sandstone spires (hoodoos) and natural amphitheaters. Take the afternoon to explore the canyon floor, walk the rim at 8,000 feet, and take all the pictures you can of the colorful landscape. It’s believed that this place was inhabited over 7,000 years ago, as there is evidence of the Paleoindians, the Pueblo people, and the Paiutes hunting and foraging in this sacred area. Soak it all in before we head to the hotel and rest up for another day of adventures!
Day 2
Take a guided 4x4 tour of Monument Valley
Rise and shine, travelers! After breakfast, we’ll travel to Lake Powell where you’ll have the option of touring Antelope Canyon, one of the most famous canyons in the US! From here, we’ll head to Monument Valley, an iconic American landscape and the backdrop of several western films. When we arrive on the Navajo Reservation, we’ll jump in a 4x4 and take a guided tour of the land, learning about the culture and history of this beautiful place from a local Navajo guide. We’ll have time to take all the pictures as we traverse this breathtaking land. From here, we’ll head to our next hotel and grab dinner before a well-deserved night’s rest.
Day 3
Enjoy a free day at the Grand Canyon
Today is a big one! We hope you’re rested and ready to go! After breakfast, we’ll drive to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon and enjoy a day of exploration. After we stop at a Navajo trading post for gifts and souvenirs, we’ll follow the Colorado River through the Painted Desert to the Grand Canyon. Here, you can book an optional helicopter ride, play it cool and walk to Horseshoe Bend, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views from one of the area's cafes. After a day at this natural wonder, we’ll head back to Vegas for a night on the strip and enjoy a hearty meal to end the day.
Day 4
Travel to California and explore Death Valley National Park
Good morning, adventurers! Today, we’ll travel to Death Valley where we’ll hike to Zabriskie Point, Artist’s Palette, Badwater Basin Saltflats, Furnace Creek Visitor Center, Devil’s Golf Course, and the Mesquite Sand Dunes. Did you know it’s the largest national park outside of Alaska? Don’t worry; we’ll have time for pictures at every location! We’ll enjoy a sack lunch on the trail then head to the historic town of Bishop, a relic of the infamous Gold Rush. Settle in, enjoy the small-town vibes, and prep for another day of majesty!
Day 5
Journey through Tioga Pass to Yosemite National Park
What a day we have in store! Today, we’ll travel to Yosemite National Park through Tioga Pass, a scenic route that is sure to impress. We’ll pass by Olmsted Point, Lake Tenaya, the Tuolumne Meadows, and Mono Lake to name a few. With some great views and a few picture stops along the way, we’ll find ourselves at Yosemite with the rest of the afternoon to explore. You’ll have some time to take a mini-tour, check out the visitor center, or head into town and grab some food in preparation for tomorrow’s events. Rest up. Tomorrow, Yosemite is your oyster!
Day 6
Spend the day exploring Yosemite National Park
After a restful sleep, it’s time to explore! Your guide will take you through a few popular trails, but you are free to wander off and partake in some higher-level hikes. Be sure to check out Bridalveil Falls, Lower Yosemite Falls, and views of Half Dome and El Capitan. You could also go cycling along the Merced River or simply sit back and enjoy lunch with this stellar backdrop of granite cliffs, ancient sequoia trees, vast meadows, waterfalls, and deep valleys. Soak it all in before heading back to the hotel!
Day 7
Travel to San Francisco and take a guided tour before heading home
What an incredible week! We saw six national parks, explored them all, and have the pictures to prove it! After breakfast, we’ll get back on the road and travel to San Francisco, our final stop on this national parks adventure. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, the Haight-Ashbury district, and the Golden Gate Bridge. When the tour ends, you’ll have the option of staying in the city a while longer or heading to the airport and flying off to your next adventure. No matter where you go, we hope you had a great time!
Accommodation
Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn
After exploring two national parks, we’ll head to the Best Western in Bryce Canyon City. The hotel was designed after a rustic log cabin and features free breakfast, common areas, gift shop, pool, and much more. Get settled in your room, enjoy a meal at the hotel’s restaurant, or explore the charm Bryce Canyon City and enjoy an authentic Southwestern meal. If you'd like a camping option, click here. Room type: Twin share room with two queen beds; two guest minimum per booking.
Goulding’s Lodge
Goulding’s is the gateway to Monument Valley, and you’ll see it all around you with gorgeous vistas at every turn. Check into the hotel, drop your bags in your room, and head to the Stagecoach Restaurant for authentic Southwestern food with Navajo flavors. The hotel features a museum, gift shop, and Earth Spirit Theater, all free of charge. Immerse yourself in Navajo nation, learn about the history of its people, and enjoy your night in this magical place. If you'd like a camping option, click here. Room type: Twin share room with two queen beds; two guest minimum per booking.
Alexis Park
We’ll head back to Vegas just for a night and stay at Alexis Park, located a few minutes from the strip. This comfortable resort features spacious suites with kitchenettes, en suite baths, sitting areas, and WiFi. They also have a restaurant on site, three pools, and a fitness center for your enjoyment. Head out for a night on the town or stay in and rest up for another day of adventure. The choice is yours, but remember: what happens here stays here! If you'd like a camping option, click here. Room type: Twin share room with two queen beds; two guest minimum per booking.
Comfort Inn Bishop
After a day at Death Valley, we’ll head to the historic town of Bishop to explore, grab food, and rest at the Comfort Inn. Surrounded by the Inyo National Forest, you won’t leave the views at the park! The hotel offers comfortable double rooms, free breakfast, pool and hot tub for a late night dip, and easy access to the town’s local fare. Learn about the town’s past and sleep comfortably in this historic place. If you'd like a camping option, click here. Room type: Twin share room with two queen beds; two guest minimum per booking.
Yosemite Valley Lodge
Our last stop is at Yosemite Valley Lodge, the perfect place to call home for any Yosemite trip. All rooms feature beautiful views of the park, comfortable bedding, and en suite baths. The lodge also offers lite WiFi, an outdoor swimming pool, gift shop, and a Starbucks on site! What more could you need for a few days of adventure? If you'd like a camping option, click here. Room type: Twin share room with two queen beds; two guest minimum per booking.
Included
- 1 night at Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn (or similar; breakfast included)
- 1 night at Goulding’s Lodge (or similar)
- 1 night at Alexis Park in Las Vegas (or similar)
- 1 night at Comfort Inn Bishop (or similar; breakfast included)
- 2 nights at Yosemite Lodge (or similar)
- Shared occupancy in accommodations
- 6 sandwich-style lunches
- Airport/excursion transfers
- Expert private guide/driver throughout
- All national park entrance fees
- Navajo guided 4x4 tour of Monument Valley
- Tour of Grand Canyon National Park
- Tour of Death Valley National Park
- Yosemite walks and hikes
- City tour of San Francisco
Not included
- Flights
- All food not mentioned in inclusions
- Personal expenses not stipulated
- Optional add-ons
- Gratuities
Available add-on
Private room upgrade
If you’re looking for some privacy during this adventure, upgrade to single rooms at every hotel and enjoy the solitude after a long day in the parks. The upgrade features a single room with en suite bath and all the amenities listed at each accommodation.
Price: USD 517
20 spots left
Antelope Canyon tour
Visit Antelope Canyon on a group tour and experience the iconic backdrop of this majestic place. This hour and a half tour will take you into two slot canyons with a local guide who will teach you all about the area, the natural formation of the Navajo sandstone, and bring you to the best picture spots.
Price: USD 70
20 spots left
Grand Canyon South Rim helicopter tour
See the Grand Canyon from up above on a 30-minute helicopter tour. You’ll fly across the deepest and widest part of the canyon, crossing over the Dragon Corridor to the South Rim. You won’t get pictures like this anywhere else!
Price: USD 220
20 spots left
Grand Canyon full helicopter tour
Upgrade to a 55-minute helicopter tour where you’ll fly over all the important landmarks, such as the Painted Desert, Marble Canyon, the North and East Rims, Dragon Corridor, Imperial Point and the South Rim to name a few. If you want to see it all, this is the tour for you!
Price: USD 350
20 spots left
Cancellation policy
Refunds for deposits
If you cancel your trip after placing a deposit but before your card on file is charged for the full payment, you can request a full refund of your deposit up to 30 days before the tour departure.
Refunds for fully-paid trips
If you cancel your trip after making the full payment, you may change or cancel your trip up to 30 days before the tour departure for a refund.
- Our next stop is Goulding's Lodge, located on the Navajo Reservation in Monument Valley Park. - Goulding's Lodge Facebook
- Take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon and capture the view from up above. - Unsplash: Westwind Air Service
- Upgrade to a longer tour and see it all! - Unsplash: Oscar Sutton
- On the way to Yosemite, you'll get to see several incredible landmarks on the Tioga Pass, such as Tuolumne Meadows. - Unsplash: Isaac Garcia
- You'll also get to see Lake Tenaya, the best spot for Instagram-worthy pictures. - Unsplash: Chris Lawton
- This amazing adventure will come to an end in San Francisco where you'll partake in a guided city tour of all the major landmarks. - Unsplash: Rémi Thorel
- You'll stop by the Haight-Ashbury district and see some familiar buildings. - Unsplash: Aaron Kato
- You'll also stop by the Wharf for some history lessons and great food. - Unsplash: Iago Godoy
- For our quick trip back to Vegas, we'll stay at Alexis Park and enjoy roomy suites just off the strip. - Alexis Park website
- Our first stop in Cali is at the Comfort Inn in Bishop, a historic town known for mining. - Comfort Inn Bishop
- Our last stop is at the Yosemite Valley Lodge, the place we'll call home for two days of exploration. - Yosemite Valley Lodge website
- Our first home away from home is the Best Western in Bryce Canyon City. - Booking.com