Intrepid Travel - Utah, Nevada & California
Camp beneath rock formations and sleep under the starry night sky in Zion National Park.
Veranstalter: Intrepid Travel Angebotsnummer: 271988 Reiseland:
USA Teilnehmerzahl:
min. 1 max. 12
ab € 3.100
zur Buchungsanfrage
Why we love it
Take in the desert landscapes, indigenous cultures and natural wonder of Utah, Nevada and California, on a 14-day exploration of the wild (wild) west. Beginning in Las Vegas, leave Utah’s noisy neighbour behind to discover the tranquillity of the hidden gardens of Zion, the iconic Monument Valley, the inspired desert scenery of Moab and the majestic spires of Bryce Canyon. Meander your way through to San Francisco via the mountains of the Sierra Nevada to the lakes of California, and on to one of the USA’s most famous National Parks – Yosemite. The spectacular scenery may change around you, but what won’t waver is the expert local advice you’ll receive and the mountains of experiences these three states have to offer.
Highlights
- Camp beneath rock formations and sleep under the starry night sky in Zion National Park.
- Learn about Navajo culture and history during an included Jeep tour of Monument Valley, where the landscape is as surreal as it is beautiful, before spending a night in a traditional hogan hut.
- See the exquisite sandstone arches of the aptly named Arches National Park and witness spectacular desert colours during a sunset hike.
- Soak up the scenery on a relaxing visit to a natural hot spring near Bishop – the perfect way to relax before an action-packed few days!
- Discover another side to Yosemite’s Towering granite cliffs, redwood forests and epic night skies by hiking one of its best, lesser-known trails – Hetch Hetchy – with your expert guide.
- Get the most out of your Yosemite experience by spending three nights in the park – meaning two full days of exploration.
Take in the desert landscapes, indigenous cultures and natural wonder of Utah, Nevada and California, on a 14-day exploration of the wild (wild) west. Beginning in Las Vegas, leave Utah’s noisy neighbour behind to discover the tranquillity of the hidden gardens of Zion, the iconic Monument Valley, the inspired desert scenery of Moab and the majestic spires of Bryce Canyon. Meander your way through to San Francisco via the mountains of the Sierra Nevada to the lakes of California, and on to one of the USA’s most famous National Parks – Yosemite. The spectacular scenery may change around you, but what won’t waver is the expert local advice you’ll receive and the mountains of experiences these three states have to offer.
Highlights
- Camp beneath rock formations and sleep under the starry night sky in Zion National Park.
- Learn about Navajo culture and history during an included Jeep tour of Monument Valley, where the landscape is as surreal as it is beautiful, before spending a night in a traditional hogan hut.
- See the exquisite sandstone arches of the aptly named Arches National Park and witness spectacular desert colours during a sunset hike.
- Soak up the scenery on a relaxing visit to a natural hot spring near Bishop – the perfect way to relax before an action-packed few days!
- Discover another side to Yosemite’s Towering granite cliffs, redwood forests and epic night skies by hiking one of its best, lesser-known trails – Hetch Hetchy – with your expert guide.
- Get the most out of your Yosemite experience by spending three nights in the park – meaning two full days of exploration.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Las Vegas
Welcome to Las Vegas! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting in the hotel lobby at 6 pm today. If you arrive early in the desert city, there’s plenty to see and do, even if gambling isn’t your thing. Hit the shops, feel your stomach drop on a rooftop roller-coaster or simply stroll along the extravagance of the Strip, walking through the casinos and past the desert palms. In the evening, perhaps feast in one of Vegas’ restaurants or buffets, check out one of the large array of stage shows on offer or party the night away in a Vegas nightclub.
Accommodation: 1 x Hotel
Day 2: Zion National Park
Today, leave Nevada and drive to Zion National Park. The park is home to stunning desert landscapes, sculpted sandstone formations, waterfalls and hanging gardens. There will be plenty of time on arrival to stretch your legs and have a good look around the park. The Emerald Pools trail, a two-hour stroll past a lush stream, is a good option for those who don’t want anything too strenuous. In the evening, set up camp for the night.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Optional Activities:
Day 3: Zion National Park
You’ll have a full day to explore what you missed yesterday in Zion. It would be the ideal time to head on a longer hike, potentially to admire the beauty of the flowing streams along The Narrows. If you are feeling adventurous and have a decent level of fitness (plus aren’t afraid of heights), you might want to tackle the trail to Scout Lookout. This isn’t for the faint of heart. However, the views from the top of the rock formation are spectacular. The national park can also be discovered via shuttle or an optional float trip, giving your feet a well-deserved rest. At night, don’t forget to look up at the dazzling night skies while camping and enjoy and try your luck at stargazing – quite perfectly combined with some s’mores around the campfire.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Optional Activities:
Day 4: Monument Valley
Drive through southern Utah to Monument Valley, so-named for the giant sandstone formations scattered across the desert. Passing by stunning lookouts and by Forrest Gump’s desert running scene, make sure to also check out the Navajo roadside stalls for some authentic goods, and if you’re lucky, some fried bread. The backdrop for countless Westerns, the valley is part of a massive Navajo reservation, and there’s no better way than heading out on an incredible guided jeep tour. Get your camera out and snap some photos of the spectacular landscape, which changes colour with the setting of the sun. Take in the stunning night skies and spend the night in a hogan, a traditional Navajo hut made of logs and earth. Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: 1 x Hogan (multishare)
Day 5: Moab
Continue on your journey this morning through the impressive landscape of Utah. On the way north to Moab, you’re going to see some incredible scenery, including Goosenecks State Park overlook, Muley Point and Moki Dugway. Moab is a small city in Utah that attracts hikers, mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts to the incredible Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Arches National Park is punctuated with spectacularly eroded sandstone formations and contains the world’s largest concentration of natural stone arches. Take a group hike at sunset to see famous sights such as Delicate Arch.
Accommodation: 1 x Cabin (multishare)
Day 6: Moab
Experience Moab for a second day, filled with towering rock formations, winding trails and never-ending horizons. Hopefully there will be time to take a group hike in the Arches in the morning before the day gets too hot. Perhaps book yourself into a raft float trip down the Colorado River, or test your balance with some stand-up paddleboarding. If you need to give your weary muscles a rest, a Slickrock Hummer tour might be your thing – though keep in mind it’s not exactly a smooth journey. At nightfall, maybe head into town and hit the local brewery.
Accommodation: 1 x Cabin (multishare)
Optional Activities:
Day 7: Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is next on the list. On the way, you’ll stop and admire the golden sandstone of Capitol Reef, and refuel at the unique Kiva Koffeehouse, which overlooks the expanse of the Escalante Grand Staircase National Monument. Once arrived, there is a chance to hike a section of Bryce Canyon: from the easy Rim Trail, to the moderate Queen’s Garden Trail or the strenuous Peek-a-boo Loop. The canyon is famous for its ’hoodoos’ – odd-shaped rock spires formed by centuries of erosion. Wherever you walk, there are unique landscapes and a kaleidoscope of desert colours, especially at sunset. If you’re keen to live out a Wild West fantasy, chat to the group leader about a horse-riding optional activity.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Included Activities:
Optional Activities:
Day 8: Las Vegas
Today drive across the border into Nevada and back to Las Vegas. Hit the shops, feel your stomach drop on a rooftop roller coaster or simply stroll along the Strip, soaking up the glitz and gaudiness. The arrival time depends on each group, and some fellow travellers may bid you farewell today. If you are staying in town for the evening, perhaps check out one of the many stage shows on offer or party the night away in a Vegas nightclub.
Accommodation: 1 x Hotel
Day 9: Las Vegas
Today is as clear as the blue skies in the deserts of Nevada. There are no planned activities until another meeting in the hotel lobby today at 6 pm, where you may meet some new travellers on your wild west adventure. After your briefing, why not go check out one of the all-you-can-eat buffets on offer with your new and improved crew.
Accommodation: 1 x Hotel
Optional Activities:
Day 10: Sierra Nevada / Keough Hot Springs
Leave the bright lights of Vegas behind and drive into the Eastern Sierra Nevada toward the quaint town of Bishop. On arrival, check out the town or perhaps treat yourself to the crispy cookies or ‘bear claws’ at Erick Schat’s Dutch bakery. Later this afternoon, join the group for a soothing soak in a natural hot spring – perfect for those wanting to relax before an action-packed few days in Yosemite. Tonight, you’ll camp under the stars in Bishop.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Day 11: Yosemite National Park
Prepare for some spectacular mountain scenery as you depart from Bishop and head west to Yosemite National Park. This morning, stop at crystal clear lakes – including Mono and Tenaya – before continuing through the Tioga Pass (snow levels permitting) into the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Stop by Olmstead Point to marvel at Yosemite’s natural wonder, Half Dome, before arriving at one of the most famous parks in the USA. Yosemite’s colossal granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls (depending on season) and redwood forests attract visitors from all over the world. You’ll spend three nights near the park, meaning you have two full days to explore.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Included Activities:
Day 12: Yosemite National Park
Start today with an orientation tour of the village before heading out for a free day of exploration. There are plenty of hikes available, each varying in steepness and difficulty. Hike The Mist Trail to Nevada Falls (2–5 hours) or to the serene Mirror Lake (45 minutes). Keep an eye out for squirrels and perhaps even a bear along the way. You might prefer to hire a bike and explore Yosemite Valley, visiting the park’s museum, photo gallery, shops and restaurants along the way. In the heat of summer, a relaxing float down the Merced River followed by a few drinks at the park’s cafe is just the trick.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Optional Activities:
Day 13: Yosemite National Park
Today there’s a chance to explore a different side of the park as you join your leader on a guided hike to Hetch Hetchy Valley. Tucked away in the northwest corner of Yosemite, Hetch Hetchy is a wilderness of cascading waterfalls (in Spring), towering cliff faces and beautiful wildflowers. Boasting one of the longest hiking seasons in the park, the ecologically diverse valley attracts a fraction of the visitors in comparison to other more well-known hiking spots in Yosemite – which means it’s an ideal area for those who have extra time to explore the park in depth.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Optional Activities:
Day 14: San Francisco
Leave Yosemite behind today and drive west to San Francisco. The ’City by the Bay’ has a beautiful setting and a vibrant, multicultural heart. You might like to check out the vintage stores along funky Haight Street, catch the tram down to the waterfront or take an Adventure Cat Bay Cruise. The trip finishes on arrival into San Francisco after a stop to check out the Golden Gate Bridge, and no accommodation is provided tonight. As there’s a great deal to do in San Francisco, we recommend you stay a couple of extra days to make the most of the city. If you do wish to spend extra time in San Francisco, we’ll be happy to help you book additional accommodation (subject to availability).
Optional Activities:
Day 1: Las Vegas
Welcome to Las Vegas! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting in the hotel lobby at 6 pm today. If you arrive early in the desert city, there’s plenty to see and do, even if gambling isn’t your thing. Hit the shops, feel your stomach drop on a rooftop roller-coaster or simply stroll along the extravagance of the Strip, walking through the casinos and past the desert palms. In the evening, perhaps feast in one of Vegas’ restaurants or buffets, check out one of the large array of stage shows on offer or party the night away in a Vegas nightclub.
Accommodation: 1 x Hotel
Day 2: Zion National Park
Today, leave Nevada and drive to Zion National Park. The park is home to stunning desert landscapes, sculpted sandstone formations, waterfalls and hanging gardens. There will be plenty of time on arrival to stretch your legs and have a good look around the park. The Emerald Pools trail, a two-hour stroll past a lush stream, is a good option for those who don’t want anything too strenuous. In the evening, set up camp for the night.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Optional Activities:
- Zion National Park - Walks - Free -
Day 3: Zion National Park
You’ll have a full day to explore what you missed yesterday in Zion. It would be the ideal time to head on a longer hike, potentially to admire the beauty of the flowing streams along The Narrows. If you are feeling adventurous and have a decent level of fitness (plus aren’t afraid of heights), you might want to tackle the trail to Scout Lookout. This isn’t for the faint of heart. However, the views from the top of the rock formation are spectacular. The national park can also be discovered via shuttle or an optional float trip, giving your feet a well-deserved rest. At night, don’t forget to look up at the dazzling night skies while camping and enjoy and try your luck at stargazing – quite perfectly combined with some s’mores around the campfire.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Optional Activities:
- Zion - Narrows Hiking Gear Rental - 30USD
Day 4: Monument Valley
Drive through southern Utah to Monument Valley, so-named for the giant sandstone formations scattered across the desert. Passing by stunning lookouts and by Forrest Gump’s desert running scene, make sure to also check out the Navajo roadside stalls for some authentic goods, and if you’re lucky, some fried bread. The backdrop for countless Westerns, the valley is part of a massive Navajo reservation, and there’s no better way than heading out on an incredible guided jeep tour. Get your camera out and snap some photos of the spectacular landscape, which changes colour with the setting of the sun. Take in the stunning night skies and spend the night in a hogan, a traditional Navajo hut made of logs and earth. Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: 1 x Hogan (multishare)
Day 5: Moab
Continue on your journey this morning through the impressive landscape of Utah. On the way north to Moab, you’re going to see some incredible scenery, including Goosenecks State Park overlook, Muley Point and Moki Dugway. Moab is a small city in Utah that attracts hikers, mountain bikers and nature enthusiasts to the incredible Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Arches National Park is punctuated with spectacularly eroded sandstone formations and contains the world’s largest concentration of natural stone arches. Take a group hike at sunset to see famous sights such as Delicate Arch.
Accommodation: 1 x Cabin (multishare)
Day 6: Moab
Experience Moab for a second day, filled with towering rock formations, winding trails and never-ending horizons. Hopefully there will be time to take a group hike in the Arches in the morning before the day gets too hot. Perhaps book yourself into a raft float trip down the Colorado River, or test your balance with some stand-up paddleboarding. If you need to give your weary muscles a rest, a Slickrock Hummer tour might be your thing – though keep in mind it’s not exactly a smooth journey. At nightfall, maybe head into town and hit the local brewery.
Accommodation: 1 x Cabin (multishare)
Optional Activities:
- Moab - Slickrock Hummer tour - 100USD
- Arches National Park - Landscape Arch hike - Free -
Day 7: Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park is next on the list. On the way, you’ll stop and admire the golden sandstone of Capitol Reef, and refuel at the unique Kiva Koffeehouse, which overlooks the expanse of the Escalante Grand Staircase National Monument. Once arrived, there is a chance to hike a section of Bryce Canyon: from the easy Rim Trail, to the moderate Queen’s Garden Trail or the strenuous Peek-a-boo Loop. The canyon is famous for its ’hoodoos’ – odd-shaped rock spires formed by centuries of erosion. Wherever you walk, there are unique landscapes and a kaleidoscope of desert colours, especially at sunset. If you’re keen to live out a Wild West fantasy, chat to the group leader about a horse-riding optional activity.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Included Activities:
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Capitol Reef National Park
Optional Activities:
- Bryce Canyon National Park - Hiking - Free -
Day 8: Las Vegas
Today drive across the border into Nevada and back to Las Vegas. Hit the shops, feel your stomach drop on a rooftop roller coaster or simply stroll along the Strip, soaking up the glitz and gaudiness. The arrival time depends on each group, and some fellow travellers may bid you farewell today. If you are staying in town for the evening, perhaps check out one of the many stage shows on offer or party the night away in a Vegas nightclub.
Accommodation: 1 x Hotel
Day 9: Las Vegas
Today is as clear as the blue skies in the deserts of Nevada. There are no planned activities until another meeting in the hotel lobby today at 6 pm, where you may meet some new travellers on your wild west adventure. After your briefing, why not go check out one of the all-you-can-eat buffets on offer with your new and improved crew.
Accommodation: 1 x Hotel
Optional Activities:
- Las Vegas - Big Apple Express roller coaster - 15USD
- Las Vegas - Mob Museum - 27USD
- Las Vegas - Monorail - 5USD
- Las Vegas - Bellagio Fountains - Free -
- Las Vegas - Eiffel Tower - 22USD
Day 10: Sierra Nevada / Keough Hot Springs
Leave the bright lights of Vegas behind and drive into the Eastern Sierra Nevada toward the quaint town of Bishop. On arrival, check out the town or perhaps treat yourself to the crispy cookies or ‘bear claws’ at Erick Schat’s Dutch bakery. Later this afternoon, join the group for a soothing soak in a natural hot spring – perfect for those wanting to relax before an action-packed few days in Yosemite. Tonight, you’ll camp under the stars in Bishop.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Day 11: Yosemite National Park
Prepare for some spectacular mountain scenery as you depart from Bishop and head west to Yosemite National Park. This morning, stop at crystal clear lakes – including Mono and Tenaya – before continuing through the Tioga Pass (snow levels permitting) into the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Stop by Olmstead Point to marvel at Yosemite’s natural wonder, Half Dome, before arriving at one of the most famous parks in the USA. Yosemite’s colossal granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls (depending on season) and redwood forests attract visitors from all over the world. You’ll spend three nights near the park, meaning you have two full days to explore.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Included Activities:
- Yosemite National Park - Entrance Fee
- Visit to Mono Lake
Day 12: Yosemite National Park
Start today with an orientation tour of the village before heading out for a free day of exploration. There are plenty of hikes available, each varying in steepness and difficulty. Hike The Mist Trail to Nevada Falls (2–5 hours) or to the serene Mirror Lake (45 minutes). Keep an eye out for squirrels and perhaps even a bear along the way. You might prefer to hire a bike and explore Yosemite Valley, visiting the park’s museum, photo gallery, shops and restaurants along the way. In the heat of summer, a relaxing float down the Merced River followed by a few drinks at the park’s cafe is just the trick.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Optional Activities:
- Yosemite - Cycling in Yosemite Valley - 12USD
- Yosemite National Park - Hiking - Free -
Day 13: Yosemite National Park
Today there’s a chance to explore a different side of the park as you join your leader on a guided hike to Hetch Hetchy Valley. Tucked away in the northwest corner of Yosemite, Hetch Hetchy is a wilderness of cascading waterfalls (in Spring), towering cliff faces and beautiful wildflowers. Boasting one of the longest hiking seasons in the park, the ecologically diverse valley attracts a fraction of the visitors in comparison to other more well-known hiking spots in Yosemite – which means it’s an ideal area for those who have extra time to explore the park in depth.
Accommodation: 1 x Camping (with facilities)
Optional Activities:
- Yosemite National Park - Hiking - Free -
Day 14: San Francisco
Leave Yosemite behind today and drive west to San Francisco. The ’City by the Bay’ has a beautiful setting and a vibrant, multicultural heart. You might like to check out the vintage stores along funky Haight Street, catch the tram down to the waterfront or take an Adventure Cat Bay Cruise. The trip finishes on arrival into San Francisco after a stop to check out the Golden Gate Bridge, and no accommodation is provided tonight. As there’s a great deal to do in San Francisco, we recommend you stay a couple of extra days to make the most of the city. If you do wish to spend extra time in San Francisco, we’ll be happy to help you book additional accommodation (subject to availability).
Optional Activities:
- San Francisco - Sunset catamaran cruise - 45USD
Included Activities
Many of the North American national parks that we visit have hiking opportunities where walks up to 4 hours can be an option for you. There are often easier options too.
Important information
- Zion National Park - Entrance Fee
- Monument Valley - Jeep tour & overnight experience
- Arches National Park - Sunset Hike to Delicate Arch
- Dead Horse Point State Park
- Bryce Canyon National Park
- Capitol Reef National Park
- Yosemite National Park - Entrance Fee
- Visit to Mono Lake
Many of the North American national parks that we visit have hiking opportunities where walks up to 4 hours can be an option for you. There are often easier options too.
Important information
- 1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6:00pm on Day 1 in Las Vegas and finishes on arrival in San Francisco at approximately 5pm on Day 14. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement excludes Nights 4 (Monument Valley) and Nights 5 & 6 (Moab) where you will be in shared accommodation and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 3. A sleeping bag is required for this trip. 4. Please note that the legal drinking age in the US is 21 and in some parts of Canada it’s 19.
Für diese Reise haben wir aktuell keine Termine mehr
Wenn Sie sich für diese Reise interessieren, können Sie uns gerne schreiben. Wir werden uns baldmöglichst bei Ihnen melden und versuchen eine Alternative für Sie zu finden.
Andere Reisen im Land
USA
Seite drucken