Itinerary Details
National Parks of America
Day 1 Scottsdale, Arizona
Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott
Journey through five of America’s most incredible national parks. Arrive today in Arizona where you will enjoy a stay in the world-famous resort town of Scottsdale. This evening, join your fellow travelers at a welcome dinner.(D)
Day 2 Scottsdale - Sedona - Grand Canyon
Hotel: Yavapai East at South Rim
Begin the day with a visit to the artists' colony of Sedona and see the amazing rock formations that change hue with each turn in the road. Afterward, travel through the beautiful scenery before arriving at one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World – the spectacular Grand Canyon. Upon arrival, relax at one of the many public seating areas overlooking the immense and colorful canyon. Take a moment to reflect as you stand in awe of this iconic natural treasure. Before dinner you may wish to take a short hike to explore the area.(B, D)
Day 3 Grand Canyon - Lake Powell
Hotel: Lake Powell Resort
Today, head to the Carl Hayden Visitors Center and look out over Glen Canyon Dam to see the end of Lake Powell. Later, arrive at Lake Powell for dinner and sunset views of the lake.(B, D)
Day 4 Lake Powell - Springdale, Utah
Hotel: Holiday Inn Express
On the way to Utah, take in the views across Marble Canyon from historic Navajo Bridge, 467 feet above the Colorado River. Later, stop in Kanab, which locals refer to as “Little Hollywood” due to its history as a filming location for many western movies and TV series such as Stagecoach, the Lone Ranger and Gunsmoke. Arrive in Springdale, gateway to Zion National Park and your home for two nights.(B)
Day 5 Springdale - Zion National Park - Springdale
Hotel: Holiday Inn Express
Today’s destination is Zion National Park, very likely one of the most awe-inspiring national parks in the world, just in sheer magnitude and color. Climb aboard Zion’s open-air tram and wind your way alongside the Virgin River and through the 2,400-foot deep, half-mile wide Zion Canyon. This afternoon, it’s your choice! Visit the Zion Human History Museum to learn more about the park -OR- continue to enjoy time in the great outdoors exploring the park independently.(B)
Day 6 Springdale - Bryce Canyon National Park - Salt Lake City
Hotel: Radisson Hotel Salt Lake Downtown
Today's journey takes you to Bryce Canyon National Park, truly one of the most spectacular scenic wonders of the world. The formations within the park, called Hoodoos, are the creation of wind and water erosion over eons of time. Iron oxidizing within the rock causes the natural orange and red hues that color these formations. Enjoy a hike along the Rim Trail looking into the expansive Bryce Amphitheater, from overlooks at Sunrise and Sunset Points. A drive north takes you to Salt Lake City, the “City of the Saints,” for a 1-night stay.(B, D)
Day 7 Salt Lake City - Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Hotel: Snow King Resort
En route to Wyoming, see the majestic Bear Lake Summit. Later, arrive in the cowboy town of Jackson and experience a fun-filled evening of cowboy entertainment and a traditional chuck wagon* dinner.(B, D)
Day 8 Jackson Hole
Hotel: Snow King Resort
The day is yours to enjoy Jackson Hole. From hiking and river-rafting to shopping and sampling the local cuisine, there are endless activities to make the most of your day.(B)
Day 9 Jackson Hole - Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Parks
Hotel: Yellowstone Lodges**
From Jackson Hole, pass through Grand Teton National Park. Towering more than a mile above the valley of Jackson Hole, the Grand Teton rises to 13,770 feet. Twelve Teton peaks reach above 12,000 feet and support a dozen mountain glaciers. The Teton Range is the youngest range in the Rockies and displays some of North America's oldest rocks. Later, arrive at the amazing Yellowstone National Park** and explore the park’s incredible sights. Experience the world-famous Old Faithful Geyser, a fountain of steam that rises more than 130 feet in the air.(B)
Day 10 Yellowstone - Cody - Sheridan
Hotel: Best Western Sheridan Center
A delightful day of sightseeing begins with a trip along Yellowstone Lake and over Sylvan Pass. As you pass through Cody, stop at the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, a tribute to one of the most well-known figures of the Old West. Before turning in for the night in Sheridan, drive through the incredible Bighorn Mountains and journey through the territory of the Great Sioux Nation.(B)
Day 11 Sheridan - Rapid City, South Dakota
Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott
Visit Crazy Horse Memorial, a monument dedicated to Native Americans. Visit the Native American Cultural Center to learn more about local customs, when Native Americans discuss the movements of their dances and the significance of different clothes. Later, see one of the country’s most famous landmarks, Mount Rushmore, whose four figures carved in stone represent the first 150 years of American history. At tonight’s dinner you will meet a local Lakota Native American and learn all about their fascinating way of life, past and present.(B, D)
Day 12 Rapid City - Tour Ends
Your tour comes to a close, leaving you with many wonderful memories.
