17 days tour

San Fran To La: Ultimate National Parks

San Fran To La: Ultimate National Parks

This tour includes:

Others

San Francisco - Adventure Cat Bay Cruise Lake Tahoe - Heavenly Mountain Resort - Scenic Gondola Ride Yosemite National Park - Entrance Fee Yosemite - Pizza Picnic Dinner Death Valley National Park Zion National Park - Entrance Fee Bryce Canyon National Park - Entrance Fee Monument Valley Tribal Park Entry Fee Monument Valley - Jeep Tour and Navajo Dinner Grand Canyon National Park Horseshoe Bend Joshua Tree National Park - Entrance Fee

Meals

10 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle NORTH AMERICA VEHICLES: Our large fleet of vans are fully equipped with dual air-conditioning system, V8 engines and any camping or cooking equipment needed for your trip. Most have cloth-upholstered seats and carpeted interior with radio/tape or CD players. Your luggage is transported in a trailer which is towed behind the van. The vans are regularly serviced in our own maintenance facility and continuously checked and serviced by a well-established network of maintenance and service facilities throughout the continent. However, unforeseen maintenance problems can still occur while on the road and we appreciate the patience of our travellers as we make necessary repairs as quickly as possible. While your group will have a van for all included activities on the trip, the services of the van and the driver may not be available for your use during free time, or after you have arrived for the day. If you need a special trip into town you may need to arrange transport or a taxi.

Accommodation

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if weโ€™re arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isnโ€™t always possible which means we wonโ€™t be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available. Hotel (14 nights),Lodge (3 nights)

Guide

All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Your leader will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip. NORTH AMERICAN LEADERS: Our leaders in the US and Canada are also responsible for driving the van and navigating across the country. The allowable driving times for drivers is strictly controlled in North America. This ensures our drivers are well rested and are not over-tired from too many hours on the roads. Itโ€™s strictly forbidden for non-qualified rangers to present any information about some National Parks in North America, therefore we adopt a system (as requested by the park rangers) where our leader will encourage travellers to visit the information centres in the National Parks for details about the site.

Not included:

Flights

International flights are not included

Others

Other activities and services are not included

Insurance

Travel Insurance is not included

Optional

Lake Tahoe - Kayaking/watersports - USD25 Yosemite - Cycling in Yosemite Valley - USD12 Yosemite National Park - Hiking - Free Yosemite - Raft Rental (seasonal) - USD30 Lone Pine - Museum of Western Film History - USD5 Death Valley National Park - Hiking (seasonal) - Free Zion National Park - Walks - Free Zion - Narrows Hiking Gear Rental - USD25 Zion National Park - River tubing (seasonal) - USD24 Bryce Canyon National Park - Hiking - Free Grand Canyon - Helicopter flight (45 mins) - USD350 Grand Canyon - Hiking - Free Grand Canyon - IMAX movie - USD10

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip San Fran To La: Ultimate National Parks

  • Day 1 Day 1: San Francisco
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 1: San Francisco

      Welcome to San Francisco, a city with a storied history and plenty of eccentric characters. Your adventure begins at 3pm with an important welcome meeting at your accommodation, where youโ€™ll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. After your meeting, get to know San Francisco Bay on a sunset catamaran cruise. Sail around the infamous Alcatraz Island and beneath the emblematic Golden Gate Bridge while keeping an eye out for the dolphins, pelicans, sea lions and occasional whale that can be found in these waters. Take in incredible views of the cityโ€™s skyline as you make your return โ€“ youโ€™ll definitely be leaving your heart in San Francisco! The evening is free for your own discoveries.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 2 Day 2: Lake Tahoe
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 2: Lake Tahoe

      This morning, take in some of San Franโ€™s most famous sights during a scenic driving tour. Pass by the painted ladies, a row of grandiose Victorian houses, and get your camera ready as you gaze upon the Golden Gate Bridge from the best viewpoint in the city. In the afternoon, make the drive to Lake Tahoe, the USAโ€™s second-deepest lake and home to 116 km (72 miles) of scenic shoreline. This evening, weโ€™ll enjoy a delicious group dinner at a local restaurant in Lake Tahoe.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 3 Day 3: Lake Tahoe
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 3: Lake Tahoe

      Today, youโ€™ll get a chance to take to the water in Lake Tahoe with a stand-up paddle board experience or kayak. Skim along the glassy water as you take in the views of the surrounding wilderness from a whole new perspective. Once back on dry land, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. This natural adventure park has plenty going on year-round which means thereโ€™ll be a plethora of activities for you to choose from, depending on the season.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 4 Day 4: Yosemite National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 4: Yosemite National Park

      This morning, head south to the world-famous Yosemite National Park. Featuring colossal granite cliff faces, cascading waterfalls (depending on the season) and redwood forests, the scenery in Yosemite attracts travellers from all over the globe. On arrival, wander through the jaw-dropping Tuolumne Grove of Giant Sequoias, home to two-dozen of the largest known trees on earth. These colossal, ancient wonders are adapted for survival โ€“ theyโ€™re resistant to disease, thanks to a large content of tannin (a type of natural chemical) in the wood โ€“ and their thick asbestos-like bark means that they can withstand the hottest of forest-fires, making them almost indestructible. The resilient beauty of these redwood beasts makes them a phenomenal must-see on any Yosemite itinerary.

      Accommodation: Lodge

  • Day 5 Day 5: Yosemite National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 5: Yosemite National Park

      Enjoy a guided walk around the spectacular scenery of Yosemite National Park followed by a free day to explore. The breathtaking landscapes have made Yosemite a favourite among hikers for generations, and there are plenty of trekking routes on offer with varying degrees of difficulty. If you feel like breaking a sweat, the 5-hour hike to the top of Nevada Falls features plenty of switchbacks and, depending on the season, youโ€™ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the cascading waterfall beneath the giant Half Dome. Feel like taking it easy? No problem, there are plenty of gentle trails on offer. Keep an eye out for squirrels (and watch for bears!) along the way. If youโ€™d prefer, you can hire a bike and cycle around Yosemite Valley, stopping by the parkโ€™s museum, photo gallery, shops and restaurants on the way. In the heat of summer, a nice option is a float down the Merced River on a raft followed by a few drinks at the local cafe. This evening, if the weather is right, join the group for an included pizza picnic in the park! Alternatively, warm up with a local meal in the cosy indoors.

      Accommodation: Lodge

  • Day 6 Day 6: Yosemite National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 6: Yosemite National Park

      Today thereโ€™s a chance to explore a different side of the park as you join your leader on a guided hike through the awe-inspiring Yosemite Valley. Strewn with dramatic waterfalls, gigantic granite outcrops and lush meadows, this is one of the most spectacular spots in the country. Learn about the ecologically diverse landscape as you explore with your leader, who will recommend independent walks in the area you can take on this afternoon.

      Accommodation: Lodge

  • Day 7 Day 7: Eastern Sierra / Lone Pine
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 7: Eastern Sierra / Lone Pine

      This morning, stop and admire the glistening waters of Tenaya and Mono Lakes on the drive south through the Sierras. On the way to Lone Pine, perhaps stop at Manzanar National Historic Site, a former military-style camp where more than 110,000 Japanese-American men, women and children were detained during WWII. Continue to Alabama Hills โ€“ where colourful undulating peaks roll in the foreground of the contrasting jagged, snowy Sierras โ€“ this beautiful landscape is just a stoneโ€™s throw away from where youโ€™ll be spending the night in Lone Pine โ€“ not far from the entrance to Death Valley. On arrival, thereโ€™s the option to visit the Museum of Western Film History, which celebrates the many movies that have been filmed in the area, such as Iron Man, Django Unchained, How the West Was Won, and True Grit.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 8 Day 8: Death Valley / Las Vegas
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 8: Death Valley / Las Vegas

      This morning youโ€™ll explore the geologically rich Death Valley National Park. Donโ€™t let the name fool you, this park features huge sand dunes, canyons, sculpted rocks, valleys and volcanic craters. Death Valley is extremely hot and dry (the highest recorded temperature in the world was measured in local Furnace Creek at 56.6หšC in 1913) so remember to pack plenty of water and donโ€™t overexert yourself. Stop along the way at Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin and the Mesquite Dunes, where youโ€™ll have the chance to stretch your legs with some short walks. Arrive to the glitzy desert city of Las Vegas โ€“ it may be a gamblers paradise but if the tables arenโ€™t your thing thereโ€™s still plenty to discover. Maybe wander along the Strip โ€“ past impersonators, billboards and hotels to the choreographed Bellagio Fountain show, or perhaps head to a rooftop amusement park, hit the chain stores or lose all sense of time exploring the gaudy interiors of hotels like The Venetian, Caesars Palace and New York-New York. In the evening, why not join your travel buddies for an optional dinner!

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 9 Day 9: Las Vegas
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 9: Las Vegas

      Today is free to explore Las Vegas. From a western outpost in the desert, Las Vegas is now a gambling and entertainment metropolis. Itโ€™s a city of larger-than-life characters, but beyond the glitz, Vegas is home to diverse urban neighbourhoods and a thriving arts scene. Try your luck on the casino floors, hit up Fremont Street, soak up the gaudiness of the strip or catch one of the many shows on offer.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 10 Day 10: Zion National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 10: Zion National Park

      Today, leave the neon and nightclubs behind, and travel to Zion National Park (approximately 3 hours). Warm up with a leader-led orientation of the park, and a gentle walk to the lower end of the Emerald Pools, passing sparkling waterfalls and streams along the way. Continue on a more difficult trail to the upper section, checking out another waterfall on the way to Zionโ€™s โ€™beachโ€™. After a picnic lunch, enjoy some free time this afternoon to explore more of the parkโ€™s hiking trails. If youโ€™re feeling ambitious, perhaps enjoy the strenuous hike to Scout Lookout.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 11 Day 11: Zion National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 11: Zion National Park

      Enjoy some free time in Zion National Park. This is a great opportunity to tackle any trails you may not have yesterday. The Narrows is a good choice, as it is probably the most popular hike in the park, and one of the best slot canyon hikes on Earth. Trek through a gorge surrounded by cliff faces 300 metres high, and after a while, cool off in a river along the way. The Narrows hike can be tailored to suit various levels of skill and experience, so thereโ€™s a trek for everyone!

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 12 Day 12: Bryce Canyon
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 12: Bryce Canyon

      In the morning, drive to Bryce Canyon. Millions of years of wind and water erosion have formed the parkโ€™s distinctive hoodoos โ€“ uniquely shaped rock spires rising out of the desert. You will have heaps of time to explore the parkโ€™s selection of hikes, from the easy Rim Trail, to the moderate Queenโ€™s Garden Trail or the strenuous Peek-a-boo Loop. Wherever you walk, youโ€™ll encounter the canyonโ€™s colourful landscapes. The group leader will join you on a hike and for lunch in the Canyon.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 13 Day 13: Monument Valley
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 13: Monument Valley

      Today youโ€™ll make the 6-hour drive to the spectacular Monument Valley, passing through the little city of Page, set on the shores of Lake Powell. Stop for a short hike to view Horseshoe Bend, named for its loop of water surrounding an enormous sandstone escarpment. Then continue on to Monument Valley, the iconic landscape of red-toned spires, buttes and mesas that has been the set of countless, films, TV shows and photographs โ€“ and the real deal is even more impressive than whatโ€™s seen on screen. Once youโ€™ve arrived to Monument Valley, youโ€™ll have the chance to explore the giant sandstone formations scattered across the desert as far as the eye can see. In the evening, travel by jeep through the valley with a Navajo guide. Join the locals for an authentic Navajo dinner around a campfire and settle in for an evening of traditional songs and stories.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 14 Day 14: Grand Canyon National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 14: Grand Canyon National Park

      This morning weโ€™ll make the scenic 3.5-hour drive to the Grand Canyon, one of the largest canyon systems in the world. Photos really donโ€™t do this massive network of gorges, rivers and cliffs justice. This a real highlight of the trip, and youโ€™ll be spending two nights here in order to take it all in. After a picnic lunch, you may like to take a stroll along the South Rim Trail, offering up epic views over the park. Ask the group leader for advice on which trails are right for you and your fitness level.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 15 Day 15: Grand Canyon National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 15: Grand Canyon National Park

      Today is as clear as an Arizona sky in summer. Explore at your own pace, but remember to always have a supply of water and high-energy snacks handy. Touch base with the group leader about optional activities available today. If youโ€™d like to get a birdโ€™s eye view of the canyon without leaving the ground, you can choose to watch a documentary on the canyon at the local IMAX theatre. Of course, there are myriad trails and treks to keep the active occupied. Bright Angel has wonderful views all along the trail and Ooh-Aah Point is a favourite shorter hike on the South Kaibab Trail, offering another viewpoint to the park. In the evening, sit back and enjoy the sunset behind the red peaks.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 16 Day 16: Joshua Tree National Park
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 16: Joshua Tree National Park

      In the morning, take the drive to Joshua Tree National Park (approximately 7 hours). Youโ€™ll spend some time driving the famous Route 66 and have a quick stop by the eccentric community of Seligman. Sitting between the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, Joshua Tree is home to striking rock formations, many species of cacti and varied desert wildlife such as coyotes, lizards and bighorn sheep. Joshua Tree provides a considerable contrast to the wildlife and natural scenery you have seen recently.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 17 Day 17: Los Angeles
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 17: Los Angeles

      There may be time to squeeze in a sunrise hike at Joshua Tree before making the approximately 3-hour journey to Los Angeles. Spend an afternoon at Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach for a bit of people watching and the chance to pick up some lunch. Then youโ€™re free to discover LA at your own pace. Stroll Rodeo Drive, amp up the culture with a trip to the Getty Centre or take a tour around the Beverly Hills mansions. You will have no problem finding a spot for dinner this evening โ€“ the cultural mishmash of LA provides excellent food wherever you are.

      Accommodation: Hotel

  • Day 18 Day 18: Los Angeles
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 18: Los Angeles

      There are no more activities planned today. If youโ€™re planning to stay in LA for a little while longer, weโ€™ll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

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Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโ€™re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

Youโ€™ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Basic

Almost everyone is fit for these activities. Every hike or physical exercise last less than 30 minutes, such as paragliding and horseback riding. Please ask about specific conditions.

Age range

Age range

Min: 15 / Max: 99

Age range allowed for this experience.

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