Best of the West Road Trip: California, Utah & Vegas Bright Lights
Tour, Escorted tour
Roamies by Hostelworld & G Adventures
Best of the West Road Trip: California, Utah & Vegas Bright Lights
Want the the ultimate U.S. road trip? Coming right up. Spend 13 days seeing the best of the west as you travel through four states, six national parks, and along historic Route 66. Treat your eyes (and your soul) to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Chill out with the laid-back beach vibes of Santa Monica. Look way, way, way up at the towering granite rocks in Yosemite. And explore the infamous Death Valley and the legendary Joshua Tree National Park. Just under two weeks is all you need for this quintessential U.S. adventure - ready to hit the open road?
Highlights
Cruise through the dazzling neighbourhoods of LA, Sleep along the Pacific Coast in Avila, Stargaze in Yosemite National Park, Hike through the harsh landscapes of Death Valley, Witness the grandeur of Zion, Wander through the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, Hike to view the impressive Horseshoe Bend, Stare in awe at the utter vastness of the Grand Canyon, Walk among the giant boulders in Joshua Tree, Travel along historic Route 66, Sit back and relax near the Santa Monica Pier
Accommodation
Camping (10 nts), hotel (1 nt), hostel (1 nt).
Group Leader
1 CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
Group Size Notes
Max 13
Meals Included
10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 2 dinners
What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: Native Grill Food Truck Experience Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Your Discover Moment: Yosemite National Park. All national park fees. Los Angeles Sightseeing With CEO. Coastal free time in Avila. Guided visit and hikes in Yosemite National Park. Sightseeing in Yosemite through Tioga Pass Tuolumne Meadows Lembert Dome Tenaya Lake, and Mono Lake. Death Valley National Park visit. Free time in Las Vegas. Bryce Canyon National Park visit and hike. Zion National Park visit and guided hike. Horseshoe Bend hike. Native Grill stop for lunch. Grand Canyon National Park visit. Joshua Tree National Park visit. Visit Route 66. Free time in Santa Monica. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Want the the ultimate U.S. road trip? Coming right up. Spend 13 days seeing the best of the west as you travel through four states, six national parks, and along historic Route 66. Treat your eyes (and your soul) to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Chill out with the laid-back beach vibes of Santa Monica. Look way, way, way up at the towering granite rocks in Yosemite. And explore the infamous Death Valley and the legendary Joshua Tree National Park. Just under two weeks is all you need for this quintessential U.S. adventure - ready to hit the open road?
Highlights
Cruise through the dazzling neighbourhoods of LA, Sleep along the Pacific Coast in Avila, Stargaze in Yosemite National Park, Hike through the harsh landscapes of Death Valley, Witness the grandeur of Zion, Wander through the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, Hike to view the impressive Horseshoe Bend, Stare in awe at the utter vastness of the Grand Canyon, Walk among the giant boulders in Joshua Tree, Travel along historic Route 66, Sit back and relax near the Santa Monica Pier
Accommodation
Camping (10 nts), hotel (1 nt), hostel (1 nt).
Group Leader
1 CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
Group Size Notes
Max 13
Meals Included
10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 2 dinners
What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: Native Grill Food Truck Experience Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Your Discover Moment: Yosemite National Park. All national park fees. Los Angeles Sightseeing With CEO. Coastal free time in Avila. Guided visit and hikes in Yosemite National Park. Sightseeing in Yosemite through Tioga Pass Tuolumne Meadows Lembert Dome Tenaya Lake, and Mono Lake. Death Valley National Park visit. Free time in Las Vegas. Bryce Canyon National Park visit and hike. Zion National Park visit and guided hike. Horseshoe Bend hike. Native Grill stop for lunch. Grand Canyon National Park visit. Joshua Tree National Park visit. Visit Route 66. Free time in Santa Monica. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Interests
- Budget
- National Parks and Preserves
12 Nights
Starting At
$2,149.00
USD
July 08, 2026 through August 19, 2026
Book by:
August 15, 2026 7:00 PM
4 departures, various dates
ID: 8660271
Itinerary Map
Itinerary Overview
Day
2
Avila
Day
3
Avila/Yosemite National Park
Day
6
Bishop/Las Vegas
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Dates & prices
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ID: 8660271
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Tour Tips
Meals
All included meals will be prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. If a meal is not included your CEO will provide suggested options to the group.
Optional Activities
Yosemite National Park- Yosemite National Park Hike (Free)- Yosemite Bike Rental (30-40USD per person)- Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls HikeLas Vegas- Vegas Strip Visit (Free)- Las Vegas Show (60-200USD per person)Zion National Park- Watchman Trail Hike- The Narrows Hike- Scout Lookout TrailGrand Canyon- Grand Canyon Helicopter TourGrand Canyon National Park- Bright Angel Trail Hike (Free)Los Angeles- Santa Monica Pier Visit (Free)Santa Monica- Rollerblades and Bike Rentals
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. For days in the outdoors, we recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days spent hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.The American west is generally known for warm weather, but temperatures do vary significantly in the mountain and desert areas especially. The day time temperature could exceed 30 C, while the night time temperatures do regularly decrease to single digits, or even possible below freezing. It is therefore important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings - a light jacket is necessary. Seasonal temperature ranges:March - May ; September to December: -7 C to +30 C June – August: 0 C to + 35 CAdditionally, a set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
Group Leader Description
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and sometimes the driver - this person is knowledgeable in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.While our CEOs are trained and have resources to assist them along the way, the United States is the fourth largest country on the planet, and it is impossible for them to know everything about this massive country. We recommend local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.Please note that specific tour guide licenses are required to guide in certain cities and regions, and as such, our CEOs will oftentimes provide brief orientation walks or drives to point out useful places like supermarkets, main squares and ATMs but for more specific or in depth destination information, an official guided tour is recommended.
All included meals will be prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. If a meal is not included your CEO will provide suggested options to the group.
Optional Activities
Yosemite National Park- Yosemite National Park Hike (Free)- Yosemite Bike Rental (30-40USD per person)- Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls HikeLas Vegas- Vegas Strip Visit (Free)- Las Vegas Show (60-200USD per person)Zion National Park- Watchman Trail Hike- The Narrows Hike- Scout Lookout TrailGrand Canyon- Grand Canyon Helicopter TourGrand Canyon National Park- Bright Angel Trail Hike (Free)Los Angeles- Santa Monica Pier Visit (Free)Santa Monica- Rollerblades and Bike Rentals
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. For days in the outdoors, we recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days spent hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.The American west is generally known for warm weather, but temperatures do vary significantly in the mountain and desert areas especially. The day time temperature could exceed 30 C, while the night time temperatures do regularly decrease to single digits, or even possible below freezing. It is therefore important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings - a light jacket is necessary. Seasonal temperature ranges:March - May ; September to December: -7 C to +30 C June – August: 0 C to + 35 CAdditionally, a set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
Group Leader Description
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and sometimes the driver - this person is knowledgeable in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.While our CEOs are trained and have resources to assist them along the way, the United States is the fourth largest country on the planet, and it is impossible for them to know everything about this massive country. We recommend local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.Please note that specific tour guide licenses are required to guide in certain cities and regions, and as such, our CEOs will oftentimes provide brief orientation walks or drives to point out useful places like supermarkets, main squares and ATMs but for more specific or in depth destination information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Tour Tips
Meals
All included meals will be prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. If a meal is not included your CEO will provide suggested options to the group.
Optional Activities
Yosemite National Park- Yosemite National Park Hike (Free)- Yosemite Bike Rental (30-40USD per person)- Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls HikeLas Vegas- Vegas Strip Visit (Free)- Las Vegas Show (60-200USD per person)Zion National Park- Watchman Trail Hike- The Narrows Hike- Scout Lookout TrailGrand Canyon- Grand Canyon Helicopter TourGrand Canyon National Park- Bright Angel Trail Hike (Free)Los Angeles- Santa Monica Pier Visit (Free)Santa Monica- Rollerblades and Bike Rentals
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. For days in the outdoors, we recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days spent hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.The American west is generally known for warm weather, but temperatures do vary significantly in the mountain and desert areas especially. The day time temperature could exceed 30 C, while the night time temperatures do regularly decrease to single digits, or even possible below freezing. It is therefore important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings - a light jacket is necessary. Seasonal temperature ranges:March - May ; September to December: -7 C to +30 C June – August: 0 C to + 35 CAdditionally, a set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
Group Leader Description
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and sometimes the driver - this person is knowledgeable in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.While our CEOs are trained and have resources to assist them along the way, the United States is the fourth largest country on the planet, and it is impossible for them to know everything about this massive country. We recommend local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.Please note that specific tour guide licenses are required to guide in certain cities and regions, and as such, our CEOs will oftentimes provide brief orientation walks or drives to point out useful places like supermarkets, main squares and ATMs but for more specific or in depth destination information, an official guided tour is recommended.
All included meals will be prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. If a meal is not included your CEO will provide suggested options to the group.
Optional Activities
Yosemite National Park- Yosemite National Park Hike (Free)- Yosemite Bike Rental (30-40USD per person)- Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls HikeLas Vegas- Vegas Strip Visit (Free)- Las Vegas Show (60-200USD per person)Zion National Park- Watchman Trail Hike- The Narrows Hike- Scout Lookout TrailGrand Canyon- Grand Canyon Helicopter TourGrand Canyon National Park- Bright Angel Trail Hike (Free)Los Angeles- Santa Monica Pier Visit (Free)Santa Monica- Rollerblades and Bike Rentals
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible. For days in the outdoors, we recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days spent hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.The American west is generally known for warm weather, but temperatures do vary significantly in the mountain and desert areas especially. The day time temperature could exceed 30 C, while the night time temperatures do regularly decrease to single digits, or even possible below freezing. It is therefore important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings - a light jacket is necessary. Seasonal temperature ranges:March - May ; September to December: -7 C to +30 C June – August: 0 C to + 35 CAdditionally, a set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
Group Leader Description
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and sometimes the driver - this person is knowledgeable in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.While our CEOs are trained and have resources to assist them along the way, the United States is the fourth largest country on the planet, and it is impossible for them to know everything about this massive country. We recommend local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.Please note that specific tour guide licenses are required to guide in certain cities and regions, and as such, our CEOs will oftentimes provide brief orientation walks or drives to point out useful places like supermarkets, main squares and ATMs but for more specific or in depth destination information, an official guided tour is recommended.
About G Adventures
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G Adventures has been a world leader and innovator in sustainable adventure travel since 1990. We invite you to explore a world of tours infused with inspiration and excitement that will take you off the beaten track into the real heart of the destination. Our approach to travel provides small groups and independent travellers the rare opportunity to connect with nature and local cultures.
The choices for travel are vast - from safaris and cultural treks to family vacations and exotic expeditions to places you have never even imagined, there is an adventure for everyone. If you share a lust of life and have the insatiable curiosity to travel and truly experience the world we live in, then join us and embark on a quest for the extraordinary. We are The Great Adventure People - welcome to our world of adventure travel!
The choices for travel are vast - from safaris and cultural treks to family vacations and exotic expeditions to places you have never even imagined, there is an adventure for everyone. If you share a lust of life and have the insatiable curiosity to travel and truly experience the world we live in, then join us and embark on a quest for the extraordinary. We are The Great Adventure People - welcome to our world of adventure travel!
About G Adventures
G Adventures has been a world leader and innovator in sustainable adventure travel since 1990. We invite you to explore a world of tours infused with inspiration and excitement that will take you off the beaten track into the real heart of the destination. Our approach to travel provides small groups and independent travellers the rare opportunity to connect with nature and local cultures.
The choices for travel are vast - from safaris and cultural treks to family vacations and exotic expeditions to places you have never even imagined, there is an adventure for everyone. If you share a lust of life and have the insatiable curiosity to travel and truly experience the world we live in, then join us and embark on a quest for the extraordinary. We are The Great Adventure People - welcome to our world of adventure travel!
The choices for travel are vast - from safaris and cultural treks to family vacations and exotic expeditions to places you have never even imagined, there is an adventure for everyone. If you share a lust of life and have the insatiable curiosity to travel and truly experience the world we live in, then join us and embark on a quest for the extraordinary. We are The Great Adventure People - welcome to our world of adventure travel!