ROCKY MOUNTAIN HIGH
Trip Details
- Duration: 21 day(s) days
- Visited Areas: United States
This unique tour traverses three distinct regions of the West to create an incredible combination of beautiful mountains, national parks, cowboy country, Indian lands, deserts, lakes and cities. With a week each in the Cascades/Northern Rockies area, the Colorado Rockies and the Desert Southwest, this is truly the complete Western experience - Rocky Mountain style!
Itinerary
Day 1, Los Angeles & Las Vegas
After a quick tour of Hollywood we head to Las Vegas - With a sudden burst of neon, Vegas is right in your face - the greatest show on earth! Cruise "The Strip" in a super-stretch limo, indulge in an all-you-can eat buffet, take in a show or just watch the amazing crowds, neon signs and attractions that many hotel casinos have to offer. And if that's not enough, take a helicopter flight back down The Strip or just gamble the night away in one of the world class casinos. Accommodation: 1 en-route hotel night paid locally
Day 2-3, Zion National Park & Lake Powell
Onwards to Zion National Park to swim and to explore the hidden canyons or maybe hike to Angels Landing. Okay, so getting up there can be devilish at times, but the famous trail puts on a full 360-degree display of this magnificent national park. Lake Powell, formerly the great Glenn Canyon, offers an unsurpassed desert experience. Ride a waverunner across the clear blue waters or just relax on the shore and take in the beauty of this man-made oasis. Accommodation: Camping included
Day 4-5, Grand Canyon National Park
Next we come face to face with the most awe-inspiring national park of them all, the Grand Canyon. Nothing you have ever seen before will prepare you for this spectacular site! Lace your trusty boots and hike Bright Angel Trail to Indian Gardens and on to Plateau Point for one heady view... or take to the sky on a scenic flight for a bird's eye view. One thing's for sure, this place looks incredible from any angle, especially walking along the rim at sunset or sunrise. Accommodation: Camping included
Day 6, Monument Valley
We head to the Navajo Tribal Lands of Monument Valley. The only things to pre-date the origins of Native American culture are the towering buttes and mesas which dominate the awe-inspiring landscape. Take the opportunity to experience it close-up with an optional jeep ride and a visit to the Navajo Indian Reservation, before setting up camp on the edge of Monument Valley. What a place to swap campfire stories and songs. Accommodation: Camping included
Day 7-8, Colorado Rockies & Arkansas River
Travel along America's spectacular mountain roads to old gold rush towns such as Ouray or Telluride. Walking and biking in the craggy scenery demands strong legs and lungs and nearby hot springs provide welcome relief. Continue the adventure by facing raging rapids by whitewater raft. Take our word for it; the Arkansas River is one heck of a rush. Accommodation: Camping included
Day 9-11, Rocky Mountain National Park & Wyoming
Back on the highway, those mountain tops rarely slide from sight. Colorado, here we come, for two days exploring the heart of the Rockies at the spectacular Rocky Mountain National Park. You may find company on the trail as bighorn sheep occasionally hang out here too. Accommodation: Camping included
Day 12-13, Jackson & Grand Teton National Park
Wild West? You betcha. Next we visit the truly western town of Jackson, Wyoming. Rafting the raging rapids of some of America's great untamed rivers should get the adrenaline pumping. So might a shot of 'Red-Eye' Whiskey at the Silver Dollar Saloon. Next, wonderful views and hikes await in majestic Grand Teton National Park. With few foothills to speak of, the jagged peaks here rise like teeth from lush, flat meadows against a bright blue sky. Check out Inspiration Point; the name is no exaggeration and the hike will keep you smiling. Accommodation: Camping included
Day 14-15, Yellowstone National Park
Heading north we reach Yellowstone National Park for a glorious two-night stay. View explosive geysers and colourful waterfalls while exploring the world's oldest and most famous national park. Keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife. Bison, moose and elk roam the park - best be quick on the draw with your camera. Accommodation: Camping included
Day 16, Western Ranch Stay
Playing hard, eating well and telling tales are all in a day's fun at our inclusive mountain ranch! Accommodation: Ranch included
Day 17-18, Glacier National Park
If the scenic ice-carved valleys and hikes along turquoise lakes don't get you snap-happy in Glacier National Park, nothing will. Grizzly bears, moose, elk, mountain goats, marmots and a host of birds and small animals call Glacier home. Hike in one of the most beautiful and natural settings for an incredible introduction to the Rocky Mountains. Accommodation: Camping included
Day 19, Montana
Into the Big Sky cowboy country of Montana. The alpine meadows, snow-streaked peaks and glinting lakes of Montana's wilderness will be sure to impress! Accommodation: Camping included
Day 20, Mt Rainier National Park
The jewel of the Cascade Mountains is next, Mt. Rainier National Park. A spectacular start as hiking trails jag up and down and pine trees cling on for all they're worth. An afternoon hike will be on offer considering there are over 300 miles available on the parks' network of trails. Accommodation: Camping included
Day 21, Seattle
We head to Seattle for the end of our adventure. There may still be time to enjoy an optional activity and be whisked 500 feet up the Space Needle. By the way, the elevator's glass, so be prepared for some amazing views! Tour ends at approx 17:00 hrs in Seattle on day 21.