Camping the Best of the West's National Parks

G Adventures · 16 days

4.7

30 Reviews

Duration

16 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Demanding

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

On a mission to visit as many of the west coast's stunning national parks as you can? This 16-day tour will get you most of the way there with plenty of challenging but rewarding hikes along the way.

Includes

Activities

Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Petroglyphs at Capitol Reef National Park
Stargazing in a Dark Sky Park
Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument Visit
Queen's Garden and Navajo Loop Hike
Scout Lookout Hike
The Narrows Hike
General Sherman Giant Forest Hike
Buena Vista Peak Hike
Little Baldy Hike
Entrance fees to all national parks and monuments with hiking and walking excursions
Self-inflating mattresses and dome tents
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

Hotel (2 nts), participation camping (13 nts).

13 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 11 dinners

Transport

Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking.

Group Leader

1 CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Highlights

Explore the geologic wonders of Capitol Reef National Park
See sunrise from the Delicate Arch View Point
Go on the Narrows river hike in Zion National Park
Hike to the world's largest tree in Sequoia National Park
Get sprayed by the waters of Nevada and Vernal Fall in Yosemite National Park
Challenge yourself to complete the strenuous Snow Creek Trail

Camping the Best of the West's National Parks

Trip Details

Duration

16 days

Transportation

Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, walking.

Guide Language

English

Starts

Las Vegas, United States

Finishes

San Francisco, United States

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

Active, Budget

Physical Rating

Demanding

Itinerary

Day 1: Las Vegas

Arrive at any time.
There are no planned activities today until the evening welcome meeting, so check out the strip or Fremont Street.

This tour leaves Las Vegas in the morning on Day 2; if you would like to spend any additional time here, we recommend booking pre-tour accommodation.

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Accommodation - Golden Nugget Las Vegas

Day 2: Las Vegas/Bryce Canyon National Park

Hit the road from Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon, travelling past towering cliffs and massive canyon walls, stopping at several viewpoints along the way. Upon arrival the group will set up camp before setting off to explore this unique national park in the fading light. After the sun goes down, don't forget to look up to check out this renowned night sky while enjoying s'mores around the fire.

Meals included: Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - See a sight like no other at this giant forest of stone made up of collection of massive natural amphitheaters. This park contains hundreds of thousands of eroded spires, pinnacles, and other shapes as far as the eye can see.Accommodation - Ruby's Inn RV Park & Campground

Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park/Moab

Set off early this morning in Bryce Canyon National Park, and stare in wonder at the largest collection of hoodoos in the world as the sun rises. Take a hike into the amphitheater of Queen's Garden and Navajo Loop to walk amongst the hoodoos, walls and fins that make up this geological wonder. In the afternoon, continue to Moab, an adventure capital of the southwest and the gateway to both Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. Set up camp upon arrival and spend the evening enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the great outdoors.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - See a sight like no other at this giant forest of stone made up of collection of massive natural amphitheaters. This park contains hundreds of thousands of eroded spires, pinnacles, and other shapes as far as the eye can see.Activity - Trek through the most popular trail in Bryce Canyon to see its famous hoodoos - tall, thin spires of rock that seem to magically balance upon their dusty, red rock base. Begin your hike at Sunrise Point and make your way toward Queen Victoria, the trail's namesake rock formation. Continue through the amphitheater on Navajo Loop past Wall Street or Thor's Hammer, depending on trail conditions. Exit at Sunset Point before walking the Rim Trail back to our starting point. Soak in the views one last time - you'll want to take it all in. Hiking distance: 4.6km (2.9 mi) Elevation change: 183m (600 ft).Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Sun Outdoors Campground

Day 4: Arches National Park

Enjoy breakfast at camp before driving to Arches National Park. Spend the first part of the day exploring the densest concentration of arches in the world. Take a hike through Devils Garden to Landscape Arch, and continue to Double O Arch, bouldering over rocks to reach the pinnacle views. Head back to Moab in the afternoon where you can take advantage of free time to try some of the optional activities available in the area. Opt to visit Delicate Arch Viewpoint in the evening for a sunset walk. Stand in awe at the over 2,000 sandstone arches ranging in size and shape that make up this park.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Wander throughout this red rock wonderland filled with countless arches, hundreds of soaring pinnacles, massive fins, and giant balanced rocks carved and shaped by eons of weathering and erosion. Explore viewpoints and hike in this National Park that contains the world's largest concentration of natural stone arches. Activity - Explore the Arches that make up this national park along the Devils Garden trail. Arches form as narrow rock walls (called "fins") erode over time, causing sections of the rockface to fall. Visit Landscape Arch, the longest in North America, with an opening of 93m (306 ft). Continue to Double O Arch, a challenging, steep section that requires hikers to scramble over rocks. Be rewarded with incredible views at the top, before heading back to the trailhead. Hiking distance: 7km (4.2 mi) Elevation change: 152-244m (500-800 ft).Free_time - Take advantage of a free afternoon to try out some optional activities in Moab like, a Hummer tour, rafting, or mountain biking.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Sun Outdoors Campground

Day 5: Canyonlands National Park

Travel to the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park. Stop at Newspaper Rock State Historical Monument, the largest known collection of petroglyphs in the Southwest. Spend the day hiking through desert lands to explore eroded towers of sandstone and fissures in the ground on the Joint Trail to Chesler Park.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Trek through the desert grasslands of Chesler Park and admire towering sandstone pinnacles that give this area its name: the Needles District. Follow the Joint Trail into deep, sometimes very narrow slot canyons, before emerging back into open space. Now you understand why it's called the Canyonlands. Hiking distance: 7km (4.5 mi) Elevation change: 533m (1,750 ft).Activity - Canyonlands National Park is known for its dramatic desert landscape in southeastern Utah that has been carved by the Colorado River. Uncover a wilderness of endless canyons and striking buttes as you stand and witness nature's unyielding power.Activity - With over 650 petroglyphs in a single area, think of a visit to Newspaper Rock as flipping through the news pages of generations past. Created by ancestral Puebloan people who lived, farmed and hunted along a nearby ancient river, examine the intricate carvings they made to document their way of life.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Sun Outdoors Campground

Day 6: Capitol Reef National Park

Travel to Capitol Reef National Park. Known for its geologic monocline, discover the cliffs, canyons, petroglyphs and orchards that make up the park. Learn about the geology and the ancient inhabitants who created the petroglyphs still visible on the cliff walls. In the evening check into the cabins we'll be staying in while in Capitol Reef. Then, take advantage of your free time after dark to look up at the starry night. This national park has been designated a Gold Tier "International Dark Sky Park".

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Travel through twisting canyons, massive domes, monoliths, and spires of sandstone in this stunning and surreal National Park. Stop to look at petroglyphs etched in rock walls and painted pictographs that are sacred remnants of ancient Indians.Activity - Travel through twisting canyons, massive domes, monoliths, and spires of sandstone in this stunning and surreal National Park. Stop to look at petroglyphs etched in rock walls (keep an eye for bighorn sheep) dating back to 1300 C.E. when native people of the Fremont Culture made their home at Capitol Reef.Activity - Once in the park hike along one of two possible trails. Chimney Rock 3.3 miles is a relatively short, not so steep trail that will take you to a high elevation viewpoint. Chimney Rock itself is an eroded pillar of red sandstone offering spansive views of the surrounding landscape. The loop is 580 feet in elevation gain and can typically be done in about 90 minutes. The 2-mile hike Hickman Trail is about 2 miles from the visitor centre. This easy, scenic trail leads hikers right up and under a large natural arch allowing you to gain a true sense of the grandeur present in this beautiful and unforgiving environment.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Thousand Lakes RV Park & Campground

Day 7: Capitol Reef National Park/Zion National Park

Today, travel along the scenic highway through the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Take in the mesas, canyons and arches that make up this diverse geological region. Set off on a hike and discover prehistoric petroglyphs and stunning waterfalls. Opt to cool off in the refreshing waters falling 38m (126 ft) to a natural swimming pool fed from Calf Creek Falls. Continue to Zion National Park, traveling past towering cliffs and massive canyon walls, stopping at several viewpoints along the way. Enjoy panoramic views and a free evening in the Springdale area.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Enjoy an easy hike through relatively flat terrain to get to Lower Calf Creek Falls. While you may see a few more hikers than on previous days, this trek is no less spectacular - especially once you sight the clear waters of Calf Creek and its 38m (126 ft) drop into a deep pool. Named for the natural "pen" where early pioneers and ranchers herded their calves for a much-needed drink, today visitors can opt to swim in this cool oasis. Hiking distance: 10km (6 mi) Elevation change: 61m (200 ft).Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Zion Canyon RV Resort & Campground

Day 8: Zion National Park

Spend the day discovering Zion National Park. First hike to Scout Lookout, a challenging, but rewarding 4 mile hike which passes through the iconic Walter's Wiggles before reaching the lookout point along a flat saddle with incredible views of the Zion Canyon.

Head to the valley floor to trek through the river on one of the most popular hikes in the park, the Narrows. Admire monumental sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that tower into the sky and opt to turn around at any point. Experience diverse plant and animal life in this narrow slot canyon as the park transitions from desert to forest. Gaze at the awe-inspiring beauty of the high plateaus, striking towers, temples, mesas, and the earth's tallest-known sheer sandstone walls. After returning to camp, head into the charming town of Springdale to celebrate the accomplishments of the last week.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Admire monumental sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that tower into the sky. Experience diverse plant and animal life, and wade through water in a narrow slot canyon as the park transitions from desert to forest. Gaze at the awe-inspiring beauty of the high plateaus, striking towers, temples, mesas, and the earth's tallest-known sheer sandstone walls.Activity - This trail is also the same one that goes to Angels Landing, because of this be prepared to gain more than 1,000 ft in elevation and walk up 21 challenging switchbacks to reach the lookout point. The hike begins at The Grotto shuttle stop and once you arrive at the lookout, you'll be able to enjoy jaw-dropping views of the valley before you.Activity - Known as one of Utah's best slot canyon hikes, The Narrows takes you through towering canyon walls along the Virgin River (and yes, this means walking in water!). Enjoy some of the park's best scenery, stop to take photos, and don't forget to watch your footing. Opt to make your way back at any point. Hiking distance: 6.4km (4 mi) Elevation change: 102m (334 ft).Accommodation - Zion Canyon RV Resort & Campground

Day 9: Zion National Park/Las Vegas

Take the short drive from Zion to Las Vegas. Upon arrival, enjoy free time in Las Vegas. Explore the strip, try your luck at a casino, or take in a glitzy show.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Accommodation - Golden Nugget Las Vegas

Day 10: Las Vegas/Sequoia National Park

Leave the bright lights of Las Vegas behind and spend the day travelling through the desert to the granite cliffs and ancient giant trees of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. Though these two parks were granted National Park status roughly 50 years apart, they are currently managed together by the National Park system. After setting up camp, slow down to relish the natural setting, and roast s'mores around the fire.

Meals included: Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Three Rivers Hideaways Campground

Day 11: Sequoia National Park

Enjoy a full day in Sequoia National Park. Hike the half mile down to General Sherman, at 83 meters (275 feet) high, its the world's largest tree. Continue to trek through the Giant Forest on Congress Trail to see more of these colossal trees. Enjoy a picnic lunch amongst the giant trees. In the afternoon, choose to venture further into the park. The Marble Fork of the Kaweah River leads to inspiring granite cliffs of Tokopah Canyon, and in early summer, the 1200ft cascading Tokopah Falls is sure to impress.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Hike amongst some of the most impressive living things on Earth, giant Sequoias. This trip through the misty heights of the Sierras will take you through the home of General Sherman, the largest tree alive. Tour the other enormous trees and catch some amazing views of the mountains through the forest on this epic hike. Hiking distance: 12km (7.5 mi) Elevation change: 549m (1800 ft)Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Explore this 3.8-mile out-and-back trail near Hartland, California. The main attraction is the waterfall at the end of the approach hike. This is where you drop into the creek to see the canyon and falls. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 1h 44 min to complete. Hiking distance 3.8 mi-Elevation gain 626 ftAccommodation - Three Rivers Hideaways Campground

Day 12: Kings Canyon National Park

Rise early and head out for a final day in Sequoia National Park. Hike through the trees to the peak of Little Baldy for panoramic vistas of the surrounding Sierra Nevadas. After, travel to Buena Vista Peak trailhead. At just 2 miles, this round-trip hike packs a punch with 360-degree views from the top of the granite peak to see not only the High Sierra, but also the valley below. After a picnic lunch, continue exploring the park through the network of trails among the towering trees of Grant Grove before traveling back to camp.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Take a quick hike up to Buena Vista Peak, and experience some of the best views in the entire park. With minimal elevation change, you'll have plenty of time and energy to explore and take pictures along the mountain top. Hiking distance: 3.2km (2 mi) Elevation change: 125m (413 ft).Activity - Hike up the switchbacks of Little Baldy Trail to travel up and out of the forest as it slowly opens up to sweeping views of the beautiful California Sierras and valleys below. Hiking distance is 5.4km (3.4 mi) with an elevation change of 243m (800 ft).Accommodation - Three Rivers Hideaways Campground

Day 13: Sequoia National Park/Yosemite National Park

Upon arrival in the Yosemite Valley, we first witness the iconic sights of Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall. This afternoon, we get ourselves oriented among the Valley trails along the Lower Yosemite Falls trail and learn more about the park. After lunch, enjoy free time to walk trails from the Valley floor, simply relax under the towering granite monoliths, or choose to do a portion of the Valley Loop Trail where you can follow many of the Valley's first east-west trails and wagon roads through meadows and along talus slopes at the base of the granite cliffs, and near the Merced River. On our way to camp, we stop and stand in awe of El Capitan, looking for climbers on the sheer rock face.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Free_time - Free time to explore Yosemite Valley and various valley hikes on your own.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Indian Flats Campground

Day 14: Yosemite National Park

From the valley floor, take the park shuttle system to one of the most iconic trails in the park. Hike alongside the Merced River to climb the Mist Trail, getting sprayed by the waters of Vernal Fall. See the water rushing over the edge before crossing the river and climbing the steps to Nevada Fall. Enjoy lunch from the top, taking in the views of the High Sierra including Half Dome, Liberty Cap, Mount Broderick. On the return trip, take the John Muir Trail down to truly understand this visionaries passion for park. Enjoy free time to walk the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, Bridalveil Fall Trail, or relax under the towering granite monoliths of Half Dome or El Capitan. On the way back to camp, stop at stand in awe of El Capitan, looking for climbers on the sheer rockface.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Take the storied Mist Trail as it traverses up the valley, with visits to Vernal and Nevada Falls. Return along the John Muir Trail. Be prepared for a long hike, and incredible scenery! Distance: 11.2km (7 mi), Elevation Change: 610m (2000 ft)Activity - Picturesque valleys, vast wilderness, powerful waterfalls, elusive wildlife, ancient sequoias and more than 16 types of granite make up this internationally recognized national park. Hike the trails, get up close to ancient rock formations and take panoramic photos of this gorgeous landscape. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and coyotes. Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Indian Flats Campground

Day 15: Yosemite National Park

Today we get off the beaten path for a challenging hike, bringing us face to face with the granite domes and slopes that make this park so iconic. Rising from the valley, we search for one last breathtaking view of Half Dome and a chance to overlook the Valley below. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada, Yosemite is dynamic and weather patterns can see dramatic shifts year to year. Seasonally, weather and trail conditions may require the CEO to assess which trail to take, but while the routes may change with the seasons, the views all share equal splendour and require comparable effort for the epic payoff. Our aim will be to set off for the roughly 9 mile hike to North Dome from Tioga Pass.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Picturesque valleys, vast wilderness, powerful waterfalls, elusive wildlife, ancient sequoias and more than 16 types of granite make up this internationally recognized national park. Hike the trails, get up close to ancient rock formations and take panoramic photos of this gorgeous landscape. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and coyotes. Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - A difficult trail, but worth the effort for the views. Meander through coniferous forest, cross narrow streams, and continue along exposed granite for some jaw-dropping views of Half Dome, Clouds Rest, and the Valley below. Distance: 8.8 miles (14.2 km) round trip.Accommodation - Indian Flats Campground

Day 16: Yosemite National Park/San Francisco

Drive from the Sierra Nevadas to the San Francisco Bay. Tour ends on arrival. Onward travel should be booked no earlier than 7pm.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $5899

AUD $5,014

(Tour only)

Offer ends 01 Apr, 2026 Per Person Standard

Duration: 16 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Demanding

On a mission to visit as many of the west coast's stunning national parks as you can? This 16-day tour will get you most of the way there with plenty of challenging but rewarding hikes along the way.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 08 Jul 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

Vera E.

Traveled, September 2023

10/16/2023

The whole experience was very good.

5.0

Ashleigh S.

Traveled, September 2023

10/16/2023

Brilliant tour that anyone would be able to enjoy.

Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990

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