GOLD RUSH(Trip #63802)

Tour Overview

Eureka! That's the Californian state motto ('I found it' in ancient Greek) from when gold drew the crowds. Today you can seek out the glint of Lake Powell's blue waters, Vegas' gaudy neon and hot sun. Your bounty is a stack of stories, piles of photos and a bunch of new friends.

Journey from the Golden State, over the Sierra Nevada Mountains and through the Great Basin to experience the wonders of the Desert Southwest. Highlights include Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks, Lake Powell, Monument Valley and the Grand Canyon National Park. From the remote solitude of the Nevada desert to the crazy nights of Las Vegas, the memories you will share are more precious than gold!

For over 35 years, TrekAmerica has been tempting travellers away from the "package" tour approach and into the world of young, fun and exciting small group adventures for 18-38 year olds. Over the years, we have brought together a hearty group of international explorers who have criss-crossed the continent over 10,000 times. This is the world of TrekAmerica - the specialists in "off the beaten path" adventures across the Americas. So why not challenge yourself...not your budget.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1-3: - San Francisco, Yosemite National Park & Sierra Neva
Leaving San Francisco, we travel east through "Gold Country" into the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the forested granite peaks of Yosemite National Park. Visit the famous giant Sequoia trees, hike the intimidating Half Dome or just experience the natural tranquillity from deep on the valley floor. Yosemite offers pristine wilderness, spectacular scenery and fantastic hiking opportunities.
Accommodation: Camping included

Day 4-7: - Great Basin, Zion & Bryce National Parks
Continue east over the Tioga Pass (conditions permitting) or travel south for a stop in the colourful towns of Bishop, Bakersfield or Barstow. After an unforgettable night stop in the remote and desolate Great Basin Desert, we will have two days to experience the wonders of Zion Canyon and the mysterious hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park.
Accommodation: Camping included

Day 8-9: - Lake Powell & Monument Valley
Then it's on to Lake Powell, formerly the great Glenn Canyon, offering 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. Take a breath as 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. We will have an opportunity to explore some of the areas hidden treasures, learning of the local history and culture on an included Navajo guided jeep tour.
Accommodation: Camping included

Day 10-11: - Grand Canyon National Park
Next stop is Grand Canyon National Park, with a full day to experience the grandeur of Earth's natural wonder. Whether you are up with the sun to start your long hike down Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point, or choose the "bird's eye" view on a scenic flight, you are sure to be left with feelings of awe and amazement.
Accommodation: Camping included

Day 12: - Route 66 & Las Vegas
Finally, we make our way along Historic Route 66 to the glamour and glitz of America's playground, that's Vegas baby! Soon it's time to say goodbye and head for home with your memories to last a lifetime.

Tour ends at 18:00 hrs in Las Vegas on day 12.