U.S. National Parks: The Grand Canyon to Yellowstone
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Discover the untouched wilderness and enduring spirit of the American West on this National Parks Tour.
This itinerary is proof that you don’t have to go far to satisfy your wanderlust. Each day displays a new destination—and with it, new landscapes and adventures swathed in dusty oranges, sherbet pinks, and gemstone greens. You’ll follow the footsteps of America’s Indigenous peoples and learn about the explorers and settlers that followed them. Explore the ingeniously carved cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde in Colorado, gaze into the depths of the Grand Canyon in Arizona and stand in the shadow of the Grand Tetons in Wyoming. And if frontier life beckons, consider extending your trip to Montana’s gritty, glacial expanse.
Special departures of this itinerary
Your tour package includes
- 11 nights in handpicked hotels
- 11 breakfasts
- 1 lunch
- 3 dinners with beer or wine
- 8 sightseeing tours
Included highlights
- Loretto Chapel
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Monument Valley
- Grand Canyon
- Zion National Park
An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.
Day-by-day itinerary
Print itineraryWelcome to New Mexico! You’re officially in “The Land of Enchantment.” The monicker has been in use since the 1930s and when you look around, you’ll know why. As you transfer to your hotel in Santa Fe, keep an eye out for the Sandia Crest. This spruce- and fir-topped ridge is the highest point in the Sandia-Manzano Mountains at 10,679 feet, about twice the elevation of Denver, Colorado. Settle into your hotel this evening and prepare to meet the oldest state capital in the United States. (Santa Fe was founded in 1610—but the area was inhabited by Pueblo peoples for hundreds of years prior.)
Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of New Mexico’s capital. Santa Fe was settled by a Spanish conquistador nearly 500 years ago, and while we often picture America’s oldest buildings standing on the East Coast, this city boasts both one of the oldest European-style homes and one of the oldest churches in the United States. Join your guide today for a panoramic tour of this haven of history and art, known as “The City Different” for its inimitable mix of cultures.
- Catch a sweeping view of Santa Fe, the Jemez Mountains, and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains from the Cross of the Martyrs overlook. The cross honors 21 Franciscan friars who perished in the 1680 Pueblo Revolt, one of the few successful Indigenous rebellions against colonial settlers.
- Pass the Romanesque Revival Saint Francis Cathedral, built of yellow limestone quarried in nearby Lamy. (Did you know: Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Willa Cather wrote a fictionalized account of the cathedral’s origins in Death Comes for the Archbishop.)
- Travel through the plaza in the heart of the city to view a pair of beloved icons: the circa-1610 Palace of the Governors and the State Capitol, known as the “Roundhouse.” From above, the only circular state capitol in the United States resembles the Zia sun symbol (You’ll recognize it from the New Mexico state flag.) Although the resemblance wasn’t intentional, the circular design was chosen to symbolize openness and inclusivity.
- Enter Loretto Chapel to view its miraculous staircase, whose construction is an engineering marvel steeped in lore. This intricately turned staircase makes two full 360-degree twists to reach the choir loft without a center pole for structural support, resting its entire weight on the bottom stair. Legend has it that a mysterious carpenter appeared with a donkey and tools to build the staircase—only to then disappear without a trace.
Later in the afternoon, enjoy a welcome lunch served with beer or wine with your fellow travelers.
The raw beauty of the Southwest unfolds as you make the journey from New Mexico to Colorado. Watch the lush greenery and towering trees of Carson National Forest fade out of view as rolling hills give way to the rugged terrain of the San Juan Mountains, part of the famous Rockies. You’ll stop in the Old West frontier mining town of Durango en route to Mesa Verde National Park. Its stark, faded vermilion landscapes have beckoned artists, authors, and filmmakers for generations; if these vistas look familiar, they probably are.
- Pass by Abiquiu Lake, longtime home of artist Georgia O’Keeffe. Sited at the foot of the Cerro Pedernal mesa—itself immortalized in many of O’Keeffe’s works—it’s the filming locale of Western favorites like Wyatt Earp and City Slickers.
- Continue to the Echo Amphitheater, a rock formation tucked into stratified sandstone cliffs marked by an unusual mineral varnish staining the surface like blood. If you believe local legend, it was the site of two grizzly killings, and the echoes you hear are the cries of the doomed.
- Take in the stunning landscapes that inspired O’Keeffe’s artistry. Pay attention to the dramatic play of light and shadow, intense colors, and unique forms that make up the Southwestern terrain that captivated her.
- Enjoy a stop in Durango, a town steeped in history with a well-preserved downtown area. Take a stroll along Main Avenue—chock-full of Victorian-era architecture and art galleries—and soak in its small-town atmosphere.
Sit down for an included dinner this evening, served with beer or wine.
Take a guided tour of Mesa Verde National Park, where ancient history and arresting landscapes converge against clear blue skies. Find yourself in the land of the Ancestral Puebloans: Also known as the Anasazi, they once inhabited this region, and their homes are remarkably preserved.
- View the 800-year-old dwellings that honeycomb the walls of the canyon. Perched precariously on cliffsides, they offer a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans, showcasing their ingenuity in adapting to the natural landscape.
- Immerse yourself in Mesa Verde’s craggy terrain: towering sandstone cliffs emerging from a desert landscape of rust-red rocks and sagebrush-covered mesas.
- Enjoy free time to browse the unique treasures of the gift shop, where you can find authentic Native American crafts and artifacts.
As your journey continues, soak in the panoramic vistas of Monument Valley, where iconic rock formations like the Mexican Hat capture your imagination with their playful shapes. Be sure to take plenty of photos of this landscape before continuing to Kayenta, Arizona, in the heart of the Navajo Nation.
This evening, enjoy an included dinner.
Please note: Tonight’s dinner is served alcohol-free as it takes place on Navajo Nation territory.
Stop in Tuba City to learn about the culture and living history of the Navajo at the Explore Navajo Interactive Museum. Here, immersive exhibits and interactive displays open a window into the traditional way of life, spiritual beliefs, and artistic expressions of the tribe. You’ll gain insight into the pivotal role played by Navajo leader Peter MacDonald and the World War II Code Talkers, whose linguistic contributions helped the Allies secure victory.
Please note: Meeting Peter MacDonald is not guaranteed.
Afterward, dive into the vibrant atmosphere of the Cameron Trading Post, a historic outpost that has served travelers and locals alike for more than a century. Browse a curated selection of Navajo artwork, jewelry, and crafts, and learn about the time-honored traditions of the artisans who created them.
As you continue your journey to the Grand Canyon, feel the anticipation build for the awe-inspiring spectacle that awaits. After arriving at the South Rim, set out on a scenic walk guided by your Tour Director, who’ll illuminate the geological wonders and natural splendor of the landscape.
- Marvel at towering rock formations that bear witness to millions of years of geological evolution, their striated layers revealing the passage of time in hues of red, orange, and ochre. Pause to take in panoramic vistas that stretch to the horizon, where the vast expanse of the Grand Canyon unfolds endlessly before you.
- Let your gaze catch on the mighty Colorado River meandering along the canyon floor, a dizzying mile below, as a sense of reverence washes over you. Here, you’re reminded of the profound forces that have shaped this landscape and the enduring legacy of those who call this land home.
To fully appreciate the enormity of the Grand Canyon—it’s not just a name after all—add a helicopter tour to your itinerary and take to the skies for an electrifying perspective.
Prefer to explore the Grand Canyon on terra firma? Craft your own walk or hike to the South Rim by hopping on the free shuttle from your hotel and going at your own pace. Dozens of trails await you, and the shuttle will whisk you back when you’re ready to rest.
Grand Canyon Helicopter Ride
From $355 per person
Continue your scenic journey through this rough-hewn portion of the Southwest as you traverse Vermilion Cliffs National Monument en route to Zion National Park. Here, the earth’s rich tapestry flashes hues of yellow and orange as deeply eroded sedimentary rocks rise majestically into the azure sky.
- Pass the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, whose history of human settlement dates back more than 12,000 years. (Its petroglyphs are some of the oldest in the United States.) You’ll recognize it by the undulating layers of colorful rock strata that look like blazing orange waves.
- Delve into the history of Zion National Park, named by 19th-century Mormon settlers who were awestruck by its otherworldly beauty and reminded of their heavenly city.
- Experience the park from a unique vantage point aboard an open-air tram, where a guide will unravel the park’s geological wonders, diverse flora and fauna, and cultural heritage.
- Enjoy the sway of winding roads as each bend reveals a new panorama of sandstone monoliths, green valleys, and waterfalls. You may also spot one of the park’s many sheep, goats, and deer.
Please note: Depending on arrival time and season, you may have time to stay in the park and hike. There are free shuttles that will take you back to your hotel.
Today, you’ll be making your way to Utah’s capital, Salt Lake City, by way of the surreal landscapes of Bryce Canyon National Park. Long before the arrival of European settlers, Indigenous people inhabited the area; the Paiute tribe had a deep connection to the lands that now constitute the park. The Paiute referred to Bryce Canyon’s hoodoos—huge rock pinnacles—as “Legend People,” believing them to be ancient beings transformed by Coyote, a prominent figure in their mythology.
Here’s what you can expect at this stop:
- Enjoy a guided exploration of the park by bus and on foot. You’ll learn about its unique formations, sculpted over millions of years through the process of erosion. The park sits atop the Paunsaugunt Plateau, where the forces of wind, water, and ice gradually carved out the intricate maze of canyons, fins, and spires that we see today.
- Feast your eyes as you get up close and personal with Bryce Canyon’s iconic rock formations. Watch as arches, bridges, and spires made of pink limestone and sandstone change with the shifting light in a bewitching display of color and contrast.
- Keep your camera ready as you encounter the park’s famous inhabitants—the hoodoos. These whimsical rock formations, shaped like totems and towers, create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere that’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen.
After stopping at the Inspiration, Sunset, and Sunrise viewpoints, you’ll continue to Salt Lake City.
Cross into Wyoming on a scenic drive en route to the rustic resort town of Jackson, nestled amid the scenery of the Teton Range. Then, set out to explore Grand Teton National Park, home to the youngest mountain range in the Rockies. The Teton Range began forming during the Miocene Epoch, making it about nine million years young. In contrast, some of the older mountain ranges in the Rockies began sprouting 70 to 40 million years ago.
- Drive through picturesque Logan Canyon, where cliffs and lush forests frame the roadway. Watch for wildlife peeking through the dense foliage. Soon, you’ll encounter the turquoise waters of Bear Lake, known as the “Caribbean of the Rockies” for its vibrant hue.
- Tour Grand Teton National Park by bus and on foot, taking in the pristine wilderness. With luck, you may encounter elk, black bears, moose, and bison.
- Unwind and savor the charm of Jackson this evening. Prepare to swoon over its gallery-lined, quaint streets and to tap your foot (or dance, you’re on vacation after all!) to live music in the town square.
Please note: The visit to Grand Teton National Park may take place on day 10, depending on seasonality and weather.
Venture from Jackson to Yellowstone National Park, designated the world’s first national park in 1872, for a full day of sightseeing. We’ll take you from Oxbow Bend’s overlook gazing out to Mount Moran in the Tetons to Yellowstone highlights like the overlook at Artist Point and the roaring Upper and Lower Falls, with plenty of time to stop for photos—and oohs and aahs—along the way.
- Immerse yourself in Yellowstone’s untamed wilderness, marked by the forests and meadows carpeting its landscape, and behold its serene centerpiece: Yellowstone Lake.
- Experience the thrill of witnessing Old Faithful erupt, its towering plume of steam reaching skyward in a breathtaking crescendo. As you explore the park’s hydrothermal areas, you’ll see and hear—and smell—bubbling mud pots and steaming hot springs.
- Listen for the echoing, haunting howls of Yellowstone’s resident grey wolves and look for bison grazing on swaying grasslands, agile mountain goats springing between rocks, and moose wading in tranquil streams.
If you opted for the Grand Canyon helicopter ride for a bird’s eye view, you might want to add the Snake River float to your itinerary today. Board a raft and drift down the Snake River for postcard-worthy moments of your own. And should an eagle soar overhead, consider this day a success.
If you’d prefer more time in town, Jackson’s Town Square beckons with its wooden boardwalks and famous elk antler arches that adorn each corner. You can also take part in the 100-year-old tradition of the Jackson Hole Rodeo (as a spectator) and check out barrel racing, roping, and live music.
Later, gather with your group at a local restaurant for a farewell dinner.
Snake River Float
From $175 per person
Transfer to the airport for your flight home or extend your trip and cross another incredible national park off your list. Get in the cowboy spirit with a stop at the Grant-Kohrs Ranch, then spend a full day exploring Glacier National Park’s pristine alpine lakes and gnarled peaks with your Tour Director leading the way.
Say goodbye to Jackson, crossing the Rocky Mountains and plains of the American West en route to Missoula, Montana’s second-most-populous city. Take in the meandering rivers and stretches of unspoiled vistas that unfurl all around you.
- Pause to delve into the legacy of the American frontier at the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site. You’ll find meticulously preserved ranch buildings, cowboy dormitories, chuckwagons, and smithies that belonged to the early pioneers who shaped the Western frontier.
- Learn about the saga of the cattle ranching industry, which played a pivotal role in shaping the economy and culture of the American West.
- Join a park ranger for a tour of the ranch and listen as they regale you with tales of the open range, herding cattle, and tending to the land against the unforgiving backdrop of the Old West.
Please note: The stop at the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site is time-permitting.
Learn about the area’s culture as you make your way to the Glacier National Park Region today. The park’s lands are part of the history and heritage of the Blackfeet, Salish, Pend d’Oreille, and Kootenai tribes; you’ll learn how its stories span centuries of Native American traditions, military history, and resilience
- Begin your exploration at the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula, discovering its history as a military outpost in the late 19th century. Learn about its transformation into an internment camp during World War II, where Japanese and Italian Americans were detained.
- Travel through the Flathead Indian Reservation, home to the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes (CSKT), whose ancestral connections to the land stretch back millennia. You’ll pass the CSKT Bison Range, where herds of the majestic, woolly beasts freely roam the rolling hills. You can witness these creatures in their natural habitat thanks to conservation efforts: In 2022, the area was officially restored to the CSKT, whose award-winning natural resource managers continue working as stewards of the habitat.
Arrive in the Glacier National Park Region and enjoy a free evening. You’ll want to unwind and rest before tomorrow’s unforgettable trek through the west side of the park.
Travel along Going-to-the-Sun Road, a national landmark considered one of the world’s most scenic drives. As you traverse the route, prepare to be awed by a symphony of natural wonders. Then, you’ll board smaller vans and ford the high alpine region of the park. The road itself is a feat of engineering. Built between 1921 and 1932, it winds through steep cliffs and narrow ledges and cuts through the Continental Divide at an elevation of 6,600 feet.
(Please note: Activities in Glacier National Park may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.)
- Marvel at mountain ranges dotted with wildflowers and crashing waterfalls as you wind your way through Glacier National Park, half of the UNESCO-listed Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. Lose yourself in this soul-stirring expanse of cedar forests and rocky cliffs and ponder tranquil lakes reflecting the surrounding peaks.
- Bear witness to the poignant spectacle of melting glaciers, silent sentinels of the changing climate and our planet’s fragile balance.
This evening, enjoy a farewell drink as you celebrate your trip with your fellow group members.
Please note: Due to seasonality concerns, the drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road will be replaced with a Lake McDonald cruise on our May and September departures.
Transfer to Kalispell for your flight home.
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Reviews
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5 out of 5 stars
This tour was very good for us, as we saw national parks and geography of the Western states we had never seen before. The weather was very good for this, and we enjoyed our travel companions company. The views afforded us were awesome, as, for example, the views of the Grand Canyon and the Grand Te...
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Hotels, flights & FAQ
Here's the nitty-gritty—where you’ll stay, how you’ll get there, and what to know about your destination before you go.Hotels
We handpick every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used hotels for this tour and we're confident you'll be satisfied.This traditional hotel is located outside the Agua Fria neighborhood. Guests enjoy a fitness center, pool, and business center. Nearby, you’ll find Me...
This newly renovated hotel is located outside Mesa Verde National Park. Guests enjoy traditional Western décor and delicious dining. Outside, you’ll b...
This cozy hotel is located in Monument Valley on the Navajo Reservation. Guests enjoy a fitness center, pool, and laundry service. Nearby, you’ll find...
This comfortable hotel is located just 15 minutes from the Grand Canyon National Park entrance. Guests enjoy the indoor swimming pool, a full breakfas...
This rustic, lodge-style hotel is located in Springdale, Utah next to Zion National Park. Guests enjoy a fitness center, pool, and laundry facilities....
This new hotel is located in the heart of Salt Lake City. Guests enjoy the indoor pool, fitness center, and spa. Nearby you’ll find the Pioneer Memori...
This western hotel is located in the Historic neighborhood. Guests enjoy a fitness room, a free ski shuttle, and a picnic area. Nearby, you’ll find Gr...
This comfortable hotel is located in Kalispell outside of Glacier National Park. Guests enjoy the indoor pool, sun deck, and fitness center. Nearby yo...
This contemporary hotel is located just minutes from downtown Missoula. Guests enjoy an indoor swimming pool and whirlpool, fitness center, and on-sit...
Flights
- Round-trip flight for your tour
- Airport transfers at your destination
- A great price locked in today
- 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
- Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
- Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
- Find out more about flights
FAQ
Print FAQ- U.S. citizens need valid government-issued identification for air travel within the United States. If you plan to use a state-issued ID or driver's license on or after May 7, 2025, it will need to meet Real ID requirements. Real ID compliant versions of these IDs will have either a yellow or black star, white star inside a yellow or black circle, or a white star inside a bear in the top righthand corner. Please visit dhs.gov for more information.
- In order to enter the United States, Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
- If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
- You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code NPT.
- You will walk for at least 2 hours daily across mostly flat terrain, including paved trails and dirt paths, with some hills. Some activities will take place at high altitudes.
- Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance. Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.
- You should feel comfortable managing your own baggage at times.
- Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special, individual mobility assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group as a whole enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing, individualized assistance to any one traveler.
- If you have any mobility concerns or physical restrictions, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
- Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Albuquerque, New Mexico and depart from Jackson, Wyoming (or Kalispell, Montana on the tour extension). A representative from Go Ahead Tours will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel. Please remain in the arrival lounge, as the representative might be escorting one of your fellow travelers to the bus at the time of your arrival.
- Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost.
- All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
- Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which may include train connections or flights.
- Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights, which may include on-tour flights in addition to your round-trip flights to and from tour. Please note that your included on-tour flights may have more restrictive baggage limits.
- Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage or exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
- Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
- We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
- A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
- You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
- Be sure to check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and personal travel requirements, or visit the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at cdc.gov.
- Please be aware that you will be traveling to altitudes as high as 6,000 feet above sea level. These high altitudes can sometimes cause breathing difficulties for travelers who have heart problems or respiratory ailments. If you suffer from any of these conditions, please speak to your doctor regarding any potential health risks.
- During the summer months, take proper care with sun exposure and heat.
- If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
- If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please call our Customer Experience Team.
- You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code NPT.
- The cuisine of the American southwest combines influences from Spanish colonial settlers, Mexican staples, and Native American tradition. Expect dishes spiced with chile peppers, like enchiladas, tacos, and chili con carne.
- The western region of the United States is known for barbecue, especially in the plains and mountain states of Wyoming and Colorado where the cowboy tradition lives on. Try a bison burger or a steak for a true local dining experience.
- All of North America operates on 110-120 volts and uses Type A or B plugs with two flat pins or two flat pins and one round pin, respectively.
- The majority of the hotels on this tour will have air conditioning.
- Some of the hotels on this tour will provide hairdryers, irons, and other small appliances, but these amenities cannot be guaranteed for hotels in more remote locations.
- New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona, Utah, and Wyoming (plus Montana on the tour extension) are on Mountain Time (MT), which is two hours behind Eastern Time (ET). Please note that Arizona does not observe daylight saving time and is on Pacific Time (PT) from March through October.
- When it’s noon in New York City, it’s 10am on tour.
- You will use the U.S. dollar on this tour.
- We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
- You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
- Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your purchases for fraudulent charges.
- Many banks and businesses now primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
- At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in USD.
- We recommend tipping $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and $3USD per person per day for your driver.
- If applicable, we also recommend $2USD per local guide.
- Tips can only be paid in cash.
- Most optional excursions will be available for purchase while you are on your tour.
- Your Tour Director will only accept cash (in USD only), Visa, or MasterCard as payment for excursions.
- Please be advised that if you pay for an excursion by credit card while on tour, it may take up to three months for your card to be charged.
- Some optional excursions may only be purchased in advance. See page four of your tour itinerary for more information.
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