Trek America: Canyons & National Parks
Visit five breath-taking national parks in the US
A medley of human-made and natural wonders are on full display on this popular tour of western USA. Yosemite Valley and the Grand Canyon are rivalled only by the power and beauty of the Navajo’s sacred Monument Valley. Hike under the largest sandstone cliffs in the world at Zion Canyon, observe strange landscapes in Death Valley, and gaze upon the ever-changing colours of Bryce Canyon. There’s adventure around every corner in the most geographically diverse region of the United States.
From 1 January 2026, this adventure is only available as a private departure. Contact us to find out more.
- Hiking and Trekking
- National Parks and Preserves
We aim to secure locally owned accommodation that is well located, offers good value for money, and plenty of comfort. To help you find your ideal adventure, each trip is given a Comfort Level rating, which indicates the overall standard of accommodation. For more on our ratings, see our Comfort Level guidelines.
Tailor your trip: Extend your adventure by securing extra hotel nights before or after the main itinerary. Speak to your sales representative to book.
Private rooms: Like most tour operators, we room solo passengers together. If you’d prefer to have a private room, it’s normally possible to do this for a supplement. Speak to your sales representative to book.
On this tour, we usually eat in local restaurants. To help you budget for these meals, average costs are:
Hotel breakfasts: US$15-US$25
Lunches: US$15-US$30
Dinners: US$20-US$40, not including alcoholic beverages
Drinks cost on average:
Wine: US$10-US$15 per glass
Beer: US$6-US$9 per bottle
A tip of approximately 17%-20% is added to group meals in North American restaurants. Applicable taxes will also be added to all listed menu prices.
Your tour leader may offer your group the option to operate a ‘lunch only’ food kitty; this has proven a popular alternative to three daily restaurant meals. Leaders will explain this option while on your tour, and the whole group will have to agree for this system to run.
Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for on this adventure – please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests so our local team can be well prepared. We do all we can to accommodate other dietary requirements but in certain parts of North America certain food types can be limited.
Besides your essential clothing, you should take:
— Small daypack
— Waterproof jacket
— Warm sweater/fleece
— Casual ‘evening out’ clothes
— Hiking shoes/boots
— Thick walking socks
— Blister packs and plasters (band-aids)
— Hiking poles
— Comfortable day shoes
— Sandals or flip-flops
— Warm hat/gloves
— Swimwear
— Sun hat/sunglasses
— Camera/binoculars
— SD memory card/spare camera batteries
— Small torch (flashlight)/head torch (headlamp)
— Sunscreen
— Insect repellent (20 percent DEET)
— Travel power adaptor
— Toiletries/personal medicine
Help reduce plastic waste
— Reusable water bottle (to reduce single-use plastic bottles we have water for refills in our vehicle)
— Reusable travel cutlery with case (to reduce single-use plastic cutlery at hotels and on the go)
— Reusable lunch box (to avoid the use of ziplock bags)
Please note, airlines have various rules on what can be carried in your luggage – if in doubt check with your airline before travelling.
Footwear
We recommend walking shoes/boots, as comfortable shoes with good ankle support will make all walking more enjoyable. If you do not own a pair, then sports trainers (sneakers) will suffice, although this is a personal choice. If you intend to do some walking, it is recommended to bring thick walking socks for comfort.
Washing clothes
You have the opportunity to wash clothes on tour, and this can often be done at the campsite or in town. Ask your tour leader for local information.
Luggage allowance
One suitcase, soft holdall or rucksack (50lb/23kg maximum) per person. A small daypack and camera can also be carried in the van. Before you travel, please check the baggage allowance with the airline you’re flying with as this may be less than 50lb (23kg). We are unable to offer luggage storage facilities; however, some of our pre- and post-tour hotels will provide this service although there may be a charge. Please contact the hotels directly for further information.
The maximum group size is 13. Passengers come from across the world (average of four nationalities per group) and many will be solo travellers. You will find you have many things in common, including a passion for discovery and a strong interest in exploring the national parks.
Our tours are a unique experience and much of your enjoyment will come from the team spirit of your group and the fun you’ll have together, as well as from the setting. We cannot stress strongly enough the importance of bringing a positive attitude with you; a guarantee to enjoying each moment, even in the adversity of the odd rainstorm.
— Enjoy a Navajo tour in Monument Valley
— Marvel at the Grand Canyon
— Take the Narrows slot canyon walk
Start hotel: Stanford Court San Francisco, 905 California Street, Nob Hill, San Francisco, CA 94108
Phone: +1 415-989-3500
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. The welcome briefing usually takes place in the morning of Day 2
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 25 minutes' drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves.
Make your own way
You are free to arrive any time on Day 1. Due to the late arrival time of the group flight from London, UK, it is likely that the welcome meeting will take place on the morning of Day 2. Details on the time and specific location of your meeting will be available by midday on Day 1. During the welcome meeting, you will meet your tour guide and fellow travellers and spend a few minutes filling out necessary paperwork, so please bring your insurance documents, passport and tour documentation to the meeting.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Arrival complications
Sometimes the unexpected can happen; your plane may be delayed or you may even miss it. If you have missed your tour departure, first call the hotel to see if your tour leader has left you a message. If not, call the relevant emergency number and speak to our staff who will be happy to help you catch up with the group. Please note that you are responsible for any extra travelling expenses incurred due to missing your tour’s departure.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Las Vegas International Airport for customers who Exodus have booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. If you have booked your own flights, you may still join this transfer at no extra cost – please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
— Single accommodation (available on request)
— Visas or vaccinations
Besides your essential clothing, you should take:
— Small daypack
— Waterproof jacket
— Warm sweater/fleece
— Casual ‘evening out’ clothes
— Hiking shoes/boots
— Thick walking socks
— Blister packs and plasters (band-aids)
— Hiking poles
— Comfortable day shoes
— Sandals or flip-flops
— Warm hat/gloves
— Swimwear
— Sun hat/sunglasses
— Camera/binoculars
— SD memory card/spare camera batteries
— Small torch (flashlight)/head torch (headlamp)
— Sunscreen
— Insect repellent (20 percent DEET)
— Travel power adaptor
— Toiletries/personal medicine
Help reduce plastic waste
— Reusable water bottle (to reduce single-use plastic bottles we have water for refills in our vehicle)
— Reusable travel cutlery with case (to reduce single-use plastic cutlery at hotels and on the go)
— Reusable lunch box (to avoid the use of ziplock bags)
Please note, airlines have various rules on what can be carried in your luggage – if in doubt check with your airline before travelling.
Footwear
We recommend walking shoes/boots, as comfortable shoes with good ankle support will make all walking more enjoyable. If you do not own a pair, then sports trainers (sneakers) will suffice, although this is a personal choice. If you intend to do some walking, it is recommended to bring thick walking socks for comfort.
Washing clothes
You have the opportunity to wash clothes on tour, and this can often be done at the campsite or in town. Ask your tour leader for local information.
Luggage allowance
One suitcase, soft holdall or rucksack (50lb/23kg maximum) per person. A small daypack and camera can also be carried in the van. Before you travel, please check the baggage allowance with the airline you’re flying with as this may be less than 50lb (23kg). We are unable to offer luggage storage facilities; however, some of our pre- and post-tour hotels will provide this service although there may be a charge. Please contact the hotels directly for further information.
— Variety of day walks to suit all abilities
— Travel by private minibus
— Group normally 4 to 13, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
A 15%-20% tip is standard in restaurants and you should also expect to tip US$1 per drink in bars, US$1-US$2 per bag for porters, US$2-US$3 for hotel housekeeping as well as 10% for taxi drivers. It’s also typical to tip around 10% for local guides who provide optional activities.
Your tour leader will work long and hard for you during your tour and we recommend a discretionary tip of US$12-$15 per passenger per day if your leader’s performance meets or exceeds your expectations.
There are opportunities for optional activities during your tour. Your tour leader will organise these on your behalf and you pay locally in cash. Walks, hikes and activities cater to everyone from beginner to expert, ranging from easy to strenuous. You’ll find the main optional activities listed under each itinerary day description, along with guideline prices. It may not be possible to do all optional activities listed on each tour.
The spectacular American West is home to an exciting mix of cultural and natural highlights. Experience them all on this active tour. Discover Yosemite, Zion, Bryce Canyon and Grand Canyon national parks and finish the tour in fabulous Las Vegas. This trip is suitable for those looking to experience national parks and American culture with a balance of outdoor discovery and comfortable accommodation.
Although each tour follows an itinerary, there is a certain amount of flexibility and your tour leader may suggest changes from time to time. This may be due to road conditions, weather or a visit to a special attraction/event that happens to be in progress. Flexibility is key and often a side diversion will be a tour highlight. Hikes and optional activities cannot be guaranteed and may vary depending on ability, group interest, weather and time of year.
Angels Landing hike in Zion National Park
During the itinerary, we have time in Zion National Park, where one of the more strenuous and popular hikes is Angels Landing. In response to concerns about congestion on the trail, the National Park Service announced that everyone who hikes Angels Landing needs a permit. Permits cannot be booked by a tour operator, so all guests who wish to attempt this hike are responsible for applying.
Permits are released via a lottery system; unfortunately, there is no guarantee of securing a permit.
The lottery system comes in two forms:
Seasonal Lottery: You can apply for a permit one to three months before your trekking date
Day-Before Lottery: You can apply for a permit the day before your planned hike
Zion is renowned for hiking and there are many excellent trails with wonderful views, such as the Watchman’s trail or the Narrows. Our group discovers these alternative trails. Anyone who is successful in securing their permit can hike Angels Landing while the group completes an alternative trail. For more on Angels Landing permits, such as application dates and prices, visit the National Park Service page here.
June to August: In summer, Yosemite, Bryce and the Grand Canyon have pleasant temperatures ideal for hiking whereas some of the deserts might experience hotter temperatures. On warmer days, the leader will opt for early morning and late afternoon walks, leaving time for a mid-day rest. The hottest time of day in the deserts is 3pm. Most nights will be mild to warm. Prepare for afternoon thunderstorms.
September to November: Expert perfect hiking days in the deserts and cooler days at higher elevations.
Please note: Death Valley can experience extremely high temperatures, particularly from May to September. Your tour leader is experienced in dealing with this, and will adjust the itinerary accordingly.
We aim to secure locally owned accommodation that is well located, offers good value for money, and plenty of comfort. To help you find your ideal adventure, each trip is given a Comfort Level rating, which indicates the overall standard of accommodation. For more on our ratings, see our Comfort Level guidelines.
Tailor your trip: Extend your adventure by securing extra hotel nights before or after the main itinerary. Speak to your sales representative to book.
Private rooms: Like most tour operators, we room solo passengers together. If you’d prefer to have a private room, it’s normally possible to do this for a supplement. Speak to your sales representative to book.
On this tour, we usually eat in local restaurants. To help you budget for these meals, average costs are:
Hotel breakfasts: US$15-US$25
Lunches: US$15-US$30
Dinners: US$20-US$40, not including alcoholic beverages
Drinks cost on average:
Wine: US$10-US$15 per glass
Beer: US$6-US$9 per bottle
A tip of approximately 17%-20% is added to group meals in North American restaurants. Applicable taxes will also be added to all listed menu prices.
Your tour leader may offer your group the option to operate a ‘lunch only’ food kitty; this has proven a popular alternative to three daily restaurant meals. Leaders will explain this option while on your tour, and the whole group will have to agree for this system to run.
Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for on this adventure – please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests so our local team can be well prepared. We do all we can to accommodate other dietary requirements but in certain parts of North America certain food types can be limited.
Besides your essential clothing, you should take:
— Small daypack
— Waterproof jacket
— Warm sweater/fleece
— Casual ‘evening out’ clothes
— Hiking shoes/boots
— Thick walking socks
— Blister packs and plasters (band-aids)
— Hiking poles
— Comfortable day shoes
— Sandals or flip-flops
— Warm hat/gloves
— Swimwear
— Sun hat/sunglasses
— Camera/binoculars
— SD memory card/spare camera batteries
— Small torch (flashlight)/head torch (headlamp)
— Sunscreen
— Insect repellent (20 percent DEET)
— Travel power adaptor
— Toiletries/personal medicine
Help reduce plastic waste
— Reusable water bottle (to reduce single-use plastic bottles we have water for refills in our vehicle)
— Reusable travel cutlery with case (to reduce single-use plastic cutlery at hotels and on the go)
— Reusable lunch box (to avoid the use of ziplock bags)
Please note, airlines have various rules on what can be carried in your luggage – if in doubt check with your airline before travelling.
Footwear
We recommend walking shoes/boots, as comfortable shoes with good ankle support will make all walking more enjoyable. If you do not own a pair, then sports trainers (sneakers) will suffice, although this is a personal choice. If you intend to do some walking, it is recommended to bring thick walking socks for comfort.
Washing clothes
You have the opportunity to wash clothes on tour, and this can often be done at the campsite or in town. Ask your tour leader for local information.
Luggage allowance
One suitcase, soft holdall or rucksack (50lb/23kg maximum) per person. A small daypack and camera can also be carried in the van. Before you travel, please check the baggage allowance with the airline you’re flying with as this may be less than 50lb (23kg). We are unable to offer luggage storage facilities; however, some of our pre- and post-tour hotels will provide this service although there may be a charge. Please contact the hotels directly for further information.
The maximum group size is 13. Passengers come from across the world (average of four nationalities per group) and many will be solo travellers. You will find you have many things in common, including a passion for discovery and a strong interest in exploring the national parks.
Our tours are a unique experience and much of your enjoyment will come from the team spirit of your group and the fun you’ll have together, as well as from the setting. We cannot stress strongly enough the importance of bringing a positive attitude with you; a guarantee to enjoying each moment, even in the adversity of the odd rainstorm.
— Enjoy a Navajo tour in Monument Valley
— Marvel at the Grand Canyon
— Take the Narrows slot canyon walk
Start hotel: Stanford Court San Francisco, 905 California Street, Nob Hill, San Francisco, CA 94108
Phone: +1 415-989-3500
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. The welcome briefing usually takes place in the morning of Day 2
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 25 minutes' drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves.
Make your own way
You are free to arrive any time on Day 1. Due to the late arrival time of the group flight from London, UK, it is likely that the welcome meeting will take place on the morning of Day 2. Details on the time and specific location of your meeting will be available by midday on Day 1. During the welcome meeting, you will meet your tour guide and fellow travellers and spend a few minutes filling out necessary paperwork, so please bring your insurance documents, passport and tour documentation to the meeting.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Arrival complications
Sometimes the unexpected can happen; your plane may be delayed or you may even miss it. If you have missed your tour departure, first call the hotel to see if your tour leader has left you a message. If not, call the relevant emergency number and speak to our staff who will be happy to help you catch up with the group. Please note that you are responsible for any extra travelling expenses incurred due to missing your tour’s departure.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Las Vegas International Airport for customers who Exodus have booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. If you have booked your own flights, you may still join this transfer at no extra cost – please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
— Single accommodation (available on request)
— Visas or vaccinations
Besides your essential clothing, you should take:
— Small daypack
— Waterproof jacket
— Warm sweater/fleece
— Casual ‘evening out’ clothes
— Hiking shoes/boots
— Thick walking socks
— Blister packs and plasters (band-aids)
— Hiking poles
— Comfortable day shoes
— Sandals or flip-flops
— Warm hat/gloves
— Swimwear
— Sun hat/sunglasses
— Camera/binoculars
— SD memory card/spare camera batteries
— Small torch (flashlight)/head torch (headlamp)
— Sunscreen
— Insect repellent (20 percent DEET)
— Travel power adaptor
— Toiletries/personal medicine
Help reduce plastic waste
— Reusable water bottle (to reduce single-use plastic bottles we have water for refills in our vehicle)
— Reusable travel cutlery with case (to reduce single-use plastic cutlery at hotels and on the go)
— Reusable lunch box (to avoid the use of ziplock bags)
Please note, airlines have various rules on what can be carried in your luggage – if in doubt check with your airline before travelling.
Footwear
We recommend walking shoes/boots, as comfortable shoes with good ankle support will make all walking more enjoyable. If you do not own a pair, then sports trainers (sneakers) will suffice, although this is a personal choice. If you intend to do some walking, it is recommended to bring thick walking socks for comfort.
Washing clothes
You have the opportunity to wash clothes on tour, and this can often be done at the campsite or in town. Ask your tour leader for local information.
Luggage allowance
One suitcase, soft holdall or rucksack (50lb/23kg maximum) per person. A small daypack and camera can also be carried in the van. Before you travel, please check the baggage allowance with the airline you’re flying with as this may be less than 50lb (23kg). We are unable to offer luggage storage facilities; however, some of our pre- and post-tour hotels will provide this service although there may be a charge. Please contact the hotels directly for further information.
— Variety of day walks to suit all abilities
— Travel by private minibus
— Group normally 4 to 13, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
A 15%-20% tip is standard in restaurants and you should also expect to tip US$1 per drink in bars, US$1-US$2 per bag for porters, US$2-US$3 for hotel housekeeping as well as 10% for taxi drivers. It’s also typical to tip around 10% for local guides who provide optional activities.
Your tour leader will work long and hard for you during your tour and we recommend a discretionary tip of US$12-$15 per passenger per day if your leader’s performance meets or exceeds your expectations.
There are opportunities for optional activities during your tour. Your tour leader will organise these on your behalf and you pay locally in cash. Walks, hikes and activities cater to everyone from beginner to expert, ranging from easy to strenuous. You’ll find the main optional activities listed under each itinerary day description, along with guideline prices. It may not be possible to do all optional activities listed on each tour.
The spectacular American West is home to an exciting mix of cultural and natural highlights. Experience them all on this active tour. Discover Yosemite, Zion, Bryce Canyon and Grand Canyon national parks and finish the tour in fabulous Las Vegas. This trip is suitable for those looking to experience national parks and American culture with a balance of outdoor discovery and comfortable accommodation.
Although each tour follows an itinerary, there is a certain amount of flexibility and your tour leader may suggest changes from time to time. This may be due to road conditions, weather or a visit to a special attraction/event that happens to be in progress. Flexibility is key and often a side diversion will be a tour highlight. Hikes and optional activities cannot be guaranteed and may vary depending on ability, group interest, weather and time of year.
Angels Landing hike in Zion National Park
During the itinerary, we have time in Zion National Park, where one of the more strenuous and popular hikes is Angels Landing. In response to concerns about congestion on the trail, the National Park Service announced that everyone who hikes Angels Landing needs a permit. Permits cannot be booked by a tour operator, so all guests who wish to attempt this hike are responsible for applying.
Permits are released via a lottery system; unfortunately, there is no guarantee of securing a permit.
The lottery system comes in two forms:
Seasonal Lottery: You can apply for a permit one to three months before your trekking date
Day-Before Lottery: You can apply for a permit the day before your planned hike
Zion is renowned for hiking and there are many excellent trails with wonderful views, such as the Watchman’s trail or the Narrows. Our group discovers these alternative trails. Anyone who is successful in securing their permit can hike Angels Landing while the group completes an alternative trail. For more on Angels Landing permits, such as application dates and prices, visit the National Park Service page here.
June to August: In summer, Yosemite, Bryce and the Grand Canyon have pleasant temperatures ideal for hiking whereas some of the deserts might experience hotter temperatures. On warmer days, the leader will opt for early morning and late afternoon walks, leaving time for a mid-day rest. The hottest time of day in the deserts is 3pm. Most nights will be mild to warm. Prepare for afternoon thunderstorms.
September to November: Expert perfect hiking days in the deserts and cooler days at higher elevations.
Please note: Death Valley can experience extremely high temperatures, particularly from May to September. Your tour leader is experienced in dealing with this, and will adjust the itinerary accordingly.
About Exodus Adventure Travels

It’s More Extraordinary with Exodus
We believe that travel is more than just ticking off destinations from a list. It’s about immersing yourself in the heart of each place, going beyond the surface to truly discover a destination. With over 50 years of experience under our belts, our incredible adventures span all seven continents and allow you to delve deeper—exploring not just the iconic sights but also the hidden corners known only to the locals, where no other tours go.
It’s all about adventure
That is what Exodus was founded upon over 45 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on.
At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved.
This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday.
Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments.
About Exodus Adventure Travels

It’s More Extraordinary with Exodus
We believe that travel is more than just ticking off destinations from a list. It’s about immersing yourself in the heart of each place, going beyond the surface to truly discover a destination. With over 50 years of experience under our belts, our incredible adventures span all seven continents and allow you to delve deeper—exploring not just the iconic sights but also the hidden corners known only to the locals, where no other tours go.
It’s all about adventure
That is what Exodus was founded upon over 45 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on.
At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved.
This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday.
Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments.