Day 01: San Francisco to Sonoma via Muir Woods
Welcome to San Fran! We’ll meet and greet today in the Golden City before heading somewhere a little more tranquil…Is there a more majestic sight in nature than a redwood tree? These giant natural cathedrals – which can be up to 3,000 years old – take the breath away up close. We’ll journey into Muir Woods to picnic in their towering shadows, before heading into wine country.Up for a tipple? Sonoma is a world-class wine-growing region, so touring a winery and taking a tasting is a no brainer. After comparing drops it’s time to head to our sweet digs for the night, The Sandman, with its heated pool surrounded by a fence of redwoods. Impressed? You should see what’s in store tomorrow.

Day 02: Sonoma to Bass Lake
Rise and shine – we’re headed out of wine country and into what can only be described as a mountain paradise.This afternoon youll become enamored with the tranquility of Bass Lake. You could opt to stand up paddleboard or kayak on the sparkling waters. Later on, kick back and enjoy the view from the chalet deck – it is nothing short of spectacular. Take a dip in the pool, warm up in the jacuzzi and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

Day 03: Bass Lake via Yosemite
Thought the scenery couldn’t get any more spectacular? Think again.We’re headed to the most iconic National Park in the world: Yosemite. Here, amongst the towering sequoias, cascading waterfalls and winding trails we’ll fall in love over and over again. Hike, bike or invest in some shinrin-yoku time (forest bathing), before heading to the iconic Yosemite Falls. Mother nature has never looked so good, and our eyes have never been wider.

Day 04: Bass Lake to Palm Springs
Full drive day with the idyllic Palm Springs as your reward. Travel through the San Joaquin Valley, the source of a large amount of the agriculture for the world’s 7th largest economy – the state of California.

Day 05: Palm Springs
Let the Coachella festivities begin! (tickets not included) Even if you’re not going to go to the festival, Palm Springs itself is one big party during the month of April. Spend the next few days hopping between pool parties, strolling the streets of downtown Palm Springs and shopping up a storm.

Day 06: Palm Springs
Today is all yours, soak up the sun and festival vibes poolside at The Palm Mountain Resort, head out to explore the Palm Springs. Or if you’ve got yourself tickets – shuttle into the desert for the main event: Coachella. You will need to get your own tickets to Coachella as they are not included.

Day 07: Palm Springs
Rinse and repeat; it’s another day in paradise. Try another hotel pool party, head out to Coachella (tickets not included), or kick back and soak up the all American rays.

Day 08: Palm Springs
After a late check out and a much needed and well-deserved brunch, we’ll head into Santa Monica, where your trip ends on arrival.

Day 01: Arrive Los Angeles
Arrive Los Angeles, meet assist at airport & transfer to hotel.
Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Los Angeles
The day is yours to explore the City of Angels. Opt to visit Universal Studios or Disneyland or check out LA Live entertainment venue. The shopping goes off, so look for deals in the garment district. Visit the Grammy Museum and for the foodies among us there’s a downtown LA food tour to taste all of the wonders of the multicultural food Mecca.

Day 03: Los Angeles to Las Vegas
We’ll kick things off today in the famed City of Angels, where we’ll set off through the Mojave Desert, marvelling at the majestic Joshua Trees, before reaching the one and only Las Vegas.On arrival we’ll cruise the iconic strip & check out the Vegas sign. Tonight, choose to hang out around Fremont Street or opt for a VIP nightclub experience for the kind of glitzy night out that only Vegas can provide.

Day 04: Las Vegas
You have today all to yourself but youll need to run to a tight schedule to fit in all of Vegas’ weird and wonderful charms. Travel the world in a day, taking in the famous Bellagio fountain, a Venetian gondola and even an Egyptian pyramid, all whilst staying firmly within the city. Feeling romantic? Stop by and see one of the many Elvis impersonators for a shotgun wedding ceremony, and maybe even get hitched yourself… (joking). Tonight live like a baller while you cruise along the ‘Strip’ in a party bus and don’t stress, the bill is on us. Later, youll witness the 24-hour party scene first hand when you head out for a night with the crew.

Day 05: Las Vegas to Grand Canyon
Today we are on the move through the desert of Nevada, heading into Arizonas high country. You will have some down time on the coach, so kick-back, relax, and take in the surroundings as you watch the big ol’ US of A fly by.Following the legendary Route 66, we stop off for a souvenir hunt in the old historical town of Seligman. Youll be transported back to the 1940s while you stroll past the original facades of shops and motels.Prepare to have your mind blown as we continue on to the unforgettable landscape of the Grand Canyon. This location is one of the worlds most recognizable natural wonders and the pride of Arizona. We’ll settle in for the night at our comfy Lodge in the heart of the National Park. Take a step outside and marvel at the endless starry skies. Tomorrow promises to be a day to remember.

Day 06: Grand Canyon
You will be contemplating life, existence, and the immense size of the Grand Canyon with a free day to spend in Grand Canyon National Park. You can spend your day feeling a part of the wilderness as you go hiking through the exposed rock,but by far the most spine tingling experience at this natural wonder is one of our optional chopper rides through the UNESCO World Heritage site. Indulgent sure, but one of those life moments you deserve to treat yourself to. Tonight settle in to watch the sunset on the rim – the epitome of a #NOREGRETS moment for you and the squad.

Day 07: Grand Canyon to Durango via Monument Valley
It is undoubtedly difficult to leave the Grand Canyon, but it is time to enter the Wild, Wild West! Onwards to Monument Valley! But first, one last stop for photos at the red rockin’ canyon before it’s time to hit the road.An iconic desert backdrop that has been home to countless movie sets, Monument Valley serves up mesas and stone spires as far as the eye can see. You’ll recreate the world famous running scene from Forrest Gump, because Life is Like Box of Chocolates! You’ll get to know the Native American history of the area as you learn about the Navajo way of life in the largest reservation in the United States. Later, we will head through a narrow gorge to the striped walls of the Painted Desert where you’ll even see a rock shaped like a sombrero – hola!Next it’s on to Colorados adventure capital, our home for the night. Set amidst a mountainous backdrop, Durango is a cute old mining town where the terrain is rugged, the trees are abundant and quaint gets a whole new meaning. This college town has young blood running through it’s veins, so a great place to head out and explore when the sun goes down.

Day 08: Durango to Santa Fe
The great outdoors is a way of life in Durango with adrenaline pumping river rafting on offer to you and your fellow thrill seekers. This afternoon its a total change of scenery when we enter New Mexico, where sun-baked earthen brick buildings stand out against the bright blue sky.Boasting influences from Mexico, Spain, and Native American cultures, historic Santa Fe is a true melting pot of culture. Take a walk around town to see interesting styles of architecture, shop for beautiful turquoise jewellery in the market and sample all of the different types of regional food on offer.

Day 09: Santa Fe to Amarillo
Rise and shine! Does anyone know the way to Amarillo? We’re headed to this larger than life city this morning.In true Americana Style, we’ll visit Cadillac Ranch, a unique art exhibit celebrating the golden age of Cadillacs. Our accommodation tonight even has a Texas shaped pool and a hotel for your horse if you thought to bring it along. Tonight, try your hat at the “Big Texan Steak Challenge” for a true man vs food moment. Eternal glory awaits anyone who can finish this Texas sized meal in one hour or less.

Day 10: Amarillo to Dallas/Fort Worth
After sleeping off that gigantic Texan steak dinner it’s time to head somewhere BIG, because everything is bigger in Texas.Today we arrive in Fort Worth, ready to take on anything and everything Texan. Still hungry after last night’s feast? We’ve got you covered. Dive mouth first into an over-indulgent big BBQ feast of ribs, sausages, chicken and more – not for the faint hearted (veggies don’t worry, you won’t be going hungry). A night out with the locals will get you in the Texan spirit, before falling into a blissful sleep which will probably having you dreaming of BBQ.

Day 11: Dallas/Fort Worth
Dallas is home to Oil Tycoons, rich ranchers, a thriving tech industry, and of course the Dallas Cowboys, also known as ”America’s Team”.Feeling like an investigation? We include a visit to the 6th floor museum where you can learn more about the assassination of President John F Kennedy and try your hand at figuring out ‘whodunnit.’ Back in Fort Worth, enjoy lunch and sightseeing around Sundance Square, try a craft beer on the Ale Trail or pick up some genuine leather boots and hats at the world famous Justin’s Boots. You will be looking good tonight as we head to the Fort Worth Stockyards, home of the cowboy hall of fame and the world’s largest honkey tonk, Billy Bob.

Day 12: Depart Dallas/Fort Worth
Final departure transfer to airport for flight back to home.

Day 01: Arrive Las Vegas
Welcome to the USA! There are no planned activities until your welcome. Meeting at airport & transfer to hotel. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Sierra Nevada / Keough Hot Springs
Leave the bright lights of Vegas behind and drive into the Eastern Sierra Nevada toward the quaint town of Bishop. On arrival, check out the town or perhaps treat yourself to the crispy cookies or ‘bear claws’ at Erick Schat’s German bakery. Later this afternoon, join the group for a soothing soak in a natural hot spring – perfect for those wanting to relax before an action-packed few days in Yosemite. Tonight, you’ll camp under the stars in Bishop.

Day 03: Yosemite National Park
Prepare for some spectacular mountain scenery as you depart from Bishop and head west to Yosemite National Park. This morning, stop at crystal clear lakes – including Mono and Tenaya – before continuing through the Tioga Pass (snow levels permitting) into the heart of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Stop by Olmstead Point to marvel at Yosemite’s natural wonder, Half Dome, before arriving at one of the most famous parks in the USA. Yosemite’s colossal granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls (depending on the season) and redwood forests attract visitors from all over the world. You’ll spend three nights in the park, meaning you have two full days to explore. The total driving time today is approximately 5 hours.

Day 04: Yosemite National Park
Start today with an orientation tour of the village before heading out for a free day of exploration. There are plenty of hikes available, each varying in steepness and difficulty. Hike The Mist Trail to Nevada Falls (2–5 hours) or to the serene Mirror Lake (45 minutes). Keep an eye out for squirrels and perhaps even a bear along the way. You might prefer to hire a bike and explore Yosemite Valley, visiting the park’s museum, photo gallery, shops and restaurants along the way. In the heat of summer, a relaxing float down the Merced River followed by a few drinks at the park’s cafe is just the trick.

Day 05: Yosemite National Park
Today there’s a chance to explore a different side of the park as you join your leader on a guided hike to Hetch Hetchy Valley. Tucked away in the northwest corner of Yosemite, Hetch Hetchy is a wilderness of cascading waterfalls, towering cliff faces and beautiful wildflowers. Boasting one of the longest hiking seasons in the park, the ecologically diverse valley attracts a fraction of the visitors in comparison to other more well-known hiking spots in Yosemite – which means it’s an ideal area for those who have extra time to explore the park in depth.

Day 06: San Francisco
Leave Yosemite behind today and drive west to San Francisco (approximately 4 hours). The ‘City by the Bay’ has a beautiful setting and a vibrant, multicultural heart. You might like to check out the vintage stores along funky Haight Street, catch the tram down to the waterfront or take an Adventure Cat Bay Cruise. Overnight at hotel.

Day 07: Depart Francisco
Final departure transfer to airport for flight back to home.

Day 01: Las Vegas
Welcome to Las Vegas, Nevada. From a western outpost in the desert, Las Vegas is now a gambling and entertainment metropolis. It’s a city of larger-than-life characters, but beyond the glitz, Vegas is home to diverse urban neighbourhoods and a thriving arts scene. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting in the hotel lobby at 6 pm. As there’s a great deal to do in Las Vegas, we recommend you arrive a day or two early to make the most of this city. Try your luck on the casino floors, hit up Fremont Street, soak up the gaudiness of the strip or catch one of the many shows on offer.

Day 02: Zion National Park
Today, leave behind the neon and nightclubs behind, and travel to Zion National Park (approximately 3 hours). Warm up with a leader-led orientation or the park, and gentle walk to the lower end of the Emerald Pools, passing the sparkling waterfalls and streams along the way. Continue on a more difficult trail to the upper section, checking out another waterfall on the way to Zion’s ‘beach’. Enjoy some free time this afternoon to explore more of the park’s hiking trails. If you’re feeling ambitious, perhaps enjoy the park’s most famous challenge: Angels Landing. After a hike along the thin ridge of the cliffs, you’ll be rewarded with a sweeping panorama of the red desert. This isn’t for the faint-hearted as the trails do get quite narrow.

Day 03: Zion National Park
Enjoy some free time in Zion National Park. This is a great opportunity to tackle any trails you may not have yesterday. The Narrows is a good choice, as it is probably the most popular hike in the park, and one of the best slot canyon hikes on Earth. Trek through a gorge surrounded by cliff faces 300 metres high, and after a while, cool off in a river along the way. The Narrows hike can be tailored to suit various levels of skill and experience, so there’s a trek for everyone!

Day 04: Bryce Canyon
In the morning, drive to Bryce Canyon. Millions of years of wind and water erosion have formed the park’s distinctive hoodoos – uniquely shaped rock spires rising out of the desert. You will have heaps of time to explore the park’s selection of hikes, from the easy Rim Trail, to the moderate Queen’s Garden Trail or the strenuous Peek-a-boo Loop. Wherever you walk, you’ll encounter the canyon’s colourful landscapes.

Day 05: Monument Valley
Today you’ll make the 6-hour drive to the spectacular Monument Valley. There will be time to visit the cliffs, canyons and domes of the lesser-known but no less picturesque Capitol Reef National Park on the way. Take Scenic Byway 12 and stop off at Kiva Koffeehouse for lunch and views over the Escalante Grand Staircase National Monument in southern Utah. Pass by more scenic lookouts at Goosenecks State Park and Moki Dugway before hitting Monument Valley. Once arrived, explore the giant sandstone formations scattered across the desert as far as the eye can see. In the evening, travel by jeep through the valley with a Navajo guide. Join the locals for an authentic Navajo dinner around a campfire and settle in for an evening of traditional songs and stories.

Day 06: Grand Canyon National Park
In the morning, make the 3.5-hour drive to the Grand Canyon, one of the largest canyon systems in the world. Photos really don’t do this massive network of gorges, rivers and cliffs justice. This a real highlight of the trip, and you’ll be spending two nights here in order to take it all in. Perhaps start with a stroll along the South Rim Trail, which gives great views over the park. While you can’t hike to the Colorado River and back in one day, you can take a roughly 4-hour trail to Skeleton Point, which offers great views of the river. Ask the group leader for advice on which trails are right for you and your fitness level.

Day 07: Grand Canyon National Park
Today is as clear as an Arizona sky in summer. Explore at your own pace, but remember to always have a supply of water and high-energy snacks handy. Touch base with the group leader about optional activities available today – recommended is a helicopter flight over the gorges, providing a chance to see the entire park. If you’d rather get the bird’s eye view without leaving the ground, you can choose to watch a documentary on the canyon at the local IMAX theatre. Of course, there are myriad trails and treks to keep the active occupied. Bright Angel has wonderful views all along the trail and Ooh-Aah Point is a favourite shorter hike on the South Kaibab Trail, offering another viewpoint to the park. In the evening, sit back and enjoy the sunset behind the red peaks.

Day 08: Joshua Tree National Park
In the morning, take the drive to Joshua Tree National Park (approximately 7 hours). You’ll spend some time driving the famous Route 66 and have a quick stop by the eccentric community of Seligman. Sitting between the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, Joshua Tree is home to striking rock formations, many species of cacti and varied desert wildlife such as coyotes, lizards and bighorn sheep. Joshua Tree provides a considerable contrast to the wildlife and natural scenery you have seen recently.

Day 09: Los Angeles
There may be time to squeeze in a sunrise hike at Joshua Tree before making the approximately 3-hour journey to Los Angeles. Visit the Original Farmers Market for lunch before spending an afternoon at Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach for a bit of people watching. Then you’re free to discover LA at your own pace. Stroll Rodeo Drive, amp up the culture with a trip to the Getty Centre or take a tour around the Beverly Hills mansions. You will have no problem finding a spot for dinner this evening – the cultural mishmash of LA provides excellent food wherever you are.

Day 10: Los Angeles
There are no more activities planned today.  If you’re planning to stay in LA for a little while longer, why not take an Urban Adventure tour like Sips of Old Hollywood. Stroll along the Walk of Fame and soak up the atmosphere at iconic bars, lounges, speakeasies, and mobster hangouts.

Day 01: New York (Newark)
Welcome to the Big Apple. Your Lonely Planet Experience begins with a welcome meeting in the hotel lobby at 6 pm. New York is a huge metropolis and seeing as though you’ll start your adventure south tomorrow, we suggest that you arrive at least a couple of days early to experience some of what the city has to offer. If you do arrive with time to spare before the meeting, consider doing an Urban Adventures Midtown Sights & Bites Food Tour, which takes you past some iconic NYC landmarks and feeds you along the way.

Day 02: Washington DC
Drive south towards the nation’s capital of Washington DC, stopping at Philadelphia on the way for a look at some of the highlights of its Old City, including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Rocky steps. After taking a look around Philly, continue onto DC. The total travel time for the day is up to 7 hours, including stops. Once arrived, your group leader will take you on an orientation walk around Washington DC to help you decide the best way to experience the city tonight, and for your free day tomorrow.

Day 03: Washington DC
Today is free to explore Washington DC, a city best discovered on foot. Choose from any of DC’s almost 100 world-class museums – the National Air and Space Museum, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, and the Newseum are just a few. There are also many other small fascinating museums hidden around the city. The city is overflowing with historic buildings, so be sure not miss the White House, Capitol Building, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, MLK Monument, FDR and Jefferson Memorials. You’ll most likely do a lot of walking today, so wear your walking shoes, and reward yourself with a relaxing evening.

Day 04: Appalachian Mountains
Journey into the breathtaking Appalachian Mountains. Shenandoah National Park is one of the highest and most scenic portions of the Appalachians and you’ll see all its beauty when taking Skyline Drive along its crest. Weave through the woods and past spectacular lookouts and stop to stretch your legs under the impressive oak trees. Arrive at your campsite in the late afternoon. The total driving today will be around 8 hours, including stops.

Day 05: Nashville
Drive for approximately 6 hours further south to Nashville, Tennessee. Once settled into the hostel, the group leader will orientate you with a short walk around Broadway and Downtown. After this, perhaps visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, which contains the golden Cadillac that once belonged to the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis. Another point of interest is Music Row, where more than 50 recording studios and approximately 200 music publishing houses are located. The Wildhorse Saloon is a great spot in the evening to experience authentic southern food and live music.

Day 06: Memphis
Head west this morning to Memphis, which should take approximately 4 hours. Get to know Memphis over an included lunch at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken. The rest of your afternoon is free, but leader will make sure you know the way around before you head out. There’s a lot to do in Memphis and you’ve got some time to explore some optional activities at your own pace. Just out of the city you can visit Graceland: Elvis Presley’s former home and the site of his tomb. Here you can see the famous jungle room, as well as his cars, private planes and much more. For those with an interest in history, there’s the National Civil Rights Museum where Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated.

Day 07: Memphis
Wake up in Memphis and spend time exploring what you missed out on yesterday. Perhaps head to the Rock ‘n’ Soul Museum, which tells the complete Memphis music story. For something a bit unusual and out of place, take a visit to the Peabody hotel and experience their famous Duck Parade, which happens every day at 11 am and 5 pm. In the evening, consider heading down to check out Beale Street’s traditional blues clubs, made famous by legends such as W.C. Handy, Howlin’ Wolf and B.B. King.

Day 08: New Orleans
Today, make the long 8-hour drive across the state of Mississippi to find yourself in a city known as the Big Easy, New Orleans. If there’s time, your group might like the chance to stop by Honey Island for a swamp tour down one of the least-altered river swamps in the country. It’s pretty much in its original condition; almost an untouched wilderness. Otherwise, head straight to New Orleans and get acquainted with an orientation walk of the city. Perhaps take a walk down colourful Bourbon Street or through the former plantation area of the Garden District, and be sure to head with your group for an included po’boy dinner at Johnny’s. It’s a quintessential New Orleans experience, and Johnny’s po’boy is one of the best.

Day 09: New Orleans
Your Lonely Planet Experience comes to an end today after breakfast. If you want to stay on in New Orleans and explore further, speak to an Intrepid booking agent about securing more accommodation after your tour ends.