Win a 12-day Vietnam tour designed for 18-40s! ENTER NOW →

Best of the West Road Trip: California, Utah & Vegas Bright Lights - 13 Days

From £1,633£126 per daySave 1%

Trip Snapshot

Genders

  • Female60%
  • Male40%

Average age

24
18 Min35 Max

Start / End

  • Los Angeles
  • Los Angeles

Physical rating

3/5

Group size

1 - 13

Meals included

19

Highlights

  • Cruise through the dazzling neighbourhoods of LA
  • Sleep along the Pacific Coast in Avila
  • Stargaze in Yosemite National Park
  • Hike through the harsh landscapes of Death Valley
  • Witness the grandeur of Zion
  • Wander through the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon
  • Hike to view the impressive Horseshoe Bend
  • Stare in awe at the utter vastness of the Grand Canyon
  • Walk among the giant boulders in Joshua Tree
  • Travel along historic Route 66
  • Sit back and relax near the Santa Monica Pier
Recommended before you book

Download the full trip brochure

Everything you need to picture the adventure and pack with confidence — in one free PDF.

What's inside the PDF

  • Day-by-day itinerary
    Every day mapped out, covering activities, travel times, meals and where you'll stay.
  • Packing & kit list
    Exactly what to bring, from clothing and essentials to luggage guidelines and what's available to hire locally.
  • What's included
    Accommodation, transport, guides and meals, so you can see exactly what your price covers.
Free, instant PDF - no obligation

Summary

Want the the ultimate U.S. road trip? Coming right up. Spend 13 days seeing the best of the west as you travel through four states, six national parks, and along historic Route 66. Treat your eyes (and your soul) to stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Chill out with the laid-back beach vibes of Santa Monica. Look way, way, way up at the towering granite rocks in Yosemite. And explore the infamous Death Valley and the legendary Joshua Tree National Park. Just under two weeks is all you need for this quintessential U.S. adventure — ready to hit the open road?

Itinerary

  • Day 1

    Los Angeles/Santa Margarita

    Welcome to sunny Southern California! Your day starts early, taking in all the must-see sites of The City of Angels, before driving along the Pacific Coast Highway. On your morning tour of Los Angeles, you'll check-off all the places you've seen in the movies: Beverly Hills' Rodeo Drive, the famous Hollywood sign, and of course Sunset Boulevard. You'll leave the sprawling metropolis to drive up the coast, with a stop in Santa Barbara for lunch. Set up camp in Santa Margarita before zipping over to San Luis Obispo for dinner on your own.

  • Day 2

    Santa Margarita

    On the road again....okay, so technically its only Day 2, but we wanted to get you singing along. Explore the coast of California today on a drive up Highway 1 to San Simeon to watch the Elephant Seals sunbathe on the beach. Oh, to be an elephant seal lounging on the Cali beach all day, every day. Alas, you are not an elephant seal, so head just a bit further north to Ragged Point for an epic view and killer hike to the beach. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or renting a bike to find the perfect spot to watch a sunset over the Pacific. Life is your oyster.

  • Day 3

    Santa Margarita/Yosemite National Park

    We hate to drag you away from the beach, but it's time to strap on a bum bag and the sun cream, it's hiking time. Yosemite is waiting for you, so pack up camp after breakfast and hit the road. Road trip inland towards one of the most popular National Parks in the USA. Once you arrive in El Portal to set up camp, you'll get your first introduction to the park through Yosemite's Arch Rock entrance and along the Merced River.

  • Day 4

    Yosemite National Park

    Ready for more? Of course you are. Everywhere you look in Yosemite National Park is picture perfect. Snap shots of it's famous waterfalls and giant sequoia trees, and catch a glimpse of climbers scaling El Capitan. Explore its landscapes however you want, with several hikes to choose from: The Mist Trail, Yosemite Falls, or Nevada Falls just to name a few. What will you find as you explore the trails of one of the U.S.'s most famous parks? Want to cover more ground? Opt to rent a bike and cruise the valley floor.

  • Day 5

    Yosemite National Park/Bishop

    Another day, another epic adventure in the U S of A. Pack up your campsite in Yosemite and hit the road. Today you'll get glimpses of some of the most stunning natural views in the Southeastern US. The drive from Yosemite National Park to Bishop is full of insta-perfect shots. Today you'll drive across Yosemite, through El Portal to Tuolumne Grove, with a hike to see the famous giant Sequoia trees. After lunch, you'll hike the Lembert Dome Trail then travel over Tioga Pass landing in Bishop in the early evening to prep your camp site for a night under the stars.

  • Day 6

    Bishop/Las Vegas

    Get low before you roll high! Drive through the infamous Death Valley, the hottest, driest, and lowest park in North America, before making your way to Las Vegas for the evening. Death Valley is a bucket-list place to visit when you're in the Southeastern United States. Known for it's salt flats, colorful rocks, and high temps, you'll spend a morning seeing these spots (plus Furnace Creek, Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point) then head off to Las Vegas. Walk The Strip, take in a show, or roll the dice — or do it all! Just remember: what happens on a Roamies trip, stays on a Roamies trip.

  • Day 7

    Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon National Park

    Depart from Las Vegas first thing in the morning and head out with your fellow Roamies to Bryce Canyon National Park. Around 1:00 pm (we lose 1 hour at the Utah border-but don't worry, we'll get it back soon), stop in Cedar City where you'll have time to grab lunch on your own. Arrive to Bryce Canyon in the early afternoon and spend a few hours hiking, exploring and gazing at the crazy rock formations known as hoodoos. Hike the Navajo Loop & Queens Garden trail to get more up close with these cool geological features. Pitch your tent and make dinner at camp with your fellow Roamies.

  • Day 8

    Bryce Canyon National Park to Zion National Park

    Wake up with the birds chirping and make breakfast at camp. Pack a lunch for the day then drive to Zion National Park. Once there it's time to explore! You'll board the national park shuttle to take you into the park and explore your heart out. There are a couple different trail options, the main ones being The Emerald Pools, The Narrows, Scouts Lookout and Watchman Trail. Grab your hiking books, your new best buddy and get out there! Enjoy your packed lunch whenever you choose! Later, travel back to East Zion for a chill evening with your fellow Roamies at the camp site. Once it gets dark, get ready to sit around the campfire, roast some marshmallows and stare up at the stars. First one to see a shooting star wins an extra s'more!

  • Day 9

    Zion National Park/Grand Canyon National Park

    If you stayed up late with your new friends, you can sleep in the van. Today we wake up early to drive to Grand Canyon National Park, with a couple awesome pit stops along the way. The first stop is at Horseshoe Bend. This geological masterpiece was sculpted by the Colorado River. Go on and walk to the overlook, hike along the rim and stare down into the flowing river far below. Snap some photos with your friends and just enjoy the moment. Continue onwards to our next national park of the trip. En route, stop for lunch at a Navajo-inspired restaurant and trading post. Arrive at the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon—one of the world's Natural Wonders— and set up camp for the next two nights just in time for a spectacular sunset.

  • Day 10

    Grand Canyon National Park

    After having breakfast and packing a lunch, get those water bottles ready because today is dedicated to the Grand Canyon. Starting from the South Rim, there are so many hikes to choose from that will take you deeper into the canyon where you can really appreciate the size and depth of this national park. Choose whichever trail you wish or do short bursts of multiple hikes, just make sure you bring plenty of water and take your time. You got this! Sit down for a picnic lunch in the park then maybe choose to rent a bike, or if you're feeling really adventurous, opt to take a legendary helicopter ride over the canyon. The choice is yours! After a full day in the park, sit down for an unforgettable pizza dinner along the rim of the Grand Canyon as the setting sun lights the sky.

  • Day 11

    Grand Canyon National Park/Joshua Tree National Park

    Road trip! Get your kicks, because its time to drive along one of the most famous roads in history: Route 66. After you eat breakfast and break down camp, we head out and cruise south west toward Joshua Tree National Park. We'll stop in Seligman along Route 66 and then continue to Kingman, where you will have free time to grab lunch on your own. Throughout the drive, we will take short stops to admire the Mojave Desert, and the funky dessert trees that gave Joshua Tree it's name. Arrive to the camp site in the early evening and after setting up, you will have the night free to explore Pioneer Town. Watch the sky light up in flames during an incredible desert sunset and maybe throw down a blanket to watch for shooting stars tonight in one of California's clearest skies.

  • Day 12

    Joshua Tree National Park/Santa Monica

    After another night under the stars, pack away your camping gear, have some breakfast at camp, and drive to one of the LA's most famous beaches for a day of fun. You'll have the entire afternoon free to explore Santa Monica and do whatever you please with your fellow Roamies. Opt to lounge on the beach, have some of the worlds best ice cream, take a ride on the pier, or just people watch with a spicy margarita at an open air bar. Whatever you choose, make it count! Tonight we'll stay at an awesome, hip hostel in Santa Monica.

  • Day 13

    Santa Monica/Los Angeles

    Say goodbye to your Roamies and depart at any time. Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Camping (10 nts), hotel (1 nt), hostel (1 nt).

  • Meals

    Breakfasts: 10, Lunches: 7, Dinners: 2

    Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.

    Vegetarian options available

  • Local Guide

    Guided

    This adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.

  • Wifi

    Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.

Dates & Prices

  • Jun 2027

    from £1,712
  • Jul 2027

    from £1,633
  • Aug 2027

    from £1,633
  • Sep 2027

    from £1,633
  • Save 1%
    Wednesday 14 Jul 2027to Monday 26 Jul 2027
    6+ spaces of 13 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £1,729£1,712
    Pay Monthly
    Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
    Private Room from +£1,458
  • Save 1%
    Wednesday 28 Jul 2027to Monday 9 Aug 2027
    6+ spaces of 13 leftGuaranteed Departure
    £1,649£1,633
    Pay MonthlyBest offer
    Book for£250 today, pay the rest later
    Private Room from +£1,395

Customer reviews & ratings

(4.86 out of 5)
Based on 7 reviews
  • Great experience Perfect organisation

    Tjorge Sep, 2024 Verified
  • Overall it was a great experience, we got to visit some amazing national parks and see some of the most beautiful places in the USA, while having a lot of fun along the way. There's some details that could be improved, but the global experience was very positive. I really enjoyed the trip overall, we had the chance to see and do so many things, the parks were amazing. It's hard going sometimes with the pacing, but overall i thought it very much worth it.

    Marta Da Conceicao Sep, 2024 Verified

Essential trip information

Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.

Frequently asked questions

  • What is the main focus of this road trip?

    This road trip focuses on exploring the best of the American West, traveling through four states, six national parks, and along historic Route 66. It offers stunning coastal views, relaxed beach vibes, and opportunities to explore iconic natural wonders.
  • What is the age range for participants on this tour?

    This tour is designed for travelers aged 18 to 35.
  • What is the maximum group size for this tour?

    The maximum group size for this tour is 13 people.
  • What types of accommodation are included in this trip?

    The trip includes a combination of camping for 10 nights, one night in a hotel, and one night in a hostel. Most nights are spent camping in tents in public and private campgrounds, with all camping equipment (except sleeping bag and pillow) supplied. Please note that American campgrounds may have various types of sites, including RVs, camper-trailers, popups, and tent camping all on one property. Hostels are typically multi-share on a single-sex basis (4-6 people per room). Couples may be split into separate rooms in multi-share hostels but might be able to pay extra for their own room in some destinations, subject to availability.
  • Is single accommodation available for solo travelers?

    No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travelers are paired with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. There is no single supplement charge for this arrangement.
  • What meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 10 breakfasts, 7 lunches, and 2 dinners.
  • What is the physical rating for this tour?

    The tour has a physical rating of 3.
  • What type of transportation is used during the trip?

    Transportation is primarily by air-conditioned private 15-passenger vans, designed for up to 14 people plus the CEO/Driver. The tour also involves hiking and walking.
  • What kind of activities are included or optional on this tour?

    The tour includes sightseeing in Los Angeles, coastal free time in Avila, guided visits and hikes in Yosemite, Death Valley, Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Grand Canyon National Parks, a visit to Joshua Tree National Park, and travel along historic Route 66. Optional activities include Yosemite bike rental (30-40USD), Las Vegas shows (60-200USD), a Grand Canyon helicopter tour, and Santa Monica rollerblades/bike rentals.
  • What currency is used and what should I know about money on the trip?

    The United States currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's recommended to carry a combination of US Dollars in smaller cash denominations (5s, 10s, 20s), traveler's cheques, and credit cards. ATM machines are commonly available but check with your bank about card acceptance and PIN requirements (many only accept 4-digit PINs). Currency exchange is difficult to find in the USA and is best obtained prior to travel or at the airport.
  • Is tipping customary on this trip?

    Yes, it is customary in North America to tip service providers such as waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers, at approximately 18-20%. Tipping local guides ($2-8 USD per activity) and your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) ($10-15 USD per person, per day as a guideline) is also appreciated.
  • Is travel insurance required for this trip?

    Yes, travel insurance is compulsory and must cover medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects are also strongly recommended.
  • What are the safety and security guidelines for this trip?

    It is recommended to check your government's travel advice, use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and leave valuable jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can amend the itinerary for safety reasons. Optional activities are at your own discretion. At night, it's recommended to stay in small groups and use taxis. Water-based activities should only be done with a guide(s).
  • Can I do laundry during the trip?

    Yes, laundry can be done at some private campgrounds and most cities, which typically have coin-operated laundromats. Your CEO will advise you on locations.
  • What is the Planeterra Foundation?

    Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating positive impact through travel. It connects underserved local communities to tourism benefits by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, ensuring 100% of donations go directly to projects.
  • Who leads the tour group?

    One Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will lead the group throughout the trip.
  • Are there any specific notes regarding the Bryce Canyon National Park itinerary?

    Please note that the Navajo Loop in Bryce Canyon National Park is closed until further notice due to mudslides and rockfall. As a result, the optional Queen’s Garden and Navajo Loop trail cannot currently be completed as a loop. However, it is still possible to hike down the Queen’s Garden Trail from Sunrise Point and complete the hike as an out-and-back.
  • Is the Angels Landing trail in Zion National Park included?

    The Angels Landing trail is not included in this itinerary but is available to be done independently. If you are interested, you must apply ahead of time for a permit via the National Park’s lottery system at https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/angels-landing-hiking-permits.htm.
  • What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety on this trip?

    The tour operator prioritizes the safety and well-being of all travelers, including those who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. They encourage visiting their LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable, including the Equaldex tool for travel considerations.
  • Anna's profile
  • Petra's profile
  • Charlotte's profile

Still have questions?

Can't find the answer you're looking for? Please chat to our friendly team.

Get In Touch

Why book with us

  • Help Change The World

    We collaborate with local businesses and communities.

  • Best Price Guaranteed

    We won't be beaten on price. If you find this adventure at a lower price please get in touch!

  • You're In Good Hands

    We work with trusted tour operators around the world.

  • You're spoilt for choice

    We have the best choice of adventures on the market.

Similar adventures

Was this page helpful ?

If you need information about a tour or a booking, please contact us instead.

Sign up for our deals

Stay up to date with our new latest deals & special offers!

Your email is secure and we won't send you any spam.
Feefo Rating 4.9/5

The Adventure People has been rated excellent by its customers