Best of the West Road Trip: California, Utah & Vegas Bright Lights
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£1,402 was £1649
Discount: 15%
Offer end: Jun 30 2026
Duration: 13 days
Begins: Los Angeles
Ends: Los Angeles
Trip Code: NUNCHW
From
£1,402 per person
or Call 01273 099433
Overview
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?
Is this tour for me?
Travel Style
Roamies by Hostelworld & G Adventures
Immersive, social, wallet-friendly adventures where epic hostels are your home-base.
Service Level
Camping
Camping most nights with some hotel/hostel stays to start and throughout; affordable public and private transport.
Physical Rating
3 - Average
Some tours may include light hiking, biking, rafting, or kayaking in addition to walking.
Trip Type
Small Group
Age requirement
12+
All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
What's Included
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Your Discover Moment: Yosemite National Park
- Standard National park fees
- Los Angeles Sightseeing With CEO
- Coastal free time in Avila
- Guided visit and hikes in Yosemite National Park
- Sightseeing in Yosemite through Tioga Pass Tuolumne Meadows Lembert Dome Tenaya Lake, and Mono Lake
- Death Valley National Park visit
- Free time in Las Vegas
- Bryce Canyon National Park visit and hike
- Zion National Park visit and guided hike
- Horseshoe Bend hike
- Grand Canyon National Park visit
- Joshua Tree National Park visit
- Visit Route 66
- Free time in Santa Monica
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Allow USD325-425 for meals not included.
Full Itinerary
Departure Dates
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.
Please note your arrival flight should land no later than 6:00 AM in order for you to be on time to your 8:00 AM Welcome Meeting.
Private Vehicle
Los Angeles - Santa Margarita 3h30m - 4h30m 337km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Los Angeles Sightseeing With CEO
Los Angeles 1h30m
Right after the welcome meeting hop in the van and begin the adventure! Drive through the city with your CEO as the lead and see the infamous Rodeo Drive and the glitz of Hollywood, Sunset Blvd, and Beverly Hills. The orientation tour will last about an hour and a half. Then, the group will continue driving north up the coast to Santa Barbara where there will be free time for lunch on your own in this charming coastal city.
Meet Your CEO and Group
1h Morning
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. The group will meet early on day 1 before beginning the journey along the coast.
Acommodation
Santa Margarita KOA
Acommodation
Santa Margarita KOA
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.
Pacific Coast Highway Exploration
San Simeon 3h 143km
Think epic views and winding roads with the ocean's surf pounding on one side and rising cliffs walling you in on the other. Today's drive is all about Highway 1! See some of the best spots along this famous route with a stop in San Simeon to watch the resident Elephant Seals basking in the sun. Stretch those legs with a hike to the beach near Ragged point, where you will enjoy a picnic lunch before heading back towards Santa Margarita.
Free time:
Avila
Spend a free afternoon on the coast. Opt to relax on the beach or rent a bike to pedal through town and along the water.
Acommodation
Santa Margarita KOA
Acommodation
Santa Margarita KOA
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Lunch
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.
Yosemite National Park Visit
Yosemite National Park
Picturesque valleys, vast wilderness, powerful waterfalls, elusive wildlife, ancient sequoias and more than 16 types of granite make up this internationally recognized national park. Hike the trails, get up close to ancient rock formations and take panoramic photos of this gorgeous landscape. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and coyotes.
Private Vehicle
Santa Margarita - Yosemite National Park 4h30m 307km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Along the way to Yosemite the group will make a stop in Fresno. There will be time for you to grab lunch on your own before finishing the drive west.
Acommodation
Indian Flats Campground
Acommodation
Indian Flats Campground
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Free time:
Yosemite National Park Full day
Spend the day as you please and take advantage of free time to further explore this magnificent park with its granite rock formations and many waterfalls. Opt to hike the many trails or rent a bike and pedal through the valley floor of Yosemite. Your CEO will be available to help you decide which activities are best for you.
Yosemite National Park Visit
Yosemite National Park Full day
Spend a full day in this magnificent park. There are several hikes to choose from like, The Mist Trail, Yosemite Falls, and Nevada Falls to name a few. Immerse yourself in the landscape and soak in all of the sites, sounds, and smells of one of the oldest national parks in the U.S.
Acommodation
Indian Flats Campground
Optional Activities - Day 4
Yosemite National Park Hike
Yosemite National Park 1h - 6h 15km
Panoramic vistas, gushing waterfalls, and elusive wildlife await. Bring water, wear a hat and sunscreen, and hike Yosemite NP. Keep an eye out for black bears, deer, and coyotes.
Yosemite Bike Rental
Yosemite National Park
Set your wheels in motion with tandem, hand crank or mountain bikes, and opt to cycle some of the 20km (12mi) of paved trails throughout the valley floor. Bring a water bottle, stop to shoot photos, and enjoy some of the most picturesque spots in Yosemite NP. Choose between a half-day rental or a full-day, and be aware that this activity is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note the price for a half-day bike rental is $30 USD and the price for a full-day bike rental is $40USD.
Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls Hike
Yosemite National Park 5h - 6h
Take the storied Mist Trail as it traverses up the valley, with visits to Vernal and Nevada Falls. Return along the John Muir Trail. Be prepared for a long hike, and incredible scenery! Distance: 11.2km (7 mi), Elevation Change: 610m (2000 ft)
Acommodation
Indian Flats Campground
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Lunch
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.
Private Vehicle
Yosemite National Park - Bishop 1h30m - 3h
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Tuolumne Grove
Yosemite National Park 2h 4km
Tuolumne Grove trail is a 2 hour round-trip hike down to see a couple dozen mature Giant Sequoias, including one you can walk through. These are some of the oldest and largest living entities on the planet. It’s an experience you are sure to remember. Elevation at trailhead: 6,200 feet (1,860 meters)
Lembert Dome Hike
Yosemite National Park 2h - 3h 5km
Dig in for this challenging hike to the dome's summit and be rewarded with excellent views of the Tuolumne Meadows and the surrounding area. The effort’s all worth it!
Acommodation
Brownstown Campground
Acommodation
Brownstown Campground
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Lunch
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.
Private Vehicle
Bishop - Las Vegas 5h
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Death Valley National Park Visit
Death Valley National Park
Death Valley is one of America’s most extreme locations – from sand dunes and desert, to badlands, towering peaks, and a basin that actually registers below sea-level, this is sure to be an unforgettable stop. Hottest. Driest. Lowest. There’s a bit of everything here on the border of California and Nevada.
Free time:
Las Vegas Evening
Enjoy yourselves on a free evening in the lights and glitz of Las Vegas! Opt to explore The Strip, grab a bite to eat, or search for a fun place to toast your adventures with your newest Roamies!
Acommodation
Golden Nugget Las Vegas
Optional Activities - Day 6
Vegas Strip Visit
Las Vegas 1h
Walk along Las Vegas Boulevard and soak in the lights, energy and pulse of the Strip. With an ever-evolving architecture and multitude of hotels, casinos, restaurants, and entertainment, there's so much to see and do.
Las Vegas Show
Las Vegas 3h - 4h
Leave the world behind, give in to your senses and prepare to be amazed. Take in one of the many shows available in this entertainment mecca. Live music, burlesque, comedy, magic, Cirque Du Soleil, and more. Whatever your passion, no other city can compete with the range and scale of shows on offer 24 hours a day.
Acommodation
Golden Nugget Las Vegas
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Lunch
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.
Private Vehicle
Las Vegas - Bryce Canyon 5h - 6h 400km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Stop in Cedar City to break up the drive. Stretch those legs and opt to grab some lunch at a place of your choosing, then finish the drive to Bryce Canyon, where you will spend the afternoon exploring this park.
Bryce Canyon National Park Visit
Bryce Canyon National Park
See a sight like no other at this giant forest of stone made up of collection of massive natural amphitheaters. This park contains hundreds of thousands of eroded spires, pinnacles, and other shapes as far as the eye can see.
Queen's Garden and Navajo Loop Hike
Bryce Canyon National Park 2h30m 5km
Trek through the most popular trail in Bryce Canyon to see its famous hoodoos - tall, thin spires of rock that seem to magically balance upon their dusty, red rock base. Begin your hike at Sunrise Point and make your way toward Queen Victoria, the trail's namesake rock formation. Continue through the amphitheater on Navajo Loop past Wall Street or Thor's Hammer, depending on trail conditions. Exit at Sunset Point before walking the Rim Trail back to our starting point. Soak in the views one last time - you'll want to take it all in. Hiking distance: 4.6km (2.9 mi) Elevation change: 183m (600 ft).
Acommodation
Ruby's Inn RV Park & Campground
Acommodation
Ruby's Inn RV Park & Campground
Meals Included:
Dinner
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!
Please note that while the trail to Angels Landing is not included in this itinerary, it is available to be done independently. If you’re interested in continuing to the top, you must apply ahead of time for a permit via the National Park’s lottery system at this website: https://www.nps.gov/zion/planyourvisit/angels-landing-hiking-permits.htm.
Private Vehicle
Bryce Canyon National Park - Zion National Park
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Zion National Park Visit
Zion National Park
Admire monumental sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that tower into the sky. Experience diverse plant and animal life, and wade through water in a narrow slot canyon as the park transitions from desert to forest. Gaze at the awe-inspiring beauty of the high plateaus, striking towers, temples, mesas, and the earth's tallest-known sheer sandstone walls.
Free time:
Zion National Park Full day
Spend a full day exploring the wonders of Zion. Sit down and enjoy a picnic lunch in the park, and then opt to check out various trails like, the Emerald Pools, the famous Narrows, Scouts Lookout, or Watchman Trails.
Private Vehicle
Zion National Park - East Zion 0h45m 33km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle on the drive back to camp in East Zion. Dinner will be on your own this evening, and there are serval meal choices available at the campground restaurant.
Acommodation
Zion Ponderosa Ranch
Optional Activities - Day 8
Watchman Trail Hike
Zion National Park 5km
The Watchman Trail is often overlooked by visitors to the park, but is a great trail that allows you to enjoy expansive views of the entire Springdale area. Just half a mile away from the South Entrance to the park it's the closest classic hike in the park itself and makes for a great first-taste of all of Zion's magnificence. Short, but sweet you'll climb less than 400 ft in elevation while being surrounded by desert greenery on all sides. While there is some shade make sure you bring plenty of water on this hike.
The Narrows Hike
Zion National Park 2h
Known as one of Utah's best slot canyon hikes, The Narrows takes you through towering canyon walls along the Virgin River (and yes, this means walking in water!). Enjoy some of the park's best scenery, stop to take photos, and don't forget to watch your footing. Opt to make your way back at any point. Hiking distance: 6.4km (4 mi) Elevation change: 102m (334 ft).
Scout Lookout Trail
Zion National Park 3h 7km
This trail is also the same one that goes to Angels Landing, because of this be prepared to gain more than 1,000 ft in elevation and walk up 21 challenging switchbacks to reach the lookout point. The hike begins at The Grotto shuttle stop and once you arrive at the lookout, you'll be able to enjoy jaw-dropping views of the valley before you.
Acommodation
Zion Ponderosa Ranch
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Lunch
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.
Private Vehicle
Zion National Park - Page 2h - 3h 170km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Horseshoe Bend Hike
Horseshoe Bend 1h 1km
Take a short hike to this spectacular horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River. Stand atop steep orange-coloured sandstone cliffs and look out at Horseshoe Bend. Peer down more than 300m (1,000 ft) at the emerald river below.
Private Vehicle
Page - Grand Canyon National Park 3h - 4h 220km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Acommodation
Mather Campground
Acommodation
Mather Campground
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Lunch
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.
Grand Canyon South Rim Visit
Grand Canyon National Park - Grand Canyon
Visit the south rim of the canyon for a great first impression. Marvel as the Grand Canyon unfolds before you. Don't get too close. The land drops almost straight down for more than 1,000m (3,280 ft) into the serpentine canyons below! The gorge is filled with rocky buttes, sheer limestone cliffs, and deep canyons all arrayed in a rainbow of colors. Words defy. This is truly one of the most magnificent sights on earth.
Grand Canyon Hike
Grand Canyon 1h - 4h 1km
Opt to hike along the rim or down into the canyon. Experience breathtaking scenery with spectacular views. Bring lots of water, a hat and plenty of energy. Remember -- hiking down is optional, hiking back up is mandatory!
Grand Canyon Sunset Pizza
Grand Canyon
Find a spot to sit and dig in to the most scenic dinner you've ver had! Enjoy some pizza as the sun sets over the Grand Canyon offering breathtaking views while the canyon walls glow red and orange in the fading light. This is truly one of the great wonders. Enjoy the moment.
Acommodation
Mather Campground
Optional Activities - Day 10
Bright Angel Trail Hike
Grand Canyon National Park 3h - 9h 19km
Hike towards the heart of the Grand Canyon on the spectacular Bright Angel Trail. Descend into the canyon to experience its natural beauty in a way most visitors miss. Journey to Indian Garden, and depending on group fitness and the season, continue on to Plateau Point.
Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour
Grand Canyon 1h
The Grand Canyon helicopter ride is a must! Enjoy a bird's-eye view for 45 to 50 minutes as you fly over the canyon, taking in the stark contrast of the blue-green Colorado River against the thousand shades of red rock found in the canyon. From above, you can fully appreciate the greatness of the gorge and see why it is one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
Acommodation
Mather Campground
Meals Included:
Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
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.
Private Vehicle
Grand Canyon National Park - Joshua Tree National Park
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Route 66 Drive
Las Vegas 3h
Travel the historic Route 66 through the southwest.
Joshua Tree National Park Visit
Joshua Tree National Park
Discover the rugged rock formations and iconic Joshua trees that gave this National Park it's name. Go for a hike, keep a sharp eye out for desert wildlife, and take in the incredible scenery.
Acommodation
Mather Campground
Acommodation
Mather Campground
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Private Vehicle
Joshua Tree National Park - Santa Monica 3h30m 258km
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Santa Monica Visit
Santa Monica
Make a stop at Santa Monica where you can choose to lounge in the sand, rollerblade on the sidewalks, bicycle along the waterfront, or take a walk down the pier. The choice is yours during your afternoon here.
Acommodation
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel
Optional Activities - Day 12
Santa Monica Pier Visit
Los Angeles 1h
Check out the pier, boardwalk, and some of the city's best shopping at 3rd St Promenade in this beachfront city.
Rollerblades and Bike Rentals
Santa Monica
Choose to rent rollerblades or bikes and explore Santa Monica at a faster speed.
Acommodation
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel
Meals Included:
Breakfast
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.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
| dates start-End | Availability remaining spaces | Price Per Person | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jul 2026 | |||
| Wed, 08 Jul - Mon, 20 Jul | Sold out | ||
| Wed, 22 Jul - Mon, 03 Aug | Sold out | ||
| Aug 2026 | |||
| Wed, 05 Aug - Mon, 17 Aug | Sold out | ||
| Wed, 19 Aug - Mon, 31 Aug | 3 available | £1,402 | Request a quote |
