Countries Visited: USA
Essential Information
Trip Profile
Flights direct with Virgin Atlantic. Transport minibus and jeep.
Accommodation
2 nights hotels, 2 nights ranch and 8 nights camping.
Our ranch amid the canyons is the real deal, set in 148 acres of breathtaking private land and surrounded by the Dixie National Forest.
Camping offers pure solitude and spectacular views; some sites are even located within the National Park boundaries, although expect more basic facilities at these - we're staying in true cowboy country!
Swimming
Opportunities in lakes and rivers throughout the trip.
Food
All meals included while camping and at ranch; room only at hotels.
Reality Check
This is a busy tour aimed at families travelling with teenagers.
You will need to be reasonably fit to do some of the hikes, but all are optional day walks and there are a variety of routes and trails for all abilities. Many of them allow walkers to do their own thing so it is essential for participants to have a reasonable knowledge of the outdoors and show a degree of common sense.
The leader will suggest moderate day hikes and will accompany either the group on the walk chosen by the majority or the walk most difficult to navigate.
Occasionally, when the leader needs a break or to do some shopping/work on the vehicle, then you will be exploring on your own. Good maps are provided for all parks in North America and the trails are clearly marked.
Please note that, due to federal laws in the Grand Canyon N.P, your tour leader can't hike with you. They will, however, prepare you for all available walks. The leader will also advise those who do not wish to participate on the other options available in the area.
Some of the areas are remote and hiking or relaxing will be the only possible entertainment, so you should be prepared for this. The trails vary a great deal, In the more developed parks they are well maintained and defined although often rocky, whilst in the remote parks we might be following a sandy, rocky creek bed or hike cross country over open desert terrain. Crossing shallow streams (Zion) can be expected.
Most of the walking is at moderate altitudes and therefore should not cause any altitude-related problems. Hiking options in Yosemite are quite varied and can be strenuous.
This tour will visit many of the most famous National Parks. Driving distances are considerable but we have tried to ensure 2 nights in most places.
This is a relatively fast paced tour so on several of the days we will leave early and return after dark. Where we spend 2 nights, the day is usually spent at a park with minimum driving times. Please do note that the West is a big place and the distances might seem long compared to Europe!
While camping, members of the group are expected to fully participate, including erecting and dismantling your own tent, shopping for and preparing meals and washing up after meals.
Normal group size and age
Normally 7 to 13, plus leader/driver. Minimum age 11.
Icons explained
Going on a Family Group trip is a fantastic way to meet new friends and create lasting friendships – for parents and children alike! These holidays combine exploration with sociability and fun, as other families will join you. Minimum ages vary across the trip range, but is usually from 5 years old.
Teenage Adventures offer a broad range of itineraries visiting more remote destinations and more challenging activities. Minimum age from 11. These trips are now officially recommended by The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.
Walking & Trekking: Trips are wholly trekking-focused or simply include a significant number of walking days during the itinerary.
All Exodus trips are active but some may have different activities scheduled every day. Activities we offer include kayaking in Slovakia, trekking in the Drakensberg, cycling in the Tuscan countryside or canoeing along the Zambezi River.
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