Grand Trek

Our routes have been carefully chosen to include the best overnight stops, highlights and included experiences, with plenty of optional activities to choose from. No two Trek trips travelling around America are the same, with stops at some of your tour leader's favourite places and occasional changes to the itinerary, so get ready for one awesome adventure!As this tour departs at 07:30 hrs we recommend that you book pre tour accommodation. Please request further details at time of booking. 

Day: 1

Give yourself plenty of time to explore New York City by adding a couple of extra nights before your tour departs - whether you choose to head to the top of the Empire State Building or take a stroll through beautiful Central Park, there's something for everyone here. On Day 1, you'll leave city life behind and make your way across New York state to Niagara for an illuminated view of the Falls.

• New York Area
• Niagara Falls

Day: 2

Niagara Falls is three waterfalls all rolled into one, so you can only imagine how epic it'll be to witness this natural wonder with your own eyes. Check out the optional 'Maid of the Mist' boat tour, where you're sure to get wet - but the immense sound and pure awesomeness of the experience is worth it! Then travelling further on up the road you'll cross over into the state of Ohio. Still on the shore of Lake Erie, head over to Cedar Point, where you'll find 'The Best Amusement Park in the World'. You'll soon see why! The park’s rollercoasters dominate the skyline as far as the eye can see. After an afternoon of excitement and thrills, you'll be pleased to rest your weary head for a night next to beautiful Lake Erie.Please note: Cedar Point in Ohio is open all of June, July and August and on certain days during May, September and October. It may not always be possible to visit Cedar Point Amusement park.

• Niagara Falls
• Cedar Point

Day: 3-4

Next you're heading for Chicago, often better known as the 'Windy City'. It’s home to some of the greatest blues music in America, so be sure to check out the local blues clubs while you're here. Soar up Willis Tower to see dizzying views, or trawl the upmarket malls of Magnificent Mile before taking to pedal power on your included ‘Bobby's Bike Hike’ tour. It's a great way to see the city from the perspective of your local guide. For awesome views of the city skyline head down to Lake Michigan, and you might want to end the day with a slice of Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza… yum!

• Chicago

Day: 5

If you live for the dairy delight that is cheese, then you might want to consider moving to Wisconsin. Wisconsin is also known for beer making, so you can rest assured you won't go hungry or thirsty here. It just wouldn't be a road trip in North America without a few roadside attractions, so pay a visit to the iconic Jolly Green Giant Statue in Blue Earth as you head out across the great prairies of America's original western frontier. Resident coyotes may let loose with the occasional howl as you settle down for some shut-eye under a sky full of stars.

• Minnesota

Day: 6

Travel to 1880’s Town and experience a replica of an old west town in all its gun slinging, saloon swinging, lawless (not really) glory. Not quite Westworld, but immersive enough to get dressed up and channel your inner Buffalo Bill. Admire the historically correct buildings and authentic relics that have been collected over time. Then it’s into the Badlands for you. Touching down here feels more like a moon landing due to the bizarre lunar landscape of low-slung buttes, chiselled spires and saw tooth ridges. The rugged beauty draws people in from all over the world and you could see bison, Bighorn Sheep and prairie dogs.

• Badlands National Park

Day: 7

Enjoy a morning hiking around Badlands National Park, before checking out the sight of America's famous presidents peering out of the granite face of Mount Rushmore. The sculpture features the presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln – and it's pretty darn huge, with 18 metre high (60 ft.) faces towering up high. Don't forget to check out another immense rock carving, the impressive Crazy Horse monument. It serves as a memorial to the famed Lakota Indian war leader who led the attack against General Custer at the Battle of the Greasy Grass, otherwise known as the Battle of the Little Bighorn. It’s a sight not to be missed. 

• Mount Rushmore

Day: 8

It's pistols at dawn as you enter wild Wyoming and head to Cody in the heart of cowboy country. Embrace the town’s cowboy roots, shake a leg and try some two-step!

• Cody

Day: 9-10

Pitch up in the world's first national park, Yellowstone. View the iconic, explosive Old Faithful Geyser and keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife that roams the park including bison, moose, elk and bears, or even wolves if you’re lucky. With all the geysers, colourful bubbling pools and beautiful waterfalls too, it’s no surprise that Yellowstone is often a tour leader and Trekker favourite!

• Yellowstone National Park

Day: 11-12

Next up are the wonderful views and hikes that await you in the majestic Grand Teton National Park. With few foothills to speak of, the jagged peaks rise dramatically like teeth from lush, flat meadows and stand out against bright blue skies. We recommend taking the ferry across to Jenny Lake with a hike up to Inspiration Point for sensational views of the valley, lake and forest below. Then saddle up for Jackson, a quaint cowboy town surrounded by green mountains. We recommend rafting the raging Snake River rapids, one of America's last great untamed rivers, which will definitely get that adrenaline pumping! If you prefer to stay on dry land, how about a shot of 'Red Eye' whiskey at the Silver Dollar Saloon?

• Grand Teton National Park
• Jackson

Day: 13-14

Sit back and enjoy the scenery as you and your crew continue westward across the Northern Great Basin. You'll bite off a big chunk of the Nevada desert today and when you arrive in Lake Tahoe you're sure to be blown away by the stunning crystal clear waters and the incredible vistas that surround it. This is the perfect opportunity to go for a quick swim or just chill out. Top the day off with an optional sunset sailboat cruise or try to win big at one of the nearby resort hotels.

• Great Basin Nevada
• Lake Tahoe

Day: 15-16

You won't know where to focus your gaze as you drive along winding roads that look out across the beautiful Sierra Nevadas. The scenery you pass will have you itching to get your hiking boots on and discover the awesomeness that is Yosemite National Park. Yosemite is nature's greatest backyard and with both easy and strenuous hikes you're bound to find a trail that suits your ability. Whichever trail you choose you'll be amazed at the magnificent waterfalls and epic cliff faces. Famous for its Giant Sequoia trees and abundance of incredible wildlife such as bear and coyotes, you should keep your camera to hand at all times! You can even float down the Merced River on a rubber ring for a different perspective of this truly special place.

• Yosemite National Park

Day: 17-18

Come fog or shine, this city's always awesome! You can't go all the way to San Francisco without a stroll across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, of course. Take an optional tour of San Francisco's most famous areas guided by a local, including the best of North Beach and Chinatown. There’s time for you to check out other favourites such as the quirky, hippy neighbourhood of Haight-Ashbury and the famously crooked Lombard Street! Grab yourself a delicious crab roll at Fisherman's Wharf or perhaps some ribs from Tee Off Bar & Grill (as seen on ‘Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives’!). To top it all off, set sail on an included sunset cruise and get a different perspective of the famous bridge and this awesome city.If you are interested in visiting Alcatraz we recommend you book your tickets well in advance, direct with Alcatraz Cruises. For this tour you should book your ticket for day 18 (1pm onwards).

• San Francisco

Day: 19

Brace yourself, because your road trip is about to get a whole lot more beautiful. Turn up the tunes, sit back and watch stunning scenery fly by your window as you follow the winding roads of California's pristine coastline. Finish your day in the San Luis Obispo area, there may be chance to swim in the North Pacific Ocean.

• California Coast

Day: 20

It's your final day on the great open road, so enjoy a morning in sunny Santa Barbara to explore the pier, shop, or relax on the beach for a few last rays of California sun. Known as 'The American Riviera', you'll find no shortage of palm trees to sit beneath - perhaps with a glass of local wine? Want more adventure? This laid-back town offers some great water-based activities. Finally, we roll into the ‘City of Angels, and spend some time at Venice Beach.

• Santa Barbara
• Los Angeles

Day: 21

Today you can enjoy a free day to explore the city of Los Angeles at your own pace. Head to Hollywood Boulevard and see the walk of fame, hike up to Griffith Observatory, check out the iconic Hollywood sign, pay a visit to Santa Monica Pier or take on the rides at Universal Studios, the excitement never ends! 

• Los Angeles

Day: 22-23

From the glitz and the glam to the brash and the brilliant, you're now in Vegas, baby! With so much to see and do, the best place to start is your included cruise down The Strip in a party bus! Afterwards treat yourself to an all-you-can-eat buffet of extremely lavish proportions, take in a show or just watch the crowds and neon signs as the glitzy hotels try to outdo each other with attractions. Want something more spectacular? Take a helicopter flight down The Strip! It's also very possible to get married here (don't worry, it's not legally binding unless you want it to be). Oh and don't forget, ‘What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas’.

• Las Vegas

Day: 24-25

It's onwards and upwards to Zion National Park where you and your fellow Trekkers can explore the hidden canyons and take a walk through the incredible Narrows. For the ultimate view of the entire national park, hit the trail to Angels Landing. The hike can be strenuous at times, but you'll be well rewarded with superb 360 degree views of the park; the sight of the Virgin River snaking through the valley below is just awesome. 

• Zion National Park

Day: 26-27

Without doubt one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the Southwest, iconic Horseshoe Bend makes for an impressive stop before you reach Grand Canyon National Park. This is simply one of the earth's most incredible natural wonders. Pack your walking boots and don't forget your camera for a sunrise or sunset hike along the rim. If you're up for some more adventure, hike down the Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point and see the canyon up close in all its glory. For something truly magical, take to the sky and see the Grand Canyon on an optional helicopter flight for the ultimate bird's-eye view. 

• Grand Canyon National Park

Day: 28

You're on the road again and off to one of North America's most recognisable landscapes, used as the set for countless Western movies. Immerse yourself in the native culture on a highly recommended optional jeep tour of the Navajo Reservation and backroads, led by a local guide. Marvel at the sight of towering buttes and mesas which dominate the awe-inspiring landscape during the day and when the sun goes down swap campfire stories under a blanket of stars; this is a camping adventure like no other!

• Monument Valley

Day: 29

Follow part of Route 66 and pay a visit to Cadillac Ranch for a quirky take on desert art and one of the most talked about roadside attractions in the US. For all the art lovers out there, Santa Fe is for you. Visit Canyon Road, home to art galleries, cultural treasures such as hand-woven Navajo rugs, historic adobe buildings and a vibrant restaurant scene. Our top tip here is to visit the brilliantly weird Meow Wolf, an immersive art experience like no other.

• Santa Fe

Day: 30

Next up is a state which is larger than some countries, Texas! Follow part of the original Route 66 and pay a visit to Cadillac Ranch for unique desert art and one of the most talked about roadside attractions in the US. Spend the night in Amarillo and make sure you head out for an evening meal at the Big Texan Steak Ranch, they’ll even pick you up in a swanky limousine (free with group bookings) for that 100% real Texas experience. Yeehaa!

• Amarillo

Day: 31-32

The tunes keep on flowing in Austin, claiming the title for ‘live music capital of the world’. Austin is an electric, cultural and artistic city that packs a punch. Live music can be heard almost any night of the week, so get an enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. During the day check out Barton Springs or hit up one of the city’s local food trucks for some tasty cuisine.

• Austin

Day: 33

We say farewell to the biggest state of continental USA and the home of 'Tex-Mex' cuisine and say a big hello to Louisiana, home of gumbo stews and all that jazz! 

• Louisiana

Day: 34-35

On your way to New Orleans you can search for gators on an optional swamp tour through the mysterious bayous of Cajun country (a must do!). Next up is the ‘Big Easy’, New Orleans. It’s a place every music lover should visit at least once in their life! Head into the enchanting French Quarter and hear the real deal at Preservation Hall, before tucking into some classic and delicious Southern cuisine. If you don't want to stop at just eating the likes of gumbo and jambalaya, why not take part in an optional New Orleans cookery class and really impress the folks back home. Make a beeline for the legendary nightlife of Bourbon Street, where almost anything goes. New Orleans is a place full of life and is an experience you won't forget in a long, long time. 

• New Orleans

Day: 36

You're about to hit Memphis, the birthplace of rock 'n' roll! With that in mind why not visit Sun Studio, where many great names in music have passed through since the 1950s. Stroll along Beale Street where the electric atmosphere will keep you entertained for hours as you listen out for some of the best blues music in town. You're also close enough to the Graceland mansion of Elvis, so it would be rude not to swing by. There is more to Memphis than just music though, so pay a visit to the National Civil Rights Museum located in the former Lorraine Hotel and see the place where Martin Luther King was assassinated. 

• Memphis

Day: 37

From honky-tonk bars to The Grand Ole Opry, they don't call Nashville 'Music City' for nothing! This place is full of life and you'll be hotfooting your way from one country bar to the next, hearing the latest live bands hoping to make it big. Find out all about the history of music at the Country Music Hall of Fame or take a backstage tour of the Grand Ole Opry. Even if country music isn't your thing, you're sure to be singing along by the end of the day.

• Nashville

Day: 38

In 1996 the world's eyes were on Ocoee as it hosted the world's first Olympic white water event and it still boasts some of the world's best rafting. Life jacket, paddle, sense of adventure? Good, let's go! Bounce along an exhilarating stretch of white water on an optional rafting trip, but don't forget to look up as you'll fly past some pretty awesome scenery. For those of you that aren't keen on rapids, there's a number of beautiful trails here to explore. 

• Ocoee

Day: 39

You'll certainly appreciate the grand views of the rolling green slopes of the Appalachian Mountains as you cruise through Virginia. Today's a big travel day, but the views of the Appalachian Mountains more than make up for it.

• Virginia

Day: 40-41

Next up is Washington DC, the social, cultural and political hub of the United States. Enjoy an included bike tour of the city’s famous monuments, guided by a local. Sights include the Lincoln Memorial, White House & Smithsonian Museums. The culture vultures amongst you will be in your element here! During the day the city is awash with greenery, so once you're done with sightseeing, you can go people watching in the parks.

• Washington, DC

Day: 42

Leaving the capital behind we head to Philadelphia where you can have your own movie moment with a climb up the famous 'Rocky' steps. See Independence Hall and the symbol of American independence, the Liberty Bell, then perhaps grab a Philly cheesesteak for an early lunch. It's food galore at the Reading Terminal Market, so find yourself some tasty treats for your journey to the New York area, your final stop on what has been one heck of a journey. Make sure you book yourself an extra couple of nights to explore this vibrant and exciting city. Splurge along Fifth Ave, hit the top of the Empire State Building, or soak up the trendy, laid-back vibe of Greenwich Village before heading home. This tour ends at approximately 17:00 hrs. We can book you post-tour accommodation at our gateway hotel if required. If you are planning to fly tonight, please do not book a flight that departs before 21:00 hrs. 

• Philadelphia
• New York Area