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Adventure Collective Journal

Seven-Day Private Western National Parks Tour: Las Vegas to San Francisco via Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Death Valley & Yosemite

Seven-Day Private Western National Parks Tour: Las Vegas to San Francisco via Zion, Bryce, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Death Valley & Yosemite

A seven-day private loop from Las Vegas to San Francisco that stitches together Zion, Bryce, Antelope, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Death Valley and Yosemite. Choose camping or hotels, and trade city lights for canyon rims, desert salt flats and alpine passes.

Las Vegas, Nevada
7 days
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Bring refillable water

Bottled water isn’t provided; carry a 1–2L refillable bottle and refill at scheduled comfort stops to avoid dehydrating in desert stretches.

Layer for extremes

Temperatures swing from hot desert days to cool alpine nights—pack a breathable base, insulating mid-layer and windproof shell.

Comfortable, closed-toe shoes

Expect short hikes, sandy dunes and rocky viewpoints — sturdy hiking shoes or trail runners will save your feet.

Plan for early starts

Pickup is typically around 7:15 a.m.; set alarms and prepare gear the night before to keep the group on schedule.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Olmsted Point (Yosemite) for unusual vantage of Half Dome and Tenaya Canyon
  • Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes (Death Valley) at sunrise for undisturbed ripples and footprints

Wildlife

  • Desert bighorn sheep
  • Mule deer

Conservation Note

Water scarcity and heavy visitation require careful planning—pack reusable gear, follow Leave No Trace, and support locally run Navajo tours when visiting tribal lands.

This route crosses lands long inhabited by Indigenous peoples—especially the Navajo Nation around Monument Valley—where cultural landscapes and oral histories complement the geology.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Sunrise, Golden hour, Night (Milky Way)
Key viewpoints:
  • Monument Valley rim at sunrise
  • Bryce Sunrise Point overlooking the amphitheater
  • Tunnel View or Glacier Point in Yosemite
Subjects to capture:Geologic formations and hoodoos, Night sky and Milky Way, Wide canyon and valley panoramas

What to Bring

Refillable water bottle (1–2L)Essential

Necessary for staying hydrated between refill stops in desert and high-elevation environments.

Supportive hiking shoes or trail runnersEssential

Handle canyon sand, rocky viewpoints, and short hikes across varying terrain.

Layered clothing (base, insulating mid-layer, packable shell)Essential

Covers hot days and cold nights — especially important at Tioga Pass and desert nights.

Sun protection (hat, SPF 30+, sunglasses)Essential

Sun exposure is intense in open desert and at higher elevations; pack broad protection.

Common Questions

Is transportation between parks included?

Yes — all inter-park transportation is provided as part of the private 7-day itinerary; you travel by guided vehicle with live commentary.

Can I choose camping or hotel accommodations?

Yes — at booking you select camping (tents provided; guests help set them up) or 3-star lodging; inform special requirements to keep groups together.

Are park entrance fees included?

All fees and taxes are included in the tour price; some optional activities (e.g., helicopter) are extra.

What time does the tour start and end?

Pickup in Las Vegas is around 7:15 a.m. on day one; the tour concludes in San Francisco on day seven at approximately 5 p.m.

Is bottled water provided?

Bottled water is not provided—plan to bring a refillable water bottle; the tour makes comfort stops where you can refill.

What happens if Tioga Pass is closed?

If Tioga Pass is closed due to weather, the route will detour through Lake Isabella and Bishop; guides will adjust the itinerary accordingly.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

7 days

Location

Las Vegas, Nevada

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers with basic mobility; able to manage several short hikes and get on/off a vehicle throughout long travel days.

Free cancellation available

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