National Parks & Golden Treasures

DAY 1 – PENDLETON, OR

Join our fellow travellers from Sun Fun before heading over the border. We will make our way through Washington State and on to our overnight stay at the Red Lion Hotel in Pendleton, Oregon. (R)

DAY 2 – WENDOVER, NV

A day of scenic views as we cross the Blue Mountains of Oregon into the Snake River Valley and the ‘Gem State’ of Idaho, Following the Great Basin Highway to Wells then over Pequop Summit into the unique Utah and Nevada border town of Wendover. Unwind at the beautiful Montego Bay Resort in Wendover. (B,D)

DAY 3 – SALT LAKE CITY, UT

A short drive across the Salt Flats brings us to Salt Lake City, Utah. Travel past the Great Salt Lake, with an average depth of only 13 feet, it is the largest lake west of the Mississippi. The Red Lion Hotel is our home for tonight. It is located close to the downtown area and the historic Mormon Temple Square, the world’s largest genealogical center.

DAY 4 – BRYCE CANYON, UT

Southern Utah features some of the most unique and beautiful landscapes in the world, offering thousands of natural arches, breathtaking canyons, towering buttes and rock faces sculpted from the distinctive red sandstone. Our destination is Bryce Canyon and the Best Western Ruby’s Inn.

DAY 5 – CEDAR CITY, UT

Wonder at the brilliance of Bryce Canyon National Park,known for its immense semicircular amphitheater of crimson-coloured hoodoos, which are spire-shaped rock formations. After, head west with views of Cedar Breaks National Monument to Cedar City for an overnight at the Best Western Town & Country Inn.

DAY 6 – KANAB, UT

The highlight today is Zion National Park, a narrow slot canyon dominated by its towering cliffs, incredible waterfalls and hanging gardens. Arrive into Kanab, a scenic filming location for many western movies.(B)

DAY 7 – TUYASAN, AZ

Today is devoted to the Grand Canyon, one of the world’s Seven Natural Wonders at almost 300 miles long, up to 18 miles wide and 1 mile deep. Its powerful and inspiring landscape overwhelms the senses. Our drive takes us along the South Rim with multiple stops at viewpoints. After a visit to the magnificent Visitor’s Centre, overnight is at the Kachina Lodges in Grand Canyon National Park. (B)

DAY 8 – SEDONA, AZ

Return to the spectacular Grand Canyon this morning, experience the IMAX Theater, then head to magical Sedona, dense with New Age shops, spas and art galleries. The Best Western Inn of Sedona invites you to relax in luxury among the red rocks. (D)

DAY 9 – PALM SPRINGS, CA

Leaving the Red Rock Country of Arizona, we head to sunny California and Palm Springs. We travel via Blythe and Indio.Our two night stay is at the Palm Mountain Resort, located in the middle of Palm Springs and only steps away from the famed Palm Canyon Drive. Time to relax and unwind! (B)

DAY 10 – PALM SPRINGS

This morning we experience the “Homes of the Stars” guided tour. The rest of the day is free to enjoy as you please. (B)

DAY 11 – SANTA BARBARA, CA

Sit back, relax and enjoy the sights as we travel north through Los Angeles, up the coast to the community of Santa Barbara, weekend get-away for the stars with its Spanish colonial heritage. Upon arrival we will take in a city tour of Old Town before arriving at our one-night stay at the Best Western Pepper Tree Inn. (R)

DAY 12 – SALINAS, CA

Today’s travel takes us through the area that epitomizes what California is all about. From its perfect weather, breathtaking beauty, the incredibly fertile land to the award-winning wineries. Complete the day with a visit to the world famous Monterey Aquarium before we check into our hotel for this evening, the Best Western Salinas Valley Inn in Salinas.

DAY 13 – REDDING, CA

Continuing our journey through Northern California, take in the beauty of Mt. Shasta and the blue green waters of Shasta Lake. This afternoon we will get to experience the infamous Winchester Mystery House in San Jose. It is an extravagant maze of Victorian craftsmanship – marvelous, baffling, and eerily eccentric, to say the least. We continue north to Redding where tonight’s stay will be at the Gaia Hotel & Spa. (L)

DAY 14 – SALEM, OR

Leaving volcano country behind, sit back and enjoy the sights as we travel past the mountains and lakes of Southern Oregon into the state’s capital of Salem. Tonight’s stay is at the Red Lion Hotel. (B)

DAY 15 – MARYSVILLE, WA

Arrive at the beautiful Tulalip Resort this afternoon with plenty of time to enjoy the amenities of this wonderful property. The options are endless. Take in a little gaming, go to the spa or pool or spend some time at the Seattle Premium Outlets. End your day with a great meal at one of Tulalip’s many dining venues. (B,D)

DAY 16 – RETURN HOME

We depart mid-morning and bid farewell to our new-found friends and return home with wonderful memories of bright sunshine and warm sunny days. (B)