USA Tour 64 Day Trailblazer

From £3,639, 64 days, USA

  • Adventure travel
  • Adventure 4 out of 5
  • Relaxation 3 out of 5
  • Culture 2 out of 5
USA Tour 64 Day Trailblazer

Trip Highlights

  • Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist cruise 
  • Evening illumination visit to Washington DC Monuments 
  • New Orleans' Bourbon Street 
  • Walk the Golden Gate Bridge 
  • City tours of Las Vegas, Hollywood and San Francisco 
  • National parks and Monuments - Carlsbad Caverns, Rocky Mountains, Mesa Verde, Arches, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion, Badlands, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse, Yellowstone, Glacier, Banff/Lake Louise, Redwood and Yosemite

Trip Summary

See full itinerary

What's included?

  • Services of a tour leader
  • 51 nights camping fees and equipment
  • All transportation by private vehicle
  • Niagara Falls Maid of the Mist cruise
  • Night time illumination tour of Washington DC monuments
  • New Orleans Bourbon Street
  • San Antonio's Riverwalk
  • Alien spotting in Roswell
  • Walk the Golden Gate Bridge
  • Scenic walks and hikes
  • City tour of Las Vegas, Hollywood and San Francisco
  • National Parks and Monuments

What's not included?

  • International Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • 12 nights hotel/ hostel - approx. $40 per night paid locally
  • Food (kitty will be collected USD$10 a day)
  • Optional activities

So how about two months dedicated to one of our USA tours and all things stateside? Get your adrenaline pumping as you explore the roar of Niagara Falls. Then sink your teeth in some Chicago pizza before crossing the Great Plains to Yellowstone. Challenge yourself on the cliffs of Yosemite National Park before hitting the streets of San Francisco. Try your luck in the clubs and casinos in Las Vegas before a spectacular sunrise over the Grand Canyon.  

 

Bust your gut with a massive steak dinner in Texas and experience the down-home charm of the Deep South as you sway the night away to blues on Bourbon Street.  Then soak up the sun on the Florida beaches before heading back north to finish your once-in-a-lifetime journey in the ‘city that never sleeps’.


When do I want to go?

Showing all departures (15)

Dates of Departures Programme Option Price (Land Only) Trip Status
Mon, 19 Mar 2012Los Angeles to Los Angeles£3,639AvailableBook now
Sat, 24 Mar 2012Los Angeles to Los Angeles£3,639AvailableBook now
Sat, 31 Mar 2012New York to New York£3,779AvailableBook now
Sat, 21 Apr 2012Los Angeles to Los Angeles£3,639AvailableBook now
Sat, 28 Apr 2012New York to New York£3,779AvailableBook now
Sat, 12 May 2012New York to New York£3,779AvailableBook now
Sat, 2 Jun 2012New York to New York£3,779AvailableBook now
Sat, 16 Jun 2012Los Angeles to Los Angeles£3,639AvailableBook now
Sat, 23 Jun 2012New York to New York£3,779AvailableBook now
Sat, 30 Jun 2012Los Angeles to Los Angeles£3,639AvailableBook now
Sat, 7 Jul 2012New York to New York£3,779AvailableBook now
Sat, 21 Jul 2012Los Angeles to Los Angeles£3,639AvailableBook now
Sat, 28 Jul 2012New York to New York£3,779AvailableBook now
Sat, 18 Aug 2012Los Angeles to Los Angeles£3,639AvailableBook now
Sat, 18 Aug 2012New York to New York£3,779AvailableBook now

What will I be doing?

  • Day 1 to 14 (Leg 1)

  • Day 15 to 27 (Leg 2)

  • Day 28 to 41 (Leg 3)

  • Day 42 to 53 (Leg 4)

  • Day 54 to 64 (Leg 5)

Day 1 to 14: Leg 1

Next Leg

Destination info

There isn’t a person out there that hasn’t dreamed of taking off on the ultimate north American road trip with a bunch of mates! Cruising down the open road, tunes cranked, wind in your hair, not a care in the world; getting off the beaten track with a whole continent to discover.

 

The United States is a country of incredible diversity. The nation is home to dynamic cities and small towns that vary dramatically from region to region, and the awe-inspiring National Parks are unparalleled for their beauty and diversity. Eastern energy, slow-paced deep southern charm and a laid back west coast lifestyle, combine to create an incredible culture of virtually everything.

  • Location: New York to New Orleans

This tour also operates from Los Angeles to Los Angeles. For this route, read the itinerary from Day 35 with your first stop in San Diego.  

 

Day: 1-2 New York Area & Washington D.C 

Washington D.C. is the perfect introduction to the social, cultural and political history of the United States. Explore D.C.'s parks by day and monuments by night. From the impressive Smithsonian Museum to the White House, to Georgetown's trendy bars, the capital has something for everyone.

 

Day: 3-4 Carolinas & Charleston 

Bond with new buddies as mountain views morph into swamps, plantations and palmetto palms in the Carolinas, then enjoy a cozy campfire. Historic Charleston is next. This place oozes old world charm, especially the gaudy mid-1700 houses of Rainbow Row.

 

Day: 5 St Augustine

Soak up the Spanish Vibe, it’s as simple as that!

 

Day: 6 Miami 

SoBe (aka South Beach) has it all! Stroll the art deco seafront or pose with the beautiful people on sugary sand and in ultra-cool nightspots. Magnificent Miami beckons with miles of white beaches and palm trees swaying in the breeze...

 

Day: 7-8 Florida Keys 

Over conch fritters and Key lime pie, admire a crimson sunset and swap tales from teeming reefs, before celebrating with a sunset party!

 

Day: 9-10 Orlando 

It's not far from strip malls and souvenir shops to the Magic Kingdom. Escape from it all with an optional day at Disneyworld. Forget your age, it makes a big kid of one and all. With two nights here, fitting in extra thrills and spills is a piece of cake. Maybe slip-slide around Wet 'n' Wild, be drenched by killer whales at SeaWorld or cross the final frontier at Kennedy Space Center. Who wants to grow up anyhow?

 

Day: 11-12 Panama Beach 

Dream of lazy beach days or windsurf and jet ski the afternoon away. The heat of the beach simmers beyond sundown in this undisputed good-time town. Pack dancing shoes with your flip-flops as the party spirit simmers far into the small hours at the hippest, hottest haunts of the Gulf Coast.

 

Day: 13-14 New Orleans 

Now we're talking all that jazz! We head into the enchanting French Quarter of New Orleans! Hear the real deal at Preservation Hall, echoing with chirpy trumpet and smooth sax or sample a Hurricane at Pat O'Brien's! New Orleans has more than just food, drink and music to offer. Do the Huckleberry Finn thing as you chug along the Mississippi River. 

Day 15 to 27: Leg 2

Next Leg

Destination info

There isn’t a person out there that hasn’t dreamed of taking off on the ultimate north American road trip with a bunch of mates! Cruising down the open road, tunes cranked, wind in your hair, not a care in the world; getting off the beaten track with a whole continent to discover.

 

The United States is a country of incredible diversity. The nation is home to dynamic cities and small towns that vary dramatically from region to region, and the awe-inspiring National Parks are unparalleled for their beauty and diversity. Eastern energy, slow-paced deep southern charm and a laid back west coast lifestyle, combine to create an incredible culture of virtually everything.

  • Location: Texas to the Grand Canyon

Day: 15-18 Texas 

Look for gators on our optional Louisiana swamp tour through the mysterious bayous of Cajun country (a must do!). Then don your Stetson and toast marshmallows as the Lone Star bids you a big-hearted welcome for four nights in the mighty Texas. The second biggest of the states has plenty of oil, cowboys and southern hospitality. Feel that tumbleweed vibe at the Alamo in San Antonio and don't forget to checkout the Buckhorn Saloon and Museum, crammed with cowboy curiosities.

 

Day: 19 Carlsbad Caverns National Park 

Do you know your stalactite from your stalagmite? Carlsbad Caverns is one of the largest cave systems in the world and boasts over 100 limestone caves sporting bizarre rock formations. Pack the amphitheatre at dusk as thousands of resident bats swarm out.

 

Day: 20-21 Sante Fe & Mesa Verde 

Soak up the artsy vibe of Santa Fe, the oldest US capital city, high in the desert foothills, and check out the International UFO Museum and Research Centre (and gift shop!) in Roswell! They say Aliens crashed to Earth and they have proof! Mesa Verde National Park is next. Explore the ancient dwellings of Ancestral Pueblans cut into the cliff face on an optional ranger led hike; viewings are highly recommended!

 

Day: 22-24 Colorado Rocky Mountains & Arches National Park 

Distant peaks sport snowy caps and pines huddle together as you pit yourself against amazing hiking and biking trails in the Rockies before heading to Arches National Park. The park's name says it all. Some 2,000 orange sandstone arches strike their poses. The scenery here is breathtaking and a sunset stroll to Delicate Arch tops most 'to do' lists. Take on the famous "Slick Rock" mountain bike trail, float down the Colorado on a scenic rafting trip or tackle the terrain high above on a guided jeep tour.

 

Day: 25 Monument Valley 

Navajo legends rise from crimson flats at Monument Valley. The only things to pre-date the origins of Native American culture are the massive towering rock formations which dominate the awe-inspiring landscape. Take the opportunity to experience it close-up with an optional Navajo guided jeep ride before setting up camp on the edge of Monument Valley. What a place to swap campfire stories and songs.

 

Day: 26-27 Grand Canyon National Park 

Next we come face to face with the most awe-inspiring national park of them all, the Grand Canyon. Nothing you have ever seen before will prepare you for this spectacular site! Hike from the forest above to the desert below, or take a helicopter flight above it all and marvel at the brilliant colours. One thing's for sure though, this place looks incredible from any angle, especially walking along the rim at sunset or sunrise.

Day 28 to 41: Leg 3

Next Leg

Destination info

There isn’t a person out there that hasn’t dreamed of taking off on the ultimate north American road trip with a bunch of mates! Cruising down the open road, tunes cranked, wind in your hair, not a care in the world; getting off the beaten track with a whole continent to discover.

 

The United States is a country of incredible diversity. The nation is home to dynamic cities and small towns that vary dramatically from region to region, and the awe-inspiring National Parks are unparalleled for their beauty and diversity. Eastern energy, slow-paced deep southern charm and a laid back west coast lifestyle, combine to create an incredible culture of virtually everything.

  • Location: Lake Powell to San Francisco

Day: 28-29 Lake Powell, Bryce Canyon National Park 

It's time for some stunning R&R, basking in the clear blue waters of Lake Powell ringed by deep red rock. Swim, ride a waverunner, horse-ride in the desert or just sit back on the shore and soak up the powerful rays of this beautiful and surreal man-made desert oasis. Bryce is next with it's knobbly hoodoos striking their crazy poses as your camera clicks away at a perfect sunset. What's a hoodoo when it's at home? Actually, Hoodoos are weird and wonderful rock spires arranged in rows as far as the eye can see. They will leave you searching for your own way to describe this 'indescribable' place.

 

Day: 30 Zion National Park 

Another batch of top notch trails provides one final hiking fix at Zion National Park. Swim and explore the hidden canyons or maybe hike to the top at Angels Landing. Okay, so getting up there can be devilish at times, but the famous trail puts on a 360-degree display of this magnificent national park.

 

Day: 31-32 Las Vegas 

Next, Las Vegas - the greatest show on earth! The Strip, the shows, the casinos, the clubs; Sin City's glitziest and brashest spots are sure to impress as you cruise the Las Vegas Boulevard on an included limo ride! Hop onto one of the world's highest thrill rides at Vegas' Stratosphere and it won't just be your head that's spinning. And if that's not enough, take a helicopter flight down The Strip or just gamble the night away in one of the world class casinos.

 

Day: 33-34 San Diego 

It's all about the beach: bronzed bodies, big shades and baggy shorts. Wow fellow beachgoers on your surfboard or let the world-famous San Diego Zoo or SeaWorld steal the limelight

 

Day: 35 Los Angeles 

Journey across the desert and catch some California sun as you roll into the larger than life LA scene and our turn around point before heading back east. Why not hang out at and people watch at Venice Beach tonight?

 

Day: 36-37 Los Angeles & Pacific Coast 

With LA in the rearview mirror, head up the rugged California coast on the Pacific Coast Highway and take in the sights as the surf spirit takes hold of you! Fasten your seatbelt for blockbusting scenery.

 

Day: 38-39 Yosemite National Park 

Heading east through California's gold country we following the scenic drive into the Yosemite National Park region and a chance to hike or bike, through the extraordinary landscape of glacier-carved granite monoliths and spectacular waterfalls. Either way, this park rocks! Once deep inside Yosemite, keep your eyes peeled for black bears. Coyote roam freely as well and when the sun goes down, their howling often echoes amidst pines and sequoias. Admit it, this is what clicks the spirit of the great outdoors up a notch or two.

 

Day: 40-41 San Francisco 

Next, "Everybody's Favourite City", San Francisco. This town will blow you away. Sunlight on the bay, wispy fog around Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars climbing steep streets: it's a 24-carat stunner. Maybe view the Bay and Alcatraz on an optional sunset sailboat cruise, then the party people can flock to trendy bars and clubs in North Beach or Haight-Ashbury and that friendly vibe gets even better.

Day 42 to 53: Leg 4

Next Leg

Destination info

There isn’t a person out there that hasn’t dreamed of taking off on the ultimate north American road trip with a bunch of mates! Cruising down the open road, tunes cranked, wind in your hair, not a care in the world; getting off the beaten track with a whole continent to discover.

 

The United States is a country of incredible diversity. The nation is home to dynamic cities and small towns that vary dramatically from region to region, and the awe-inspiring National Parks are unparalleled for their beauty and diversity. Eastern energy, slow-paced deep southern charm and a laid back west coast lifestyle, combine to create an incredible culture of virtually everything.

  • Location: Oregon to Montana

Day: 42-44 Redwood National Park & Oregon 

You will amazed to walk amongst the towering forest giants of Redwood National Park - home to the tallest trees in the world and some of the most spectacular coastal scenery on the Pacific Coast. Leave footprints on what is virtually your private Pacific beach or traipse between gigantic Redwoods, feeling like ants in their mighty shadow. Next, the Oregon coast is rugged and perfect for some dune-buggy fun!

 

Day: 45 Seattle 

Beam yourself up! Well, take the glass-fronted elevator up the iconic Space Needle (optional) and gaze over the Emerald City with a hot cup of coffee from the the very first Starbucks! Then tonight blare out guitar-loaded classics in the city that gave the world Hendrix and Nirvana.

 

Day: 46 Vancouver 

Straight into Canada and the awesome city of Vancouver. With its stunning combination of mountains and coastline, the city boasts outstanding views. Take to Stanley Park on two wheels, then regain your inner city slicker around A-grade museums and galleries or bustling Granville Market. Why not check out the city nightlife in Gas Town or the eclectic "Robsonstrasse" tonight.

 

Day: 47-48 British Columbia & Lake Louise 

Heading through BC, appreciate the mirrored lakes, grizzled peaks and spectacular scenery as dark conifers and shadowy summits drift by. A nickname like the "gem of the Rockies" is a lot to live up to, but it's no sweat for Lake Louise. The imposing chateau looks on as mountains cluster round the turquoise surface. As for you, well, you could always hike out to the Plain-of-Six-Glaciers or inspect the scene by paddle power on an optional canoe trip. 

 

Day: 49-50 Banff National Park 

Blaze show-stopping trails in the footfalls or horse tracks of pioneers of old. Perhaps bounce across the bumpy terrain by mountain bike or hover above it all by helicopter. One dunk in the hot springs and a drink or two later, you'll sleep like a log.

 

Day: 51-53 Glacier National Park & Montana 

With two days in Glacier, you'll have plenty of time to explore the alpine meadows, snow-streaked cliffs and shimmering lakes. Montana is often referred to as 'Big Sky Country' because of its numerous stars, but it is also a trekkers' paradise. This area sure adds a healthy dose of the wow factor.

Day 54 to 64: Leg 5

Destination info

There isn’t a person out there that hasn’t dreamed of taking off on the ultimate north American road trip with a bunch of mates! Cruising down the open road, tunes cranked, wind in your hair, not a care in the world; getting off the beaten track with a whole continent to discover.

 

The United States is a country of incredible diversity. The nation is home to dynamic cities and small towns that vary dramatically from region to region, and the awe-inspiring National Parks are unparalleled for their beauty and diversity. Eastern energy, slow-paced deep southern charm and a laid back west coast lifestyle, combine to create an incredible culture of virtually everything.

  • Location: Yellowstone National Park to New York

Day: 54-55 Yellowstone National Park 

Pitch up in the world's first National Park, Yellowstone. This is a superb wilderness of spouting geysers, waterfalls and simmering mud pools. A-grade American stars grace the trails - keep your eyes peeled for the abundant wildlife. Large herds of bison and elk roam the park and if you're lucky, you may even see bear or wolf.

 

Day: 56-57 Cody, Wyoming & Black Hills 

We're into Wild Wyoming, the heart of cowboy country, This is what Cody is all about. Named after William Cody (aka Buffalo Bill), the old west is alive and literally kicking here. After all, "Cody is rodeo", with nightly summer shows. You'll agree with the Lakota people, from afar the pine-coated hills do appear black. Mount Rushmore's next and the uniquely sculptured faces of our four greatest Presidents. Close by, another rock-carved epic is shaping up: the Crazy Horse monument, a nod to the famed Lakota Indian war leader, very impressive! 

 

Day: 58-59 Badlands & South Dakota 

Never mind the "bad lands", touching down here feels like a moon landing. Low-slung buttes, chiselled spires and saw-tooth ridges have a bizarre lunar quality. Spend the afternoon exploring the park's surreal landscape and don't forget your camera for sunset! From the North Star State, cross native American Sioux terrain and America's original western frontier. Resident coyotes may utter the occasional howl as you settle back for some shut-eye under canvas.

 

Day: 60-62 Chicago & Ohio 

Chicago is next on the menu for two nights, famous for music, museums and Lake Shore Drive. Soar up Willis Tower for dizzying views over the Windy City, trawl the upmarket malls of Magnificent Mile and grab a slice of Chicago's deep-dish pizza before peddling on the optional "Bobby's Bike Hike" tour. Then hit the blues groove, drop into a corner bar or seek out heaving dance and hip-hop beats in the hangouts of Wicker Park and Bucktown. Leaving the shores of Lake Michigan we cross Indiania bound for another of the great five: Lake Erie. 

 

Day: 63 Niagara Falls 

On the edge of Lake Ontario, the sensation of crashing water is stupendous, the noise immense, at America's greatest national attraction, Niagara Falls. Wait 'til you're down on the water aboard 'Maid of the Mist', where the cascades pound, churn and foam right before your eyes. That's what you call a front row seat!

 

Day: 64 New York Area 

Today we travel through New York's Finger Lakes region and the Pocono Mountains en-route to the New York Area. This tour is not scheduled to spend any time in New York City so make sure you book extra hotel nights and explore the sights and sounds of the Big Apple on your own. Splurge along Fifth Ave, hit the top of the Empire State Building, or soak up the trendy, laidback vibe of Greenwich Village before heading home.

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Trip Notes include a full itinerary, country guides and travel advice on visas, money, insurance and the local weather. By filling in your details you'll also be kept updated on all the latest news, offers and stories on this particular trip. Happy reading!

Additional Information & FAQs

Minimum age

 

Minimum age is 18 years. Maximum age is 38 years.

 

Accommodation

 

51 nights Camping (including fees and equipment)
12 hotel/hostel nights (approx. $40 per night paid locally)

 

Meals

On our camping tours, our groups share in the preparation and cooking of the food. Supplies, excluding soft drinks and alcohol, are purchased from the food kitty, and each member of the group pays US$10 per day en route. This covers three meals on most days while we are camping; eating fresh foods that we purchase as we travel to satisfy the international flavour of the group - a healthy way to travel at an unbeatable price. Naturally this does not cover hotel stops or when Trek groups sometimes sample regional cuisine at local restaurants.

 

Advice & Safety

Throughout your programmes you will have the support and guidance of the programme co-ordinator and team. You will be provided with competent assistance and help with any questions or advice you may need during your stay.

You will be assigned a personal travel advisor who will co-ordinate your programme with you. Feel free to contact them at any time before you go, or when you are on your travels.

In addition, you will have access to a 24 hour emergency contact number so you can contact one of our UK staff at any time should you need to.

 

FAQ

1. What are the average group sizes?

Group sizes for the USA Tours are 11.

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2. How much spending money will I need?

We recommend you take at least US$35/CAN$40 dollars per day to budget for your optional activities and snacks along the way.

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3. Do I need to arrive earlier than my tour?

We always recommend that you arrive the day or two before your tour so you have a chance to get past any jet lag. Staying at the departure hotel is always a good idea as there is only one pickup point.

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4. Do I need any vaccinations?

We recommend that you contact a physician or travel medicine clinic at least two months before travel in order to allow enough time for any immunisations that may be required to be completed. This is especially true for those planning travel to tropical areas or developing countries. A health professional will be able to assess your individual need for immunisations or preventative medication depending on your health situation, previous immunisation history and your travel itinerary. Information prior to your consultation with a doctor can be obtained from the ‘Fit for Travel’ website www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk/

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5. When can I book my flights?

We do not recommend you book flights until 8 weeks before the start of the tour to ensure the tour is going ahead and confirmed.

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