Sacramento

The Sacramento State Capitol, located in Sacramento, California, is a historic and iconic landmark that serves as the seat of government for the state of California. Visiting the Capitol offers a fascinating glimpse into the state's political history and governance. As you approach the Capitol, you'll be struck by its impressive neoclassical architecture, featuring a stunning dome that dominates the skyline of Sacramento. The building is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic on a sunny day. Inside the Capitol, you can explore the various chambers and halls where California's laws are debated and enacted. Guided tours are available for visitors, providing insight into the building's rich history, architectural features, and the legislative process.

Lake Tahoe (California)

Lake Tahoe, straddling the border of California and Nevada, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and year-round outdoor recreational opportunities. Surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains, the lake's cobalt-blue waters are truly mesmerizing.

Perrine Bridge

The Perrine Memorial Bridge, spanning Idaho's Snake River Canyon near Twin Falls, offers stunning views from its 486-foot height. Named for pioneer I.B. Perrine, it's a marvel of engineering and a popular spot for base jumping and parachuting. Adventure seekers come to leap from its arches, while others enjoy photography and sightseeing. The bridge provides a thrilling experience and a chance to admire the rugged beauty of the Snake River Canyon.

Shoshone Falls

Shoshone Falls, often called the "Niagara of the West," is a breathtaking natural wonder near Twin Falls, Idaho. Cascading 212 feet over rugged cliffs, it's one of the largest natural waterfalls in the United States. Surrounded by stunning canyon scenery, the falls offer picturesque viewpoints and hiking trails. Spring and early summer bring the highest water flow, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of roaring water and mist. Visitors can picnic, hike, and enjoy the beauty of the falls year-round, making Shoshone Falls a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Norris Geyser Basin

Norris Geyser Basin, named after an early Yellowstone Superintendent, may be the hottest geyser basin in Yellowstone. The stark, barren landscape of Porcelain Basin is the result of the acidic environment. Due to the hostile condition plants, algae and bacteria have difficulty in establishing themselves. Instead, the basin derives its colors from mineral oxides, in spectrums of pink, red, orange (iron oxides) and yellow (sulfur and iron sulfates). The largest geyser in the world is located here. Steamboat Geyser has long periods of dormancy, but when it does erupt it sends jets of water nearly 380 feet high in a spectacular display.

Upper Falls

Located a quarter mile upstream of the larger Lower Falls, the Upper Yellowstone River Falls plunge 109 feet down an eroded lava cliff into the basin below. The area below the falls has been subject to heavier erosion than above.

Artist Point

Artist Point is one of the most spectacular scenic areas in the Canyon Area of the Park. The sheer walls drop 700 feet to the bottom of the canyon. Upriver the powerful Lower Falls are still in view. Downriver the canyon widens and deepens to a maximum of 1,540 feet. The canyon walls are predominantly yellow but colors of blue, red, orange and brown are also present. The colors are ever changing and especially intensified after a rain with bright sunshine.

Yellowstone Geysers - Mud Volcano Area

The Mud Volcano blew itself apart in the early 20th century, but visitors can still see the impressive crater and other geothermal features in the surrounding area, such as the Mud Cauldron, Black Dragon's Caldron, and Dragon's Mouth Spring.

Old Faithful

Old Faithful is a cone geyser in the Upper Geyser Basin of Yellowstone National Park. It is one of the park's most well-known natural features and is famous for its predictability. It generally erupts every 91 minutes.

Grand Prismatic Spring

The Grand Prismatic Spring, approximately 370 feet (110 m) in diameter and160 feet (50 m) deep, discharges an estimated 560 US gallons (2,100 L) of 160 °F (70 °C) water per minute. It is the largest hot spring in the United States, and the third largest in the world. The vivid colors in the spring are the result of microbial mats around the edges of the mineral-rich water. The mats produce colors ranging from green to red; the amount of color in the microbial mats depends on the ratio of chlorophyll to carotenoids and on the temperature gradient in the runoff. In the summer, the mats tend to be orange and red, whereas in the winter the mats are usually dark green. The center of the pool is sterile due to extreme heat.

Fountain Paint Pot

The Fountain Paint Pot is named for the reds, yellows and browns of the mud in this area. The differing colors are derived from oxidation states of the iron in the mud. As with all hot springs, the heat in the caldera forces pressurized water up through the ground, which is expelled here. Also, rising gases cause the bubbling action. The bubble action in the mud varies with the seasons.

Hayden Valley

Most of the Hayden Valley bison move between the Madison, Firehole, Hayden, and Pelican valleys during the rest of the year. Hayden Valley's famous for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife population, making it a prime spot for visitors looking to observe animals in their natural habitat. The valley is also rich in geothermal features, although not as impressive as the large geyser basins.

West Thumb Geyser Basin

West Thumb Geyser Basin, nestled on the shores of Yellowstone Lake in Yellowstone National Park, is a geothermal wonderland renowned for its colorful hot springs and geysers. This unique hydrothermal area features bubbling pools of vivid blue, green, and orange hues, surrounded by striking thermal formations. Visitors can stroll along boardwalks to observe these natural marvels up close, marveling at the steam vents and geothermal activity. With the backdrop of the vast Yellowstone Lake and the distant mountains, West Thumb Geyser Basin offers a mesmerizing and otherworldly experience that highlights the raw power and beauty of nature in this iconic national park.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park, located in northwest Wyoming, is renowned for its majestic mountain range, pristine alpine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Towering peaks, including the iconic Grand Teton, dominate the landscape, creating a dramatic backdrop for outdoor adventures. Visitors can hike along scenic trails, go wildlife watching for elk, moose, and grizzly bears, or enjoy activities such as boating, fishing, and photography. The Snake River winds its way through the park, offering opportunities for scenic floats and rafting trips. With its stunning vistas and diverse ecosystems, Grand Teton National Park promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Elk Antler Arches Park, located in Jackson, Wyoming, is a unique and iconic destination featuring four large arches constructed entirely of elk antlers. These impressive structures serve as gateways to the town square and have become beloved landmarks in Jackson Hole. Visitors can admire the intricate designs and craftsmanship of the arches, which are made from shed antlers collected from the nearby National Elk Refuge. Surrounding the park, visitors can explore charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants, immersing themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic western town. Elk Antler Arches Park offers a memorable glimpse into the rich natural and cultural heritage of Jackson.

Temple Square

Temple Square, located in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, is a revered religious and cultural landmark showcasing the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The centerpiece is the magnificent Salt Lake Temple, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, statues, and historic buildings. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the history and significance of the temple and its surroundings, including the Tabernacle and Assembly Hall. The square also hosts various events, concerts, and performances throughout the year, offering a peaceful and enriching experience for visitors interested in history, architecture, and spirituality.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southern Utah, is a mesmerizing landscape of surreal rock formations known as hoodoos. These spire-shaped rock pillars, formed by erosion over millions of years, create a breathtaking amphitheater of vibrant colors and intricate shapes. Visitors can explore the park's scenic viewpoints and hiking trails, marveling at the stunning vistas of hoodoos, natural bridges, and towering cliffs. Sunrise and sunset cast a magical glow over the canyon, enhancing its otherworldly beauty. With its unique geology and stunning scenery, Bryce Canyon National Park offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Lower Antelope Canyon

Lower Antelope Canyon, located near Page, Arizona, is a slot canyon renowned for its stunning sandstone formations and ethereal light beams. Carved by water and wind over thousands of years, the narrow passageways feature intricate patterns and vivid colors that change with the shifting sunlight. Visitors can embark on guided tours through the canyon, navigating its twisting corridors and marveling at the natural beauty of sculpted rock walls. Photographic opportunities abound as shafts of light filter down into the canyon, creating a mesmerizing interplay of shadows and textures. Lower Antelope Canyon offers a truly mesmerizing and unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend, located near Page, Arizona, is a striking horseshoe-shaped meander of the Colorado River. Carved over millions of years, the bend features sheer sandstone cliffs that plunge 1,000 feet to the river below. Visitors can take a short hike to the overlook, where they're treated to panoramic views of the meandering river and surrounding desert landscape. The vibrant hues of the canyon walls, ranging from deep reds to golden yellows, contrast against the emerald green waters of the river, creating a breathtaking scene. Horseshoe Bend is a must-see destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Grand Canyon National Park

Today we visit the most famous of Seven World’s Natural Wonders – the Grand Canyon National Park! We begin the day by traveling to both the East Rim and the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. The view is just breathtaking and inspiring. We'll then be off to Las Vegas. We will be passing by the Hoover Dam. Upon our arrival in Las Vegas, there is an optional Night Tour to explore the Las Vegas Strip for an additional cost. Guests may choose the option to have free time in Las Vegas too!

Grand Canyon South Rim

The South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, located in Arizona, offers awe-inspiring vistas of one of the world's most iconic natural wonders. Visitors can stroll along the Rim Trail, stopping at various overlooks to marvel at the vastness and depth of the canyon. The panoramic views reveal layers of colorful rock formations carved by the mighty Colorado River over millions of years. Sunrise and sunset cast a magical glow over the canyon, creating unforgettable photo opportunities. Hiking trails, historic buildings, and visitor centers provide opportunities for exploration and learning about the canyon's geological and cultural significance.

Las Vegas

Enjoy the night view and bustling of Las Vegas, and you can also take a Las Vegas helicopter night tour or enjoy a show at your own expense

San Francisco

Today will be our final tour day. We will depart from Las Vegas and head back to San Francisco. We will be driving through the Mojave Desert which is the largest desert in the western side of the United States and home to world’s largest Solar Power Station and Windmill Electricity Generators. We will then finally arrive in San Francisco Bay Area in the evening.