Los Angeles to San Francisco, Grand Canyon and Yellowstone 8-Day Tour

This morning, we depart from Los Angeles and head to the stunning Monterey Peninsula! Along the way, we’ll enjoy refreshing sea breezes, crashing waves, dramatic rock formations, and glimpses of playful seals and sea lions lounging on the shore. Our first stop is a world-renowned golf resort, where we’ll take in spectacular ocean views and admire luxurious multimillion-dollar mansions. Then, we’ll continue along the iconic 17-Mile Drive, soaking in its truly breathtaking coastal scenery.

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Itinerary:

Los Angeles → 17-Mile Drive → The Lodge at Pebble Beach → San Francisco
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17-Mile Drive

The 17-Mile Drive is a scenic route that winds through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on California’s Monterey Peninsula. Much of the drive follows the Pacific coastline, offering views of renowned golf courses, grand estates, and natural landmarks such as the Lone Cypress, Bird Rock, and the 5,300-acre Del Monte Forest, home to Monterey Cypress trees.

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Pebble Beach

Pebble Beach is a coastal community on the Monterey Peninsula in Monterey County, California. Known for its residential charm with primarily single-family homes, it is also a renowned resort destination, featuring world-class golf courses such as Cypress Point Club, Monterey Peninsula Country Club, and Pebble Beach Golf Links.

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Hotel：Wild Palms, a JDV by Hyatt Hotel; or similar
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This morning, we’ll begin our day with a visit to San Francisco. Afterwards, we’ll travel to Sacramento to explore California’s State Capitol on a self-guided tour. Then, sit back and relax as we make our way to the beautiful Lake Tahoe. To wrap up the day, we’ll spend the night in Reno—famously known as the “Biggest Little City in the World.”

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Itinerary:

San Francisco → Lombard Street → Fisherman’s Wharf (you can take a bay cruise at your own expense) → Golden Gate Bridge (visit on the car) → Sacramento → California State Building → Lake Tahoe → Reno
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Lombard Street

Nicknamed the “Crookedest Street in the World,” Lombard Street is one of San Francisco’s most iconic landmarks and has served as a backdrop for action scenes in movies like Venom. Each year, millions of visitors navigate or stroll down its eight sharp hairpin turns. Nestled among elegant Russian Hill mansions and beautifully maintained gardens, it’s also one of the city’s most picturesque streets. Capture a stunning photo from the bottom looking up, or enjoy sweeping views from the top overlooking San Francisco Bay, the Bay Bridge, and Coit Tower.

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San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf (optional for Bay Cruise)

This San Francisco neighborhood is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful scenery and wide variety of shops, restaurants, museums, and attractions. It also hosts several annual events, including the July 4th fireworks show.

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Golden Gate Bridge

The iconic arches of the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California, are recognized worldwide as a symbol of both the state and the San Francisco Bay Area. Featured in countless movies and postcards, the bridge stands as a true American icon.

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Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe was formed around two million years ago as part of the Lake Tahoe Basin, with its current shape taking form during the ice ages. It is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and the breathtaking mountain views that surround it.

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Hotel：Circus Circus Reno Hotel Casino; or similar

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This morning, we’ll depart from Reno and journey through the vast Great Basin Desert, taking in the diverse and stunning landscapes of the American West. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the impressive Perrine Bridge and the majestic Shoshone Falls. Our day concludes with an overnight stay in Pocatello, Idaho.

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Itinerary:

Reno → Perrine Memorial Bridge → Shoshone Falls → Pocatello
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Perrine Memorial Bridge

When it was completed in 1927, the Perrine Bridge in south-central Idaho was the highest bridge in the world, standing at approximately 3,600 feet above sea level. Today, it remains a popular destination for visitors from around the globe.

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Shoshone Falls

Known as the “Niagara of the West,” this stunning Idaho waterfall stands 25 feet taller than Niagara Falls and spans over a thousand feet across. Its most powerful and picturesque flow occurs in the spring.

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Hotel：La Quinta by Wyndham Pocatello; or similar
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Get ready for a full day of adventure in Yellowstone National Park! Discover the park’s natural wonders, including Yellowstone Lake, Fishing Bridge, Mud Volcano, Upper Falls, Artist Point, Mammoth Hot Springs, the Yellowstone River, and Norris Geyser Basin. Keep an eye out for wildlife—you might spot elk herds, buffalo, or even a bald eagle! In the evening, unwind with an overnight stay at Grant Village by Yellowstone Lake (free upgrades available on a first-come, first-served basis) or in West Yellowstone.

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Itinerary:

Pocatello → Yellowstone National Park In-depth Tour (Stops will be at the Norris Geyser Basin, Upper Falls, Artist Point, Hayden Valley, Mud Volcano, Fishing Bridge, Old Faithful Geyserm, Grand Prismatic Hot Spring, Fountain Paint Pot, Morning Glory and other attractions. The arrangement of attractions will be adjusted according to the actual situation of the day.)
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Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park—the first national park in the United States—is a must-see treasure filled with year-round scenic beauty. It offers incredible opportunities to observe wildlife as animals migrate in and out of the park throughout the seasons. No matter where you go in Yellowstone, you’re likely to spot some of its iconic residents, including bears, wolves, moose, elk, bison, and more!

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Norris Geyser Basin

Norris Geyser Basin, named after one of Yellowstone’s early superintendents, is considered the hottest geyser basin in the park. The Porcelain Basin within it features a stark, barren landscape shaped by its highly acidic environment, which makes it difficult for plants, algae, and bacteria to thrive. Instead, the basin’s vivid colors come from mineral oxides—iron creating shades of pink, red, and orange, and sulfur and iron sulfates producing bright yellows. This basin is also home to Steamboat Geyser, the tallest active geyser in the world. Though its eruptions are infrequent, when it does erupt, it can shoot water nearly 380 feet into the air in a dramatic spectacle.

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Upper Yellowstone Falls

Just a quarter mile upstream from the larger Lower Falls, the Upper Falls of the Yellowstone River cascade 109 feet over a rugged lava cliff into the basin below. The area beneath the falls has experienced more intense erosion compared to the calmer stretch above.

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Artist Point

Artist Point is one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the Canyon Area of Yellowstone National Park. The canyon’s sheer walls plunge 700 feet to the river below, with the majestic Lower Falls visible upstream. Downstream, the canyon expands and deepens to a maximum depth of 1,540 feet. While the canyon walls are primarily yellow, they also display vibrant hues of blue, red, orange, and brown—colors that shift and intensify, especially after rainfall followed by bright sunshine.

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Mud Volcano Area

The Mud Volcano violently erupted in the early 20th century, leaving behind a striking crater that remains visible today. Surrounding the site are several fascinating geothermal features, including the Mud Cauldron, Black Dragon’s Caldron, and Dragon’s Mouth Spring, each offering a unique glimpse into Yellowstone’s dynamic geothermal landscape.
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Old Faithful Geyser

Old Faithful, located in Yellowstone’s Upper Geyser Basin, is one of the park’s most iconic natural landmarks. Renowned for its reliability, this cone geyser erupts approximately every 91 minutes, delighting visitors with its regular displays.

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The Grand Prismatic Hot Spring

The Grand Prismatic Spring, measuring about 370 feet (110 meters) in diameter and 160 feet (50 meters) deep, releases around 560 gallons (2,100 liters) of 160°F (70°C) water every minute. It is the largest hot spring in the United States and the third largest in the world. The spring’s vibrant colors are created by microbial mats that thrive around the edges of the mineral-rich water.
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Fountain Paint Pot

The Fountain Paint Pot gets its name from the rich reds, yellows, and browns of the mud, which are caused by varying oxidation levels of iron. Like other hot springs in the area, geothermal heat from the caldera pushes pressurized water to the surface, creating bubbling mud pools. The bubbling effect is also influenced by rising gases and changes with the seasons.
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Hotel：Grant Village Yellowstone (Free Upgrade, First Come First Served) or Terra Nova or West Yellowstone; or similar
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Join us for another beautiful day as we continue exploring the wonders of Yellowstone National Park! Then, we’ll journey along the scenic Snake River to the breathtaking Grand Teton National Park. Our adventure continues in Jackson, a charming cowboy town and world-famous vacation spot. Don’t miss the iconic Elk Antler Arches at Jackson Town Square!

Next, we head to Salt Lake City, where we’ll visit the Great Salt Lake before exploring Temple Square—the spiritual heart of the LDS Church. There, we’ll be guided by Mormon missionary sisters as we learn about the church’s rich history and teachings.

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Itinerary:

Yellowstone National Park (stop at West Thumb Geyser Basin) → Grand Teton National Park → Jackson → Jackson Town Square with Elk Antler Arches → Salt Lake City → Temple Square → Hotel
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West Thumb Geyser Basin

The West Thumb Geyser Basin is located on the western edge of a large bay along the shores of Yellowstone Lake. This area lies within the West Thumb caldera, formed by a volcanic eruption approximately 174,000 years ago. The bay itself is a smaller caldera nested within the larger Yellowstone caldera, which later filled with water to form the bay seen today.

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Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park, nestled in the Rocky Mountains of northwest Wyoming, is renowned for its breathtaking mountain views and sparkling alpine lakes. The park is also a haven for diverse and abundant wildlife, making it a true natural treasure.
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Jackson Town Square with Elk Antler Arches

Jackson Town Square features four distinctive arches made from thousands of elk antlers, creating a truly unique landmark. It’s a remarkable place to explore, offering a memorable experience for every visitor.

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Temple Square

Temple Square is a 10-acre complex in the heart of Salt Lake City, owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). It features several historic and religious landmarks, including the Salt Lake Temple, Salt Lake Tabernacle, Assembly Hall, the Seagull Monument, and two visitors’ centers. In 1964, Temple Square was designated a National Historic Landmark District in recognition of the LDS Church’s role in the settlement of Utah.

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Hotel：Provo Marriott Hotel & Conference; Embassy Suites by Hilton Salt Lake West Valley City; or similar

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This morning, we’ll spend more time exploring the unique beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park. Then, we’ll travel to Page, Arizona to visit the stunning Lower Antelope Canyon (optional, at your own expense) and take in the breathtaking views at Horseshoe Bend. To end the day, we’ll head to Tuba City, Arizona for an overnight stay, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy Native American cuisine and cultural entertainment.

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Itinerary:

Hotel → Bryce Canyon National Park → Lower Antelope Canyon (Optional) → Horseshoe Bend → Tuba
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Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southwestern Utah, is best known for its unique landscape of giant natural amphitheaters rather than a single canyon. These formations line the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau and are famous for their striking hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock shaped by frost weathering and erosion. The park’s vivid red, orange, and white rock layers create breathtaking views that make Bryce a truly unforgettable destination.

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Lower Antelope Canyon (Optional)

Lower Antelope Canyon is a stunning slot canyon located on Navajo land just east of Page, Arizona. Upon arrival, you’ll step off the truck and into a breathtaking desert landscape. As you journey through the narrow sandstone walls, your Navajo guide will share fascinating insights into the canyon’s geology, history, and cultural significance. Walking through the sculpted passageways, you’ll be fully immersed in the natural beauty of this remarkable place.
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Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend is one of the most iconic and frequently visited landmarks within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. It’s been featured as a highlight for surrounding regions, including Grand Canyon National Park, the cities of Page, AZ; Kanab, UT; St. George, UT; and the Navajo Nation—whose borders are all nearby. Located just nine miles upstream from the official start of Grand Canyon National Park, Horseshoe Bend has become a social media favorite and a must-see destination in the American Southwest.

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Hotel：Moenkopi Legacy Inn & Suites Tuba City; or similar
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Today, we’ll explore one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World—Grand Canyon National Park! Our visit includes both the East Rim and South Rim, offering breathtaking and unforgettable views. After soaking in the scenery, we’ll head toward Las Vegas, passing by the iconic Hoover Dam along the way. Once in Las Vegas, you’ll have the option to join an exciting Night Tour of the famous Strip (at an additional cost) or enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace.

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Itinerary:

Tuba →  East Rim → South Rim → Hoover Dam (pass by) → Las Vegas
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Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park, located in northwestern Arizona, is the 15th national park established in the United States. Its centerpiece is the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, a massive gorge carved by the Colorado River and often regarded as one of the natural wonders of the world. Spanning over 1.2 million acres across Coconino and Mohave counties, the park welcomed over six million visitors in 2017—making it the second most visited national park in the U.S., after the Great Smoky Mountains. In recognition of its global significance, the Grand Canyon was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.

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Hotel：Fontainebleau Las Vegas; or similar
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Rise and shine! Join your tour guide for a fun stop at the iconic “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign, where you can snap some unforgettable selfies. Before we head out of Vegas, we can’t miss a visit to the M&M’s and Coca-Cola stores, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at both and experience their 3D movies in the sweet-scented air! Next, we’ll take an adventure to the colorful Seven Magic Mountains. Finally, we’ll wrap up the day with some free-time shopping at the Outlets at Barstow!

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Itinerary:

Fabulous Las Vegas Sign & M&M’S Las Vegas & Coca-Cola Store Las Vegas → FlyOver Las Vegas (Optional) → Outlets at Barstow → Los Angeles
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M&M’S Las Vegas

The M&M’s Las Vegas store is a 28,000-square-foot, four-level paradise and was the very first M&M’s store ever created. In just two minutes, you can design your own custom M&M’s using their personal printer! And before you leave, don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with your favorite chocolate treat!

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Coca-Cola Store Las Vegas

Welcome to the Coca-Cola Store Las Vegas! Make this stop a highlight of your Vegas adventure and discover the world’s most iconic beverage in a truly unique and unforgettable way!
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FlyOver Las Vegas (Optional)

Embark on a one-of-a-kind ride along the Las Vegas Boulevard! Experience the thrill of flight with cutting-edge, immersive technology that lets you soar over breathtaking landscapes without ever leaving The Strip. From volcanic eruptions and icy glaciers to vast prairies, towering peaks, and buzzing urban jungles, this adventure takes you through some of the world’s most stunning sights and more!

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Seven Magic Mountains

South of Las Vegas, in the heart of the desert, stands a striking and vibrant anomaly—Seven Magic Mountains. This stunning installation features seven towering stone sculptures that seem to defy gravity with their precarious stacks. Created by artist Ugo Rondinone, the artwork blends geological formations with abstract design, using locally sourced limestone boulders stacked in groups of three to six. Each boulder is painted in a different fluorescent hue, with individual totems soaring between 30 and 35 feet high. This piece continues Rondinone’s exploration of natural phenomena and their transformation into art.
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Outlets at Barstow

Barstow Outlets, located in the desert along the route from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, offers a unique shopping experience. While it doesn’t feature many high-end luxury brands, it boasts a wide selection of second-tier labels, especially local U.S. brands. The stores are well-organized, with a solid variety of options, and the service is excellent, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable end to your day of shopping.

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