Best of the Southwest

Day # 1 – ARRIVALS
Your professional tour director and motorcoach will meet you at McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas and transfer you to our hotel to freshen up before our very special welcome dinner aboard the Desert Princess paddlewheeler on Lake Mead. Our short journey takes us through Henderson, one of the fastest growing cities in America and nearby Boulder City, which was created to house the workers on the dam in the 1930’s. Overnight: Las Vegas.  (D)

Day # 2 – Valley of Fire State Park / Zion National Park
Valley of Fire is Nevada’s oldest and largest state park – and one of its best-kept secrets! This amazing geological site contains ancient trees, 3,000 year-old petroglyphs and the red sandstone formation which give it its name. After touring the park’s loop it is but a short journey to our next highlight: Zion National Park. Canyons, uplifts, spectacular colors and amazing displays of natural erosion are evident in profusion throughout souther Utah. Zion is actually the first of Utah’s areas to be set aside by the National Park Service (1909). We’ll be overnighting at the lodge right in the park to maximize our visit. (B)

Day # 3 – Lake Powell  / Glen Canyon
As we enter Arizona this morning we’ll travel a scenic route along the magnificent Vermilion Cliffs. Our afternoon will be spent out on the magnificent waters of Lake Powell, on a tour of the famous Antelope Canyon. Overnight is at Lake Powell Lodge overlooking the lake. (B)

Day # 4 – Monument Valley
This morning we’ll pick up the trail to Monument Valley where the splendid monoliths have provided a breathtaking backdrop for hundreds of Hollywood westerns beginning with John Ford’s classic 1939 film, “Stagecoach”. We’ll enjoy an all-terrain vehicle tour of this Navajo Tribal Park followed by a desert cookout among the formations. Overnight is at Goulding’s Trading Post, a valley landmark for over 100 years. (B, D)

Day # 5 – Grand Canyon
A half-day journey through more of the huge Navajo Reservation and a stop at historic Cameron Trading Post will precede our arrival at one of the world’s most famous natural wonders, the Grand Canyon. The mighty Colorado River has been carving this gorge through layers of multi-colored rock for millions of years and the views are absolutely breathtaking. We‘ll make some photography stops at strategic points on the rim before checking in to Maswick Lodge. The remaining hours before sunset will be free to explore the South Rim with its many lodges, museums and scenic viewpoints (and perhaps stock up on more film!) The coach will be parked while here in the Park, but shuttle transportation all along the rim runs continuously for the convenience of visitors. Overnight:  Grand Canyon, South Rim.  (B)

Day # 6 – Return to Las Vegas
The route back to Las Vegas includes crossing Hoover Dam. A farewell dinner and show  are included tonight. Overnight:  Las Vegas. (B, D)

Day # 7 – DEPARTURES
Airport transfers are included to the Las Vegas airport.  (B)
Optional add-on stay in Las Vegas.