Get off the beaten path on this adventure!  From the rugged coast of California to the sprawling views of the desert, explore some of America’s most breathtaking landscapes.  Boulder hop in Joshua Tree, experience Death Valley and see what makes one of the world’s wonders so mesmerizing on a trek into the Grand Canyon.  Play in Las Vegas and relish in the moment at Pinnacles National Monument. We brought this trip back from the archives because not much has changed — it’s still awesome!

Day 1

Welcome to the Green Tortoise!

Meet outside the Green Tortoise Hostel in downtown San Francisco with your e-ticket.

The bus departs at 7:40 AM.  

Plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to the departure time. 

Enjoy the scenery along the Pacific Coast Highway.  We’ll hit the beach in Santa Cruz.  You can get an adrenaline rush on the Giant Dipper, one of the oldest roller coasters in the US, or check out the Surfing Museum.  In Monterey, stroll along John Steinbeck’s beloved Cannery Row, wander around Fisherman’s Wharf, or visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.  Afterwards, we’ll head for our campsite among the Coastal Redwoods of Big Sur.  

Camp Night

Meals Included: Dinner

Optional Swim

Day 2

Watch the endless horizon go by on a scenic ride along the Big Sur coastline this morning.  Today, we venture inland towards Death Valley National Park.  In the afternoon, see how early settlers lived while they worked in gold mining camps on a stroll around historic Kernville.  Take a tour through the Kern Valley Museum or stretch your legs on a walk along the riverfront.  Another relaxing ride brings us to our campsite in Death Valley, a land of extremes.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Showers Available

Camp Night

Day 3

Death Valley boasts the lowest point, driest weather and hottest temperatures throughout North America.  We’ll stretch our legs on a hike through the marble narrows of Mosaic Canyon.  Then, head for the salt flats of Badwater Basin, which have an elevation of 282 feet below sea level!  Descend into the huge Ubehebe Crater, a 700-foot deep remnant of an ancient volcanic eruption.  Spend the afternoon wandering along the ripples and curves of the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.  Are you a film buff?  This is the location of Tatooine in Star Wars!  This evening, the glittering lights of Las Vegas beckon.  Try your luck at the Golden Nugget or admire the spectacle of light at the legendary Fremont Street Experience.  

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch 

Optional Swim

Custom Sleeper Coach Drive Night

Day 4

Awaken at the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon.  Enjoy a stroll along the Rim Trail with plenty of opportunities to behold the canyon’s wonder.  Bright Angel and South Kaibab trails descend into the canyon to the Colorado River, where every bend in the trail reveals a new, mind-blowing panorama. A free shuttle bus offers transportation to the modern, informative Visitors Center, trailheads, lodges, and vista points.  Get a thrilling perspective of the canyon with an optional helicopter tour.  Perch at Hermit’s Rest for a taste of wilderness solitude and enjoy the sunset over one of the most glorious natural marvels in the world.  

Camp Night 

Showers Available / Access to laundry facilities 

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 5

Keep your eye out for elk on a scenic drive to Flagstaff today!  This city is surrounded by the world’s largest contiguous emerald green ponderosa pine forest.  The historic downtown offers lots of options for shopping and dining during our visit. We’ll head for Joshua Tree National Park this afternoon.  Our campsite among massive boulders serves as a playground for the kid in all of us!  Be sure to gaze into space for a chance to see the Milky Way tonight.

Camp Night 

Meals Included: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 6

Today, we explore the Mojave Desert. Joshua Tree National Park is home to otherworldly, whimsical yucca trees that give the park its name.  You’ll have multiple opportunities to hike and explore the boulder-strewn landscape.  Venture into Hidden Valley and gaze into Skull Rock. Keep your eyes peeled for our cousin, the massive desert tortoise!  This evening, get a taste of the 1950s at a retro resort.  Relax with a soak in the rejuvenating hot springs before we drive overnight to a hidden gem.

Custom Sleeper Coach Drive Night

Optional Soak / Showers Available

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner

Day 7 

Discovering the little-known gem of Pinnacles National Monument. You’ll want your camera for this destination.  The ancient volcanic field is home to massive monoliths, sheer-walled canyons, spires and other photographic delights. Hike the trails, explore some caves, and keep an eye out for the rare California Condor. 

Our awesome journey ends tonight in San Francisco.

Meals Included: Breakfast / Lunch

• 70% of Meals
• Travel by Custom Coach
• National Park Entrance Fees
• Semi-Guided Exploration of the Parks
• Sleeping Pad
• Camping Fees

• • Monterey Bay Aquarium
  • Flight-Seeing Tours
  • Roller Coasters
  • Hot Springs Soak

You’ll be traveling in a custom sleeper coach! 

A sleeping bag is required for this adventure. If you don’t have one, rent one from us upon booking!  Just $15 for the entire trip.

A tent is not required.  You are welcome to sleep on the bus or use one of our pads to sleep beneath the stars.  You may rent a tent from us for $50 (if you really want one).

Our coaches are equipped with a camp kitchen.  No need to bring your own cookware or utensils.  Bring a reusable lunch container to store your packed lunch and a reusable water bottle.

Departure:  7:40 AM – Green Tortoise Hostel – 494 Broadway, San Francisco, CA 94133

Arrival:  7:30 PM – San Francisco, CA, Columbus and Montgomery St. Bus Loading Zone