Pacing
6 National Parks in 16 days through 5 states via motorcoach, with five 2-night stays and five 1-night stays. This is a busy, rewarding itinerary packed with sightseeing of some of the world’s greatest natural wonders. Days often begin early with bus transfers starting at 8 am and ending at approximately 5 pm. However, each day is rewarding, with scenic splendor, included rest stops, and visits to not-to-miss attractions.

Physical Activity
Almost all sightseeing is on an air-conditioned coach with rest stops, lunch stops, and photo stops en route. A professional Vantage Program Manager will guide you on short walks to see National Park highlights. There is a walking tour of Temple Square in Salt Lake City, but there are plenty of areas to sit and the ground is flat. Some stair climbing may be required to get better views of canyons, etc. Other forms of transportation include a tram in Zion National Park and a covered, open-air vehicle in Monument Valley.

Cultural Focus
Opportunity to experience the “crown jewels” of the U.S. National Park system, with extensive viewing within six parks and appreciating nature’s wonders (geothermal, rock formations, fauna, animal life, geology etc). There are also several Cultural Connections, such as a discussion about the Old West with an author, a genealogy research demonstration, an opportunity to learn about the Mormon influence on Utah’s history, and, on select dates, the opportunity to hear the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. In addition to Vantage sightseeing, everyone is invited to join in Park Ranger events while staying inside the parks.

Special Factors
Temperatures are at their highest in July and August and can reach 90 to 100 degrees in Utah, Arizona, and Nevada. However, it is a dry heat and passengers travel in air-conditioned coaches or in covered sightseeing vehicles, and tours take place at the cooler time of the day. Most hotels and lodges are air-conditioned. Vantage arranges for you to spend 7 nights at official U.S. National Parks Lodges within the parks. These are basic “motor-inn”-style accommodations, but they add to the back-to-nature experience of staying within these magnificent areas. This Vantage trip offers the opportunity to travel a great distance and see these magnificent parks within a short time. Vantage recommends that passengers with respiratory or heart conditions check with their physicians, as the high altitudes (up to 9,000 feet) may affect breathing.