Five eager tour members arrived in Las Vegas for a great week of riding to some of the most spectacular National Parks of the United States. Rene from Switzerland chose a Harley Davidson as his ride to get the full American experience. Dick from Wisconson and Bob from Alberta both rode their own trusty steads to do the tour. Bruno and Gabriele from Italy elected to ride BMW's. So the goup headed east of Las Vegas toward Flagstaff, Arizona, enroute to the Grand Canyon. But one of the most famous roads in the United States crossed their path, US Route 66. Route 66 is the first road to connect Chicago and Los Angeles. It was built in 1926, so you can imagine driving this road through the desert back in the day.

Frozen in Time

After a chilly start from Flagstaff the weather only got better. The temperature rose as we climbed in elevation and anticipation of seeing one of the world wonders, the Grand Canyon. Once we arrived at the park the canyon was still not visible. We did see several elk laying in the shade, though. I then told Bruno to wait for his "ah" moment. We went out onto Mather's Point where the Grand Canyon opened up in all its spectacular beauty. After lunch we continued our journey along the canyon and stopped at the Desert View outlook. This is one of my favorite places.

Bruno, Gabriele, Dick, Rene and Bob

From here we went to Page, Arizona, in the heart of Lake Powell area. The next day was a rest day but everyone opted for the 220 mile roundtrip ride to Monument Valley. There were no regrets and the picnic was enjoyed almost as much.

The next riding day took the tour to Horseshoe Canyon, the Navajo Bridge, over the painted desert and then through another amazing National Park, Zion, to the hotel in Springdale, Utah.

Horseshoe Canyon

Another rest day but again everyone opted for the 200 mile roundtrip to Bryce Canyon National Park. Not only did we get to ride the twistie roads through Zion twice to get there, but also amazing red rock canyons.

Looking down from the summit into Bryce Canyon Riding through the Red Rock Canyon The group at the entrance to Zion National Park

The next day we was to be our last day of riding. So we headed back to Las Vegas but not before we rode through the Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada).

Valley of Fire State Park Rene enjoying his "American" experience

After the Valley of Fire we stopped a little oasis for another picnic lunch. With palm trees, desert, a view of Lake Meade and a cool breeze we enjoyed our sandwiches and drinks.

We made it back to Las Vegas. I believe everyone had a great time by the looks of their smiles. I hope to see everyone soon.