The best adventure holidays in the western US eliminate all the hassle of DIY planning while delivering once-in-a-lifetime experiences — from mountain biking through Bears Ears National Monument to motorcycling through Yellowstone to canyoneering in southern Utah’s slot canyons. Each of these five curated options includes professional guides, equipment, meals, and logistics so you can focus entirely on the experience. Prices range from $825 to $3,299 per person, with trips lasting 3 to 12 days.
Guided Mountain Bike Tour in Bears Ears National Monument
3 days / 2 nights, from $825 per person | Rim Tours
This is one of the best-value multi-day adventure trips in the western US. Rim Tours’ Bears Ears Backcountry Weekend takes you from the 8,000-foot ponderosa pine forests near Bears Ears Pass down Elk Ridge — the backbone ridge between the Abajo Mountains and the Colorado River — to the colorful desert near the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park.
The riding is rated easy/beginner on doubletrack BLM and Forest Service roads, making this accessible to virtually anyone who can ride a bike. Between riding sessions, guides lead hikes to secluded canyons rich with Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings and ancient rock art. Camp gear is hauled by the support vehicle, gourmet backcountry meals are prepared for you, and full-suspension Santa Cruz mountain bikes are included.
Available June through September. For spring and fall dates, the equally spectacular Needles to Moab Canyonlands Tour covers similar terrain at a moderate/intermediate riding level.
Alaska Road Trip in a Converted School Bus
12 days, from $1,690 per person | Infinite Adventures
A remodeled yellow school bus serves as your overland vehicle for a small-group expedition through Alaska’s most dramatic landscapes. The itinerary hits Denali National Park, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, and Valdez, with daily hikes, wildlife bus tours, boat and canoe trips, and bush camping. Accommodations range from established campgrounds (5 nights) to bush camps (4 nights) to a hostel and rustic lodge. This trip works well for travelers who want Alaska’s backcountry without committing to a full three-week expedition. Available June through August.
NorCal Redwood Empire Multi-Sport Camping
4 days / 3 nights, from $1,898 per person | Backroads
Pedal, hike, and paddle through the planet’s largest remaining stands of virgin coastal redwoods on California’s North Coast. This multi-sport format combines road cycling through redwood groves, hiking beneath ancient canopies, and sea kayaking through protected lagoon waters. Camp near coastal meadows and under towering trees. The trip includes learning about redwood preservation efforts and exploring off-the-beaten-path national and state parks that most California visitors never see. Available July and August.
Wild West Motorcycle Tour
10 days / 9 nights, from $3,299 per person | Adventure Moto Touring
This classic motorcycle road trip covers Utah, Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, threading through Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park, Bear Lake, Jackson Hole, and Sun Valley. The route includes legendary riding roads: Chief Joseph Highway in Wyoming and the Beartooth Highway in Montana deliver both stunning scenery and world-class twisties. Tour includes breakfast and dinner daily, all lodging (double occupancy), a guide on motorcycle, and a support vehicle hauling luggage and tools. Motorcycle rental is extra.
Canyoneering and Camping in Southeast Utah
3 days / 2 nights, from $1,195 per person | Moab Cliffs and Canyons
For a different kind of adventure, multi-day canyoneering trips in the Hanksville, North Wash, and Cedar Mesa areas deliver skinny canyons, deep dark slots, swims, and starry desert nights. Suitable for beginners through intermediate skill levels, these trips require physical stamina and a willingness to push personal limits. You will rappel into slot canyons, wade through pools, and scramble over sandstone obstacles. Comfortable camping amenities or nearby town lodging are available as options. Available March through November.
How to Choose the Right Adventure Holiday
Consider these factors when picking your trip:
- Fitness level: Mountain biking in Bears Ears and kayaking in redwood lagoons are the most accessible options. Canyoneering and motorcycle touring require more physical or technical ability.
- Budget: The Bears Ears tour at $825 for 3 days offers the best per-day value. The motorcycle tour at $3,299 for 10 days includes the most logistics.
- Season: Summer (June-August) opens up Alaska, redwood, and high-elevation options. Spring and fall are ideal for desert adventures in Utah.
- Group size: Most guided tours accommodate solo travelers, couples, and small groups. Check minimum group sizes when booking.
All of these trips share one key advantage over DIY travel: someone else handles the planning, equipment, food, and route-finding. You show up, and the adventure unfolds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous experience for these adventure holidays?
Most of these trips are designed for active beginners. The Bears Ears mountain bike tour requires no previous mountain biking experience — the riding is easy doubletrack. Canyoneering trips assume basic physical fitness but no rope skills. The motorcycle tour requires a valid motorcycle license.
What is included in the price?
Most guided adventure tours include all meals, camping or lodging, activity-specific equipment, professional guides, and transportation during the trip. Specific inclusions vary by outfitter. Rim Tours includes Santa Cruz mountain bikes, helmets, bike insurance, all meals, camping gear, and support vehicle logistics.
Can I bring my family?
The Bears Ears mountain bike tour is family-friendly and suitable for children who can ride a bike comfortably. Alaska bus trips also welcome families. Canyoneering and motorcycle tours typically have minimum age requirements — check with the outfitter.
How far in advance should I book?
Popular dates sell out 2-4 months ahead, especially for summer trips. Booking 3-6 months in advance gives you the best selection. Rim Tours multi-day tours are particularly popular during spring and fall shoulder seasons.