Bonjour
pouvez-vous nous dire, y a t-il des pistes pour decouvrir le grand OUEST ?
Avez-vous des cartes?
merci d avance
Original post
Pistes pour découvrir le grand Ouest américain?
by 3615POD
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Pouvez-vous affiner un peu votre question ?
Qu'appellez-vous une piste ?
@+ Tatie
@+ Tatie
" Voyager est un triple plaisir : l'attente, l'éblouissement et le souvenir " Ilka Chase
bonjour,
dans la mémoire collective américaine en relation avec la "conquête de l'ouest" du XIX siècle et si on prend le mot piste au sens dans sons sens le plus littéral on trouve la notion de "trail" évocatrice de cette période de l'histoire. Si mes souvenirs sont bons on connaît au moins six principales " historical trails" qui ont gardé une connotation un peu mythique, pour certains fans en tous cas:
1. the Santa Fe trail from Missouri to Santa Fé New Mexico. vue au cinéma
2.the Oregon trail from Independence Missouri to Oregon (Oregon City). vue au cinéma
3. the Mormon trail from Illinois to Salt Lake City. vue au cinéma
4.the California trail qui suit d'abord la Oregon trail jusqu'au Wyoming (near South Pass) puis diverge en plusieurs branches dont l'une rejoignais Fort Sutter (maintenant Sacramento). vue au cinéma
5. the Gila trail joignant Santa Fe NM et El Paso TX à Los Angeles et San Diego
6. the Bozeman trail branchée sur l'Oregon trail à Fort Fetterman (au NO de Fort Laramie) WY pour rejoidre Virginia City Montana
en "googlant" ces noms on doit trouver les itinéraires historiques et voir comment elles concident avec la voies de communication actuelles Il existe également une litterature adondante sur ces thèmes
cochize
dans la mémoire collective américaine en relation avec la "conquête de l'ouest" du XIX siècle et si on prend le mot piste au sens dans sons sens le plus littéral on trouve la notion de "trail" évocatrice de cette période de l'histoire. Si mes souvenirs sont bons on connaît au moins six principales " historical trails" qui ont gardé une connotation un peu mythique, pour certains fans en tous cas:
1. the Santa Fe trail from Missouri to Santa Fé New Mexico. vue au cinéma
2.the Oregon trail from Independence Missouri to Oregon (Oregon City). vue au cinéma
3. the Mormon trail from Illinois to Salt Lake City. vue au cinéma
4.the California trail qui suit d'abord la Oregon trail jusqu'au Wyoming (near South Pass) puis diverge en plusieurs branches dont l'une rejoignais Fort Sutter (maintenant Sacramento). vue au cinéma
5. the Gila trail joignant Santa Fe NM et El Paso TX à Los Angeles et San Diego
6. the Bozeman trail branchée sur l'Oregon trail à Fort Fetterman (au NO de Fort Laramie) WY pour rejoidre Virginia City Montana
en "googlant" ces noms on doit trouver les itinéraires historiques et voir comment elles concident avec la voies de communication actuelles Il existe également une litterature adondante sur ces thèmes
cochize
Suite des "Rencontres insolites avec des grizzlys, chercheurs d'or et autres dans l'Ouest Américain" (26 février 2009)
Il me semble qu'il y a aussi la Natchez trail ;-)
http://www.nps.gov/natr/
Le blog de mon voyage au far west USA 2008 http://uswest2008.blogspot.com
Blog "Pérou-Bolivie 2011 : http://leblogdesteban2011.blogspot.com
Blog : 10 mois autour du monde
http://estebanaroundtheworld2015.blogspot.fr/
Bonsoir,
Pour des cartes : la série National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map http://www.natgeomaps.com/trailsillustrated.html Pour des Guides : Backcountry Adventures, il en existe par état du sud-ouest http://www.amazon.com/Backcountry-Adventures-Southern-California-Ultimate/dp/1930193041 D'autres guides : http://www.america-dreamz.com/culture/cartes-guides_13__0_1.htm
Patrick
Pour des cartes : la série National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map http://www.natgeomaps.com/trailsillustrated.html Pour des Guides : Backcountry Adventures, il en existe par état du sud-ouest http://www.amazon.com/Backcountry-Adventures-Southern-California-Ultimate/dp/1930193041 D'autres guides : http://www.america-dreamz.com/culture/cartes-guides_13__0_1.htm
Patrick
On ne vit qu'une fois !
Mes USA 1998 2000 ... : http://sites.google.com/site/heavencanwaitno/
USA 2008 : http://sites.google.com/site/heavencanwaitno/home/usa-2008
USA 2011 : http://sites.google.com/site/heavencanwaitno/home/usa-2011
Bonjour,
Aux US, les routes sont soit en asphalte, soit en terre et gravier, entre ces 2 là je ne vois pas ??😊
Attention aux exclusions des contrats de location : même pour un 4x4, hors goudron est interdit !
Si vous ne réussissez jamais rien du premier coup, n'essayez pas le parachutisme !
bonjour,
je vois un peu plus clair dans ton projet, encore que...
une piste ou on peut rouler "entre terre et bitume" c'est joliment dit mais reste un peu ambigu. Logiquement si ce n'est ni de la terre ni du bitume, ce devrait être du gravier donc une "gravel road". On peut penser cependant que tu voulais dire "une surface roulante qui ne soit pas du tout terrain au sens propre (rouler à travers le désert) mais pas une route goudronnée. La notion recherchée serait donc celle de "dirt road" notion plus large que "gravel road". Il y a eu il y a quelque temps une courte discussion sur ce sujet.
Quoiqu'il en soit il n'existe pas, au niveau des Etats et à ma connaissance de cartes spécifiques des réseaux dirt roads ou gravels roads. On trouvera l'info à différentes sources et il faudra un peu de travail pour collationner le tout: les cartes des itinéraires "back country" mentionnées par PS31, constituent un base obligée, éventuellement, si on souhaite s'écarter des classiques, les cartes topographiques locales, thématiques ou de quadrangle de l'USGS, de l'USFS, voire du BLM (on peut faire des recherches directement sur ces sigles)
Il existe enfin un site récent décrivant des itinéraires "dirt roads". Tapper "americaindirtroads" et ... suivre le guide. D'autres sites ont été ouverts mais d'intérêt géographique plus local
bonne compilation,
cochize
je vois un peu plus clair dans ton projet, encore que...
une piste ou on peut rouler "entre terre et bitume" c'est joliment dit mais reste un peu ambigu. Logiquement si ce n'est ni de la terre ni du bitume, ce devrait être du gravier donc une "gravel road". On peut penser cependant que tu voulais dire "une surface roulante qui ne soit pas du tout terrain au sens propre (rouler à travers le désert) mais pas une route goudronnée. La notion recherchée serait donc celle de "dirt road" notion plus large que "gravel road". Il y a eu il y a quelque temps une courte discussion sur ce sujet.
Quoiqu'il en soit il n'existe pas, au niveau des Etats et à ma connaissance de cartes spécifiques des réseaux dirt roads ou gravels roads. On trouvera l'info à différentes sources et il faudra un peu de travail pour collationner le tout: les cartes des itinéraires "back country" mentionnées par PS31, constituent un base obligée, éventuellement, si on souhaite s'écarter des classiques, les cartes topographiques locales, thématiques ou de quadrangle de l'USGS, de l'USFS, voire du BLM (on peut faire des recherches directement sur ces sigles)
Il existe enfin un site récent décrivant des itinéraires "dirt roads". Tapper "americaindirtroads" et ... suivre le guide. D'autres sites ont été ouverts mais d'intérêt géographique plus local
bonne compilation,
cochize
Suite des "Rencontres insolites avec des grizzlys, chercheurs d'or et autres dans l'Ouest Américain" (26 février 2009)
Les pistes principales sont en principe indiquées sur les cartes routières (MapArt, par exemple). Donc il faudrait déjà te procurer les cartes des Etats qui t'intéressent.
L'Indian Country, publiée par l'Automobile Club of Southern California, qui couvre le sud de l'Utah et du Colorado et le nord de l'Arizona et du Nouveau-Mexique, est beaucoup plus affinée.
Pascale
Pascale
bonjour,
tu peux faire l'ouest par des pistes mais cela va te prendre enormenent de temps
donne nous ton parcours on pourera peu etre d'aider
si tu aimes le 4x4 tu vas a MOAB tu pourras pratiquer ta passion sans probleme dans canyon land, pistes de categorie 0 a 5 avec un livre road book vendu partout dans la ville
amicalement
voila qui devrait t'aider:
http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/trails/natltrails.pdf
http://www.fs.fed.us
http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/trails/natltrails.pdf
http://www.fs.fed.us
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Stay from July 31 to August 26, 2026: Car rental – check, Hotels – check, Itinerary – almost check, Photo gear – check, Budget – check, 🤪 Meal planning – meh, we’ll see... Walmart, of course, for the cooler when we arrive.
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San Antonio and the missions.
Fort Stockton for an overnight stop.
El Paso via Guadalupe Mountains: El Paso and White Sands.
Tucson and the Pima Air & Space Museum: Tombstone, Bisbee.
Phoenix:
Still working on the program.
Sedona: Round trip around the area via Flagstaff and Williams, or the Grand Canyon (already done) – we’ll decide on the spot.
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I’m almost done planning our September road trip. After our 3-night visit to Sequoia, we’ll have a stopover night in Coalinga (to break up the drive). We’ll be staying two nights in Monterey and would like to stop along the way to visit one side of Pinnacles National Park. We’re torn between the West entrance and the East entrance, and we’d like to do a short hike of no more than 2 hours since we don’t want to arrive too late in Monterey.
This park is split into two distinct zones with no connection between them, and the mileage from Coalinga to Monterey is pretty much the same for both. Which area do you recommend visiting—east or west? And which route is the most scenic?
I’ve spotted two short hikes: - East: Moses Spring to Rim Trail Loop - West: Balconies Cliffs Cave Loop
Has anyone been there, or do you have another hike to suggest?
Thanks in advance, and have a great afternoon! Marcalamar 🙂
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Do you have any tips for a fun and doable itinerary over about 20–25 days with kids, without rushing?
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There are several attractions along the way: - Mormon Rocks - Desert Discovery Center and visit the Old Woman meteorite - Joshua Tree National Park - Mojave Desert - Mojave National Preserve - Anza-Borrego Desert State Park - Silverwood Lake
My mom has back issues that prevent her from hiking or walking on trails with elevation changes. Is it possible to visit these places by car, or are the routes flat enough?
I’d love for her to experience the desert with an itinerary adapted to her condition. I’m also open to other points of interest that aren’t mentioned. We have 3-4 days for the trip, so we’re not in a rush—just want to explore.
Thanks so much. The trip would be in fall 2026
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**Viewpoints on the East Side:** Are most of the viewpoints (Balancing Rock, Granite Cave, Bonsai Rock, etc.) right by the road, or do you have to hike to reach them?
**Donner Memorial State Park:** Is it worth making a detour to Truckee to visit this park and the Truckee historic downtown?
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**Parking:** We’d like to walk to Eagle Falls and then Eagle Lake. I’ve spotted two parking lots that seem close to each other and give access to the trailhead. Where and how do we pay for entry to Emerald Bay State Park and Inspiration Point?
**Viewpoints on the East Side:** Are most of the viewpoints (Balancing Rock, Granite Cave, Bonsai Rock, etc.) right by the road, or do you have to hike to reach them?
**Donner Memorial State Park:** Is it worth making a detour to Truckee to visit this park and the Truckee historic downtown?
Thanks in advance for your tips! 🙂
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Everything’s booked for September—flights, accommodations, and the car. As I plan, I’ll be asking the experts for help. This is our second trip to California, but most of the stops are new to us.
We’ll start directly from San Francisco to our first overnight stop, Davis, before heading to Lassen Volcanic Park for 4 nights. Our flight lands at 12:50 PM.
Here’s our itinerary: Day 1: Davis – overnight stop Day 2: Red Bluff – exploring Lassen Volcanic Park (scenic drive to Lake Helen) Day 3: Susanville – scenic drive through the park via the South Entrance, points of interest, and hikes Day 4: Susanville – Cinder Cone and Painted Dunes hike Day 5: Susanville – Warner Valley (hikes) Day 6: South Lake Tahoe Day 7: South Lake Tahoe Day 8: Mammoth Lake Day 9: Mammoth Lake Day 10: El Portal via Tioga Road Day 11: El Portal Day 12: El Portal Day 13: Oakhurst Day 14: Miramonte Day 15: Three Rivers Day 16: Three Rivers Day 17: Coalinga Day 18: Monterey Day 19: Monterey Day 20: San Francisco Day 21: San Francisco Day 22: Departure
For hikes in Lassen Volcanic Park, I’ve planned: Bumpass Hell, Cold Boiling Lake (Day 2) Paradise Meadow (maybe not going all the way), Devastated Area, and the loop around Reflection and Manzanita Lakes (Day 3) Cinder Cone and Painted Dunes (Day 4) Devil’s Kitchen and Boiling Spring Lake (Day 5)
I’ve read there are trails to access the trailheads for Cinder Cone (11 km) and Warner Valley. Are these easy trails for an SUV? Are there any other must-see spots or things we shouldn’t miss?
That’s where I’m at for now. Thanks for your replies, and have a great evening! Marcalamar 🙂
Here’s our itinerary: Day 1: Davis – overnight stop Day 2: Red Bluff – exploring Lassen Volcanic Park (scenic drive to Lake Helen) Day 3: Susanville – scenic drive through the park via the South Entrance, points of interest, and hikes Day 4: Susanville – Cinder Cone and Painted Dunes hike Day 5: Susanville – Warner Valley (hikes) Day 6: South Lake Tahoe Day 7: South Lake Tahoe Day 8: Mammoth Lake Day 9: Mammoth Lake Day 10: El Portal via Tioga Road Day 11: El Portal Day 12: El Portal Day 13: Oakhurst Day 14: Miramonte Day 15: Three Rivers Day 16: Three Rivers Day 17: Coalinga Day 18: Monterey Day 19: Monterey Day 20: San Francisco Day 21: San Francisco Day 22: Departure
For hikes in Lassen Volcanic Park, I’ve planned: Bumpass Hell, Cold Boiling Lake (Day 2) Paradise Meadow (maybe not going all the way), Devastated Area, and the loop around Reflection and Manzanita Lakes (Day 3) Cinder Cone and Painted Dunes (Day 4) Devil’s Kitchen and Boiling Spring Lake (Day 5)
I’ve read there are trails to access the trailheads for Cinder Cone (11 km) and Warner Valley. Are these easy trails for an SUV? Are there any other must-see spots or things we shouldn’t miss?
That’s where I’m at for now. Thanks for your replies, and have a great evening! Marcalamar 🙂
Here's a tip for future visitors!
https://www.foxnews.com/travel/3-national-parks-slash-red-tape-americans-boldly-transforming-visitor-entry
https://www.foxnews.com/travel/3-national-parks-slash-red-tape-americans-boldly-transforming-visitor-entry
Hi everyone,
I’m a total USA addict. I’ve already done several road trips, including the East Coast and West Coast. I’m here today because I’m planning to go back for another road trip on the West Coast. Possibly with one of my sisters and a couple of friends. It’s still just a plan for now, but I’m working on an itinerary in the meantime. Ideally, I’d leave in 2026, but I don’t have the exact dates yet—maybe April-May or September-October. My last trip to the West Coast was in September 2014. We went for 2 weeks, but this time it’d be 3 weeks. What made me want to go back was simply a colleague who just left today. As I’m writing this, he’s on the plane. I’m so happy for him, but now all I can think about is going back.
Since I recently went to NY, I noticed that prices have really gone up. I assume the same is true for the West Coast? For 2 people over 3 weeks, what budget should I expect? We’re the type to watch our spending and find great tips. I think we’ll arrive in San Francisco like the first time and leave from either Los Angeles or Las Vegas.
Thanks to everyone for your advice and help.
I’m a total USA addict. I’ve already done several road trips, including the East Coast and West Coast. I’m here today because I’m planning to go back for another road trip on the West Coast. Possibly with one of my sisters and a couple of friends. It’s still just a plan for now, but I’m working on an itinerary in the meantime. Ideally, I’d leave in 2026, but I don’t have the exact dates yet—maybe April-May or September-October. My last trip to the West Coast was in September 2014. We went for 2 weeks, but this time it’d be 3 weeks. What made me want to go back was simply a colleague who just left today. As I’m writing this, he’s on the plane. I’m so happy for him, but now all I can think about is going back.
Since I recently went to NY, I noticed that prices have really gone up. I assume the same is true for the West Coast? For 2 people over 3 weeks, what budget should I expect? We’re the type to watch our spending and find great tips. I think we’ll arrive in San Francisco like the first time and leave from either Los Angeles or Las Vegas.
Thanks to everyone for your advice and help.
Thanks for advising me on the booking—should I reserve a room in the hotel or go for a cabin for the best view?
Should I get breakfast or not?
What do you think of the restaurant?
Hello, if the off-the-beaten-path enthusiasts are still around 😉, I’d love some info on tackling these trails. I’m not super familiar with the rules, risks, or what to expect—I’m looking for firsthand experience from folks who’ve done it on their own once or multiple times.
Hi everyone!
I’m planning a week-long family trip to NYC in October 2026. The focus is on museums and soaking up the New York vibe. I’ve been checking Airbnb, but the prices in Manhattan are through the roof. Since I don’t know NYC well, is it "wise" to look outside Manhattan? Any neighborhoods you’d recommend?
Hello,
After our first trip to the West, we’d love to go back to see other must-see spots!
The stay would be from May 11 to 20, 2026—it’s short, but hey...
M11: Lyon to Las Vegas (overnight in Vegas) T12: Route 66 – overnight in Grand Canyon (GC) W13: Visit GC – overnight in Page Th14: Visit Antelope Canyon / Horseshoe Bend – overnight in Monument Valley (MV) F15: Visit MV – overnight in Moab Sa16: Visit Arches / Dead Horse Point – overnight in Bryce Su17: Visit Bryce – overnight in Zion M18: Visit Zion / Valley of Fire – overnight in Vegas Tu19: Return flight
What do you think? Could we add one more night somewhere? We’re not big hikers, so we’ll mostly explore the parks using shuttles.
Also, we’re all set—passports are good. Do you think one classic Visa card and one premium Visa card will be enough for coverage?
Thanks so much for your feedback, and happy holidays!
Christophe
After our first trip to the West, we’d love to go back to see other must-see spots!
The stay would be from May 11 to 20, 2026—it’s short, but hey...
M11: Lyon to Las Vegas (overnight in Vegas) T12: Route 66 – overnight in Grand Canyon (GC) W13: Visit GC – overnight in Page Th14: Visit Antelope Canyon / Horseshoe Bend – overnight in Monument Valley (MV) F15: Visit MV – overnight in Moab Sa16: Visit Arches / Dead Horse Point – overnight in Bryce Su17: Visit Bryce – overnight in Zion M18: Visit Zion / Valley of Fire – overnight in Vegas Tu19: Return flight
What do you think? Could we add one more night somewhere? We’re not big hikers, so we’ll mostly explore the parks using shuttles.
Also, we’re all set—passports are good. Do you think one classic Visa card and one premium Visa card will be enough for coverage?
Thanks so much for your feedback, and happy holidays!
Christophe
Hi North America forum crew,
Just a little post that might interest some of you:
Travelers to the United States | Photo Now Mandatory Upon Entry and Exit | La Presse
Hi everyone.
I assume many of you already know, but the America the Beautiful annual pass, which was $80, will increase to $250 starting January 1, 2026.
So if you're planning to travel before the end of December 2026, it's in your best interest to buy your pass in December 2025, since it will still cost $80 and be valid until the end of December 2026 if you purchase it in December 2025.
This price increase only applies to non-U.S. residents.
Additionally, for those who planned to visit just one park, a $100 surcharge per person will apply to access a list of 11 national parks... For example, if there are 4 of you in a car, you’ll have to pay $35 + $400, which comes to $435 to visit one of the 11 parks on the list (I don’t have all of them... Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, etc.). Total madness.
The goal is to push people who only visit one park into buying the annual pass.
Last point: free entry days are over for non-residents!
That’s all for now.
I assume many of you already know, but the America the Beautiful annual pass, which was $80, will increase to $250 starting January 1, 2026.
So if you're planning to travel before the end of December 2026, it's in your best interest to buy your pass in December 2025, since it will still cost $80 and be valid until the end of December 2026 if you purchase it in December 2025.
This price increase only applies to non-U.S. residents.
Additionally, for those who planned to visit just one park, a $100 surcharge per person will apply to access a list of 11 national parks... For example, if there are 4 of you in a car, you’ll have to pay $35 + $400, which comes to $435 to visit one of the 11 parks on the list (I don’t have all of them... Bryce, Zion, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Grand Teton, etc.). Total madness.
The goal is to push people who only visit one park into buying the annual pass.
Last point: free entry days are over for non-residents!
That’s all for now.
Hi everyone, I’m traveling to Los Angeles and would like to rent a vehicle at the airport. However, I have a Boursobank Ultim deferred debit card, so I’d love to know if it’s possible for those who’ve experienced this recently. Thanks for the info!
Hi VF community,
I’m planning a week in S.F. in April 2026 and I can’t figure out how to tell the cable cars—of which I understand there are three lines—apart from the trams, which I think number seven. I can’t find their individual numbers or routes anywhere.
Could someone shed some light on this for me? Thanks in advance.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a wonderful 2026 full of amazing travels. Cheers, Régine
I’m planning a week in S.F. in April 2026 and I can’t figure out how to tell the cable cars—of which I understand there are three lines—apart from the trams, which I think number seven. I can’t find their individual numbers or routes anywhere.
Could someone shed some light on this for me? Thanks in advance.
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a wonderful 2026 full of amazing travels. Cheers, Régine
Hi,
I’m planning a road trip through the American national parks starting from Denver in June 2026.
The price of the pass is jumping from 80 € to 250 € on January 1st, 2026!!!
Is it possible to buy the pass online before the end of the year to lock in the 80 € rate? If so, where and how do I go about it?
Thanks for your tips.
Arnale
Hi there,
I’m planning a road trip for July 2026 in northern Florida. Could you let me know if my itinerary makes sense? Day 1: Orlando Day 2: Amelia Island Day 3: Amelia Island Day 4: Tallahassee Day 5: Panama City Beach Day 6: Panama City Beach (visit to Destin) Day 7: Crystal River (stop in Cedar Key on the way) Day 8: Crystal River Day 9: Anna Maria (stop in Clearwater) Day 10: Anna Maria (St. Pete) Day 11: Anna Maria Day 12: Orlando Day 13: Orlando Day 14: Orlando Day 15: Departure
Thanks in advance for your tips!
I’m planning a road trip for July 2026 in northern Florida. Could you let me know if my itinerary makes sense? Day 1: Orlando Day 2: Amelia Island Day 3: Amelia Island Day 4: Tallahassee Day 5: Panama City Beach Day 6: Panama City Beach (visit to Destin) Day 7: Crystal River (stop in Cedar Key on the way) Day 8: Crystal River Day 9: Anna Maria (stop in Clearwater) Day 10: Anna Maria (St. Pete) Day 11: Anna Maria Day 12: Orlando Day 13: Orlando Day 14: Orlando Day 15: Departure
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hey everyone!
We just finished 9 days in the American West and wanted to share our experience because we had an amazing time.
I know some of you might ask, why use an agency? Honestly, we didn’t really feel like doing all the driving and planning, especially since we didn’t know the area at all. And since our English isn’t great, having French-speaking guides was a big comfort.
We found Emmanuelle and Isabelle, and wow, they were fantastic. It was just the two of us with them, so it was a truly VIP, ultra-personalized experience. They treated us like royalty from start to finish. These two live in Las Vegas and know the region like the back of their hand. They told us they’ve spent over 15 years exploring every corner of the American West, and it really shows. Their knowledge of geology, park history, and local anecdotes is just impressive. It’s nothing like someone reciting a memorized script. They answer all your questions and really adapt to what you want to see or do.
What we really loved: the vehicle was super comfortable, and the little details made a difference—like snacks and even a homemade cake! Though, to be fair, we devoured the cake right away, so that counts.
Since they know the sites inside out, they took us at the right times to avoid crowds. So we could enjoy peaceful picnics at Grand Canyon viewpoints without being packed in with 200 people. Plus, on top of the must-see spots, they showed us some hidden gems that were absolutely stunning—places we never would’ve found on our own. They’re true locals who know all the best tips.
The service was really personalized. They adapted to our pace and preferences, and we could stop whenever we wanted to take photos. It’s the luxury of being in a small private group—you’re not just a number on a big bus. In short, we really felt like we were traveling with friends rather than professional guides. Everything’s included in the price (hotel pickup, meals, park entries, etc.), so the value for money is fair.
We loved it so much that we’re already planning to come back next year to explore other areas with them. I think we’ve caught the American West bug—it’s all we can think about, and we can’t wait to return.
If you’re looking for a French-speaking tour with real personalized service and guides who know the region like no one else, we highly recommend them. We had unforgettable moments. They also design road trips for those who don’t want a guide. And they handled our hotel reservations in Las Vegas too. If you want genuine advice from friendly locals, we’re giving them a 200% recommendation!
We just finished 9 days in the American West and wanted to share our experience because we had an amazing time.
I know some of you might ask, why use an agency? Honestly, we didn’t really feel like doing all the driving and planning, especially since we didn’t know the area at all. And since our English isn’t great, having French-speaking guides was a big comfort.
We found Emmanuelle and Isabelle, and wow, they were fantastic. It was just the two of us with them, so it was a truly VIP, ultra-personalized experience. They treated us like royalty from start to finish. These two live in Las Vegas and know the region like the back of their hand. They told us they’ve spent over 15 years exploring every corner of the American West, and it really shows. Their knowledge of geology, park history, and local anecdotes is just impressive. It’s nothing like someone reciting a memorized script. They answer all your questions and really adapt to what you want to see or do.
What we really loved: the vehicle was super comfortable, and the little details made a difference—like snacks and even a homemade cake! Though, to be fair, we devoured the cake right away, so that counts.
Since they know the sites inside out, they took us at the right times to avoid crowds. So we could enjoy peaceful picnics at Grand Canyon viewpoints without being packed in with 200 people. Plus, on top of the must-see spots, they showed us some hidden gems that were absolutely stunning—places we never would’ve found on our own. They’re true locals who know all the best tips.
The service was really personalized. They adapted to our pace and preferences, and we could stop whenever we wanted to take photos. It’s the luxury of being in a small private group—you’re not just a number on a big bus. In short, we really felt like we were traveling with friends rather than professional guides. Everything’s included in the price (hotel pickup, meals, park entries, etc.), so the value for money is fair.
We loved it so much that we’re already planning to come back next year to explore other areas with them. I think we’ve caught the American West bug—it’s all we can think about, and we can’t wait to return.
If you’re looking for a French-speaking tour with real personalized service and guides who know the region like no one else, we highly recommend them. We had unforgettable moments. They also design road trips for those who don’t want a guide. And they handled our hotel reservations in Las Vegas too. If you want genuine advice from friendly locals, we’re giving them a 200% recommendation!