Gigantic Sequoias, waterfalls among the world's highest, sparking lakes and sweeping meadows create a natural treasure. This program presents a privileged insider's view of Yosemite, a mecca for backpackers, home to 300 species of wildlife, and the inspiration for the conservation movement. Experience all of Yosemite's wonders, including the granite monoliths El Capitan and Half Dome, learn about its fascinating history, and view the magnificent landscape through the eyes of photographer Ansel Adams.
From grizzly bears in Katmai National Park in Alaska to rattlesnakes in Montezuma's Castle National Monument in Arizona, take an unforgettable walk on the wild side. This program transports you by land, sea, and sky to parklands across the country for close-up encounters with creatures of all shapes and sizes, including the pronghorn, among the fastest-moving land mammals, and the manatee.
Meet the unsung heroes of America's National Parks, the dedicated men and women who work behind the scenes, often risking their lives to preserve national monuments, conserve America's unspoiled beauty, and even anticipate the forces of nature. From rappelling down the towering granite faces of Mount Rushmore to executing a prescribed burn in the Grand Canyon and plowing the treacherous Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park, their job is riddled with danger, challenges, and rewards.
Yellowstone's rugged wilderness ignites the imagination like no other National Park. Llama trekking, wolf-watching, and geyser gazing are just a few of the out-of-the-ordinary activities that await you in this mesmerizing program that also gives you a ringside seat for geothermal wonders and up-close looks at the diversity of wildlife that gave Yellowstone the nickname, "America's Serengeti."
Grand Teton National Park is a geological wonder and hiker's paradise. Home to over 360 species of wildlife, it is one of the best parks to see animals. Its exhilarating landscape is an irresistible lure for thrill seekers. See and do it all in this invigorating program! You'll climb a sheer cliff wall, raft a raging river, visit an avalanche lab, spend a day with a celebrated search and rescue team, hang your Stetson at a working dude ranch, and rough it all in style at posh retreats.
By foot, shuttle, and horseback, this program gives you access to the scenic and geological wonders of Zion and Bryce National Parks. In Zion, embark on a breathtaking ascent of Angel's Landing. In Bryce, climb sheer cliff walls, tube down the Virgin River, and gaze upon thousands of beautiful and bizarre rock spires known as hoodoos.
From Canyonlands and Arches to Saguaro and Death Valley, the wonders of the American Southwest spread across extreme lands of astonishing beauty. Climb the face of a monolith millions of years in the making, seek out a sunrise horseback ride through cactus country, and uncover the mysteries of the scorching desert. Along the way, you'll meet some of the Southwest's hardiest inhabitants, from geckos to Gila Monsters.
In the Black Hills of South Dakota, Mt. Rushmore stands unrivaled in the world. This program celebrates this sky-high tribute to the heroes and ideals that shaped America. Rare footage chronicles its monumental construction and its monumental meaning as a "Shrine of Democracy." In this slice of the American West, you'll hit the road to explore national parks and manmade marvels in a region rich in history, mystery, and majesty!
This program recaptures a bygone era of travel. Board the Empire Builder to Glacier National Park and the Denali Star to Denali National Park. Experience the elegance of the American Orient Express and the restored glory of the Grand Canyon Railway. All aboard for these and other nostalgic journeys through America's National Parks.
Bask in luxurious getaways and rustic retreats that are almost as celebrated as the wondrous landscapes that surround them. The massive fireplace made of 500 tons of rock in the lobby of the Old Faithful Inn in Yellowstone National Park, and the natural warm springs pool at the Furnace Creek Inn in Death Valley National Park are just two of the treasures you'll find off the beaten path.
Discover the many ways to experience high adventure in "the land of shining mountains." Take an unforgettable hike along the Highline Trail, raft a wild river or travel by train aboard the renowned Empire Builder. Behold massive glaciers, and get close (but not too close!) to bears. Then, kick back at a high altitude chalet.
Explore a region famed for its hot springs, backcountry treks, and fantastic array of wildlife. Indoors, there are boutiques, elegant dining, and chateaux retreats. "Getting there" is an experience in itself, with train rides aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, scenic drives along the Continental Divide, and Snocoach rides across treacherous ice fields.
The vibrant city of Vancouver blends the call of the wild with big city charm. Tour its landmark sites, including historic Gastown and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. On Vancouver Island, the capital city, Victoria, defines itself by all things British. Ziptrek flights through forest treetops, and cruising Alaska's Inside Passage aboard a paddle wheel ship are among the extraordinary adventures that await you.