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Zion and Bryce National Parks feature two contrasting but stunningly beautiful canyons. At Zion the tall red cliffs tower over the river that runs between them and at Bryce a system of trails weaves among the sculpted red and orange spires of rock. Utah's rugged landscape will provide us with an unforgettable backdrop for viewing the eclipse.

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> This tour is operated by our sister company.

> Eclipse Information - Eclipse Track:
The annular eclipse of 2012 will begin on 21st May in China before crossing the sea to Japan and onwards across the Pacific Ocean, before passing through the International Date Line and making landfall in the continental US on 20th May. Our choice of viewing location in Southern Utah reflects both the stunning intrinsic beauty of the area and the high probability of clear skies for the eclipse. This late afternoon annular eclipse should illuminate the rocks in a warm pastel glow of pink and orange hues.

> Our Observation Point / Weather Prospects:
We will be based at Bryce Canyon and although the weather prospects are exceptionally good, the decision about the precise observing location won't be reached until closer to the time of the eclipse as the weather will be monitored over the preceding days. The average cloud cover across the region in May is very low with typically less than 20% of the sky covered. What cloud there is along the eclipse track is due mostly to the influence of the prevailing westerly wind on the mountains, and areas on the leeward side of range tend to enjoy longer hours of sunshine.

> Dr John Mason:
The eclipse part of the tour will be led by our astronomy expert Dr John Mason who will enrich the trip with his infectious enthusiasm for astronomy

An applied physicist by profession, John has been actively involved in science for over 30 years, with astronomy, astrophysics and space technology as his main areas of expertise. He is currently Principal Lecturer at the South Downs Planetarium and Science Centre in Chichester.

Dr Mason lectures extensively in the UK and overseas on a wide range of scientific topics to audiences of all ages and varying degrees of expertise. He is a sought-after speaker with an international reputation as an enthusiastic and entertaining communicator of science. He is a frequent broadcaster on radio and television and has appeared many times with Sir Patrick Moore on BBC TV's The Sky at Night.

Dr Mason has also published numerous technical and more popular articles in journals, magazines and newspapers, and has authored or edited over 70 books on astronomy, astrophysics, space exploration and the Earth sciences. He is currently Co-Editor with Sir Patrick Moore for the Yearbook of Astronomy.

Why not arrange your own Grand American Adventures departure? For groups of 8 or more, we can offer private departures on any of our published itineraries enabling friends, families or organizations to enjoy our style of travel at special rates. Although tours will run as per our standard itinerary shown here, slight modifications may be considered and dates can be chosen to suit your needs. (Subject to seasonal/operational restrictions). So contact us today and start planning your own adventure.

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Trip Itinerary

Our routes have been carefully chosen to include the best night stops and highlights. However, as local and operational conditions may vary and unforeseen circumstances can arise, the following itinerary should be used as a guideline.

Day 1: Las Vegas

You arrive in Las Vegas, check in to our hotel. You will have the remainder of the day and evening to experience the bright lights of Las Vegas or simply relax in the hotel.

The group will stay at The Goldern Nugget Hotel. The hotel is located in old Downtown Las Vegas with all the glitz, including several historic casinos, an evening light show, and the "Strip" casinos are still easily accessible by taxi.

Day 2: Bryce Canyon

Today we drive 5 hours to Bryce Canyon National Park where we will stay for two nights and will be our base to view the annular eclipse.

Bryce Canyon is a giant natural amphitheatre which has been created by erosion. It is famous for its the red, orange and white spiral pillars of rock known as hoodoos which were formed by wind, water and ice erosion.

In the evening we will gather together for our eclipse briefing. Dr Mason's enthusiastic and inimitable lecturing style provides a great opportunity to learn about the science of eclipses and how best to enjoy them. He will also expand upon the itinerary for the eclipse day and the viewing location.

The group will stay at historic Ruby's Inn for two nights, the perfect place to base ourselves to explore of this beautiful area.
Meals: Breakfast included

Day 3: Bryce Canyon - Eclipse

This morning will be at your leisure to explore the beautiful scenery around Bryce Canyon. The hotel is very close to rim on the canyon where there are many well laid out trails for you to follow which vary from strenuous trails leading into the canyon to easy routes around the rim. May is an excellent month to enjoy the nature of the area from the wildflowers which will be in bloom to the fauna which includes chipmunks, deer and birdlife.

In the afternoon Dr Mason will lead us to our chosen observation site to view the eclipse which will end shortly before sunset. Returning to the hotel we will enjoy an eclipse celebration meal.
Meals: Breakfast and dinner included

Day 4: St George

From Bryce the drive south west to Zion National Park takes us through spectacular scenery. This afternoon you will be free to explore Zion National Park

The group will stay at the Pioneer Lodge for two nights, which is located in the heart of Springdale just minutes from the park entrance and surrounded by the beautiful red cliffs of the lower canyon.
Meals: Breakfast included

Day 5: Zion National Park

Today we have the whole day in Zion National Park to explore this unique landscape of reddish and tan coloured Navajo sandstone. Zion National Park covers an area of 229 square miles with the 15 mile long canyon running through it. A number of unusual plants and animals can be found in the park four life zones; desert, riparian, woodland and coniferous forest. You will have an opportunity choose from a wide range of optional walks in the canyon or explore by yourself.
Meals: Breakfast included

Day 6: Drive to Las Vegas

The morning we drive 3 hours back to Las Vegas airport where you say goodbye to new found friends.
Meals: Breakfast included

You can easily book your trip online using our secure booking engine. You only need to pay a 10% deposit or (whichever is greatest) with full payment due 8 weeks before departure. We are members of ABTA (Association of Britsh Travel Agents) and are fully financially bonded so your money is 100% safe & protected at all times whether you pay by debit, bank or credit card. If you prefer to book by telephone, please contact our sales office and speak to one our friendly travel consultants.

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