To celebrate our 10 years of partnership with Bike Tours for the Wounded, we have launched a brand new Veteran tour. Together the help of ourfellow riders in the USA we have created a phenomenal route, visiting new places, riding new roads the new friends.
ROUTE 66 & WILD WEST VETERAN TOUR (BT4TW)
Destination:
United States of America
Duration:
12 Days
Year:
Tour 1
Starts:
June 23rd
Ends:
July 4th
Prices:
Carrying Rider (Single occupancy) £6,295
Solo Rider (Single occupancy) £6,295
Support Vehicle Driver (Shared accommodation) £2,295
Support Vehicle Passenger (Shared accommodation) £2,295
Veteran/Beneficiary Pillion (Shared accommodation). Part Funded by BT4tW
Tour 2
July 7th
July 18th
Tour 3
Sept 29th
Oct 10th
Tour 4
Oct 13th
Oct 24th
Tour Overview
Have you ever had Route 66 as a bucket list item? if so, why not consider taking part in this amazing tour and offering your rear seat to one of our armed forces veterans! This amazing tour visits some the most iconic attractions on America’s “Mother Road” Route 66 as well as Americas Wild West.
Tour Itinerary (Click on the blue box for details of each days ride)
Preparation day in Las Vegas, Nevada
Miles: 000
Upon arriving at Las Vegas Airport, the BC Motorcycle Tours / BT4TW tour team will greet you. They will escort you to the starting hotel and show you to your room. Afterwards, you will be introduced to your motorcycle, which has been prepped and is ready to take you and your pillion on the incredible Route 66 & Wild West Challenge guided motorcycle tour.
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The tour will commence with a comprehensive briefing to provide you with all the necessary information for an enjoyable and secure experience.
On this tour you will encounter some of the best riding and scenery that America’s West Coast has to offer.
This is your opportunity to join our tour group where you will experience many of the roads and sights that have featured in many of the most iconic films and television shows. It is an amazing thing to be able to give this opportunity to a wounded, injured or sick veteran.
Las Vegas to Lake Havasu City, Arizona
Miles: 201
Following an early start and a briefing, we set out to savour a fantastic traditional American breakfast. Then, we head South through Searchlight to Laughlin for a pause by the Colorado River. Afterward, we'll journey to the tranquil, old cowboy mining town of Oatman, where you'll have the opportunity to stroll through the street lined with shops brimming with Route 66 memorabilia.
The journey from Oatman offers breathtaking views. Upon arrival in Lake Havasu City, we'll park the motorcycles at the hotel, and you'll have the opportunity to discover the attractions, including the original London Bridge.
Lake Havasu City to Fountain Hills
Miles: 226
Today's journey is dedicated to the ride. After breakfast, you'll head South along the Colorado River, passing through Parker and reaching an old cowboy town named Wickenburg, where we'll pause for lunch. Post-lunch, the ride continues North of Phoenix to Fountain Hills, home to the tallest water fountain in the USA.
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This is a pretty relaxed day.
Fountain Hills to Tombstone
Miles: 240
Today promises another fantastic day as we set off southward towards Tucson. Our journey will take us through Apache Junction and Florence, culminating in a visit and lunch at the Pima Air & Space Museum. Following a refuelling and lunch break, we will proceed to the remarkable town of Tombstone to spend the night.​
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One can enjoy much-needed refreshments at the renowned Big Nose Kate's saloon bar.
Down Day in Tombstone
Miles: 000
Today, you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic sights and sounds of the Wild West, cowboy style. Witness the infamous gunfight at the O.K. Corral, pay a visit to the Boothill Graveyard, descend into the depths of an old silver mine, or enjoy a stagecoach ride down the main street. The possibilities are boundless.
Tombstone to Springerville
Miles: 299
Today, we're getting an early start as we head out to our breakfast destination. Afterwards, we'll ride North to the town of Safford for a fuel stop. Our subsequent stop will be at America's largest copper mine, where we'll have lunch.
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The afternoon's ride is absolutely breathtaking, defined by its curves – all 1,700 of them – as we traverse the Devil's Highway. Formerly known as Route 666, it was rebranded to Route 191 to deter sign theft. Our journey takes us through Alpine, culminating in an evening arrival at our hotel, where we'll join the locals for a celebration. The details will unfold as the day progresses!
Springerville to Winslow
Miles: 284
Today marks another splendid journey through the forests. Our initial stop is the town of St Johns, followed by Show Low. Here, we may detour to traverse the stunning Salt River Canyon, conditions permitting, for a meal. Afterwards, we'll return through Show Low and Heber-Overgaard, culminating our day in the iconic Route 66 town of Winslow for the night.
Winslow gained fame from the Eagles' song "Standing on the Corner in Winslow, Arizona," and indeed, you'll have the chance to stand on that very corner.
Winslow to Williams
Miles: 208
It's an early start this morning as we head to our first destination of the day, the Meteor Crater.
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From that point, we proceed towards Flagstaff, then turn North to connect with Route 64, entering the Grand Canyon through the East entrance. We'll traverse the expanse of the Grand Canyon to a prominent vista for lunch.
Afterward, we'll depart the National Park and head South to the remarkable Route 66 town of Williams, where we'll enjoy dinner at Cruisers Route 66 Diner, accompanied by live music for the evening..
Williams to Las Vegas
Miles: 234
Today marks the final day of our journey on Route 66, filled with incredible rides and breathtaking scenery. We set off early for a 40-minute ride to the historic ghost town of Seligman to grab a coffee. It's an excellent spot for those last-minute Route 66 mementos. Afterwards, we'll rejoin the iconic highway, passing through Peach Springs on our way to Kingman, where stopping for brunch at Mr. D'z Route 66 Diner is essential.
Next, it's on to another must-see for tourists: the Hoover Dam, before returning to Las Vegas. And remember, what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas!
Down Day in Las Vegas
Miles: 000
Today, Las Vegas is at your fingertips, ready for you to discover all of its offerings..
Time to return home to the UK
Miles: 000
Savour the morning in Las Vegas before your flight back to the UK.
Your tour includes the following:
Accommodation for 10 nights in a hotel or motel.
Welcome meeting and Tour Briefing
Daily breakfast, packed lunch and evening meal
Motorcycle rental and the required liability insurance.
Unlimited mileage
All fuel and oil for your motorcycle
Admission fees to all Museums and National Parks (on our scheduled route)
Any tolls, parking fees (any gratuities are additional)
The tour will be led by an experienced Route 66 expert who will provide daily summaries and share the historical significance of Route 66 and the Wild West.
Transfers to and from the Airport and Hotel in the US
Motorcycle rental and the required liability insurance
24 hour roadside assistance
Support vehicle at all times with a spare bike
Luggage carried on the support vehicle.
Drinking water, and snacks throughout each day
Pre tour function including tour briefing
Comprehensive first aid and tool kits
Your airfare to and from the US (Although it is arranged for you under a group booking)
Your ESTA (Visa Waiver to travel to the US) This costs $14 from the US Embassy / website https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta
Personal Travel Insurance. You must ensure it covers you on larger motorcycles
Meals (Other than what is indicated) and tips, refreshments and your Alcoholic Beverages
Trip Cancellation Insurance
Personal Souvenirs
Shipping of any excess baggage, souvenirs, helmets, etc … To or from to your home
Any necessary riding gear and / or personal effects
Transfers to and from the Airport in the UK
Parking fees
Anything not indicated by a green tick in this section
What our participants think:
This was an amazing trip to be a part of. I came along as a partner to a veteran and was in the support vehicle - although I did enjoy a couple of trips on a bike which was awesome! It was a real privielge to be a part of this trip, filled with incredible sights, wonderful people, good food and company along the way. I would highly recommend this adventure. It is uplifting for the soul and the work these guys do to ensure the trip is special is truly amazing!
Amelia Thorpe on Best of Route 66 Challenge
This being the second tour with BC Motorcycle Tours & BT4TW, I can still say that they deliver an excellent experience.
It cannot be easy organising and running these tours with such a varied range of individuals but they do it very well.
We all met at the airport and got to know each other just a little whilst travelling to Las Vegas. Over the 10 days, tremendous bonds were formed within the group and the teamwork played a significant part in making this tour something to enjoy. Watching individuals learn to trust each other, let go and just enjoy the experiences was very gratifying. The roads and riding were a pleasure to experience and scenery was amazing.
Having everything organised for you helped you relax and just enjoy the experience. The American veterans also spoilt us with food, drink and entertainment.
A trip not to miss if you do get the opportunity.
Desmond McGurk on Best of Route 66 Challenge
Had a fantastic trip, very well organised, brilliant fellow riders, everybody worked as part of a team, support crew did a marvellous job with keeping up with the bikes. roads and scenery amazing. If you wear glasses and cannot get prescription wrap rounds my advice is get an open face helmet with a visor to protect your eyes from drying and or drops. Keep up the fantastic work you are doing.
Paul Howard on Best of Route 66 Challenge
This tour was one of the best things I have ever done. At first I was apprehensive going into a new environment and meeting new people but I was immediately made at ease within minutes of meeting the group.
As the ride got underway it was clear the trip had a lot in store, from the offset we were welcomed with breathtaking views and we were rolling out as a bike crew of Harley Davidson and Indian motorcycles.
The tour was really well organised and at each stop we had something to do and the locals would greet us which felt really special. As a veteran it was amazing to feel the support everywhere we went.
We covered some serious miles during the tour and apart from the amazing views it gave me time for reflection and it really helped putting things in perspective. It has cleared my head and its made me a more positive person and confident in where I want to be in life. Its because of this I can not recommend this tour enough. I want to go again.
Fantastic trip from start to finish and I have made some great friends. Thank you all.
Liam Thompson on Best of Route 66 Challenge
Hi Tomo here former Royal Marine commandos injured in 2015.
What an amazing 10 days, organisation was great from start to finish, sites you can only dream of, friendships for life were made between riders, pavillions, servicemen and civilians The American legions were outstanding respect all the way, hospitality amazing, if your thinking of signing up do it now i promise you will have no regrets. Huge thanks to the Riders and BT4TW TEAM.
Mark on Best of Route 66 Challenge
Hello I am one of the Beneficiaries that did this years Aug-Sept Challenge. I initially was worried, as I have never been on a bike in my life. I am physically and mentally disabled. I need not have worried, the support team, and the riders looked after me magnificently. We worked out a way to get on and off the bike, a system of hand signals on the bike so that my rider knew if I was okay. This was not a holiday it was a challenge. The weather was extremely hot most of the riding was across the deserts and canyons of the west. However we were managed wonderfully. The hospitality from the towns people and other organisations along the route was amazing. The routes themselves are in some of the most stunning landscapes that I have ever seen, with canyons, forests, deserts, every mile bringing you yet another sight to see. Also the camaraderie of the riders and pillions is second to none. I have made life long friends, first thing I did when getting back to England was look for a trike. Next year I am on the Normandy Trip, Also if there is a spare place on the Route 66 next year will be putting my name down for that. For me since discharge my world is the grey walls in my house where i hide from the world, BT4TW showed me what true colour there is out there to explore. I am eternally grateful for the experience and opportunity.
Richard on Best of Route 66 Challenge
Wow! What a great experience. I cannot recommend this highly enough. So many "firsts" for me - I'd never ridden a Harley, never ridden feet-forward or in an open face helmet. I had definitely never ridden through the desert at 45 degrees or in the most spectacular thunderstorm before. It's all here in one short ten-day trip!
The tour is organised so that there really is something for everyone.
Special thanks must go to Mark for being very, very patient with me and my riding nerves. Also to Amy, who did an amazing job of dealing with a bunch of strong and competing personalities, she had to cope with temper tantrums, tearful guilt trips, illness and logistical problems. She did it all with good grace and humour.
Did I enjoy every minute? No. Would I do it again? HELL YES!
by Liz Hoskin on Best of Route 66 Challenge
It's about five years since I first rented a Harley and rode in the Vegas area, back then I was on my own and set out without a clue where to go. I had a great time.The experience of riding with BC Motorcycle Tours on the BT4TW best of 66 tour this year has cemented what I missed trying to find my own way.
On arrival at Vegas we were met by Darren, Scott and Mike the Tour Guides and Trevor and Derrick the Support Vehicle Drivers. Well organised for our arrival Darren's Contacts at the airport had us speedily vacated through Customs and into the heat of the Vegas day. The Bikes provided were first class, and from the moment we set out it was clear this was going to be an adventure not the typical "bland guided ride" that perhaps other touring companies provide. Day one saw me hit a town I had visited on my previous solo trip, the difference was the local knowledge of the guides that allowed me to ride roads I never found last time, and what roads.
Each day was full packed with challenging rides, amazing scenery and inspirational Veterans in the group.
Along the way we met Medal of Honour winner John Bacca, a true hero who survived against the odds when he carried out the bravest act I have ever heard of, we were hosted by members of the American Legion of Veterans who showed such respect for the Beneficiaries.
Highly recommend BC Motorcycle Tours, don't make the same mistake I did and try and do this alone, you will miss the Best for sure as it is off the beaten track.
Patch on Best of Route 66 Challenge
I've been on several of the tours for Route 66, Pacific Coast Highway and the best of the West, including the very first 66 tour in 2010. I always had the original ambition of riding along Route 66 on a Harley as part of “one of those unforgettable items to tick off”, and with the help of Darren and his team I have made that dream come true. So much so that I've been back several times since that very first tour! Could I have done it myself? Sure. But you don’t get all the experience, camaraderie of other bikers, insights, local knowledge and the best routes to take – and along with all the logistics sorted, including fantastic bike rental, flight arrangements, hotels, meals and all the backup services the tour provides, doing it alone would just not compare. You get to see the sights of sounds of real America - from the bright lights of Vegas to the majestical and romantic Grand Canyon at sunset; from long open route 66 roads to twisty, rugged mountain passes of the devils backbone in Utah; through temperatures of 110c in Death Valley, and the odd rain cloud or even snow over the tops; you can ride, see and experience it all.
If you have that dream – don’t hesitate.
Andy P on Best of Route 66 Challenge
"Experienced riders wanted" That was the sign that made me ask what is it all about at the Bike Tours For The Wounded Stand and I ended up signing up for the best bits of route 66. I'd always wanted to do a tour like this but the thing that swung it for me was that I would also be supporting one of wounded, injured or sick military personnel.
The tour was extremely well organised. The camaraderie was fantastic and by the end of the tour - to see the difference it had made to some of our pillions, well you can't get that on the NHS and I should know I'm a retired nurse. The only gripe about the tour was that it was over so quickly. Just had to come home and book another trip!
Ted Foulger on Best of Route 66 Challenge