Endless Panoramic Views of Canyonlands & Greater Moab Area

Departing this morning from Salt Lake City, we’ll journey from the snow-capped granite peaks of the Wasatch Mountains to the red rock canyons of southern Utah. Our guides will provide detailed narratives about the region’s geological history, indigenous cultures, and intricate ecosystem. We’ll arrive at Dead Horse Point State Park, where we’ll enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the breathtaking views of Canyonlands National Park and the winding Colorado River below. This park’s awe-inspiring scenery has been used by Hollywood countless times – most notably in “Thelma & Louise” and the opening scene of “Mission: Impossible 2”.

This afternoon, we’ll enter Canyonlands National Park and explore the “Island in the Sky” District. This section of the park sits high atop a plateau surrounded by 2,000-foot cliffs. These red rock formations were carved by wind and water over millennia, creating a landscape that seems almost otherworldly. We’ll drive to the very end of the plateau and set off on a short, introductory hike to Grand View Point – known for having one of the best panoramic views in the entire national park system. We’ll continue to our campsite just outside the adventure town of Moab. Our campsite, nestled among iconic red rock formations, promises an authentic wilderness experience. Primitive but scenic, the location offers unparalleled views that transform with the changing light. Our guides will assist with a simple tent tutorial and begin preparing a delicious first-night dinner. Enjoy the dark skies this evening with a campfire and s’mores!

Please Note: For this tour, we’ve selected Bureau of Land Management Group Sites for nights 1 and 2. These primitive campsites offer unmatched views of the stunning desert landscape but lack running water and showers. Our guides will provide water for cleanup, with shower facilities available on Day 2 in the town of Moab.

Driving Time: 4.5 Hours
Hiking: Grand View Point Trail or similar | 2-3 miles | Minimal elevation gain
Accommodation: Moab Campground or similar
Meals Included: Lunch and Dinner

Hike to the Renowned Delicate Arch & Explore Arches National Park

Today, we venture into the iconic Arches National Park, a geological wonderland where nature’s artistry is on full display. Our journey begins with a challenging yet rewarding hike to the world-famous Delicate Arch. As you stand beneath this natural masterpiece, you’ll be awestruck by its grandeur and feel a sense of wonder that will last a lifetime.

After our hike, we’ll embark on a scenic drive through the park, taking in breathtaking views of towering rock formations and vibrant desert landscapes. We’ll pause for a leisurely picnic lunch surrounded by tall, thin, vertical slabs of rock known as “fins.” Our exploration continues with visits to the Windows Section and Double Arch.

We’ll leave the park and head to the adventure town of Moab, a vibrant community nestled amidst stunning red rock landscapes. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore local shops and browse southwest inspired art galleries. We’ll enjoy dinner at a favorite local eatery before returning to camp to watch the sunset and gather around the campfire, sharing stories and reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Get Off the Beaten Path in Capitol Reef & Goblin Valley

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before breaking camp and embarking on a breathtaking journey from Moab to Bryce Canyon. Our first stop is Goblin Valley State Park, a whimsical landscape of hoodoo formations that will transport you to another world. These otherworldly rock sculptures, shaped by the relentless forces of wind and water, were the “rock monsters” from the comedy film Galaxy Quest.

After exploring this unique terrain, we’ll drive to Capitol Reef National Park for a scenic picnic lunch. Embark on a captivating hike that showcases the park’s stunning scenery, including views of the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic marvel where the earth’s crust has been uplifted. Depending on the season, we will explore the Grand Wash area or hike along the scenic Fremont River Trail through the lush Fruita district.

We’ll continue our adventure along Scenic Byway Route 12 over Boulder Mountain and through the vast expanse of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument before reaching Bryce Canyon National Park. Once we arrive, we’ll set up camp, enjoy a delicious camp dinner, and unwind under the starry night sky.

Enjoy Bryce Canyon at Sunrise & Hike Into Bryce Amphitheater

We’ll start our day with a breathtaking sunrise at Bryce Canyon. As dawn breaks, the towering hoodoos, sculpted by centuries of erosion, will ignite in a vibrant orange hue, creating a truly unforgettable spectacle. After a hot breakfast, we’ll embark on the iconic Navajo and Queen’s Garden Trail. This 3-mile loop offers stunning vistas, winding paths, and a deep dive into the geologic history of Bryce Canyon. As we descend into the canyon, we’ll be awestruck by the towering hoodoos and panoramic views. After the hike, we’ll make a stop at the visitor center to learn more about the park’s fascinating geology.

Later this day, we’ll head to the greater Zion National Park area and set up camp just outside the park. You can relax by the campfire, take a refreshing dip in the resort’s pool, or simply enjoy some quiet time. As the sun sets, we’ll gather around the campfire for a final group dinner, sharing stories and laughter as we reflect on the week’s adventures.

Driving Time: 2 Hours
Hiking: Navajo/Queen’s Garden Loop Trail | 3-4 miles | 600+ feet elevation gain
Accommodation: Zion Ponderosa just outside of Zion
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Hike the Iconic Narrows in Zion & Return to Salt Lake City

Today, we’ll explore deep into the heart of Zion National Park. From the Visitor Center, we’ll board a shuttle that takes us deep into the canyon, where we’ll embark on a hike along the Virgin River. The highlight of the day will be the Narrows (arguably the most famous feature in Zion National Park), a stunning slot canyon where towering cliffs rise hundreds of feet above. We’ll wade through the cool, clear water, surrounded by towering sandstone walls.

Please Note: Depending on weather conditions and water levels, we may adjust our plans. If water levels are too high for the Narrows, we’ll explore other iconic trails like the Scout Lookout Trail or the Emerald Pools Trail, offering breathtaking views and unique geological formations. Historically, the Narrows opens in mid May.

After our adventure, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local café before making our way back to Salt Lake City.

Driving Time: 4.5 Hours
Hiking: The Narrows | 3-5 miles | Minimal elevation gain
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch