Explore the Unique Landscape of Bryce Canyon & Arrive to Clear Sky Resort

Starting from our gateway hotel near downtown Salt Lake City, our adventure kicks off along Utah’s stunning Wasatch Front, marking the beginning of our journey to Bryce Canyon National Park! After a scenic lunch we will hike a trail that encompasses the full beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park and it’s famous spires, known as “hoodoos”. Many proclaim this introductory trail as “The world’s best 3 mile hike”.  It is rated as moderate and is a wonderful way to view a variety of geology, flora, & fauna.

This evening we will enjoy dinner included and accommodations at the unique Clear Sky Resort, which is situated just outside of Bryce Canyon National Park.

“One of the most unique glamping experiences in the country, Clear Sky Resort offers stargazing and sunset-chasing travelers the opportunity to stay in remote, domed tents that boast the comforts of home.” – Condé Nast Traveler

Trek to a Gorgeous Waterfall in Grand Staircase Escalante

Today we explore one of the most underrated regions of Utah, Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. We’ll cruise along an incredibly scenic road (Highway 12 Scenic Byway) towards our trailhead at Lower Calf Creek Falls. The National Monument is almost 2 million square acres and is home to abundant wildlife, human history and vast geology. We’ll embark on a 6-mile round-trip, moderately rated hike to Lower Calf Creek Falls—one of the most scenic trails in southern Utah. At the end, you’ll be rewarded with views of a stunning 124-foot waterfall, the chance to dip your feet in the cool water, and enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch.

After the hike, enjoy some downtime to rest and freshen up before dinner. In the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to stargaze with a professional astronomer using high-powered telescopes—right from the resort, located in one of the best stargazing regions in the U.S.

Note: Due to a multi year renovation project by the Bureau of Land Management, there may be some intermittent closures of Lower Calf Creek Falls. In that case, alternative options will be provided by your guides.

Driving Time: 3.5 Hours
Hiking: Lower Calf Creek Falls | 6+ miles | 500+ feet elevation
Accommodation: Clear Sky Resort just outside of Bryce Canyon National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Activity: 1-hour stargazing experience with high powered telescopes

Hike the Peekaboo Trail in Bryce Canyon & Enter Zion National Park

After breakfast, we’ll check out of the resort and head to our final trailhead in Bryce Canyon. The Peekaboo Trail is a quiet, rewarding hike with stunning views of Bryce’s iconic hoodoos—an ideal way to say goodbye to this incredible park.

Next, we’ll drive two hours to Springdale, just outside Zion. This is one of the most scenic drives in southern Utah, winding through ancient sand dunes, towering cliffs, and the dramatic eastern entrance of Zion National Park.

Once we arrive, we’ll check in, unwind, and share some of our favorite local spots in the charming town of Springdale.

Driving Time: 2 hours
Hiking: Peekaboo Loop | 5+ miles | 1,200-1,500+ feet elevation
Accommodation: Red Cliffs Lodge Zion just outside of Zion National Park or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Hike the Iconic Narrows in Zion

After breakfast we enter Zion National Park! You will witness the towering sandstone cliffs and experience the green and blue waters of the Virgin River cutting through the heart of the canyon, providing life for those who call Zion home. Weather permitting, we’ll adventure down the world-famous Narrows where you’ll hike knee-deep in cool, rushing water while towering cliffs rise on both sides.  This feature is arguably Zion’s most famous and will be a great way to cool off after a busy week of hiking! After several hours of optional hiking and exploring, we head back to our lodge giving you the chance to enjoy Springdale’s shops and amenities.

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.

Driving Time: Local
Hiking: The Narrows | 3-4+ miles | Minimal elevation gain
Accommodation: Red Cliffs Lodge Zion just outside of Zion National Park or similar
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Take in a Panoramic View of Zion Canyon from Above + Return to Salt Lake City

Today we’ll head into the park early to make the most of our time in Zion before returning to Salt Lake City. Once in Zion, we’ll hike along the West Rim Trail, known for its incredible views of Zion Canyon and dramatic drop-offs. The first two miles climb nearly 1,000 feet via a paved path, including the famous twenty-one switchbacks known as “Walter’s Wiggles.”

Just beyond this section, we’ll reach Scout Lookout—a scenic saddle offering panoramic views of Zion Canyon. After celebrating at the top with photos and snacks, we’ll depart Zion, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, and begin the scenic drive back to Salt Lake City. On the way, you’ll have time to relax, share photos, and reflect on the adventure.

Note: Angels Landing is no longer included. Due to high demand, the National Park Service now requires individual permits for this section, which are not authorized for use on MountainBased trips.

Driving Time: 4.5 hours | Return to Salt Lake City
Hiking: West Rim to Scout Lookout | 4-5+ miles | 1,000+ feet elevation
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch