Itinerary Details
MT Sobek: Utah Bryce Canyon & Zion National Parks Hiking
Day 1 Hike Snow Canyon & Enjoy the Drive to Bryce Canyon
3- to 3.5-hour private van transfer
2-4 hours/2.5-3 miles hiking with 500' elevation gain
Welcome to Utah! Your guides will pick you and your fellow adventurers up this morning from your pre-trip hotel in Las Vegas to begin the scenic drive to Bryce Canyon National Park. After about an hour on the road, lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails of Snow Canyon State Park, where you'll discover a world of natural wonder waiting to be explored. A place of breathtaking beauty, where the sandstone cliffs, red rock formations, and lava fields create a stunning natural landscape for hiking enthusiasts to explore. Marvel at the diverse wildlife, from desert tortoises to Gila monsters, and take in the vibrant colors of the park's plant life. The park's unique geological features make it a must-visit destination for any nature lover. After traversing Red Canyon, arrive at Bryce Canyon National Park in the late afternoon. Enjoy a welcome dinner followed by an optional scenic sunset walk.
Accommodation: The Lodge at Bryce Canyon
(B, L, D)
Day 2 Follow Trails in Kodachrome Basin State Park
1-1.5 hour private van transfer
5-7 hours/5.2-7.2 miles hiking with up to 300' elevation gain on multiple trails
Spend a full day exploring the wondrous landscapes of Kodachrome Basin State Park, home to over 70 monolithic stone spires that rise from the earth in a sight to behold. Set out the Panorama Loop, a gently rolling four-mile trail that winds past sand pipes, hidden ravines, and sweeping viewpoints over the basin's red-and-white sandstone formations, stopping along the way for lunch on the trail. In the afternoon, see more of this incredible park on a second hike. Angel's Palace Loop winds atop a sandstone bench, offering 360-degree views of the basin, and Grand Parade Trail, which loops along some of the park's most photogenic spires. Your guide will choose the trail based on conditions and group interest.
Accommodation: The Lodge at Bryce Canyon
(B, L, D)
Day 3 Hike a Loop in Bryce Canyon National Park
1-1.5 hour private van transfer
6-8 hours/just under 8 miles hiking with up to 1,600' elevation gain (options available)
Drop below the rim on an unforgettable hiking adventure in Bryce Canyon, heading out directly from your hotel. Your guide will choose the right route for the day. The Figure-8 combines three amphitheater hikes: Queen's Garden, Peekaboo Loop, and Navajo Loop. Starting at Sunrise Point, you'll wind through some of Bryce Canyon's iconic hoodoos and stunning natural landscapes, including Wall Street. The other option is the lesser-known, quieter Fairyland Loop, which passes through lush forest, some of the park's most dramatic hoodoos, and Tower Bridge arch. Either route offers encounters with unique geological features, diverse wildlife, and colorful flora, making for an exhilarating day in the park.
(B, L, D)
Day 4 Travel to Zion National Park & Hike a Classic Trail
2-hour private van transfer including the Zion Tunnel
2-3 hours/2.5-4 miles hiking with up to 1,100' elevation gain (options available)
After breakfast, journey from Bryce Canyon to Zion National Park through the iconic Zion tunnel, arriving in time for lunch in Springdale, just outside the park. Afterwards, your guides will lead you on one of two rewarding hikes. Climb the West Rim Trail's dramatic switchbacks to Scout Lookout, passing through the cool, tree-lined Refrigerator Canyon and the famed "Walter's Wiggles" en route to sweeping views of Zion Canyon, keeping an eye out for the endangered California Condor soaring overhead. Or, hike to the Emerald Pools via the Kayenta and Weeping Rock trails, discovering cascading waterfalls and a lush oasis of hanging gardens tucked beneath towering sandstone cliffs. Enjoy dinner tonight at the Lodge.
Accommodation: Zion National Park Lodge
(B, L, D)
Day 5 Hike Zion’s Virgin River Narrows
10 to 15-minute Zion Shuttle Bus
5-7 hours/5-6 miles hiking - in/out of water all day
Today's adventure takes you into the Virgin River Narrows, one of the most distinctive hikes in the National Park System. Wade upstream through the Virgin River as it winds between Zion Canyon's soaring sandstone walls, which rise up to 1,000 feet overhead. Water levels vary from ankle- to waist-deep, adding excitement and challenge to this remarkable route. As you move deeper into the canyon, discover sculpted rock passages, hanging gardens, sandy beaches, and towering cliffs illuminated by shifting light. The river's uneven footing and current require stamina, balance, and a spirit of adventure, but the dramatic scenery makes every step worthwhile. Celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner in Springdale.
Accommodation: Zion National Park Lodge
(B, L, D)
Day 6 Hike Watchman Trail & Depart to Las Vegas
3-hour private van transfer
2-3 hours/3-4 miles hiking with up to 375' elevation gain (optional)
Rise and shine for a perfect farewell to Canyon Country. Starting the ascent of the Watchman Trail near sunrise is a perfect way to avoid the crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the park in the early morning light. As you hike up the trail, you'll encounter a variety of natural features, including beehive formations, lush vegetation, and views straight up the main fork of Zion Canyon. The trail is relatively moderate in difficulty, making it a perfect way to greet the day. The trail culminates at the Watchman Overlook, which offers panoramic views of the canyon and the Virgin River. The viewpoint is especially stunning, as the first light of day illuminates the canyon walls and casts a warm glow over the landscape. Return to the hotel to pack and enjoy a hot breakfast before departing for Las Vegas, arriving at noon to catch homebound flights.
(B)
