Compare Ancient Canyonlands Traverse by Wildland Trekking vs Western USA National Parks Loop by Intrepid Travel
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
0 | Poor
|
4.5 | Great
|
| Duration | 5 days | 5 days |
| Price From | $ 1,395 | $ 1,926 |
| Price Per Day | $ 279 | $ 385 |
| Highlights |
|
|
| Trip Style | Private guided tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Camping | Standard |
| Physical Level |
|
|
| Travel Themes |
|
|
| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
|
|
| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Ground transport included |
| Activities |
|
N/A |
| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
This Canyon lands backpacking trip explores an unlikely, lush oasis surrounded by vast Utah desert and towering red rock scenery. (The red rocks we see on this trip are a unique anomaly of the desert of Southern Utah.) The portion of Canyon lands National Park that we hike into is a wonderland of canyons, spires, alcoves, natural arches, spring-fed creeks, and remnants of ancient cultures. Our journey traverses the canyon of one of the only perennial streams in Canyon lands, winding through a micro ecosystem of riparian vegetation, desert plants and hanging gardens, with a backdrop of swirling red, white and black Cedar Mesa Sandstone canyon walls. It's stunning! Not only are we treated with a maze of sandstone delights, this hike also holds the story of the ancient Native Americans who lived here centuries ago. Their story is told through rock art, prehistoric granaries and cliff dwellings tucked into the sandstone cliffs. Every day of the trip holds new sights to be seen! |
Deserts, canyons, lakes and valleys await on a five-day adventure through western USA’s most spectacular national parks. Hike through the diverse scenery of Zion National Park, marvel at sandstone spires in Bryce Canyon National Park, join a Navajo guide to learn about the history of Monument Valley and take in one of the natural wonders of the world at Grand Canyon National Park. Let an expert local guide share stories of the landscape and discover there’s more to each destination than what meets the eye. |
Day 1 Las Vegas / Zion National Park
Welcome to Las Vegas! The real wild west is home to some of the USA’s most incredible scenery. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 8 am. Then, you’ll hop aboard a private van. Get to know each other over a picnic lunch, then venture into the stunning landscapes of Zion National Park. Join your leader for a guided hike, then spend the night in Springdale – known as the gateway to the park.
Day 2 Bryce Canyon National Park / Page
After breakfast this morning, it’s time to make tracks for Bryce Canyon National Park – make sure your camera is ready to go, as some of the views you’ll come across today are truly out of this world! Take a short drive in your private vehicle, then spend the morning hiking through the epic landscapes of the park. Walk along the canyon rim and marvel at hundreds of unique sandstone towers, known as hoodoos, that jut out from the natural amphitheatre. Relax while you enjoy a picnic lunch and take in your magnificent surroundings, then hike down into the canyon for a closer look at the fascinating hoodoos. Then, drive on to the town of Page, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 3 Lake Powell / Horseshoe Bend
Journey south this morning, driving through more spectacular scenery before arriving at Lake Powell. This gorgeous reservoir is certainly a sight to behold from the shore but to really appreciate it, you’ve got to get on the water. Jump in a kayak and paddle across the water’s surface, weaving your way through remarkable rock formations while your leader regales you with stories of the lake’s history. Back on dry land, set out for a gentle walk along Horseshoe Bend, taking in beautiful views with every step. This afternoon there is an option to visit Antelope Canyon before returning to Page for the evening.
Day 4 Monument Valley / Grand Canyon
Start the day with a drive to Monument Valley – one of the world’s most iconic sights. If this landscape dotted with towering sandstone buttes looks familiar to you, it’s no surprise – Monument Valley has been the filming location for many famous Western films. More importantly, this is the native land of the Navajo. When you arrive, you’ll transfer from your vehicle to a 4WD and enjoy a Navajo-guided tour of Monument Valley, where you’ll have the chance to learn more about their rich culture and history in the area before sitting down to a traditional homecooked, family-style Navajo lunch. Continue your journey onto the iconic Grand Canyon for some awe-inspiring walks along the rim.
Day 5 Route 66 / Las Vegas
This morning it's time to return to Las Vegas, but first we'll make a stop along Historic Route 66. You’ll arrive back in Las Vegas at approximately 4 pm where your adventure will come to an end.
