Itinerary Details
MT Sobek: Utah Zion & Bryce Winter Hiking
Day 1 Hike the Watchman Trail in Zion National Park
3-hour private van transfer
3.5 miles/3 hours hiking with 400' elevation gain and loss
Meet your guides and fellow travelers early this morning in Las Vegas, Nevada, then depart on a four-hour journey to one of North America's most outstanding national parks. Your first hike in Zion takes you to the Watchman Trail for a crisp winter welcome. The trail initially skirts the Virgin River, passing by towering canyon walls, dusted with snow. It climbs to offer breathtaking views of the Watchman and lower Zion Canyon, the red rock contrasting with winter white. As your first day on-trail winds to a close, transfer to your lodgings for a hearty dinner.
Accommodation: Zion Park Lodge
(D)
Day 2 Hike the Sand Bench Trail Through Zion Canyon
7 miles/5-6 hours hiking with 500' elevation gain and loss
Following the Virgin River down the canyon, this trail has spectacular winter views of several named sandstone features that tower over 2,000' above you, including Court of the Patriarchs, the Sentinel, Mountain of the Sun, and the Bee Hive. Pause for lunch and take in the iconic view of the Watchman, whose picturesque summit guards the entrance to Zion Canyon. As you complete the Sand Bench Loop, the trail winds through large sandstone boulders, with expansive views above the Virgin River. After returning to your hotel, you'll have some time to relax before meeting up again for dinner.
Accommodation: Zion Park Lodge
(B, L, D)
Day 3 Follow West Rim Trail to Scout Lookout
4 miles/4 hours hiking with 1,122' elevation gain and loss
Starting near Zion Lodge, step onto the West Rim Trail for an exhilarating winter climb. Ascend along the canyon wall to the 21 serpentine switchbacks known as Walter's Wiggles. Reaching Scout Lookout at the top of the ridge, you are treated to sweeping views over the snowcapped Zion Canyon. Pause to catch your breath and enjoy a picnic lunch with a beautiful view of Angels Landing. Once you have soaked in the winter splendor, it's time to head back to the canyon floor and a hot meal back at your lodging. Important Day 3 Note: The goal today is a viewpoint overlooking Angels Landing. Accessing the viewpoint is dependent on snow, ice, trail conditions, park discretion, and other uncontrollable factors. Your guides will provide specific details on this hike prior to setting out for the day.
(B, L, D)
Day 4 Walk Beside the Virgin River & Journey to Bryce Canyon
2-hour private van transfer
3 miles/3 hours hiking with 200' elevation gain and loss
After breakfast, take one last journey through Zion Canyon, exploring the twists and turns of the Virgin River along the Riverside Walk and the Pa'rus Trail, savoring the hush of the season. Round out your inspiring sojourn in Zion with a breathtaking drive through the East side of the national park. After exiting the park, your journey continues toward Bryce Canyon National Park, where you'll settle into your new accommodations before a cozy dinner.
Accommodation: Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel
(B, L, D)
Day 5 Snowshoe the Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon National Park
20-minute private van transfer
6 miles/5hours snowshoeing with 300' elevation gain and loss
With the crowds of summer gone, bask in solitude and enjoy the day on Fairyland Loop Trail. With snowshoes in place, you'll find that the trail provides a variety of terrain, meandering to high 360-degree, panoramic viewpoints and winding along the base of towering hoodoos. Enjoy the winter wonderland as you make your way to Sunset Point, where you're rewarded with views of the northeast section of the park, dominated by the imposing Boat Mesa and appropriately named Sinking Ship.
Accommodation: Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel
(B, L, D)
Day 6 Follow Queens Garden Trail to Hoodoos & Hammers
4.5-hour private van transfer
3 miles/2 hours hiking with 600' elevation gain and loss
Begin hiking at Sunset Point, home to some of the park's most remarkable views. Along the Queens Garden Trail, shades of orange, pink, peach, and white, sparkling with ice and snow are a photographer's delight. The namesake Queen, Wall of Windows, and Thor's Hammer dominate the landscape along your route. Say farewell to the red rocks and trails before transferring back to Las Vegas for your departure or an extra night in the city.
(B, L)
