Itinerary Details
MT Sobek: Arizona & Utah Hiking with Premier Lodging
Day 1 The Narrows & Explore Zion National Park
3.5- to 4.5-hour private van transfer
3-4 hours/5 miles hiking with minimal 1,000' elevation gain
Embark on a scenic journey from Las Vegas, driving through the stunning landscapes of Southern Utah on your way to Zion National Park. Today, you'll explore the heart of Zion Canyon, tracing the Virgin River as it carves its path through towering canyon walls that rise up to 2,000 feet. Known for its breathtaking beauty, The Narrows offers a unique outdoor adventure, considered one of the most picturesque slot canyons in the Southwest. The River Walk leads you to the Virgin River, where your hike begins through ankle- to knee-deep water, offering an exhilarating way to experience this geological wonder. The hike is both challenging and rewarding. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely and educational walk along the Pa'rus Trail, which follows the Virgin River from the Human History Museum to the Visitor Center. The name "Pa'rus," derived from the Paiute word for "bubbling water," reflects the trail's serene beauty, with views of the Watchman and the canyon's grandeur. End your day with a gourmet dinner, overlooking a resident herd of bison at your lodge, before retreating to your private cabin for a restful night.
Accommodation: Zion Mountain Ranch
(L, D)
Day 2 Marvel at White Pocket & The Toad Stools
1.5- to 2-hour private van transfer round trip up to 3.5 hours 4x4 adventure
3-4 hours/3-6 miles hiking with 600' elevation gain
Heading south from Zion, embark on a thrilling 4x4 excursion to the remote trailhead and otherworldly landscape of White Pocket, nestled within the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Traverse rugged terrain and soft, undulating sands with the help of your guide in this secret spot of swirling colors, hidden arches, prehistoric sandstone formations, whimsical hoodoos, and ancient petroglyphs. Here you'll discover mushroom-like protrusions, bulges that resemble brains, polygonal fracturing, and wave-like features in the rocks. Even expert geologists are stumped by the processes that created these strange formations! Time permitting, continue to The Toadstools for fairy-tale hoodoos and balanced rocks, sculpted by centuries of wind and water erosion for fun exploration and photography. Continue towards Lake Powell where safari-style tents await in a spectacular setting with outstanding stargazing.
Accommodation: Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase
(B, L, D)
Day 3 Adventure through Hanging Gardens, Horseshoe Bend & Monument Valley
3- to 4-hour private van transfer
6-8 hours/5 miles hiking with 400' elevation gain
Begin your day in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area with a guided hike along Lake Powell's sandstone cliffs towards the entrance to a hidden oasis known only to a few. The Hanging Gardens Spring is a verdant sanctuary nestled amidst the desert's harsh embrace where lush flora cascades down the canyon wall. The adventurous may reward themselves with a dip in the lake too! Shifting away from off-the-beaten-path gems to bucket-list highlights, head toward a confluence of boundaries, including Grand Canyon National Park and the Navajo Nation, at Horseshoe Bend. Stand in awe at the edge of the precipice, gazing down into the depths of the canyon where the Colorado River is bent back on itself by geological forces. Next venture into the Navajo Nation's iconic Monument Valley, where towering sandstone buttes rise from the desert floor like ancient sentinels towering up to 1,000 feet.
Accommodation: Bluff Dwellings Resort & Spa
(B, L, D)
Day 4 Hike Canyonlands National Park & the Needles District
3- to 4-hour private van transfer
6-8 hours/up to 8 miles total hiking with 1500' elevation gain
Begin your day at Bear Ears National Monument with a visit to Newspaper Rock, a sacred site adorned with over 2,000 petroglyphs, each telling the story of ancient peoples who once roamed these lands. Marvel at the intricate designs and mysterious symbols carved into the sandstone, pondering their meaning. Continue your journey into the heart of Canyonlands National Park, where the rugged beauty of the desert landscape unfolds before you. Led by expert naturalist guides who will illuminate the secrets of the desert ecosystem and its inhabitants, hike along winding trails and narrow canyons to Big Spring, a hidden oasis. Explore Chesler Park, with panoramic views of the famed Needles formations, following the trail as it winds its way through narrow canyons and hidden alcoves. Continue to Moab, where luxury safari-style tents are perfectly positioned to take in breathtaking views across Canyonlands and plunge pools soothe and refresh.
Accommodation: ULUM Moab
(B, L, D)
Day 5 Relax or Hike to Looking Glass Arch & Depart
1- to 3-hour private van transfer
2-3 hours/up to 3 miles optional hiking with up to 500' elevation gain
Your final day of adventure is yours to design. Start with a serene session of yoga amidst the tranquil beauty of the desert landscape or relax and reflect at the resort. Feel the warmth of the morning sun on your skin and the soft whisper of the breeze as you find peace and balance in body and mind. Another option is one last scenic hike to Looking Glass Arch. Follow winding trails that lead you through ancient rock formations and towering cliffs as you make your way to this stunning geological formation. After your morning adventure, enjoy another sumptuous meal made with locally sourced ingredients and check out the vibrant town of Moab. As your journey ends, choose a transfer to the rental car facility in Moab or transfer to Grand Junction Airport in Colorado for departing flights.
Accommodation: ULUM Moab
(B, L)
