|
Explore the breathtaking canyons of some of the Southwest’s most impressive national parks: Bryce, with its colorful spires; Zion’s hanging gardens and towering red walls; and the Grand Canyon, with its beautiful “staircase of time.” Hike into the canyons, raft the Colorado River, and learn about the region’s wildlife and natural history.
Day 1 Las Vegas, Nevada
Arrive in Las Vegas and gather for a welcome reception and dinner.
Marriott Las Vegas
(D)
Days 2 and 3 Cedar Breaks/Bryce Canyon
Our journey into canyon country begins in Cedar Breaks National Monument, a spectacular natural amphitheater carved out of multicolored cliffs. From here, the landscape unfolds as we continue to Bryce Canyon National Park, where the beauty of Fairyland Point is breathtaking. Later, we settle into comfortable accommodations at the historic Bryce Canyon Lodge. Tomorrow, a choice of hikes and sightseeing take you into the heart of Bryce, where you will encounter the richly colored rock spires and eroded formations known as hoodoos. Take an evening walk between Inspiration and Sunset Points for a memorable view of Bryce Amphitheater.
Bryce Canyon Lodge
(B,L,D)
Day 4 Colorado River/Grand Canyon
Today’s journey to the Grand Canyon is framed by spectacular long vistas of mesas and mountains. Experience the stately Colorado River on a leisurely rafting trip at the head of the Grand Canyon. After lunch at a favorite local spot, look for reintroduced condors along the Vermilion Cliffs en route to our lodge, the only accommodations on the North Rim. Stay in simple cabins for the next two nights, with time to enjoy dramatic sunsets over the canyon.
Grand Canyon Lodge
(B,L,D)
Day 5 Grand Canyon
Trail conditions permitting, walk a portion of the North Kaibab Trail, for impressive views of the canyon. Feel the vastness of this great canyon where the colored layers of rock tell stories of ancient seas and life-forms. Look for wildlife and learn about the flowers and trees that inhabit the different life zones. Return to the lodge at day’s end.
(B,L,D)
Days 6 and 7 Zion
Head north to Zion National Park, where lush hanging gardens, waterfalls, and massive Navajo sandstone walls distinguish this park from all others. Hike Emerald Pools Trail, listening to the call of a canyon wren and passing under the cool spray of a waterfall. Learn which wildflowers thrive here and what birds are attracted by the canyon’s oasis. The next day, explore the Narrows of the Virgin River and climb to Scout Lookout for a breathtaking view of the rock sculptures in Zion Canyon.
Flanigan’s Lodge
(B,L,D)
Day 8 Zion/Las Vegas
Return to Las Vegas for flights home.
(B)
[TOP]
|
