Southwest Highlights Tour (6 Days)

Spending a full day in Zion National Park promises an immersive experience amidst towering sandstone cliffs and winding canyons. The day typically begins with an early morning entrance into the park, setting the stage for a scenic bus ride into the heart of the park. Upon arrival, visitors can embark on the iconic Angel’s Landing hike up to Scout’s Outlook, challenging yet rewarding with breathtaking panoramic views from its summit.

Alternatively, exploring the Narrows offers a unique adventure, wading through the Virgin River amid sheer canyon walls that glow in the sunlight. Throughout the day, stops at key viewpoints like Canyon Overlook or Weeping Rock reveal the park’s diverse landscapes, from lush hanging gardens to rugged rock formations.

As the sun begins to set, a leisurely stroll along the Emerald Pools Trail or a serene moment at the Watchman overlook provides a tranquil conclusion to a day filled with natural wonder and exploration in Zion National Park.

Today, we’ll embark on a journey through time as we delve into the fascinating history of Bryce Canyon National Park. This natural wonder, renowned for its unique geological formations and vibrant landscapes, has a rich and storied past.

Our tour begins with a visit to the Visitor Center, where you’ll discover the origins of the park’s famous hoodoos, towering spires of rock that have been shaped by millions of years of erosion. Learn about the native Paiute people who originally inhabited the area and their legends surrounding these mystical formations. The Paiutes referred to the hoodoos as “Anka-ku-was-a-wits,” meaning “red painted faces,” and believed they were ancient beings turned to stone by the trickster god, Coyote.

We’ll explore the contributions of early settlers like Ebenezer Bryce, for whom the canyon is named. Bryce, a Mormon pioneer, homesteaded in the area in the late 19th century. He used the canyon to graze cattle and harvest timber, famously stating that it was “a hell of a place to lose a cow.” His homestead and descriptions helped draw attention to the area’s unique beauty, leading to its designation as a national monument in 1923 and later as a national park in 1928.

Afterward, we’ll set out on an afternoon hike to explore the famous hoodoos and breathtaking vistas that make Bryce Canyon a natural wonder. As we hike through the park on the Queens Garden Loop, you’ll gain insights into the geological processes that have sculpted the terrain over eons, creating a natural amphitheater of unparalleled beauty. The park’s geology dates back to the Cretaceous, with formations resulting from the deposition and subsequent erosion of sedimentary rock layers. The hoodoos, specifically, are formed through a process called “frost wedging,” where water seeps into cracks, freezes, and expands, gradually breaking the rock apart.

Today not only showcases the stunning vistas and unique rock formations but also brings to life the human history intertwined with the majestic beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park. The combination of Zion’s towering cliffs and Bryce’s surreal rock formations promises an unforgettable journey of exploration and discovery.

Today’s unforgettable journey begins in the picturesque town of Page, AZ, and takes us through the majestic landscapes of Monument Valley and the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Our adventure kicks off with a scenic drive through the rugged beauty of the Arizona desert, where towering red rock formations create a stunning backdrop. Upon arrival at Monument Valley, we’ll immerse ourselves in the iconic scenery with an exhilarating open-air jeep tour. Monument Valley, renowned for its towering sandstone buttes, mesas, and spires, has served as the dramatic setting for numerous films and is a symbol of the American West.

As we traverse the valley’s breathtaking vistas, our knowledgeable guides will share the rich history and cultural significance of this sacred land. Monument Valley is part of the Navajo Nation, and its ancient landscapes hold deep spiritual meaning for the Navajo people. We’ll hear stories of the valley’s creation, learn about the traditional Navajo way of life, and gain insight into the valley’s role in Navajo history and culture. The area’s striking geological formations were shaped over millions of years by erosion, creating the stunning natural sculptures we see today.

After soaking in the surreal beauty and cultural richness of Monument Valley, we’ll continue our expedition to the Grand Canyon, where the sheer vastness and grandeur of one of the world’s natural wonders await. Stand in awe at the rim, marveling at the intricate layers of ancient rock, carved over millennia by the mighty Colorado River. The Grand Canyon’s immense scale and its geological history, stretching back nearly two billion years, offer a humbling perspective on the natural world.

This journey offers a perfect blend of adventure, cultural enrichment, and natural splendor, creating memories to last a lifetime.

After witnessing the breathtaking sunrise from the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, the day unfolds with boundless opportunities for free-time, adventure and exploration. The golden hues of dawn gradually give way to the vibrant colors of the canyon, offering a perfect backdrop for a morning hike along possibly the Bright Angel Trail or the South Kaibab Trail. Descending into the canyon, both trails offer stunning vistas and the chance to experience the grandeur of the canyon walls up close. After the invigorating hike, a leisurely picnic lunch at one of the scenic overlooks, such as Mather Point or Yavapai Point, allows for a restful pause while soaking in the expansive views.

In the afternoon, a visit to the Grand Canyon Visitor Center provides insightful exhibits and information about the park’s geology, history, and wildlife. For a more immersive experience, a ranger-led program delves deeper into the park’s natural and cultural heritage. As the day progresses, exploring the historic Grand Canyon Village offers a glimpse into the park’s past, with iconic landmarks like the El Tovar Hotel and the Hopi House.

For those seeking a more adventurous pursuit, an optional helicopter tour above the canyon and along the Colorado River adds an exhilarating dimension to the day. As the sun begins its descent, a walk along the Rim Trail, provides a serene setting to reflect on the day’s experiences. Finally, as the evening settles in, savoring a hearty farewell dinner at one of the rim’s restaurants while watching the sunset cast its warm glow over the canyon marks a perfect end to a full day of exploration.

As you leave the Grand Canyon behind, we will head towards Route 66, the iconic highway that once symbolized the American spirit of adventure. Stop in the charming town of Seligman, a living homage to the golden era of road trips, where you can enjoy classic diners, quirky shops, and vintage memorabilia. Continue your drive through the picturesque landscapes of the Mojave Desert, eventually arriving in Las Vegas. As the sun sets, the city’s dazzling lights welcome you to explore its vibrant nightlife, world-class entertainment, and exquisite dining, capping off a day filled with natural beauty, historic charm, and modern excitement.

Arrival to Las Vegas at approximately 5:00pm.