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Hiking in Zion and the Grand Canyon

Hiking in Zion and the Grand Canyon

From $ 3,430 AUD

Description

Calling all adventure seekers – a land of yawning canyons, inspiring trails and rushing rivers awaits. Over five days, explore the most thrilling bits of Utah and Arizona on foot as you venture into Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon’s North Rim. With two leaders by your side, you’ll not only learn about the landscapes you traverse, but also be let in on local secrets, including lesser-known known hiking trails and hidden viewpoints. The Southwest doesn’t get better than this.

Trip Name
Hiking in Zion and Grand Canyon
Last Updated
2022-05-18
Days
5
Capacity
13
Highlights
  • Lace up your boots and discover the unique landscapes of Zion National Park in Utah and the dramatic formations of Arizona’s Grand Canyon.
  • Zion National Park is a playground of natural wonders – explore highlights and hidden gems including Scout Lookout, Emerald Pools and the iconic Virgin River Narrows hike.
  • The lesser-known treasures of the Grand Canyon’s North Rim await – with only 10% of the visitation the South Rim receives, you’ll enjoy big views without the big crowds.
  • It’s important to be energised for your adventures – that’s why a lot of meals are included on this adventure. Sunset dinner at a viewpoint overlooking the Grand Canyon is one meal you won’t forget!
  • With two experienced leaders to guide the way, you’ll have access to little-visited trails, as well as the option to split into two groups based on interests or difficulty.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It is important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. The order and timing of included activities in each location may also vary seasonally to ensure our travellers have the best experience. Your tour leader will keep you up to date with any such changes once on tour. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your leader know you are interested in the Group Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and leaders are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Saint George
Welcome to St. George, Utah! This Southwestern city rubs shoulders with Arizona and is known for a flourishing arts scene and friendly locals. Your adventure begins with a 5pm welcome meeting at your hotel, where you’ll be joined by your local leaders and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, you may like to take a stroll through the city’s historic downtown, dotted with interesting heritage buildings. After your meeting, join your leaders and group for dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy your first taste of Southwestern cuisine.
Day 2 - Zion National Park
Leave St. George in the rear-view mirror and drive into the wild landscapes of Zion National Park (approximately 1.5 hours). Decorated with sandstone formations, desert rivers and box canyons, the scenery here is simply incomparable. Your first hike is along a lesser-known trail through the lower canyon – a perfect introduction to the geologic wonders of the park. Take a short break then hop aboard the Zion shuttle, taking you up-canyon to your next trailhead. This next hike is sure to be one you’ll never forget – head up to Scout Lookout and admire unrivalled views of the dramatic canyon system below. Follow trails along the canyon walls, providing a fantastic vantage point over the canyon floor. Emerge at the serene Emerald Pools, named for their glorious green tones, then descend to the lawn of the historic Zion Lodge and sit down to a late picnic lunch. After lunch, head down-canyon and grab your hiking gear for tomorrow’s walk in the Virgin River Narrows, then retire to your hotel for the evening.
Day 3 - Grand Canyon National Park
The Virgin River Narrows hike is perhaps the most iconic and beloved in Zion National Park, passing by many scenes that could only be found in Zion. Kick things off with a gentle stroll down the paved River Trail – flanked by water on the left and a towering cliff face on the right, this trail allows you to appreciate the natural forces that sculpted the canyon below. Walk beneath the shade of cottonwoods and hanging gardens until the path vanishes – it’s time to get your feet wet! Donning your seasonally appropriate water gear, enter the river. It can take a while to find your feet in this new environment, but you’ll soon find hiking in moving water to be a fun and thrilling experience! Walk 1.5 miles up river to your turnaround point at Orderville Canyon, stopping to enjoy some lunch and snap some pictures of the soaring walls of the Narrows before returning downstream. Then, say goodbye to Utah as you set off for the next leg of your journey, travelling to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona (approximately 2.5 hours). On arrival, settle into your lodge for a well deserved relaxing evening.
Day 4 - Grand Canyon National Park
It’s surprising that the Grand Canyon’s North Rim isn’t better known, receiving just 10% of the visitors of the super popular South Rim. This is great for you though, as it means you’ll have the chance to explore the dramatic landscapes the Grand Canyon is so famous for without jostling with crowds. Begin your discoveries of the region with a remote and little-explored trail, enjoying the cool climate that the North Rim’s 8000 ft altitude affords it. Walk beneath forests of pine towards a spectacular peninsula that juts over the edge of the canyon, providing unbeatable panoramic views. This spot is the Grand Canyon’s best kept secret, so you won’t need to compete with hoards of tourists to get that perfect pic. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, the group will have the option to venture another mile or two into the canyon. Once the hiking is wrapped up for the day, head to a viewpoint along the North Rim and make the most of your incredible location by enjoying a sunset dinner prepared by your leaders – this is one sunset that will be burned on your mind forever!
Day 5 - Saint George
Are you tired of breathtaking views yet? Didn’t think so! After breakfast this morning, take a short hike to Bright Angel Point and come face to face with one of the most remarkable views on the North Rim. You’ll then set off on your final hike along the revered North Kaibib Trail towards the scenic Coconino Overlook. After your hike, swing by the Grand Canyon Lodge, balanced on the edge of the North Rim. Enormous windows allow you to look into the depths of the canyon one last time – the perfect opportunity to reminisce with your group about all you’ve seen and accomplished on your journey. After lunch, drive back to St. George (approximately 3 hours), where on arrival your adventure will come to an end.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
24-05-202228-05-2022AUD $ 3,430-
06-06-202210-06-2022AUD $ 3,430-
22-06-202226-06-2022AUD $ 3,430-
17-08-202221-08-2022AUD $ 3,430-
08-09-202212-09-2022AUD $ 3,430-

Accommodation

Hotel (4 nights)

Transport

Private vehicle

Map