Magnificent Pinnacles & Canyons of the Mighty Five
Go deep into geologic time in all five of Utah's epic national parks. Expect desert solitude, cobalt blue skies, and rugged red-rock landscapes as you follow expert local guides on spectacular hiking trails. Explore the wonderland of Arches with its magnificent stone formations and giant balanced rocks. Experience dramatic landscapes carved by the Colorado River in Canyonlands National Park, and see the sheer cliffs of Capitol Reef. Marvel at Bryce's fantastical pinnacles and hoodoos, then wind your way through Zion's narrow slot canyons. To top it off, pamper yourself in comfortable lodges at these stunning locations. Explore Getting to Moab, Utah
Go deep into geologic time in all five of Utah's epic national parks. Expect desert solitude, cobalt blue skies, and rugged red-rock landscapes as you follow expert local guides on spectacular hiking trails. Explore the wonderland of Arches with its magnificent stone formations and giant balanced rocks. Experience dramatic landscapes carved by the Colorado River in Canyonlands National Park, and see the sheer cliffs of Capitol Reef. Marvel at Bryce's fantastical pinnacles and hoodoos, then wind your way through Zion's narrow slot canyons. To top it off, pamper yourself in comfortable lodges at these stunning locations. Explore Getting to Moab, Utah
Hike through five treasured national parks - Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce, and Zion - in just eight days
[Description] => Hike through five treasured national parks - Arches, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, Bryce, and Zion - in just eight days
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Traverse a scenic slot canyon riverbed on the Virgin River Narrows and hike among labyrinthine spires of Bryce Canyon
[Description] => Traverse a scenic slot canyon riverbed on the Virgin River Narrows and hike among labyrinthine spires of Bryce Canyon
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Stargaze beneath the Milky Way - four of the five national parks are certified Dark Sky Parks
Take a Scenic Drive to Moab & Hike in Colorado National Monument
Day 1
Welcome to Colorado! Your guides will pick you and your fellow adventures up this morning from your pre-trip hotel. After an orientation meeting, wake up your travel legs with a series of short hikes in Colorado National Monument, a picnic lunch, and an opportunity to learn at the visitor's center. In the afternoon drive a spectacular scenic route to Moab along the Colorado River and past iconic Fisher Towers before arriving in Moab, Utah — your home for the next three nights. Tonight's welcome dinner is at a local's favorite!
Meet your MT Sobek guide at breakfast ready for a full day of exploring the magnificent stone arches and giant balanced rocks of Arches National Park. Home to more than 2,000 natural arches, one is so famous that it graces nearly every travel brochure and license plate for the state of Utah. Today hike to Delicate Arch and some of the other amazing arches including Landscape Arch which spans an impressive 306 feet! Return to Moab and a leisurely dinner.
Accommodation: Hyatt Place Moab
Activity: 4-5 hours/5-7 miles hiking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Remote Needles District of Canyonlands National Park
Day 3
Welcome to the remote Canyonlands' Needles District - where every step tells a story, and every vista is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered. First, stop at the Newspaper Rock, an incredible display of ancient Native American pictographs and petroglyphs, some dating back 2,000 years. Next enjoy a hiker's haven, inviting you to hike over slickrock that stretches as far as the eye can see. Marvel at a panorama of sandstone "needles" piercing the horizon. Your 6-mile trek is an unforgettable exploration of this less visited part of Canyonlands. Tonight enjoy some relaxation or explore Moab's dining options on your own.
Accommodation: Hyatt Place Moab
Activity: 4-5 hours/6 miles hiking 600+ feet of elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 2.5-hour private vehicle transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Islands in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park, Goblin Valley & Stargazing
Day 4
This morning, depart Moab for Grand View Point and Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park. Marvel at towering rock walls, ancient pictographs, and sweeping sandstone landscapes as you journey into the heart of the park. Learn while you lunch at the John Wesley Powell River History Museum. Next explore the phantasmagoric Goblin Valley and marvel at this geologic wonder on your way to Capital Reef National Park. After settling in and an early dinner this evening, learn about Capitol Reef's designation as an International Dark Sky Park as you enjoy a special stargazing experience with an astronomer! The Utah desert's predictable weather, low humidity and dark night skies make it the perfect location for viewing the Milky Way Galaxy, millions of stars, recognizable constellations, and even some far-off galaxies millions of light years away.
Accommodation: Capitol Reef Resort
Activity: 4-5 hours/4-6 miles hiking; 1-hour stargazing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike Capitol Reef National Park
Day 5
This morning, set off on a journey to remote and rugged Capitol Reef National Park. Capitol Reef offers hikers not only dramatic desert scenery, but also serenity and solitude due to its light visitation. Experience the wonders of the park as you follow expert guides on a day hike along the Grand View Wash Trail and along the upper portion of the Waterpocket Fold - a massive geological wrinkle in the Earth's surface. Enjoying dinner together is a perfect way to end a day filled with adventures and astounding landscape diversity.
Accommodation: Capitol Reef Resort
Activity: 3-4 hours/4-6 miles hiking
Transportation: 1-hour private vehicle transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning Hike in Bryce Canyon & Head to Zion
Day 6
Depart early for a scenic drive to Bryce Canyon National Park. Words cannot describe the sweeping views from the rim of Bryce's amphitheater, the starting point for the hike along the rim trail to Sunset Point. Descend into this wild land of rock, through a surreal maze of pink hoodoos, spires and, rock windows. After exploring this otherworldly landscape, continue to Zion National Park with its epic trails and narrow slot canyons.
Accommodation: Red Cliffs Lodge Zion
Activity: 4-5 hours/5-6 miles hiking with 800' elevation gain/loss
Transportation: 3.5-hour private vehicle transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike in Zion National Park
Day 7
Meet your guide this morning for a full day bottom-up hike in the Narrows of Zion National Park. On this spectacular slot canyon hike, you will walk along the banks and in the Virgin River to the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. Your feet will get wet, so your day will begin with proper outfitting for the hike. You will be outfitted with special footwear, neoprene socks, a hiking pole and a dry day pack. Relax by the riverside while you enjoy a picnic lunch in the afternoon. This evening, celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner in Springdale.
Accommodation: Red Cliffs Lodge Zion
Activity: 5-7 hours/5-6 miles hiking - in/out of water all day (gear provided)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart Las Vegas
Day 8
This morning you can rise early and take in one more hike in Zion or have the option to relax at the hotel before departing for Las Vegas to catch afternoon homebound flights.
Activity: 1-2 hours/3 miles hiking with 370 ft elevation gain (optional)
MT Sobek has been exploring US National Parks for more than 50 years, placing a strong emphasis on responsible travel practices that support local communities and protect the natural environment.
We deliver this grand-slam adventure in just eight days — the perfect real-deal hiking trip for the short-on-time traveler. Explore the parks then unwind at comfortable lodges and resorts.
Our Southwest base is in Utah! Explore with our expert local guides, experience the region's incredible geology and diverse flora and fauna as you go deep into Utah's Mighty Five National Parks.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Levi W.
Levi grew up in rural Kansas. From flowing fields of wheat to the flowing rivers of the Southwest, Levi has always had a passion for the natural world. He’s been guiding since 2016, running rivers in Utah, Colorado, Idaho, Montana and Mexico, and hiking adventures in Texas and Utah. He enjoys opening the door to new experiences for guests. As the son of a writer, he has inherited a passion for bringing a unique perspective to sharing his insights and stories in nature.
Alisa L.
Growing up in Montana and New Mexico instilled an early love of the outdoors in Alisa. Following her childhood dreams, she spent nine adventurous summers working in and exploring magnificent Glacier National Park. Her winters were dedicated to skiing in Big Sky, Montana, and in between she explored other outdoor adventures around the country. While rafting the Grand Canyon in 2016, she realized she wanted to become a guide and has since led river and hiking trips in 14 national parks. She lives the life she loves and loves the life she lives, as the saying goes!
Stephen S.
Making his home in Greater Yellowstone, Stephen takes advantage of exploring the region year-round. He has a wealth of experience leading hiking and multisport adventures in national parks around the country. When he’s not guiding, he revels in the diverse beauty of the landscapes around him, roaming along winding rivers and tackling mountain slopes. He is excited to share his love of the outdoors with you.
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Meet your MT Sobek guide at breakfast ready for a full day of exploring the magnificent stone arches and giant balanced rocks of Arches National Park. Home to more than 2,000 natural arches, one is so famous that it graces nearly every travel brochure and license plate for the state of Utah. Today hike to Delicate Arch and some of the other amazing arches including Landscape Arch which spans an impressive 306 feet! Return to Moab and a leisurely dinner.
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Meet your guide this morning for a full day bottom-up hike in the Narrows of Zion National Park. On this spectacular slot canyon hike, you will walk along the banks and in the Virgin River to the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. Your feet will get wet, so your day will begin with proper outfitting for the hike. You will be outfitted with special footwear, neoprene socks, a hiking pole and a dry day pack. Relax by the riverside while you enjoy a picnic lunch in the afternoon. This evening, celebrate your journey with a farewell dinner in Springdale.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. This trip is rated activity level 3. You should be prepared to hike 3-6 hours per day and up to 6 miles on uneven terrain. The hiking will be broken up across multiple different trails on most days with driving breaks between trails. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 1
3-4 hours/3-4 miles hiking (multiple trails - longest 2.6 miles)
Day 2
4-5 hours/5-7 miles hiking
Day 3
4-5 hours/6 miles hiking 600+ feet of elevation gain and loss
Day 4
4-5 hours/4-6 miles hiking; 1-hour stargazing
Day 5
3-4 hours/4-6 miles hiking
Day 6
4-5 hours/5-6 miles hiking with 800' elevation gain/loss
Day 7
5-7 hours/5-6 miles hiking - in/out of water all day (gear provided)
Day 8
1-2 hours/3 miles hiking with 370 ft elevation gain (optional)
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
A variety of comfortable and ideally located accommodations carefully selected for a seamless adventure.
Located just one mile from the National Park, Capitol Reef Resort is surrounded by natural wonders including natural bridges, sandstone cliffs, magnificent canyons, and domes. The comfortable accommodations feature stunning views of the red-rock cliffs. After a day of adventures, relax in the heated outdoor pool or hot tub. The Pioneer Kitchen offers delicious comfort food and a casual atmosphere.
Located just one mile from downtown Moab and five miles from Arches National Park, Hyatt Place Moab is the perfect basecamp for adventure. The hotel features spacious, comfortable rooms all with flat screen TVs, a coffee maker and mini refrigerator and blackout curtains. The hotel also offers a business center, fitness center, outdoor pool, complimentary WiFi, complimentary breakfast and an onsite bar featuring regionally inspired bar bites.
Surround yourself with the majestic red cliffs and starry night skies at Red Cliffs Lodge Zion in Springdale, the gateway to Zion National Park. Explore local culture, shopping, and dining after hiking in and around Zion. Take a swim in the pool looking up at the rugged bluffs or soak in the hot tub, then retire to comfortable contemporary rooms with a full range of amenities.
Weather
Expect warm, sunny days and cool evenings; weather is variable depending on elevation. Daytime highs can range from 60° to 100°F and evening lows from 40° to 60°F.
Apr
May
Jun
Sep
Oct
Arches National Park
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Arches National Park
69
40
79
49
92
59
85
54
71
41
Canyonlands National Parks
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Canyonlands National Parks
67
37
78
46
90
56
84
51
70
38
Zion National Park
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Zion National Park
59
36
69
42
82
49
78
48
66
39
FAQs
How should I train for my Southwest trip?
The best training is hiking. Work up to hiking similar distances with your daypack loaded with the same weight you will be carrying on your day hikes.
What kind of wildlife am I likely to see?
Wildlife commonly seen includes: Mule Deer, Utah Prairie Dogs, Chipmunks, Golden-mantled Ground Squirrels, Pronghorn (antelope), Gray Fox, Ravens, Steller's Jays, Clark's Nutcrackers, Red-tailed Hawks, Turkeys, and Mountain Short-horned Lizards. Black Bear, Elk, and Mountain Lions are rarely seen.
What do I need to take to hike the Narrows?
MTS provides trekking poles, a dry bag for valuables (carried by the guide), and garbage bags for wet shoes/clothing. After the guides teach techniques and safety, we work as a team to navigate up the canyon, with the goal of reaching Orderville Canyon (a tributary). The hiking is about 65+% on land and 40-% in water. The first mile is 100% dry, though there is one long wading section immediately following the first mile. Guests should bring old tennis shoes or sturdy walking sandals like Chacos or Teva. Sneakers you can get wet often work best, those wearing sandals should wear socks under them to prevent rub marks due to sand getting under the straps. Neoprene socks are a bonus, but not required. Guides will advise if a change of shorts will be a good idea based on current water levels and temperatures. If the water is very high or cold, we walk along the riverbank for 1-mile, enter the water (optional), and only go a short distance up canyon to Mystery Canyon side waterfall. We then add another hike to the day, such as Emerald Pools.
When is the best time to go on this trip?
The canyons of the Southwest are wonderful destinations from late April through mid-October.
When should I arrive for the trip?
Guests should arrive in Grand Junction, Colorado the day before the trip starts. We recommend staying at the Courtyard Marriott Grand Junction and LaQuinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Grand Junction for the pickup transfer that will happen on Day 1.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
Are there any group savings?
Yes, we offer two ways to enjoy group savings on many adventures in North America, including this one. Either bring a group of 10 and receive 10% off per person or opt for an eleventh person to go for free! Call our expert Trip Consultants on 800-974-0300 to discuss group savings options.
"Unbelievable natural beauty in these five Utah parks was more than complemented by the accommodations, the fascinating members of our group, and our ultra-competent guides."
Laura S. MT Sobek Guest, Utah National Parks Multi-Adventure
"I've taken six MT Sobek trips and they have all exceeded my expectations. The staff, the food, the logistics and the communications have always been exceptional. Thank you for being my "go to" adventure travel company!"
