National Parks: Arizona to Utah
Duration: 7 days
Highlights:
• Explore the Grand Canyon with a private helicopter flight and a hike on the South Rim
• Privately cruise Lake Powell, finding side canyons and enjoying optional water sports
• Hike through formative slot canyons unique to Southern Utah
• Discover iconic western vistas at Monument Valley
• Admire incredible sandstone sculptures at Arches National Park
• Raft the mighty rapids of the Colorado River
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Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive Phoenix, Arizona
Arrive in Phoenix, where you are met by your driver and chauffeured to breathtaking Sedona, Arizona. Surrounded by 1.8 million acres of national forest and a wonderland of red rocks, Sedona is an artistic and spiritual center. Join an expert naturalist guide and healer on a short trek tailored to your abilities and energy level. Enjoy a picnic lunch before meeting up with your driver and heading to your hotel in the Grand Canyon. The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon is the premier luxury hotel in the region and one of the few area hotels with an indoor heated swimming pool and spa.
Overnight: The Grand Hotel
Meal Plan: L
Day 2 - The Grand Canyon
Embark on a hike led by an expert naturalist guide for incredible views of the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, the Colorado River and the Painted Desert. Revel in the natural flora, fauna and landscape of this astonishing world wonder. Next, enjoy lunch in the dining room of the historic Hotel Tovar, which is located directly on the canyon rim. Then board a helicopter for a group tour over the Grand Canyon. Take in unforgettable, sweeping views of the canyon from a unique perspective rarely experienced by visitors to the park. Afterward, drive to the luxurious and secluded Amangiri resort. Sanskrit for “peaceful mountain,” Amangiri is a breathtaking and modern property nestled in a protected valley near Canyon Point, Utah.
Overnight: Amangiri
Meal Plan: B,L,D
Day 3 - Slot Canyons and Lake Powell Boat Cruise
In the morning, take the opportunity to visit the unique slot canyons that Southern Utah is famous for. Led by an expert guide, set out on a non-strenuous hike through three distinct and iconic canyons located in Navajo Territory. Learn about the history of the area as you marvel at the gorgeous lighting and stunning natural formations that these canyons showcase. In the afternoon, take a cruise on Lake Powell, seeing numerous side canyons, as well as a 290-foot-wide, free-standing arch called Rainbow Bridge. On board your private boat, you have the opportunity to enjoy water sports such as tubing, waterskiing and wakeboarding. For an additional fee, you may rent kayaks or paddleboards. Finally, savor a picnic lunch before returning to Amangiri to enjoy the afternoon at your leisure.
Overnight: Amangiri
Meal Plan: B,L,D
Day 4 - Monument Valley
Travel overland to Monument Valley, the awe-inspiring landscape immortalized by director John Ford in many a classic western movie. Marked by rugged sandstone towers that jut into the clouds, this amazing area has been known as the “land of long shadows” by local tribes for centuries. Learn about the valley’s natural and human history as a local expert leads you to landmarks only accessible with a private, licensed Navajo guide. Following lunch, set out on a scenic drive toward your next hotel near historic Bluff, Utah.
Overnight: Desert Rose Inn & Cabins
Meal Plan: B,L
Day 5 - Arches National Park
Today, meet your private driver-guide for a day of exploring the stunning Arches National Park. Get ready to hike and drive through the park, scoping out unusual geologic formations such as the famed Delicate Arch, the Marching Men, and the Eye of The Whale. After a picnic lunch at a scenic overlook, wander past seven distinct natural arches in the Devil’s Garden, check out the fossilized remains of real dinosaur tracks, and be treated to breathtaking vistas of the surrounding desert terrain. After your tour, transfer to the Sorrel River Ranch in Moab. Surrounded by the Colorado River, lush landscapes and majestic rock formations, Sorrel’s charming suites comfortably immerse you in the larger-than-life desert atmosphere.
Overnight: Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa
Meal Plan: L
Day 6 - Moab
Begin another rousing day of adventure, as you embark on a state-of-the-art inflatable whitewater boat and run the mighty rapids of the Colorado River. Cut through Cataract Canyon, a section of the river that travels through the center of the Canyonlands. Take in the incredible views while lazily drifting along the upper river, as your guide points out the unique onshore flora and fauna. Swim, hike or simply enjoy the sun during this excursion. Pull up on a river bank and dine on a buffet-style picnic lunch, before heading downstream to enter the much-anticipated whitewater rapids. If you prefer a less rigorous day, opt for a calm-water cruise instead. Finish the tour by zipping across Lake Powell to meet your driver-guide, and then return to your hotel.
Overnight: Sorrel River Ranch Resort & Spa
Meal Plan: L
Day 7 - Depart Moab
After breakfast, your private driver will bring you to the Grand Junction Airport to begin your journey home. Alternatively, consider further exploration with an extension to Capitol Reef, Zion and Bryce national parks.
Overnight:
Meal Plan: B
