Sandstone spires, crimson plateaus, and 2,000-year-old rock art—the canyonlands of the American Southwest encompass a geological playground millions of years in the making. Discover the natural treasures of this fascinating region alongside scientists and local experts, embarking on thrilling walks in Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, and Antelope Canyon. Hike past cascading hanging gardens and colourful hoodoos, splash your way through the Narrows slot canyon, and gaze out over incredible abysses carved by the mighty Colorado River.
Day 1: Las VegasArrive at any time.
Day 2: Las Vegas/Zion National ParkDepart for the sandstone slot canyons of Zion, Utah's oldest national park, where monumental cliffs of cream, pink, and red pierce the sky. In the afternoon we get our first glimpse of the park as we hike along The Watchman Trail. This unpaved trail climbs 368 ft (112 m) to a magnificent viewpoint of the Watchman, Temples and Towers, lower Zion Canyon, and the Town of Springdale.
Day 3: Zion National ParkSet out on an unforgettable guided hike to the famed Narrows. Splash, wade, and swim in the cool water of the river that cuts through this stunning slot canyon. Soak up the beauty of the high plateaus, towers, temples, mesas, and some of the planet’s tallest sheer sandstone walls.
Day 4: Zion National Park/PageThis morning, hike through Bryce Canyon National Park, famed for its maze of multi-coloured rock pinnacles called hoodoo. Keep your camera at the ready to snap shots of these spectacular natural towers that cover the canyon floor. Continue on to Page, Arizona, the gateway to Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and the beautiful Lake Powell.
Day 5: Page/Grand Canyon National ParkJoin a local Navajo guide for a thrilling exploration of Antelope Canyon, a stunning natural sandstone cathedral located on Navajo land and accessible only with an authorized guide. Later, go on a short hike to Horseshoe Bend, and stand on steep vermillion cliffs overlooking a spectacular natural bend in the Colorado River. Enjoy lunch at a family-owned Navajo food truck, a G Adventures–supported project, before continuing on to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon.
Day 6: Grand Canyon National ParkSpend the day exploring this ancient gorge with an expert from the Grand Canyon Conservancy Field Institute. Set out on foot along the South Rim and gain insights on the unique geology and botany of this geological phenomenon, as well as the local human history. After, view iconic park structures at the Historic Village District, then descend below the canyon rim along the Bright Angel Trail to see 2,000-year-old rock art and 250-million-year-old fossils.
Day 7: Grand Canyon National Park/Las VegasGo on a behind-the-scenes tour of Lowell Observatory to see the giant telescopes and learn about the study of astronomy, as well as enjoy a lecture on Mars. Return to Las Vegas, by way of Seligman, Arizona—the birthplace of Route 66. Check out the historic general store and original motels as you discover the legacy of the U.S.’s early transcontinental highway system.
Day 8: Las VegasDepart at any time.
