5-Day Utah & Arizona National Parks Small-Group Tour — Arches, Canyonlands, Monument Valley & Grand Canyon
A compact five-day loop through Utah and Arizona that hits Arches, Canyonlands, Monument Valley, Sedona and the Grand Canyon's North Rim. Ideal for travelers who want maximum landscape variety in minimal time—with guided hikes, a jet-boat dinner, and optional helicopter views.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate early and often
Carry at least 3 liters of water per day while hiking—desert air and elevation make dehydration easy.
Layer for big temperature swings
Bring a warm midlayer and a wind shell—mornings can be chilly and afternoons hot, especially in spring and fall.
Protect from sun and dust
Wide-brim hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+ and a buff will keep sun and canyon dust from ruining a day.
Pace yourself on long drives
Expect several multi-hour transfers; keep snacks and entertainment handy and plan for short leg-stretching stops.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Potash Road petroglyph panels and dinosaur track sites (less visited than the main park areas)
- •Sunrise at Dead Horse Point for a quieter, dramatic overlook of the Colorado River
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Golden eagle
Conservation Note
Stay on trails, pack out trash, and respect restricted areas—these parks face wear from heavy visitation, and Leave No Trace practices help protect fragile soils and cultural sites.
This corridor of the Colorado Plateau has been occupied for millennia by ancestral Puebloan and Navajo peoples; many sites you pass are part of living Indigenous landscapes.
Photographer's Notes
- • Dead Horse Point overlook at sunrise
- • Delicate Arch approach at late afternoon
- • Monument Valley butte foregrounds at sunset
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Grippy shoes are useful for short hikes to overlooks and slickrock approaches.
Daypack with hydrationEssential
Keeps water, layers, and camera gear organized for all on-trail activity.
Sun protection kitEssential
Hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are crucial in exposed desert environments.
Light insulating layer
A packable fleece or down jacket is helpful for cool mornings at higher elevations.
Common Questions
How much walking and hiking is involved?
Expect mostly short, non-technical hikes from 20 minutes to a couple of hours to reach viewpoints; most sightseeing is vehicle-accessible.
Are park entrance fees included?
Yes — all national and state park entrance fees listed in the itinerary are included.
Can I do the helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon?
A helicopter option is offered as an add-on; book early and verify weight/health restrictions with the operator.
What are the group size limits?
This small-group tour limits shared tours to a maximum of 8 travelers for a more intimate experience.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under five may not be able to participate in all activities; notify the operator in advance so adjustments can be made.
What happens if the weather forces changes?
Itineraries may be adjusted for safety due to weather, road conditions, or other operational issues; the operator will notify you and offer alternatives when possible.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 days
Location
Moab, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate — you should be comfortable with several short hikes (30–90 minutes), uneven footing, and long vehicle transfers.
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