7-Day Utah & Arizona National Parks Tour — Moab to Grand Canyon Itinerary
Drive through seven national parks in seven days: from the arches of Moab to the rim of the Grand Canyon. This small-group tour pairs Navajo-guided jeep safaris, a jet-boat dinner on the Colorado, and expert logistics to make an ambitious Southwest loop entirely doable.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early for light and crowds
Most key viewpoints are best at sunrise or early morning—departures are often scheduled early to catch soft light and quieter trails.
Hydrate for altitude and heat
Carry a 1–2L refillable bottle and top up at provided rest stops—the high desert dehydrates quickly even when temperatures feel mild.
Footwear for slickrock
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with grippy soles for short hikes on sandstone and uneven trails like Navajo-Queen’s Garden.
Respect Navajo sites and guides
Monument Valley access and many cultural stops are on Navajo land—follow your guide’s directions and avoid photographing people without permission.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Potash Road petroglyphs and dinosaur tracks near Moab
- •Sunset viewpoints inside Monument Valley off the main loop—ask a Navajo guide for a quieter overlook
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Golden eagles and peregrine falcons
Conservation Note
Stay on established trails, pack out all trash, and avoid disturbing cryptobiotic soil crusts; local guides work with tribal authorities to limit access to sensitive cultural sites.
The region preserves traces of Fremont and Ancestral Puebloan peoples, and many routes later became pioneer and film roads—Monument Valley’s buttes are cinematic fixtures from Westerns.
Photographer's Notes
- • Delicate Arch area (Arches) — late afternoon light
- • Monument Valley overlook from a Navajo-guided jeep at sunset
- • North Rim viewpoints at first light
What to Bring
Hiking shoesEssential
Sturdy, grippy shoes handle slickrock and uneven trail sections encountered across parks.
Reusable water bottle with filterEssential
Keeps you hydrated between guide refills and reduces plastic waste in fragile environments.
Sun protection (hat, SPF 30+, sunglasses)Essential
Desert sun is intense at elevation; protection prevents heat-related issues and sunburn.
Light insulated layer
Evenings and high-elevation mornings can be brisk—bring a packable jacket for comfort.
Common Questions
How strenuous are the hikes on this tour?
Most walks are moderate and short (1–4 miles), with optional more demanding hikes like parts of Zion and Navajo-Queen’s Garden for fitter guests.
Are park entrance fees included?
Yes—national and state park entrance fees listed in the itinerary are included in the tour price.
Can I join solo travelers?
Yes; the operator will help solo travelers join a small-group tour—minimum two people required for guaranteed departure.
What’s the lodging like?
Hotels are mid-range properties (Holiday Inn Express, Best Western, similar), typically with private rooms and standard amenities; accommodations vary by town on each night.
Is transportation provided from airports?
Pick-up and drop-off options include Salt Lake City and selected hotels and airports; times vary by location and after-hours service may incur extra fees.
Are meals included?
Breakfasts and several dinners are included as specified; guides provide unlimited snacks and bottled water during travel days.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 days
Location
Salt Lake City, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Be comfortable walking 2–6 miles over a day with some elevation change; basic endurance for long travel days is helpful.
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