Six-Day Grand Circle Road Trip from San Francisco: Zion, Bryce, Antelope & Grand Canyon
A compact, six-day loop from San Francisco that stitches together Zion, Bryce, Arches/Canyonlands, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, and the Grand Canyon—balanced by two nights in Las Vegas. Expect long drives, short hikes, and a crash course in Southwest geology and culture.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate early and often
High desert and long driving days quickly dehydrate; carry at least 2 liters in your daypack and refill at hotels or visitor centers.
Layer for big temperature swings
Mornings and evenings—especially at Bryce above 8,000 ft—can be cold while midday is hot; pack a light insulated layer.
Book optional activities ahead
Helicopter tours, Antelope Canyon slots, and Monument Valley jeep rides sell out; reserve them when you book the tour to avoid disappointment.
Travel with cash for small vendors
Some Navajo Nation vendors and smaller services accept cash only; carry small bills for parking, tips, and souvenirs.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Checkerboard Mesa overlook for quick geological context
- •Island in the Sky pullouts in Canyonlands for dramatic, less-crowded viewpoints
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Common ravens and mule deer
Conservation Note
Stay on marked trails, follow Leave No Trace, and respect Navajo Nation rules—park fees and permits support conservation and local communities.
Routes traverse Navajo Nation and Monument Valley, locations with deep Indigenous history and sites featured in classic Western films by directors like John Ford.
Photographer's Notes
- • Zion Canyon Overlook for sweeping cliffs
- • Bryce Point for hoodoo panoramas
- • Horseshoe Bend rim and Antelope Canyon interior for dramatic light shafts
What to Bring
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Comfortable trail or hiking shoes handle mixed pavement, slick rock, and short dirt trails.
Reusable water bottle (2L+ capacity)Essential
Essential for staying hydrated across long, dry stretches between stops.
Sun hat and sunglassesEssential
Strong sun and reflected heat from rock require solid sun protection.
Insulating layer or light down jacketEssential
Evenings at higher elevations like Bryce can be cold; pack a compressible warm layer.
Common Questions
How much driving is involved each day?
Expect several hours of coach travel most days; some days include 4–6 hours driving between major stops with shorter sightseeing breaks en route.
Are park entrance fees included?
Yes—admissions to the national parks listed in the itinerary are included in the tour price.
Can I bring a stroller or travel with an infant?
Infants and small children can ride in strollers; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult and infants often sit on an adult's lap on the bus.
What footwear is best for Antelope Canyon?
Closed-toe, grippy shoes are recommended; Lower Antelope includes short ladder steps and narrow sections with sandy footing.
Are meals included?
The tour includes hotel breakfasts on specified mornings; most lunches and dinners are at your own expense except where noted in optional add-ons.
What if I need accessible services or have mobility limits?
Notify the operator in advance—wheelchair-accessible buses are not guaranteed and some stops involve uneven terrain or short hikes.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 days
Location
San Francisco, California
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic fitness—able to handle multiple 1–2 hour walks and several full travel days on a coach
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