Utah Mighty 5 & Antelope Canyon: 6-Day National Parks Circuit from Moab
Drive from Moab through the heart of the Colorado Plateau on a six-day loop covering Utah’s Mighty 5 and Antelope Canyon. Expect iconic overlooks, Navajo-led slot canyon visits, optional aerial views, and daily hikes that range from easy strolls to exposed, strenuous climbs.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydration is non-negotiable
Carry at least 2–3 liters of water daily—desert sun and slickrock sap energy fast, and refill opportunities can be sparse between towns.
Start hikes early
Begin scenic hikes before 8 AM to avoid heat and to photograph canyons in softer light; many parks are busiest late morning to afternoon.
Footwear for varied terrain
Wear shoes with good grip for sandstone, loose talus, and wet sections in slot canyons—trail runners or light hiking boots work best.
Respect Navajo land rules
Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley have restricted areas—follow your guide’s directions and avoid off-route wandering for safety and cultural respect.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Checkerboard Mesa viewpoints in eastern Zion for early-morning light
- •Petroglyph panels in Capitol Reef’s Fruita area—less crowded mid-afternoon
Wildlife
- •Desert bighorn sheep
- •Golden-mantled ground squirrels
Conservation Note
Stick to marked paths in fragile slickrock and slot canyons; tour operators work under Navajo permits—supporting guided access helps fund local stewardship and limits off-trail damage.
The Colorado Plateau preserves both ancient geology and human history: Fremont and Ancestral Puebloan sites dot the region, and Navajo Nation lands include culturally significant canyons like Antelope and Monument Valley.
Photographer's Notes
- • Dead Horse Point overlook for sunrise over the Colorado River
- • Horseshoe Bend rim during golden hour
- • Sunset in Monument Valley from a Navajo-guided viewpoint
What to Bring
Hydration pack or 1–2L water bottlesEssential
Keeps water accessible on hikes and through long driving days in dry terrain.
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Provides traction on slickrock, sand, and rocky trails across the parks.
Light layers and sun protectionEssential
Temperatures swing—bring breathable sun layers, a hat, and sunscreen for daytime heat and a warm layer for cool mornings.
Camera with polarizer or wide-angle lens
Helps capture slot-canyon light shafts, sweeping hoodoos, and the long vistas along Highway 12.
Common Questions
Are park entrance fees included?
Yes—entrance fees for the national and state parks listed in the itinerary are included in the tour price.
Is Antelope Canyon accessible for everyone?
Access requires a guided Navajo permit; narrow passages mean it may be unsuitable for travelers with mobility issues or very young children—check with the operator prior to booking.
What fitness level do I need?
A moderate fitness level is recommended: expect several short to mid-length hikes, some with elevation gain and exposed sections; guides can offer alternatives where needed.
Can I choose the Page activity?
Yes—on the Page day you can choose between the included Cessna aerial tour or alternatives like horseback riding, rafting, or speed boating if arranged in advance.
How does pickup/drop-off work?
Pickups are offered from Salt Lake City, St. George, and Las Vegas with specific windows; some locations may incur extra after-hours charges—confirm your pickup point when booking.
What’s the cancellation policy?
All sales are final; however, the operator may roll balances into credits under their stated terms—purchase travel insurance to protect against unforeseen events.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 days
Location
Moab, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Should be comfortable with several multi-mile hikes, some with steep or exposed sections; basic endurance for long days in a vehicle is required.
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