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Adventure Collective Journal

Utah Mighty 5 in 5 Days: Small-Group National Parks Tour from Salt Lake City

Utah Mighty 5 in 5 Days: Small-Group National Parks Tour from Salt Lake City

Cover Utah’s Mighty 5 in five days with guided logistics, meals, and park access included. This small‑group loop from Salt Lake City balances scenic drives with short hikes and an adventure day in Moab.

Salt Lake City, Utah
5 days
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Hydrate for altitude

Carry 2–3 liters of water each day—elevations range from ~4,000 to 9,000 ft and dehydration sneaks up fast.

Layer for temperature swings

Mornings and nights can be chilly at high elevations; pack a lightweight insulating layer and wind shell.

Start hikes early

Beat heat and crowds by beginning popular trails like Navajo‑Queen’s Garden and Canyon Overlook before 9 AM.

Bring sturdy footwear

Trails include slickrock, packed dirt, and drop‑offs—closed‑toe hiking shoes with good tread are recommended.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Petroglyph panels along Potash Road near Moab
  • Short sunrise viewpoints along Highway 12 just east of Bryce for quieter light

Wildlife

  • Desert bighorn sheep
  • Mule deer

Conservation Note

Stay on designated trails and pack out waste; the parks rely on visitor behavior to protect fragile cryptobiotic soils and rare desert vegetation.

The region preserves traces of Fremont and Ancestral Puebloan peoples; later, Mormon pioneers and homesteaders left orchards and settlements visible in places like Fruita in Capitol Reef.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour (sunrise and sunset), Early morning for arches and hoodoos, Late afternoon for Zion canyon walls
Key viewpoints:
  • Bryce Point rim for hoodoo panoramas
  • Delicate Arch viewpoint (short hike)
  • Canyonlands Island in the Sky overlooks
Subjects to capture:Sandstone formations and arches, Canyon panoramas and river bends, Night sky and star‑lit canyon scenes

What to Bring

Hiking shoesEssential

Grippy, supportive shoes handle slickrock and switchback trails across the parks.

Daypack with hydrationEssential

Keeps water, snacks, layers, and camera accessible during short hikes and overlooks.

Sun protection (hat/sunscreen)Essential

High desert sun and reflective sandstone increase UV exposure—protect skin and eyes.

Light insulating jacket

Cool mornings and high elevations often require a warm layer, even in late spring or fall.

Common Questions

Where does the tour start and end?

Pick‑up and drop‑off options include Salt Lake City, St. George, and Las Vegas; times vary by location—confirm at booking.

Are park entrance fees included?

Yes—entrance fees for national and state parks on the itinerary are included in the tour price.

Can I choose the Moab activity?

Yes—on the Moab adventure day you can select from options such as whitewater rafting, horseback riding, or an off‑road tour (some options may cost extra).

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant travelers?

Children five and under may be restricted from certain activities; the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers—notify the operator at booking for accommodations.

What level of fitness is required?

A moderate level of fitness is required—participants should be able to walk on uneven trails for up to a few miles and handle multiple hours on the bus daily.

What is the cancellation policy?

All sales are final; refunds are not available—however, the operator offers credit rollovers under specific timelines as described in booking terms.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

5 days

Location

Salt Lake City, Utah

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness: comfortable walking 2–6 miles with short steep sections and the ability to handle several hours in a vehicle each day.

Free cancellation available

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