Utah Mighty 5 Small-Group 7-Day Tour — Arches, Bryce, Zion, Canyonlands & Capitol Reef
Seven days, five national parks and a looping highway through some of America’s most sculpted desert. This small-group tour pairs marquee viewpoints with local-led experiences—think Navajo 4x4s, the Wave lottery, and a Moab adventure day—while practical logistics and included breakfasts keep the focus on the country outside the windows.
The Experience
Before You Go
Pack for big temperature swings
High desert days heat up fast and nights cool off—layering (light base, fleece, wind layer) is essential.
Bring extra water and electrolytes
Many stops have minimal services; carry at least 2–3 liters for any trail and more for longer hikes.
Respect permit rules for The Wave
The Wave is lottery-controlled—if you don’t get a permit, accept the guided alternatives rather than attempting illegal access.
Footwear for mixed terrain
Use sturdy trail shoes with good tread for slickrock, sand and loose gravel—flip-flops won’t cut it.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Potash Road petroglyph panels and dinosaur tracks near Moab
- •Moqui Sand Caves—short hike to cave museum outside Kanab
Wildlife
- •Desert mule deer
- •Pronghorn (in open badlands and beyond)
Conservation Note
High visitation stresses fragile soils and cryptobiotic crusts—stay on designated trails, pack out waste, and follow permit rules to limit erosion and resource impact.
The Colorado Plateau preserves rock layers recording hundreds of millions of years; Fremont and Navajo peoples left pictographs and cultural ties that persist today.
Photographer's Notes
- • Delicate Arch (Arches National Park) from the trailhead viewpoint
- • Bryce Canyon Sunrise Point over the hoodoos
- • Horseshoe Bend overlook near Page
What to Bring
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Provides traction on slickrock, sand and gravel sections.
Hydration system (2–3L) + water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated on long, dry stretches with minimal services.
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF 30+)Essential
Desert sun is intense; shade is limited at most viewpoints.
Light insulating layer and wind shell
Morning and evening temperatures can drop quickly—layers keep you comfortable.
Common Questions
Is transportation included between parks?
Yes—air-conditioned vehicle transport and routing between parks are included as part of the tour.
Can the tour obtain a permit for The Wave?
The operator will enter the Wave lottery and assist with the permitted guided option when available, but permits are limited and not guaranteed.
What level of hiking is required?
Hikes are short to moderate—many are viewpoint walks; you should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain and short scrambles.
Are meals included?
Breakfasts are included (typically six), snacks and bottled water are provided; other meals are at your expense unless specified.
How many people are in the group?
This is a small-group tour with a maximum of eight travelers, which helps access limited-permit attractions and provides flexibility.
Can pick-up/drop-off be arranged at airports or hotels?
Yes—pick-up and drop-off at designated hotels and Salt Lake City or Las Vegas airports are offered; times vary by location and may incur fees for after-hours service.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
7 days
Location
Salt Lake City, Utah
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Good general fitness for multiple short-to-moderate hikes, some scrambling and long van transfers
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