Day Tour Arches and Canyonlands National Park in Utah

Planning a trip to Moab and wondering how to see the iconic landscapes of Arches and Canyonlands in one day? This full-day guided tour offers a fantastic way to experience these two incredible parks with the comfort of a well-equipped 4×4 vehicle. While it’s not cheap, at $382 per person, the comprehensive itinerary, expert guidance, and small group setting make it a solid value for travelers eager to maximize their time and see the highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Two things we really like about this tour: first, the knowledgeable guides who enrich the experience with insights into the parks’ geology, history, and archaeology. Second, the off-road adventure element, which takes you to secluded spots many visitors miss on their own. But, a potential consideration is the long duration of the day, which might be tiring for some. This tour suits travelers who love a mix of scenic views, some adventure, and in-depth storytelling—perfect if you’re looking for a well-rounded, immersive experience.

Key Points

• Expert guides enhance the experience with detailed info about geology, history, and land formations.
• Off-road routes provide access to hidden spots and a touch of adventure.
• The full-day itinerary balances sightseeing, off-road driving, and a tasty included lunch.
• Small groups (maximum 12 people) ensure a personalized, comfortable experience.
• Prices reflect a well-curated, all-included day—worth the investment for the depth of exploration.
• Not recommended for those with motion sickness or mobility issues due to off-road driving.

An Honest Look at the Tour Experience

If you’re visiting Moab and want a hassle-free way to see both Arches and Canyonlands, this tour might just check all the boxes. It’s designed for folks who prefer a guided experience over self-driving, especially if you’re short on time but still eager to see a lot. The fact that it covers two parks in one day means your schedule will be packed, but also incredibly rewarding.

What really makes this tour stand out is the vehicle—a fully enclosed, air-conditioned 4×4 that handles the rugged terrain comfortably. This isn’t just a sightseeing bus; it’s an adventure vehicle that can access backcountry routes, giving you a more intimate look at the landscape. The guide, who’s both knowledgeable and friendly, will keep you engaged without overwhelming you with jargon. They point out formations like natural arches, spires, and sandstone fins, and share stories about the area’s geological history, native American history, and even dinosaur tracks seen along the way.

The Itinerary: A Day Packed with Highlights

Stop 1: Arches National Park

Your day kicks off heading north on US 191, passing the entrance of Arches National Park. Because of a special use permit, you’ll enter via the Willow Springs Road, which is a key perk—this backcountry route avoids crowds and offers a more secluded approach. Along the way, you’ll pass through the Utah Raptor State Park, where you can spot dinosaur tracks and admire views of the La Sal Mountains.

Once inside Arches, the tour makes stops at several iconic sites, including Eye of the Whale and Balanced Rock. The park is famous for its natural stone arches—more than 2,000 of them—and your guide will point out formations that many visitors simply pass by. We loved the way your guide shares stories about the formation of these arches, which are caused by a salt bed beneath the sandstone, leading to the unique shapes we see today.

Expect around four hours here, giving you time to enjoy the scenery, snap photos, and learn about the area’s geology. You’ll appreciate that this is a more intimate experience than simply driving through on your own. The guided approach means you’ll see the key sights and discover hidden gems that might otherwise be missed.

Stop 2: Canyonlands National Park

After lunch, the tour continues to Canyonlands, specifically the Island in the Sky district. Here, you’re set on top of a vast mesa, about 2,000 feet above the canyon floor. The highlight is descending via the Shafer Trail, a winding switchback route that offers panoramic views and a bit of an adrenaline rush.

On the way down, your guide will point out natural sandstone arches and discuss the geology that shaped this rugged landscape. The terrain is stark and striking, with layered cliffs, deep canyons, and ancient rock formations. Many visitors are surprised by how much detail your guide can share about the land’s formation, archaeological significance, and native history.

You’ll spend around four hours exploring here, with plenty of opportunities to take in the views and capture photos. The descent via Shafer Trail is an off-road highlight—an authentic 4×4 experience that adds adventure without sacrificing comfort.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $382 per person covers a lot: a knowledgeable guide, ice water and snacks, a delicious lunch, parking, and the use of a century-ready air-conditioned vehicle. The small group size (up to 12 travelers) means you’ll get personalized attention and easier opportunities for questions.

However, note that admission fees for the parks are not included. You’ll want to budget for those separately, which can vary. Also, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to meet at the designated starting point in Moab.

The Road and Comfort

The vehicle’s design allows for off-road access, but it’s not suitable for everyone—particularly those with motion sickness or mobility issues. The tour encourages callers to confirm if you’re over 6’2” or 225 pounds, which shows that the vehicle’s size and comfort are considerations.

Timing and Duration

Starting at 7 am, the tour runs for about 10 hours. That’s a long day, but it’s packed with diverse landscapes and stories. If you’re someone who loves a full immersion in nature with minimal hassle, you’ll likely find this schedule worthwhile.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, describing them as warm and personable. One said, “Rick was a great tour guide & driver,” highlighting the importance of good storytelling and safety. Another appreciated the “adventurous” aspect, calling it a “blast” to visit secluded areas many travelers miss.

The reviews also note the value of the experience—spending a day with knowledgeable guides in a small group really enhances the trip. Many mention that they felt they saw more than they would have on their own, especially exploring the backcountry routes and lesser-known viewpoints.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive tour without the stress of planning, and who value expert insights. It’s perfect if you’re interested in geology, archaeology, and natural formations, and don’t mind spending a full day on the road. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy off-road adventures but prefer the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.

That said, it’s less suitable for travelers with motion sickness or mobility challenges, due to the off-road descents and long hours. Also, if you’re on a strict budget, keep in mind you’ll need to budget for park entrance fees separately.

Final Thoughts

For anyone wanting to see the best of Utah’s iconic landscapes in one shot, this tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience. The combination of expert guides, off-road access, and a carefully curated itinerary makes it a worthwhile choice for those who want more than just a drive-by sightseeing. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the land’s history and geology, along with plenty of stunning photos and stories to share.

While the price might seem steep, the value lies in the inclusions—lunch, guiding, and access to hidden spots—saving you time and effort while providing a rich, immersive day. It’s especially recommended for travelers who enjoy a small-group setting and crave a bit of adventure in their sightseeing.

If you’re ready for a full-day exploration of Utah’s awe-inspiring parks, this tour could be just what you need to make your trip truly memorable.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides an air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle for the entire day, so transportation between sites is covered.

Do I need to worry about park entrance fees?
Park entrance fees are not included. You should plan to pay separately at each park, and the tour office can provide current fee details.

What should I bring?
Bring water bottles (refills are available), sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, sturdy shoes for walking, a daypack, and camera equipment. Since it’s a full day, packing light but thoughtfully helps.

Can children join this tour?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the off-road nature and the length of the day, it’s probably best suited for older children or teens who can handle the schedule.

Is this suitable for travelers with motion sickness?
The tour involves off-road driving on winding trails, so it might not be ideal for those prone to motion sickness.

What kind of guide will I have?
Expect a knowledgeable, personable guide who will share stories about the geology, history, and archaeology of the parks, making the day both educational and enjoyable.

If you’re after a detailed, comfortable, and adventure-filled way to explore Utah’s famous parks, this full-day Arches and Canyonlands tour offers a well-rounded experience that’s hard to beat. Just be prepared for a full day of scenic beauty, stories, and a bit of off-road fun—well worth the effort for the unforgettable vistas and insights.