Utah & Arizona National Parks: Small Group 7-Day Tour

Exploring the Utah & Arizona National Parks: Small Group 7-Day Tour – A Practical Review

If you’re dreaming of seeing some of the most iconic landscapes in the southwestern United States, a 7-day small group tour of Utah and Arizona might be exactly what you’re looking for. From soaring canyon vistas to otherworldly rock formations, this tour promises to pack in seven national parks, four state parks, and plenty of memorable sights. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and comprehensive info paint a clear picture of what you can expect.

One of the things we love about this experience is the well-structured itinerary that balances sightseeing, activities, and downtime. Plus, the small group size—capped at 8 travelers—means more personalized attention and a relaxed vibe. The inclusion of guided excursions, park entrance fees, and some meals makes planning easier and helps you get the most out of each stop. That said, a possible consideration is that the tour is quite packed; if you prefer a slower pace or more free time, this might feel a little rushed.

This tour seems best suited for those who want a comprehensive, guided exploration of the region without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re someone who values expert guides, local insights, and a flexible schedule, this could be a great fit. Just keep in mind that it’s designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given the amount of walking and outdoor activity involved.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides enhance the trip with context and local stories.
• All-included costs: Parks, entrance fees, some meals, and activities are covered, offering good value.
• Small group setting: With a max of 8 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Balance of activities: Mixes major sights with optional adventures like river rafting or helicopter rides.
• Flexible departure: Guaranteed trips with just two bookings, thanks to the 2canGo package.
• Potentially busy schedule: The itinerary is packed, so be ready for a full, active week.

A Deep Dive into the Itinerary

Day 1: From Salt Lake City to the Ancient and the Aerial

Your journey begins at the Utah State University Eastern Prehistoric Museum, which is a great intro if you’re interested in ancient artifacts, dinosaur bones, or native pictographs. With over 700,000 artifacts, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, and the fact that admission is included makes it a solid start without extra costs.

Next, you’ll visit Dead Horse Point State Park for breathtaking views of the Colorado River 2,000 feet below. The story behind the name is a fun tidbit that guides will share, adding a bit of local color to your experience. The park’s unique vantage point makes it worth every minute spent here.

Then, it’s on to Canyonlands National Park, focusing on the Island in the Sky region. From this overlook, you’ll see deep into canyon walls, giving you a sense of the vast, ancient landscape. This stop is particularly good for those who appreciate panoramic views and want to understand the scale of the region.

Finally, your day concludes in Moab, a lively town that acts as the gateway for many of Utah’s parks. After a day of sightseeing, you’ll have time to grab a bite, explore, and settle into your hotel, setting up a relaxing evening after an active start.

Day 2: Arches and Adventure in Moab

Arches National Park is a highlight, with over 2,000 natural stone arches. Expect to see famous formations like Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch up close with just a short hike. The park itself is a photographer’s dream, so don’t forget your camera.

Post-park, you’re offered a variety of optional activities in Moab—think river rafting, helicopter rides, or speed boating—many of which are included in the tour price. This flexibility allows you to tailor your day, whether you want adrenaline or a more relaxed exploration of the town.

Later, Potash Road provides access to petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks, and additional arches. It’s a chance to see some of the region’s ancient artwork and geology without straying far from your base.

Day 3: The Four Corners and Monumental Views

Crossing into Arizona, you’ll visit the Four Corners Monument, where four states meet. It’s a popular photo spot and a good chance to pick up Native American crafts and souvenirs.

Next, Goosenecks State Park offers dramatic views of a river that twists into tight turns, a spot that’s perfect for stretching your legs and soaking in wide-open vistas. Nearby, Mexican Hat rock formation is a quirky photo op, and then it’s on to Monument Valley—famous from countless films—where towering buttes are the stars of the show.

The day ends in Flagstaff, a compact city perched among pine forests, offering a calm place to rest before more adventures.

Day 4: Ancient Forests and Cratered Skies

Your visit to Petrified Forest National Park reveals the remnants of an ancient forest turned to stone. The colorful petrified logs and painted desert landscapes are a visual feast.

Then, it’s time for Meteor Crater, a NASA-favored site where you’ll learn about the impact that created this massive crater, providing an almost lunar landscape. The Barringer Space Museum adds context with some space-related tidbits.

In the evening, you head to Sedona, where red rock formations seem to glow at sunset, and the town’s vibe encourages exploration of arts, architecture, and stunning trails.

Day 5: The Grand and the Gorgeous

The Grand Canyon’s North Rim is a quieter, less crowded alternative to the South Rim, but no less awe-inspiring. Expect panoramic views that make you catch your breath. Two hours here is enough to appreciate the scale and take some photos.

Driving along Highway 89, you’ll pass the Vermillion Cliffs, another striking natural feature, before reaching Kanab, a town filled with Hollywood history and scenic landscapes. If time allows, you might peek at the Coral Pink Sand Dunes or the Moqui Caves.

Day 6: Zion and Bryce – The Canyons’ Crown Jewels

Zion National Park offers striking canyons and trails suited for all levels. Whether you prefer a scenic drive or a hike like the Canyon Overlook Trail, there’s plenty to enjoy. The park’s intricate rock formations and scenic vistas are perfect for photography and nature-loving walks.

Next, Bryce Canyon enchants with its pink amphitheaters and hoodoos. Easy-access viewpoints let you see thousands of spire-shaped rocks, and for the adventurous, a guided hike along the Navajo-Queens Garden Trail shows off the park’s surreal formations.

Day 7: The Final Highlights and Departure

Your last day takes you to Capitol Reef National Park, with its ancient Fremont pictographs and historic Fruita townsite. Then, a visit to Goblin Valley State Park reveals columns of weathered stone, perfect for exploring close-up.

Depending on your departure point—Salt Lake City or Las Vegas—the tour ends with either a city tour or a drive back. It’s a good chance to reflect on the incredible landscapes you’ve seen and the memories made.

Honest Appraisal: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates guided tours with expert insights and wants to see a wide array of landscapes without the stress of planning each stop, this trip offers solid value. The inclusion of park fees and some meals simplifies budgeting, and the small group size promises a more personal experience.

The itinerary is quite full, with lots of parks and attractions. This means you’ll visit many highlights, but it also means feeling a bit rushed, especially if you’re someone who prefers more downtime or slower-paced exploration. The tour is best for moderately active travelers comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.

The tour’s flexibility, including the guaranteed departure with just two people, is a plus for those who want certainty in booking. Plus, the variety of activities—like optional river trips or helicopter rides—adds a fun, adventurous element to the trip.

The one thing to consider: the price of around $3,295 per person is reasonable for such a comprehensive experience, but it’s still an investment. For travelers looking to maximize their time and see many iconic sites with expert guidance, it’s a good trade-off.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  The tour is designed for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level. While children over five might participate, some activities or hikes could be challenging for younger kids. Let the tour provider know if you’re traveling with children so they can help with adjustments.

• Are all activities included?
  Most activities and excursions listed in the itinerary are included, such as park entrance fees and some optional adventures. However, additional activities like personal excursions or souvenirs are not covered.

• What about meals?
  The tour includes 6 breakfasts and 2 lunches. Dinners and alcoholic beverages are not included, so you’ll need to plan for those on your own.

• What’s the group size?
  The maximum is 8 travelers, which allows for a more intimate experience and the chance to get personalized attention from the guide.

• Can I join if I’m traveling solo?
  Yes, as long as at least two people book, the tour is guaranteed to depart. Solo travelers can join by booking with another person or contacting the provider for assistance.

• What should I bring?
  Expect to do some walking and outdoor activities, so pack comfortable shoes, sun protection, water bottles, and layered clothing. The tour provides unlimited snacks and bottled water, but personal essentials are a good idea.

In the end, this Utah & Arizona tour offers a well-rounded, actively engaging way to see some of the most stunning landscapes in the American Southwest. It’s best suited for those who want a guided, all-in-one experience with like-minded travelers and are prepared for a busy but rewarding week. The knowledgeable guides and breathtaking sights make it a trip worth considering—especially if you’re eager to tick off multiple must-see parks in one go.