Arches and Canyonlands Hike and Explore

Overview

Embark on an enchanting journey through Utah’s Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, where the vivid colors and striking formations of the Colorado Plateau await. Explore the iconic rock formations of Arches National Park, including Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch, before venturing into the rugged canyons of Canyonlands. Experience the thrill of hiking through hidden slot canyons and towering spires, revealing the geological wonders of the region. Indulge in the region’s rich culinary scene in Moab, then retreat to cozy accommodations as the day winds down. Immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of these awe-inspiring parks, where each vista and trail tells a story millions of years in the making.

Sample Itinerary

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Your trip officially begins in the early afternoon in Salt Lake City. Meet your trip leaders and fellow travelers before setting out on a scenic drive south toward Moab, the gateway to two of Utah’s most breathtaking national parks. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodations and enjoy your first evening together over dinner. This is a great time to review the week’s itinerary and get to know your group.

After breakfast, set out to discover the incredible landscapes of Arches National Park. Spend the day hiking among striking sandstone formations and natural arches that have been shaped by millions of years of wind and water. Take time to enjoy lunch surrounded by sweeping desert views before returning to your lodge in the afternoon for rest and relaxation. Gather for dinner and share highlights from the day’s discoveries.

Enjoy another full day exploring the wonders of Arches. Learn about the park’s fascinating geology and cultural history as you traverse its winding trails and towering rock formations. Depending on the group’s energy and interest, take on an afternoon or evening hike to experience the desert’s golden light at sunset — a truly unforgettable moment. Return to town for dinner and a well-earned night of rest.

This morning brings a new perspective on the region — from the water. Embark on a guided rafting adventure down one of Utah’s iconic rivers, surrounded by dramatic canyon walls and colorful cliffs. After a picnic lunch, enjoy some downtime or opt for a short afternoon hike to a nearby waterfall. In the evening, gather for dinner and, if available, join a ranger-led stargazing program to experience the brilliance of Utah’s night skies.

Venture into Canyonlands National Park, a landscape defined by sweeping mesas, dramatic overlooks, and winding canyons carved by time. Enjoy a morning hike to take in panoramic views of the desert below, then pause for lunch amid the park’s quiet beauty. In the afternoon, continue exploring or visit a nearby state park before returning to Moab for a final dinner celebration with your group.

After breakfast, take a final stroll through town or stop at a local museum before beginning the drive back to Salt Lake City. Reflect on the memories made and friendships formed as your adventure comes to a close. Your trip concludes in the early afternoon, with drop-offs at local hotels or the airport.

Dates & Fees

Wilderness Inquiry leads trips to this area, but currently has no dates scheduled for this itinerary. If you have a group of people interested, we can set up a customized adventure just for you! Please contact us or request a trip quote below if you are interested in a group trip to this destination.

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What to Expect

TERRAIN/ROUTE CHOICES: Hiking routes will be primarily on established desert canyon trails. There are a wide variety of trails to choose from including relaxing strolls along smooth paths to strenuous hikes up steep inclines. Hikes may take you into narrow gorges, high-top cliffs, under natural arches, and much more.

TYPE OF TRAVEL/DISTANCE: Embark on an unforgettable hiking journey through the rugged terrain of Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, where untamed wilderness meets accessibility. Trek alongside experienced guides and fellow adventurers as you explore these iconic parks on foot. With each step, immerse yourself in the natural wonders of these landscapes, marveling at towering arches, deep canyons, and breathtaking vistas.

WEATHER: Temperatures in September range from 60 F to 85 F. Rainfall can vary and you should expect at least one day of rain.

YOUR GROUP: The group size ranges from 6 to 12 participants, plus 2 or more Wilderness Inquiry staff. Each group consists of people of various ages, backgrounds, and abilities, including people with disabilities. Our trips are cooperative adventures and people pitch in where they are able.

ACCOMMODATIONS: We will sleep in a variety of lodges and motels at night. Typically there are 2-3 people per room, matched by gender or requests to room together. In most rooms, solo travelers have single beds and couples share beds.

MEALS: All breakfasts and dinners will be prepared for us, lunches will be prepped picnic style each morning to take with us on our adventure. Meals will offer fresh, healthy ingredients for bountiful dishes. Vegetarian meals and other dietary needs are easy to accommodate. There will be plenty of snacks provided throughout each day. We’ll enjoy happy hours together, but the purchase of alcoholic beverages is not included in the trip fees.

EQUIPMENT AND CLOTHING: Wilderness Inquiry will provide all group equipment. You will need to provide your personal gear as outlined in the packing list. If you are new to outdoor activities, you do not need to spend a lot of money. Wilderness Inquiry can usually arrange for you to borrow most items.

MEDICATIONS: Please list all of your medications on your registration form. Consider bringing two sets of your medications: one set that can be kept with you, and another set that will be kept by your trip leaders. If you need assistance taking your medications, please explain on your registration form. Wilderness Inquiry will bring a collection of over the counter medications (ibuprofen, Advil, anti-nausea, etc.).

CELL PHONES AND OTHER DEVICES: You are welcome to bring cell phones and other devices like cameras, but they are your responsibility to take care of. You may have spotty cell service, so we’d encourage you to take the opportunity to unplug! Wilderness Inquiry is not responsible for any lost or broken electronic devices.

SAFETY & EMERGENCIES WHILE ON TRAIL: All Wilderness Inquiry guides possess experience in administering First Aid, CPR, and Water Safety, carry fully-stocked first aid kits, GPS communication devices, and are trained on how to respond to emergency situations while on trail. If a loved one is participating in a Wilderness Inquiry experience and you need to get in contact with them due to an emergency, please contact the Wilderness Inquiry main phone line at 612-676-9400. We will work to get in contact with trip leaders as soon as possible.

COVID POLICY: We continue to monitor and update our COVID-19 policies. Wilderness Inquiry strongly encourages everyone to be fully up to date with their COVID-19 vaccination and take other necessary steps for the health and wellness of all. We ask you to self-screen for any signs of illness prior to your trip’s departure. Please contact Wilderness Inquiry if you are exhibiting signs of illness. We will also continue to follow all guidance and requirements of locations that we travel, keeping in mind some international destinations do require vaccinations and/or negative COVID tests. We will update this policy as new information and guidance becomes available.

GROUP EXPECTATIONS: To facilitate a safe and inclusive environment where we can all come together as our true selves, feel supported, and enjoy the outdoors in community, we have developed community agreements that align with Wilderness Inquiry’s core values and brand promise. We ask that you review these before your adventure so you can help Wilderness Inquiry create an inclusive environment for all.

COMMUNITY AGREEMENTS AS WE ADVENTURE TOGETHER
☐ We are safety conscious so everyone can have fun!
☐ We seek to understand each other and celebrate our differences.
☐ We are curious, open-minded, and communicate respectfully.
☐ We are open to trying new things and pushing outside of our comfort zone.
☐ We support each other and collectively contribute to group tasks.