EXPLORING THE NATIONAL PARKS OF UTAH HIGHLIGHTS SEPTEMBER 22 - SEPTEMBER 29, 2019 TRIP SUMMARY Exploring the Emerald Pools Trail system in Zion National Park Walking among the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park Slithering through the slot canyons of Little Wild Horse Hiking to some of the many arches in Arches National Park Enjoying the remoteness and solitude of Capitol Reef Phone: 877-439-4042 Outside the US: 410-435-1965 Fax: 410-435-3084 Email: info@goodadventure.com
TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: Sept 22-29, 2019 Location: National Parks in Utah Cost: $2,550.00 Activities: Hiking Arrive: Plan to arrive in Las Vegas by 4:00 pm on September 22 Depart: At the Grand Junction, Colorado airport (GJT) May 5 at 10:30am; you can plan to fly out after 11:30 am or from DEN after 6:30pm. TRIP OVERVIEW Southern Utah is home to four of the most well-known National Parks, each with its own special magic and unique attractions. Zion National Park is famous for its soaring red Navajo Sandstone cliffs. Nearby Bryce Canyon is a testimonial to the erosive power of ice and rainwater, carving its colorful limestone into windows, fins, and soaring spires called hoodoos. Capitol Reef is a monument to the amazing power of uplift. Goblin Valley State Park demonstrates just how bizarre rocks shaped by erosion can get and also the magic of slot canyons. And Arches National Park lives up to its name with over two thousand sandstone arches of all shapes and sizes. While we need to drive between parks, this is not primarily a driving trip. We will hike between 2 and 4 hours every day and see each park as only hikers can. On this trip we extend a special invitation to women over 50 and to anyone who prefers an option for leisurely shorter hikes with more time for other activities. Maximum group size: 10 RATING We have rated this trip as a 2 and a 3 because of the choice of a longer and shorter hike on most days. Any healthy, active woman can be comfortable on the shorter hikes; women who want to do the longer hikes should exercise regularly prior to the trip. You do not have to be over 50 to join us on this trip. If you are looking for a trip in this area with longer hikes, look at Hiking Utah's National Parks the previous hike and Hiking the Grand Staircase National Parks in September. Rating: 1 2 3 4 5. A rating of 3 requires aerobic conditioning, such as walking vigorously up hills, jogging, or stair stepping for 30-45 minutes at least 3-4 times a week. WHAT'S INCLUDED Two experienced AGC guides Seven nights of double occupancy accommodation All meals from dinner on Sunday to breakfast the following Sunday Transportation during the trip National Park entry fees Not included: Airfare to Las Vegas or from Grand Junction, optional shuttle from Moab to Denver airport at end of trip, alcoholic beverages, guide gratuities and trip insurance
OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 SEPTEMBER 22, SUNDAY Our trip starts today in Las Vegas where you can arrive anytime before 4 pm. Catch the convenient shuttle to our hotel, in time to meet everyone at 5:00 pm. We'll start getting to know each other and review our plans for the trip, before sharing our first dinner. The evening is free for you to get to bed early or wander the strip: watching the dancing fountains at Bellagio is always a treat. DAY 2 SEPTEMBER 23, MONDAY The drive to our first destination, Zion National Park, is about 3 hours. Our first stop is our picnic area where you can explore the area or take a break while your guides prepare lunch. After the first of many delicious picnic lunches and some instruction on how to hike happily and safely for the week, we'll explore the Emerald Pools Trail System. The 3 mile hike (we take about 2.5 hours) to the Upper Pool passes through pinyonjuniper habitat as we visit the lush environment of the lower pool and gaze at the soaring canyon walls of the upper pool. Along the way we'll talk about how Zion Canyon was formed and see evidence that it is a process that is still quite active. Our lodging tonight is right in the bottom of Zion Canyon, in one of the most beautiful and peaceful settings in the entire park system. Overnight Zion National Park. DAY 3 SEPTEMBER 24, TUESDAY Today we'll head back towards the Visitor's Center to hike the Watchman Trail, another Zion classic. The trail is about 2 miles round trip with 500 feet elevation gain through a desert environment. Along the trail we'll see many of Zion's landmarks: Beehives, Towers of the Virgin, West Temple, and the Altar of Sacrifice. The trail ends up at a viewpoint that oversees much of the lower canyon as well as the Watchman, a red spire rising to an elevation of 6545 feet. We'll then visit the Zion Human History Museum, or possibly join one of the Zion rangers for what are always informative walks. In late afternoon we'll drive to Bryce Canyon. The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway is a dramatic feat of engineering, taking us through a very different looking part of the Park. We'll arrive in Bryce in time for dinner. Our lodging tonight is about a 5 minute walk from the rim. Overnight Bryce Canyon National Park.
DAY 4 SEPTEMBER 25, WEDNESDAY Another park, more classic hikes: the Peekaboo Loop. In contrast to yesterday where we climbed out of Zion Canyon, today we'll start by descending into Bryce Canyon. This 6 mile trail, which follows an up and down loop around a major formation with constantly changing views, provides an excellent opportunity to see hoodoos from the bottom up. For those wanting a bit shorter hike, the Navajo - Queen's Garden loop is an excellent 3 mile alternative. That evening we'll have the chance to watch the sun's rays light up some amazing geology. And after dinner, Bryce is known for having one of the most glorious nighttime skies of anyplace in the U.S. - if stargazing appeals to you, this is the perfect place to do it. Overnight Bryce Canyon National Park DAY 5 SEPTEMBER 26, THURSDAY Our three hour drive this morning to Capitol Reef National Park is one of the most scenic of the entire trip as we drive though Grand Staircase- Escalante National Monument, crossing over vast stretches of slickrock before climbing up and over the Boulder Mountains. Capitol Reef is a small section of the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long wrinkle in the earth's crust comprised of colorful canyons, buttes, mesas, and monoliths. We'll visit the Visitor Center and then have a picnic in an area where Mormon settlers once farmed. We explore only a small portion as we hike through Cohab Canyon to its exit on the other side. This hike offers more solitude and wilderness than any other on the trip, with options for a couple of side hikes up to higher points in the Canyon. We'll finish our visit to Capitol Reef with a visit to petroglyphs along the road. We stay overnight at a motel in Hanksville, a small Utah town that is home to the world famous Blondie's (at least it is in a Chinese guidebook so it must be world famous) where we'll have a great breakfast the next morning. Overnight Hanksville, UT DAY 6 SEPTEMBER 27, FRIDAY Today we start with a hike into Little Wild Horse Canyon. This is a slot canyon that can be as high as 250 feet and as narrow as 2.5 feet, and we'll do it as an out and back, going as far as we choose. Hiking in slot canyons is always dependent on weather but this is one of the most accessible in Utah. After lunch a short drive takes us to Goblin Valley State Park, one of those state parks that is so spectacular, it would be a National Park in any other area. Goblin Valley gets its name from the thousands of mushroom-shaped pinnacles that have been carved by wind and water over the centuries. After finishing our hike we continue on to our condos in Moab. Moab is one of the most charming small towns in Utah, known for its great shops and limitless outdoor opportunities. If you want a chance to explore the many restaurant options in Moab, this is the night. Alternatively the guides will get some take out pizza and salad and if you want to just kick back at the condos after the day, you are welcome to join them. Overnight Moab.
DAY 7 SEPTEMBER 28, SATURDAY Due to Arches National Park's unique geology, this park contains the largest concentration of arches of anyplace in the US. We'll start with Delicate Arch trail, a classic Arches hike and not to be missed. We'll take the short spur trail to a Ute Indian Petroglyph and then walk up gradually sloping slickrock to a small valley surrounded by red rocks on the way to the arch. Just when you think you must have taken a wrong turn, the arch suddenly appears and you immediately understand why it is the most photographed arch in Utah. There are several other short hikes to different arches so some of us may decide to continue with more hiking while others will want time in Moab, the most fun place to shop in Utah. Tonight we celebrate our week of hiking with a final farewell dinner at our condos. Overnight Moab. DAY 8 SEPTEMBER 29, SUNDAY This morning we share a final breakfast, pack up, and say our goodbyes to Utah. We will plan to leave Moab for Grand Junction, Colorado (GJT) about 8:30 am for the 2-hour drive and you can plan to fly out anytime after 11:00 am (it's a small airport and an hour is plenty of time to check in). Alternatively, we can drive you directly to the airport in Denver, CO (DIA) for an additional $45. We will have you to the airport for flights out after 6:30PM. There is a maximum of 5 on the shuttle. (one of your guides will drive a van to Denver) ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE Plan to fly into McCarran Airport in Las Vegas (LAS). All major airlines as well as many of the lower cost competitors fly into LAS. Like most of the Vegas hotels, the Tuscany Inn and Suites does not have an airport shuttle. However, there are continuous and inexpensive shuttle services available just outside the baggage claims area of the airport. For a complete list of current shuttles at the McCarran airport, check out the following website: https://www.mccarran.com/go/shuttles.aspx. Please note that some shuttles service only those hotels located on the strip (which ours is not). *This trip ends in Grand Junction so remember to book return flights out of Grand Junction airport (GJT). *
ACCOMMODATIONS We stay at a variety of accommodations on this trip, starting with one night at a Las Vegas hotel. We then stay at lodges that are located right inside the parks, one night at Zion Park Lodge and two nights at Bryce Canyon Lodge, a very short walk from the rim. Then there is one night at a motel in Hanksville, before finishing the trip with two nights in Moab in beautiful new condos, each with three bedrooms and a private hot tub. One bedroom has a private bathroom and the other two (one bedroom has a queen, the other has twins) share a bathroom. Women who have paid for a single get the mistress bedroom and otherwise the rooms are assigned randomly. WEATHER October is a great time to visit the Zion and Bryce National Parks. The weather is usually clear and crisp and the majority of the crowds have left. Like everywhere, though, this time of year can bring a bit more unpredictable weather. And depending on the altitude, the weather varies. Highs are typically in the 60s and 70s during the day and the lows are 30s-40s at night. It can rain during this time and we've seen light snow at Bryce. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use 20-0016 as your location number on the Get A Quote page.
PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair of lightweight hiking boots or shoes well broken in 1 pair of comfortable shoes for walking around our accommodations or in town. 2-3 pairs of hiking socks (wool or synthetic equivalent: Smartwool, Thorlo, Darn Tough) CLOTHING 1-2 pair of comfortable supplex/nylon long pants for hiking - zip-offs work well 1 pair of shorts (one should be quick-drying nylon) 3 synthetic or lightweight merino wool T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts 1 lightweight, long-sleeved shirt for hiking - button up front is the best 1 pair lightweight long underwear top and bottoms: silk, wool or synthetic equivalent (Capilene, Smartwool, MTS, or polypropylene) 1 medium-weight top layer synthetic or wool pull over - fleece works well for this layer 1 rain jacket and rain pants waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex - Underwear/nightwear 1 pair lightweight wool, Capilene, or Polartec gloves 1 lightweight wool or fleece hat a buff also works well for this 1 wide brimmed or baseball style hat for protection from the sun/rain 1 2 changes of casual clothes to wear at end of day TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, shampoo, contact lens paraphernalia, sanitary supplies Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any personal medications Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS 1 pair Trekking poles (strongly recommended) 1 daypack (see notes on packing list for recommended capacity) Capability to waterproof your backpack. A rain cover or a heavy-duty plastic bag to line your pack. Capacity to carry 2 liters of water (Please see Notes on Packing List). Sunglasses (100% UV protection) w/retention strap Small headlamp or flashlight 1 2 bandanas/buff Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep!) Wristwatch/travel alarm clock Tupperware-like container for sandwich/lunch OPTIONAL (personal preference, not required) Camera (extra battery) and film/memory card Book, notebook, journal, pencil/pen Binoculars Your favorite snack (snacks will also be provided)
NOTES ON PACKING Adventures in Good Company's packing list covers everything you need to assure your safety and comfort. You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather conditions. At the same time, you must be able to carry your own luggage, sometimes up and down stairs. Bringing a duffel bag or soft-sided suitcase with wheels, rather than a hard-sided suitcase, is easier for packing in the van. Daypacks: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 2 liters of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), sun screen, warm layer (fleece pullover or vest), personal first aid kit, lightweight gloves, warm hat and personal items such as camera,etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 1800 and 2400 cubic inches with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters. Line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry, or have an elasticized pack cover that fits snuggly over it. Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all of your items. Note: Fanny-packs and hydration packs are not large enough to hold all of the items you will need for the day. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy boots or trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general hiking, lightweight or midweight cordura or leather boots with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle you ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. Even boots billed as waterproof need to be treated with a waterproofing product. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick Layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Your wind/rain pants should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or full-length leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. An inexpensive plastic poncho will both leak and tear easily and is not recommended. Hydration: Being able to easily access your water without assistance, so that you can drink frequently, is important to your safety and enjoyment. One method is to have a water bottle attached to your waist strap. Another option is to use a HYDRATION SYSTEM such as CamelBak, Platypus, and MSR bladder bags, which are collapsible water bags with a hose attachment that you drink from. The bags fit inside or outside your pack with the hose positioned over your shoulder so that you can access your water as you hike. Bladder bags can hold 1-3 liters of water. Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are strongly recommended for this trip. Trekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. If you are not familiar with trekking poles, read this blog post that addresses the most commonly asked questions: http://blog.adventuresingoodcompany.com/blog-women-travel/bid/154714/trekking-poles-for-hiking-trips-the-4-mostcommon-questions.