7 DAY MOAB AND SOUTHERN HIGHLIGHTS
SOUTHERN USA TOUR
Starting in Salt Lake City, you'll explore Arches and Canyonlands national parks before a journey through prehistory south to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. You will spend time in Moab and see the Dead Horse Point and also have additional time to take a river tour to see Canyonlands from up close.
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Start Location: Salt Lake City
End Location: Salt Lake City
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
- Time in Salt Lake City to explore Temple Square
- Expert guided tour through Arches and Canyonlands National Parks
- Mesa Arch
- Grand View Point and Newspaper Rock
- Monument Valley
- Optional: Add Rocky Mountaineer’s iconic ‘Rockies to the Red Rocks’ luxury 2 day train journey to this tour
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive in Salt Lake City
In 1847, Brigham Young famously led Mormon pioneers into this Utah valley declaring "This is the right place." There are several highlights that are well worth a stop in this scenic city. On top of a hill at the northern end of Salt Lake's main State Street is the elegant Utah State Capitol, patterned after America's Capitol Building, that has free guided tours available most of the year. Sculpture, murals and exhibits throughout the building tell the story of the settling of the West. Nearby recommended stops include the Pioneer Memorial Museum, Memory Grove Park, City Creek Canyon, and Council Hall for visitor information. For an overview of the region, we suggest a visit to the Natural History Museum of Utah. The main lobby opens up into a towering slot canyon, reflecting the geology of Southern Utah. Visitors work their way through exhibits covering past epochs, life, land, gems and minerals, first peoples, Great Salt Lake (with a view), indigenous voices, and rotating exhibits. The museum is also the trailhead for the city's Bonneville Shoreline Trail System. *Ask us about adding Rocky Mountaineer’s iconic ‘Rockies to the Red Rocks’ luxury 2 day train journey to this tour.*
Overnight: Salt Lake City
Day 2: Arches National Park
Pick up your rental car and embark on an adventure through The Mighty 5 National Parks. 300 million years of erosion carved unbelievably dramatic landscapes sculpted by the passage of time. Start with Arches National Park which contains about 2,000 windowed arches, towering spires, harrowing hoodoos, and precarious pinnacles on display, including Delicate Arch, perhaps Utah's most iconic feature - a must-hike destination in the park. A paved 36-mile scenic drive from the park entrance provides numerous parking areas for trail access and scenic overlooks. You will discover a sun-soaked red rock wonderland of eroded sandstone fins, towers, ribs, gargoyles, hoodoos, balanced rocks and arches.
Overnight: Moab
Day 3: Canyonlands National Park
We combine both Arches and Canyonlands this day into one full day of guided sightseeing and exploring. Although you may have seen parts of Arches on the previous day, this guided tour by 4x4 vehicle adds a different dimension. We start high atop the Island in the Sky mesa and descend via the Shafer Trail’s steep switchbacks. We traverse part of the White Rim for incredible views of the Colorado River corridor below. We’ll stop here for some stunning views before continuing on. The Ancestral Pueblo peoples left evidence of their lives and culture in the canyons. We‘ll stop to investigate their mysterious and beautiful rock art before entering Arches National Park. Our knowledable guides add even more color to the iconic landforms and arches as we make our way to the Devils Garden for lunch. After lunch, we depart for the Arches backcountry from near Doc Williams point. We’ll climb a steep, but short rock wall, cut across a valley and wind through sandstone fins and dunes. Along the way we’ll see the Marching Men, Tower Arch, and the Eye of the Whale. We exit via an old cowboy trail and see Dinosaur tracks on our way back to Moab.
Overnight: Moab
Day 4: Moab, Dead Horse Point and the Canyonlands
Canyonlands is made for adventure enthusiast with countless canyons that have been carved out by the Colorado River and its tributaries. The canyon can be best experienced by rafting or kayaking the Colorado River. Dead Horse Point is a Utah State Park providing panoramic views of Canyonlands National Park and the Colorado River. From Moab, drive north on Hwy 191 for about 19 kms (12 miles) to Hwy 313 and take the signed turnoff to Dead Horse Point. Follow this for about half an hour as it winds to the top of the plateau and then south to Dead Horse Point. This gives you a birds-eye view of Canyonlands and the Colorado River over 1,000 feet below. It is an absolutely spectacular view of the river. Time permitting, take a half-day jet boat ride down the Colorado River into Canyonlands National Park and see Canyonlands from the river, a view that most people never experience. Glide along the top of the water going around bends in the river surrounded by high cliffs. If it is late afternoon or evening, you may catch a beautiful sunset over Canyonlands.
Overnight: Moab
Day 5: Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
The large petroglyph panel of Newspaper Rock is on the scenic road to the Needles District of Canyonlands. From there, continue to the Edge of the Cedars State Park and then Bluff Fort before heading south to Monument Valley. The next experience is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, an iconic symbol of the American West and the sacred heart of the Navajo Nation. Spend the evening seeing the best of Monument Valley, from natural landmark photo opportunities, a Navajo Hogan and petroglyphs to cultural demonstrations, a Navajo dinner, and campfire entertainment. This four-hour tour encompasses a wide variety of the incredible experiences lead by a Navajo guide. Your tour will begin with a journey into the spectacular backcountry of the Valley, exploring the natural and historic landmarks like sprawling rock arches and bridges and petroglyph rock art. Along the way, your guide will do a Navajo cultural demonstration as you make your way to the Rain God Mesa camping and picnic area. Here we’ll watch the sunset lapping the beautiful colors of the ending day over the landscape as we eat a dinner of Navajo tacos and steaks. After dinner, you’ll be treated to a one-of-a-kind campfire that you’ll never forget, with Native American dancing, flute playing, drumming, chanting, and storytelling. For those feeling adventurous, you can optionally stay overnight in a hogan, a traditional Navajo dwelling, for an authentic indigenous experience.
Overnight: Monument Valley
Day 6: The scenic back roads to Green River
It is a scenic drive north to Green River through Hanksville on Routes 95 and 24. Green River is famous for its melons, sold during the growing season and also a popular free ride mountain biking spot. Overnight: Green River
Day 7: Depart via Salt Lake City
It is a 3 hours drive north to back to Salt Lake City. Aim to return around noon time to return your car and head to the airport for your return after your epic drive through Southern Utah and some of the most stunning landscapes on earth.
DATES & PRICES
Availability:
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
ACCOMMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
* * * * * This itinerary is an independent package, it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
Pricing is based on per person/double occupancy. (does not include applicable taxes)
Single, triple and family pricing is available on request.
The above pricing and itinerary is subject to seasonal surcharges and operational dates for the suppliers.
Please contact our office for updated pricing and itinerary for your specific travel date.
* * * * * This itinerary is an independent package, it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
Pricing is based on per person/double occupancy. (does not include applicable taxes)
Single, triple and family pricing is available on request.
The above pricing and itinerary is subject to seasonal surcharges and operational dates for the suppliers.
Please contact our office for updated pricing and itinerary for your specific travel date.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- 7 Day Intermediate size car rental
- 6 nights of accommodation
- Guided tour through Arches and Canyonlands National Parks
- Guided tour in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
- Self-drive recommendations
- Daily breakfast and 1 dinner
- Taxes as applicable
EXCLUSIONS
- Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)
- Airfare
- Gratuities for Local Guides
- Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
- Items (attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
- National Park Fees
Why Take A Custom Tour?
Private & Customizable
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want. A trip that's perfectly timed and well organized.
Unique Experience
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way. Can combine your trip with our group tours. Advice to help you get the most out of your trip.
Freedom to Explore
Time to enjoy and take in each place. Add days in places you want to explore. Do only the activities you want to do.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore
Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
Booking & Flight Questions
Do you arrange airport transfers?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking flights?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?
Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.
Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?
Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Tour Questions
What is the average age of passengers for this tour?
Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+
I am a solo traveler. Is there a single surcharge?
There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.
How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?
This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.
How much luggage should I bring?
Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.
What is your recommended spending amount for non-included meals?
The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).
Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?
Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.
Are gratuities included in the tour cost?
For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your
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Seasoned Tour Guides
Get a deeper understanding with storytelling tailored to your interests.
Space To Breathe
We never max out buses even if we use the same size bus as the competition.
All Inclusive
No hidden expenses along the way. Competitors offer activities as an extra - we don't
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Tour Code
7DMSH
7 Day Moab and Southern Highlights
7 days
Created On: 26 Jan 2022
Highlights
- Time in Salt Lake City to explore Temple Square
- Expert guided tour through Arches and Canyonlands National Parks
- Mesa Arch
- Grand View Point and Newspaper Rock
- Monument Valley
- Optional: Add Rocky Mountaineer’s iconic ‘Rockies to the Red Rocks’ luxury 2 day train journey to this tour
Inclusions
- 7 Day Intermediate size car rental
- 6 nights of accommodation
- Guided tour through Arches and Canyonlands National Parks
- Guided tour in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
- Self-drive recommendations
- Daily breakfast and 1 dinner
- Taxes as applicable
Exclusions
- Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)
- Airfare
- Gratuities for Local Guides
- Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
- Items (attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
- National Park Fees
Dates & Prices
ACCOMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
Moderate
Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City
$1,961 USD
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
* * * * * This itinerary is an independent package, it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
Pricing is based on per person/double occupancy. (does not include applicable taxes)
Single, triple and family pricing is available on request.
The above pricing and itinerary is subject to seasonal surcharges and operational dates for the suppliers.
Please contact our office for updated pricing and itinerary for your specific travel date.
* * * * * This itinerary is an independent package, it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
Pricing is based on per person/double occupancy. (does not include applicable taxes)
Single, triple and family pricing is available on request.
The above pricing and itinerary is subject to seasonal surcharges and operational dates for the suppliers.
Please contact our office for updated pricing and itinerary for your specific travel date.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Salt Lake City
In 1847, Brigham Young famously led Mormon pioneers into this Utah valley declaring "This is the right place." There are several highlights that are well worth a stop in this scenic city. On top of a hill at the northern end of Salt Lake's main State Street is the elegant Utah State Capitol, patterned after America's Capitol Building, that has free guided tours available most of the year. Sculpture, murals and exhibits throughout the building tell the story of the settling of the West. Nearby recommended stops include the Pioneer Memorial Museum, Memory Grove Park, City Creek Canyon, and Council Hall for visitor information. For an overview of the region, we suggest a visit to the Natural History Museum of Utah. The main lobby opens up into a towering slot canyon, reflecting the geology of Southern Utah. Visitors work their way through exhibits covering past epochs, life, land, gems and minerals, first peoples, Great Salt Lake (with a view), indigenous voices, and rotating exhibits. The museum is also the trailhead for the city's Bonneville Shoreline Trail System. *Ask us about adding Rocky Mountaineer’s iconic ‘Rockies to the Red Rocks’ luxury 2 day train journey to this tour.*
Overnight: Salt Lake City
Day 2: Arches National Park
Pick up your rental car and embark on an adventure through The Mighty 5 National Parks. 300 million years of erosion carved unbelievably dramatic landscapes sculpted by the passage of time. Start with Arches National Park which contains about 2,000 windowed arches, towering spires, harrowing hoodoos, and precarious pinnacles on display, including Delicate Arch, perhaps Utah's most iconic feature - a must-hike destination in the park. A paved 36-mile scenic drive from the park entrance provides numerous parking areas for trail access and scenic overlooks. You will discover a sun-soaked red rock wonderland of eroded sandstone fins, towers, ribs, gargoyles, hoodoos, balanced rocks and arches.
Overnight: Moab
Day 3: Canyonlands National Park
We combine both Arches and Canyonlands this day into one full day of guided sightseeing and exploring. Although you may have seen parts of Arches on the previous day, this guided tour by 4x4 vehicle adds a different dimension. We start high atop the Island in the Sky mesa and descend via the Shafer Trail’s steep switchbacks. We traverse part of the White Rim for incredible views of the Colorado River corridor below. We’ll stop here for some stunning views before continuing on. The Ancestral Pueblo peoples left evidence of their lives and culture in the canyons. We‘ll stop to investigate their mysterious and beautiful rock art before entering Arches National Park. Our knowledable guides add even more color to the iconic landforms and arches as we make our way to the Devils Garden for lunch. After lunch, we depart for the Arches backcountry from near Doc Williams point. We’ll climb a steep, but short rock wall, cut across a valley and wind through sandstone fins and dunes. Along the way we’ll see the Marching Men, Tower Arch, and the Eye of the Whale. We exit via an old cowboy trail and see Dinosaur tracks on our way back to Moab.
Overnight: Moab
Day 4: Moab, Dead Horse Point and the Canyonlands
Canyonlands is made for adventure enthusiast with countless canyons that have been carved out by the Colorado River and its tributaries. The canyon can be best experienced by rafting or kayaking the Colorado River. Dead Horse Point is a Utah State Park providing panoramic views of Canyonlands National Park and the Colorado River. From Moab, drive north on Hwy 191 for about 19 kms (12 miles) to Hwy 313 and take the signed turnoff to Dead Horse Point. Follow this for about half an hour as it winds to the top of the plateau and then south to Dead Horse Point. This gives you a birds-eye view of Canyonlands and the Colorado River over 1,000 feet below. It is an absolutely spectacular view of the river. Time permitting, take a half-day jet boat ride down the Colorado River into Canyonlands National Park and see Canyonlands from the river, a view that most people never experience. Glide along the top of the water going around bends in the river surrounded by high cliffs. If it is late afternoon or evening, you may catch a beautiful sunset over Canyonlands.
Overnight: Moab
Day 5: Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
The large petroglyph panel of Newspaper Rock is on the scenic road to the Needles District of Canyonlands. From there, continue to the Edge of the Cedars State Park and then Bluff Fort before heading south to Monument Valley. The next experience is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, an iconic symbol of the American West and the sacred heart of the Navajo Nation. Spend the evening seeing the best of Monument Valley, from natural landmark photo opportunities, a Navajo Hogan and petroglyphs to cultural demonstrations, a Navajo dinner, and campfire entertainment. This four-hour tour encompasses a wide variety of the incredible experiences lead by a Navajo guide. Your tour will begin with a journey into the spectacular backcountry of the Valley, exploring the natural and historic landmarks like sprawling rock arches and bridges and petroglyph rock art. Along the way, your guide will do a Navajo cultural demonstration as you make your way to the Rain God Mesa camping and picnic area. Here we’ll watch the sunset lapping the beautiful colors of the ending day over the landscape as we eat a dinner of Navajo tacos and steaks. After dinner, you’ll be treated to a one-of-a-kind campfire that you’ll never forget, with Native American dancing, flute playing, drumming, chanting, and storytelling. For those feeling adventurous, you can optionally stay overnight in a hogan, a traditional Navajo dwelling, for an authentic indigenous experience.
Overnight: Monument Valley
Day 6: The scenic back roads to Green River
It is a scenic drive north to Green River through Hanksville on Routes 95 and 24. Green River is famous for its melons, sold during the growing season and also a popular free ride mountain biking spot. Overnight: Green River
Day 7: Depart via Salt Lake City
It is a 3 hours drive north to back to Salt Lake City. Aim to return around noon time to return your car and head to the airport for your return after your epic drive through Southern Utah and some of the most stunning landscapes on earth.
