Bryce & Capitol Reef National Parks Walking & Hiking Tour
Couples, Friends & Solos
5 days
4 nights
Activity Levels 1-3
Casual Hotels
Bryce & Capitol Reef National Parks Walking & Hiking Tour
Couples, Friends & Solos
5 days
4 nights
Activity Levels 1-3
Casual Hotels
2025: May-Sep
Journey across Utah's Grand Staircase
Travel into the rugged wilderness and isolated landscapes at the heart of the American Southwest. Dramatic scenery and serenity await in the deep canyons of Capitol Reef's Waterpocket Fold. And in the winding labyrinths of Bryce's surreal gardens of stone. This hiker's paradise is one colorful vivid playscape that will leave you hungry for more.
Highlights
- Experience the rugged landscape of southern Utah, an expanse of natural wonders and unusual geologic formations that await your discovery
- Hike into the extraordinary Waterpocket Fold, a massive warping of the earth's surface and the defining geologic feature of remote Capitol Reef National Park
- Savor sophisticated farm-to-table cuisine served in a unique restaurant located on the edge of the wilderness in a once inaccessible mountain town
- Admire the otherworldly landscape of Bryce National Park, where the forces of nature have crafted fantastic rock formations beyond your wildest imagination
Start/End St. George
* Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Itinerary
Days 1-2
Traverse the northern edge of Utah's Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument for a hike past prehistoric pictographs to a dramatic box canyon • Feel the cool mist on your face as you encounter Lower Calf Creek Falls plunging over a sandstone cliff • Journey along the Hogsback, an unforgettable stretch of scenic byway that winds along a narrow ridge • Relish the solitude and pristine natural beauty of Capitol Reef National Park, a secluded wonderland and the least visited of Utah's Grand Circle parks • Encounter natural arches, water-carved canyons and towering domes during a hike through the colossal Waterpocket Fold • Notice the greener side of the desert as we pass through the pioneer settlement of Fruita, where 19th-century orchards are still thriving • Revel in the sophisticated menu at Hell's Backbone Grill, inspired by Buddhist and Native American cultures and cuisine.
Nights 1-2
An oasis of tranquility and comfort overlooking an 11-acre bird sanctuary at the foot of Boulder Mountain in the rugged landscape of southwestern Utah.
Days 3-5
Enter Bryce Canyon, home to the world's largest collection of fanciful geologic formations called hoodoos • Circumnavigate Boat Mesa as you hike along the Fairyland Loop, one of the most spectacular routes in the park • Hike through the Queen's Garden, a natural labyrinth of pinnacles, spires and windows • Venture into Wall Street, a narrow passage between towering rock fins • Attend an evening performance you'll never forget—a gentle dance of shifting light and color with ever-changing hues of red, orange and yellow across an immense natural amphitheater • Pass through Dixie National Forest and the incredible Red Canyon on our way back to St. George.
Nights 3-4
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this simple park lodge is mere steps from the canyon's edge.
What's Included
See moreStraight Talk
We want to make sure you're on the trip that's right for you. Every Backroads trip is unique and this one is no exception.
The National Park Service has many regulations on hiking. Capitol Reef National Park limits the size of all groups so you will hike in small groups with your Backroads leaders. In Bryce Canyon National Park, your leaders can hike with you but can't act as "interpretive guides." Throughout the trip, your leaders will give an orientation to the area's flora, fauna and terrain before your hikes. Thank you for helping us cooperate with the park's regulations.
The properties we use on this trip are chosen for their character and ideal location—they are not known for their food. Meals can be simple and menu options tend to lack variety. Please be aware that options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and low-carb meals will be especially limited and substitutions are rarely available.
Hotels
Adventure-Ready Hotels
Ideally located with ready access to trip activities, our Casual hotels are also known for their character and charm.
Hotels may vary based on departure. Any variations will be displayed when selecting a departure under Dates & Prices.
Nights 1-2
Casual Hotel
An oasis of tranquility and comfort overlooking an 11-acre bird sanctuary at the foot of Boulder Mountain in the rugged landscape of southwestern Utah.
Nights 3-4
Casual Hotel
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this simple park lodge is mere steps from the canyon's edge.
Gallery
Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations (if any) and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
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