Zion National Park 2024

We will meet at the airport and travel together to Las Vegas. From the Las Vegas Airport, we transfer to our lodge on the west side of Zion National Park. We then will go out for a group dinner, to provide the opportunity to get better acquainted with our traveling companions, and to learn of the trip’s itinerary.

The beginning of the hike to Observation Point is peaceful and pretty, due to the level trail and beautiful landscape. Tall trees are few and far between, though, so there isn’t much shade from the sun. The last half-mile of the East Mesa Trail begins descending down into the canyon rim. The terrain turns into loose sand, almost like you’re walking at the beach. You’ll know once you’ve arrived at Observation Point, because the trail will dead-end right onto the canyon rim, with some of the most impressive views into Zion! There is plenty of space for groups to spread out on the edge, and take pictures without anyone else being in them. It is also a great place to take a break: to sit, relax, and listen to the silence.

The Zion Narrows is the narrowest section of Zion Canyon, and one of the most popular slot canyons in Zion National Park. This section of the Virgin River has become world famous, due to it’s sculpted sandstone walls and breathtaking beauty. Sections of the 2000′ high cliffs tightens down to just 20 – 30 feet wide.

Hiking this slot canyon is unique because, although it does not require any technical knowledge, the river IS the trail. It requires you to hike upstream, crossing back and forth across the Virgin River, through ankle-to-waist-deep water. Many ambitious visitors wish to reach “Wall Street,” a 1-mile section of canyon where the walls narrow to 22 feet and the water spans from wall-to-wall.

Although there is no significant elevation change, hiking the Narrows is considered moderately-difficult. Slick, bowling-ball-sized boulders make up much of the riverbed. River depth and temperatures fluctuate with the change of seasons. Hikers need to be knowledgeable about the three main risks: tripping and falling, hypothermia, and flash flooding. However, with the right equipment and information, anyone can enjoy this hike safely and comfortably. ​

Today we will take an exciting course in “canyoneering.” This course will have us exploring some of the remote canyons in the area. We will have a nice mix of hiking, bouldering, and rappelling. This is a great group adventure, where we will work together to navigate through beautiful canyons, while testing our adventurous spirit. Today will be an incredible day – one you will not forget!

The trail is cut into impressive sandstone walls, and follows a series of switchbacks that lead up to a grand viewpoint, overlooking the Virgin River. The final hike to the top of Angel’s Landing is along a steep, narrow trail, set on the spine of a sandstone fin rising almost 1500’ above the canyon floor. Chains, for use as handholds, have been installed along the trail for hiker safety. Note: The final exposed section of the Angel’s Landing hike is optional, and not recommended for those with acrophobia.

We drive to Las Vegas, and expect to arrive at Las Vegas Airport by 12pm.