National Geographic Expeditions

Expedition Details

Discover the geologic and natural wonders of three unique national parks. Hike among Bryce Canyon's whimsical red spires and Zion's gardens that cascade down time-sculpted walls. Experience the majesty of the Grand Canyon on nature walks. Raft the Colorado River, and discover the region's glorious flora and fauna.

Trip Highlights

Hike three of the country's most celebrated national parks with an expert naturalist and learn about the unique flora, fauna, and geology of the region.
Meander through a gallery of colorful pinnacles and spires in Bryce, and climb to a lookout for a panoramic view of Zion's fascinating sandstone formations.
Watch the sun set over the Grand Canyon from the comfort of our lodgings on the less crowded North Rim.
Take in spectacular scenery on a rafting trip on the Colorado River just before it drops into the park.

Itinerary - 8 Days

Day 1 — Las Vegas, Nevada

Arrive in Las Vegas and gather for a welcome reception and dinner.
Tuscany Suites and Casino (D)

Days 2 & 3 — Kolob Canyons/Bryce Canyon

Our journey into canyon country begins in Kolob Canyons, a spectacular area of Zion National Park. From here, beautiful landscapes unfold as we continue to Bryce Canyon National Park. Stop for breathtaking views at Fairyland Point. Later, settle into comfortable accommodations at the historic Bryce Canyon Lodge. The next day, you may choose to drive along the rim or hike into the heart of Bryce, where you will encounter the richly colored rock spires and eroded formations known as hoodoos. Take an evening walk between Inspiration and Sunset Points for a memorable view of Bryce Amphitheater.
Bryce Canyon Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 4 — Colorado River/Grand Canyon

Sweeping vistas of spectacular mesas and mountains surround you on today's journey to the Grand Canyon. Float down the Colorado River on a leisurely rafting trip at the head of the Grand Canyon. After lunch, look for reintroduced condors along the Vermilion Cliffs en route to our historic lodge, the only accommodations on the North Rim. Settle into simple cabins for the next two nights, and enjoy fabulous views of sunsets over the canyon.
Grand Canyon Lodge (B,L,D)

Day 5 — Grand Canyon

From overlooks at Point Imperial and Cape Royal, take in impressive views of the canyon, whose vivid, colored layers tell stories of ancient seas and life forms. Experience the vastness of the chasm as you walk an easy trail along the canyon rim. Look for wildlife and learn about the wildflowers and trees that grow in this stunning landscape. Return to the lodge at day's end for a stroll to Bright Angel Point.
Grand Canyon Lodge (B,L,D)

Days 6 & 7 — Zion

Head north to Zion National Park, where lush hanging gardens, waterfalls, and massive Navajo sandstone walls distinguish this park from all others. Hike Emerald Pools Trail, listening to the call of a canyon wren and passing under the cool spray of a waterfall. Learn which wildflowers thrive here and what birds are attracted by the canyon's oasis. The next day, explore the narrows of the Virgin River, and climb to Scout Lookout for a panoramic view of the stunning rock sculptures in Zion Canyon.
Flanigan's Inn (B, L, D daily)

Day 8 — Zion/Las Vegas

Return to Las Vegas for your flight home.
(B)

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National Geographic Expert

Kirt Kempter

Kirt Kempter is a field geologist and teacher based in Santa Fe, New Mexico. A Fulbright Fellow, Kirt has led many geologic expeditions to Bryce, Zion, and Grand Canyon National Parks, and has published numerous geologic maps and articles on the geology of the American Southwest. He received his Ph.D. in geology from the University of Texas and has conducted studies of plate tectonics and volcanism around the world, including Iceland, Costa Rica, and Mexico.