Arches and Canyonlands Lodge Based Hike and Explore
Price
Activity Level
Between 2-3
We rate trips on a scale from 1 (leisurely) to 5 (avid), with a range of activity levels in between.
Overview
Embark on an enchanting journey through Utah’s Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, where the vivid colors and striking formations of the Colorado Plateau await. Explore the iconic rock formations of Arches National Park, including Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch, before venturing into the rugged canyons of Canyonlands. Experience the thrill of hiking through hidden slot canyons and towering spires, revealing the geological wonders of the region. Indulge in the region’s rich culinary scene in Moab, then retreat to cozy accommodations as the day winds down. Immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of these awe-inspiring parks, where each vista and trail tells a story millions of years in the making.
Included/Excluded
- Skilled Outdoor Leader guides
- Delicious, healthy meals & snacks
- Equipment for all outdoor activities
- Park permits & fees
- Transportation to & from trip activities
- Double-occupancy or group rooms by gender or request
- Limited single-occupancy rooms available for extra cost
- Transportation to and from trip start and end location (including airfare)
- Optional trip insurance
- On-your-own activities, food, and shopping
Location Map
Day 1 – Welcome to Utah!
Your trip officially begins in the early afternoon in Salt Lake City. Meet your trip leaders and fellow travelers before setting out on a scenic drive south toward Moab, the gateway to two of Utah’s most breathtaking national parks. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodations and enjoy your first evening together over dinner. This is a great time to review the week’s itinerary and get to know your group.
Day 2 – Exploring Arches National Park
After breakfast, set out to discover the incredible landscapes of Arches National Park. Spend the day hiking among striking sandstone formations and natural arches that have been shaped by millions of years of wind and water. Take time to enjoy lunch surrounded by sweeping desert views before returning to your lodge in the afternoon for rest and relaxation. Gather for dinner and share highlights from the day’s discoveries.
Day 3 – Immersed in Red Rock Country
Enjoy another full day exploring the wonders of Arches. Learn about the park’s fascinating geology and cultural history as you traverse its winding trails and towering rock formations. Depending on the group’s energy and interest, take on an afternoon or evening hike to experience the desert’s golden light at sunset — a truly unforgettable moment. Return to town for dinner and a well-earned night of rest.
Day 4 – Rafting and Desert Waterfalls
This morning brings a new perspective on the region — from the water. Embark on a guided rafting adventure down one of Utah’s iconic rivers, surrounded by dramatic canyon walls and colorful cliffs. After a picnic lunch, enjoy some downtime or opt for a short afternoon hike to a nearby waterfall. In the evening, gather for dinner and, if available, join a ranger-led stargazing program to experience the brilliance of Utah’s night skies.
Day 5 – Canyonlands National Park
Venture into Canyonlands National Park, a landscape defined by sweeping mesas, dramatic overlooks, and winding canyons carved by time. Enjoy a morning hike to take in panoramic views of the desert below, then pause for lunch amid the park’s quiet beauty. In the afternoon, continue exploring or visit a nearby state park before returning to Moab for a final dinner celebration with your group.
Day 6 – Return to Salt Lake City
After breakfast, take a final stroll through town or stop at a local museum before beginning the drive back to Salt Lake City. Reflect on the memories made and friendships formed as your adventure comes to a close. Your trip concludes in the early afternoon, with drop-offs at local hotels or the airport.
Our Approach to Accessibility
Wilderness Inquiry takes a creative and multifaceted approach to accessibility on trips and programs. Understandably, an ADA-level accessibility may not always be available in wilderness and even international settings. That is why we utilize Wilderness Inquiry’s Universal Program Participation Model (UPPM) to guide our approach to accessibility by leveraging key resources such as adaptive equipment, support personnel, itinerary and activity choices, and weighing in unique environmental factors to create experiences that can be accessible to many individuals. While our trips may not follow a one-size-fits-all approach, our team does its best to ensure a variety of travel and program options that offer differing levels of accessibility for a variety of needs and abilities. If you have questions about your ability to participate on a Wilderness Inquiry trip or program, our team is always willing to explore options and solutions that suit a traveler’s interest and ability – don’t hesitate to reach out!
What is included in the trip price?
Trip fees cover all of your needs while you are traveling with us — including equipment, food, guides, permits, etc. You are responsible for bringing personal clothing and hygiene supplies. Gear such as sleeping bags, pads, and cots can be checked out during the booking process for no additional fee.
Could the itinerary change after I sign up?
Your trip is dependent on weather, availability, and potential other unforeseen circumstances. All itineraries online are “sample” itineraries that are subject to change. Please check your confirmation packet for the most up-to-date information.
There are many different route choices available within our trip locations for hiking and paddling. The routes will be chosen by Wilderness Inquiry Outdoor Leaders based on availability and the strength of the group.
What type of food will I eat during the trip?
Typical menus for overnight camping trips include pesto pasta, burritos, stir-fry, avocado caprese wraps, brats and burgers, apple cobbler, and plenty of snacks. The exact menus vary trip-by-trip. On longer wilderness expeditions, we bring more nonperishable foods that keep well for days without refrigeration. On international trips, we tend to eat the local cuisine. We can accommodate most dietary restrictions and preferences — please note this information on your registration form.
I or a member of my family has a disability. Can I/they still participate?
We strive to put accessibility at the forefront of our programs so that individuals of all abilities, including people with disabilities, can successfully participate in our trips. If you or a member of your family has a disability, you will have an opportunity to confidentially share more during the registration process for your trip. A member of our team will connect with you further over the phone to make sure we are able to provide the appropriate support or accommodations you need to have a safe and rewarding experience on your trip.
Do you offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes! We believe the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors should be available to everyone. To keep our programs as financially accessible as possible, each year we raise funds to support need-based scholarships. Certain restrictions apply. Financial aid is available for a select number of trips and is typically not available for international trips. Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more and apply.
What is your cancellation policy?
Trip deposits are due at the time of booking and are generally non-refundable.
- Within five weeks prior to trip departure (0-34 days):
- You are responsible for 100% of trip fees. No refunds issued.
- Five to ten weeks prior to trip departure (35-70 days):
- We will refund up to 50% of your trip fee, minus your deposit.
- Ten weeks or more prior to trip departure (71+ days):
- We will issue a refund of all trip fees paid, minus your deposit.
- The deposit may be credited to a future trip.
To view our full cancellation policy, please click here.
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