Bryce & Zion

Today you’ll ride among the ridges, mesas, and valleys of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, along one of the most scenic byways in the United States. Views stretch in every direction as you cruise across the Hogsback Ridge and drop down to the green, shady Calf Creek drainage. From here, you’ll ride into Escalante, the gateway to the National Monument. Stop for a quick stretch break or continue riding to today's lunch spot, Powell Point overlook. Sweeping views of red rock formations extend as far as the eye can see, and you are welcome to enjoy lunch as you take it all in. After lunch there is plenty of riding on tap or you can shuttle to the hotel for an afternoon nap or a stroll along the rim of the Bryce Canyon amphitheater. Either way, you’ll be welcomed by expansive views of the Aquarius Plateau and the red, pink and white sandstone chimneys of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. This evening you will enjoy dinner on your own at the historic Lodge at Bryce Canyon. Take this opportunity to grab an early or late meal and catch sunset over the hoodoos before or after.

It’s your day to uncover the treasures of Bryce Canyon National Park. In the morning, you’ll enjoy an out-and-back ride through the park along the rim of Bryce Canyon. Pause to take pictures at the many scenic overlooks with spectacular views of the hoodoos and natural arches. You’ll be spoiled at lunchtime by a gourmet picnic, set up by your Trek Travel guides. Afterward, your guides will help you plan a free afternoon of exploring the canyon by foot. This is a great chance to get up close to the geologic wonders of Bryce Canyon and, of course, there’s always the option to read that book tucked away in your bag or play games in the Lodge. Whatever you choose, your Trek Travel guides are a great resource to make it happen. After the explorations of the afternoon, you will shuttle for a delicious upscale dinner at the Stone Hearth Grille, a small locally-owned restaurant housed in a former bed and breakfast just outside the town of Tropic.

Today’s route leaves behind the pink cliffs and spires of Bryce Canyon National Park and takes you to the sheer rock faces of Zion National Park. You’ll ride through the stunning landscape of Red Canyon on a bicycle path, so keep an eye out for deer and other wildlife. Along the way you'll stop for a quick picnic lunch at the Zion Mountain Ranch before descending into Zion National Park. Have your camera ready to catch your first view of Zion’s stunning sandstone summits and rugged peaks. You’ll follow the ribbon of road past the Checkerboard Mesa to the Zion Tunnel and descend switchbacks along the canyon wall to the Virgin River and on to the town of Springdale. If you are feeling up for more miles at the end of the day you may ride into Zion Canyon before making your way to Springdale. Tonight you’ll stay at Flanigan's Inn, a quiet retreat near the gates of Zion. Scout local dining establishments on your own, such as Oscar's or the Spotted Dog Café, or feel free to branch out and find a new spot.

Hiking offers an intimate way to enjoy Zion's diverse and expansive trail system, and today is your opportunity to explore the Park on your own on foot. You may discover the fabled Virgin River Narrows (water level permitting) and hike through clear water beneath towering rock walls. If you are undaunted by heights, tackle the awesome Angels Landing or the challenging Observation Point Trail, or select a shorter walk to Weeping Rock or the Emerald Pools. Whatever you decide, your guides will be available to provide suggestions and information and provide lunch for you to take on the trail. If you prefer to get another ride in today, we have the perfect spin up to the Zion Tunnel for you. You’ll spend your final evening together reminiscing over the week’s adventures at the Bit and Spur restaurant. Challenge your guides to a game of pool over margaritas before a great Mexican dinner at this Springdale mainstay and local's favorite.

On your last morning, you’ll cycle past Zion’s most notable monuments—The Watchman, Court of the Patriarchs, Angels Landing and Weeping Rock—arriving at the Temple of Sinawava, where the canyon road gives way to the Virgin River. Enjoy the cool and quiet of the morning deep inside the canyon, while the sun is still high on the cliff walls. Or, take the morning to sleep in and indulge with much-deserved rest before check-out.