This spectacular journey through the American Southwest takes you from enchanting Sedona through to the National Parks of Utah with stunning scenset throughout.
Enjoy what makes the Western United States one of the best outdoor destinations on the planet. Visit the vast valley of Zion National Park, marvel at the ancient Hoodoo's in Bryce, and bask in the glow of Moab's red rocks. This trip is designed to take in Utah's best National Parks and Arizona's stunning scenery, highlighting the natural beauty of the area as well as the adventure. Leave no stone unturned as we try to get off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime.
Sedona | Early September
Grand Canyon | Mid-September
Las Vegas | Mid-September
Zion National Park | Mid-to-late September
Bryce Canyon | Late September
Moab | Late September
Moab | Late September
September brings milder temperatures to Arizona, Utah, and Nevada, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities. Daytime highs range from 70-95°F depending on location and elevation. With reduced crowds after the summer peak, it's a great time to visit national parks. The weather is typically dry and sunny, but it's still important to stay hydrated and use sun protection. Evenings can be cool, especially at higher elevations, so pack layers. This month offers a pleasant balance for exploring the Southwest's diverse landscapes.
Arrive on your flight into Phoenix International Airport.
Booked Independently
Upon arrival, follow the signs to the rental car center to pick up your vehicle. Drive to Sedona for check in to your hotel.
Booked by a user.
Sedona, Arizona is a breathtaking desert gem known for its striking red rock formations and spiritual atmosphere. Covering about 19 square miles, Sedona captivates visitors with its crimson mesas, buttes, and canyons set against clear blue skies. The iconic red rocks, formed over millions of years, create a mesmerizing landscape that changes color with the light. Sedona is also famous for its energy vortexes, believed to be centers of spiritual power. The area's unique ecosystem supports diverse wildlife and plant life, from cacti to coyotes. With its natural beauty, artistic community, and reputation for wellness, Sedona offers both visual splendor and a sense of tranquility to all who visit.
Why we love it for you: Nestled in the heart of Sedona's breathtaking red rock country, Enchantment Resort offers a luxurious escape surrounded by nature's grandeur. This secluded haven sits at the doorstep of Boynton Canyon, providing guests with unparalleled access to Sedona's iconic landscapes. With its world-class spa, fine dining options, and array of outdoor activities, Enchantment Resort seamlessly blends comfort with adventure. Just a short drive from Sedona's vibrant downtown area, the resort offers both tranquility and convenience, allowing guests to easily explore local art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Whether seeking relaxation or outdoor thrills, Enchantment Resort provides an unforgettable Sedona experience.
1x Casita King
Booked by a user.
This morning, a driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel to take you on a scenic, 4-hour guided adventure. You'll enjoy a 3-hour culturally immersive hike around two sacred red rock canyons.
For this easy trail, be sure to wear shoes with good tread, wool socks and sun protection. Note that there is little to no shade on this 4-mile loop trail. Your guide will provide water, snacks and any necessary safety or hiking gear. A start in the early morning or afternoon is recommended to beat the heat and avoid interacting with other hikers. On the way to the trailhead, your guide will enlighten you on the local beliefs and lore that consider the destination sacred. The trail combines Long Canyon, Deadman's Pass and Mescal to enable you to encircle Mescal Mountain to view these sacred canyons. Along the way, you'll see cliff dwellings and significant natural rock formations that your guide will explain. At the end of your breathtaking hike, your guide will return you to your hotel.
Booked by Scenset.
The rest of the evening is free to enjoy at your leisure.
1x Casita King
Booked by a person.
This morning, self-transfer to check in for a private, approximately 3-hour off-road jeep tour to discover gorgeous scenery and ancient Native American ruins. While this tour is off-road and off-the-beaten path, it is mild, with no rock climbing across a maintained dirt road with some bumps. Participants must be age 2 or older. Part of the tour requires walking approximately 3/4 miles (1.2km) across mostly flat, uneven surface.
A driver/guide will take you on a private access road along a path that will find you surrounded by Sedona's vibrant red rocks. Delight in sweeping views from a vantage point not accessible without a guided tour.
On arrival to this secluded spot in the canyons, you'll follow the guide on a short hike to the ruins. At these incredible cliff dwellings, the guide will tell you the story of the Sinagua people and point out some of its 1,500 petroglyphs on a walking tour around this 700-year-old structure. Hear the myths, facts and stories of this Honanki Heritage site. At the end of the tour, you'll be returned to the adventure center located in downtown Sedona.
Booked by Scenset.
1x Casita King
Booked by someone.
This morning, you will check out of your hotel in preparation for today's journey.
Early this morning, check out of your hotel in Sedona and self-drive about 2-hours to the Grand Hotel to meet your naturalist driver-guide who will take you on a private full day ground tour of the south rim of the Grand Canyon.
This morning, drive into the park to meet a naturalist driver-guide who will take you on a private half-day ground tour of the South Rim of the Grand Canyon where you will enjoy a tailored hiking experience into this astonishing world wonder!
Be sure to wear sun protection and sturdy shoes plus bring along a reusable water bottle.
The South Rim features incredible views of what took Mother Nature millions of years to create, earning it the distinction as one of the world's seven natural wonders. Enjoy learning of the canyon's rich geology, diverse flora and fauna and interesting cultural story during an engaging talk with your guide.
At the end of your tour, take a short drive to Canyon's Village and enjoy lunch at El Tovar Restaurant, located on the upper rim. After lunch, you may continue exploring the South Rim on your own.
Booked by Scenset.
After the excursion, enjoy your evening at leisure.
Why we love it for you: Located just a mile from the South Rim entrance of the Grand Canyon, The Grand Hotel offers a perfect base for exploring one of nature's most awe-inspiring wonders. This rustic-elegant lodge captures the spirit of the American Southwest while providing modern comforts. With its imposing timber façade and grand lobby adorned with Native American artifacts, the hotel immerses guests in the rich history and culture of the area. Featuring comfortable rooms, on-site dining options, and an indoor pool, The Grand Hotel provides a welcome retreat after a day of canyon adventures. Its proximity to the park allows easy access to scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, and ranger-led programs. Whether you're watching the sunset paint the canyon walls or stargazing in the clear night sky, The Grand Hotel offers an unforgettable Grand Canyon experience.
1x Standard King
Booked by a person.
This morning, check out of your hotel and get back on the road to self-drive to Las Vegas, approximately 4-hours, to check-in at The Waldorf Astoria.
Enjoy the drive on the Historic Route 66!
Booked by a travel agent.
In Kingman, make your first stop at the Mohave Museum, if only to check out the historic mural painted on the side of the building, which depicts the evolution of Historic Route 66 from a passage for stagecoaches, trains and cars. On the next block, explore the Arizona Route 66 Museum (one ticket includes entry to both museums), which tells the story of Route 66 through photographs, artifacts and a one-hour movie. On the ground floor, look for an Electric Car Museum.
Delgadillo's Snow Cap Drive-In in Seligman has long been a classic landmark along Route 66 that doesn't take itself too seriously. Built in 1953 from scrap lumber, you'll enter and exit through doors with two doorknobs (one is there to fool you). When you order, you may find yourself with a soda and a piece of hay (as in, the wrong kind of straw). The same goes for drink sizes. Ask for a small and you'll be presented with a medicine cup-sized drink.
Just a few miles from the historic district of Williams is Bearizona, a drive-thru wildlife park with black bears, mule deer, bighorn sheep and bison. There's also a petting zoo and a walk-through area, so you can get up close with goats and sheep.
Recommendation Only.
Enjoy your own pace to Las Vegas and then the city is yours to enjoy this evening.
Why we love it for you: Indulge in the intimate yet luxurious accommodations at Wynn and Encore Las Vegas. These Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star resorts flow seamlessly into one another with numerous beautifully appointed guest rooms as well as the finest in dining, shopping, and an on-site 18-hole championship golf course. “Inspiring” describes these environments, with acclaimed chefs in their kitchens each evening preparing extraordinary meals, and vibrant lounges that keep the evening going. Wynn and Encore Las Vegas are worlds away from ordinary.
1x Wynn Resort King
Booked by Scenset.
Today is open for you to enjoy Las Vegas at your leisure.
1x Wynn Resort King
Booked by Scenset.
Valley of Fire, the drive time is approximately 1 hour.
On this adventure, you'll go at your own pace to explore unique, out of this world landscapes that Hollywood made famous, look for wildlife and take photos. On arrival, you will meet a guide who will provide safety instructions and review the permitted route before you roll out to explore. This breathtaking go-at-your-own-pace ride will bring you into view of Big Horn sheep and other wildlife, as well as beautiful rock formations and stunning, vibrant red sand structures. The Valley of Fire landscape is also known as the backdrop of several Star Trek scenes and it is near Area 51!
Booked by a scenset.
After the Valley of Fire experience, you will be returned to your vehicle to continue your drive to Zion which will take approximately 2 hours.
Zion National Park is a magnificent testament to nature's grandeur and diverse landscapes. Established as a National Park in 1919, Zion spans over 229 square miles (593.3 square kilometers) and is renowned for its breathtaking canyons, towering sandstone cliffs, and vibrant colors that range from deep reds to subtle creams. The park's name, "Zion," which means a place of peace and refuge, perfectly encapsulates the serene beauty and spiritual solace visitors often experience.
The heart of the park is Zion Canyon, sculpted over millions of years by the Virgin River cutting through the Navajo Sandstone, creating awe-inspiring rock formations, high plateaus, and a network of deep chasms. The park's unique geography supports a variety of life zones, from desert to riparian areas, and is home to abundant wildlife including mule deer, golden eagles, and the endangered California condor.
Why we love it for you: When you visit Zion National Park, you want to be immersed in the incredible beauty of the nature surrounding you. At Cable Mountain Lodge, you can enjoy the incredible luxuries of a top hotel instead of the hassles of camping in the wilderness. Located across the street from Zion National Park, Cable Mountain Lodge offers amenities like 24-hour concierge service and complimentary Wi-Fi—creating an experience that even the most discerning visitor is sure to enjoy.
This evening, have dinner at the hotel's restaurant, Anthera.
Payable direct
Suggestion by scenset - to be paid locally.
1x Luxury Suite
Booked by a guest.
Early this morning, a driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel to lead you on a full day hike of The Narrows, one of Zion National Parks most unique and challenging trails set through the Virgin River! It is recommended to be fitted for gear the night before your trip; otherwise, your tour start time will be adjusted to allow gear up in the morning prior to heading into the park. You will also need to wear quick drying/synthetic clothing, layer your gear as mornings in the canyon are cold and wear sun protection. Your guide will drive you into the park where you will pick up the shuttle to ride to the trailhead. In addition to ensuring a safe passage through this unmarked canyon river trail, your guide will detail the geological history and human use of Zion, allowing plenty of opportunities for photographs and moments of reflection that the scenset inspires.
The Narrows is the narrowest section of Zion Canyon. This gorge, with walls a thousand feet tall and the river sometimes just twenty to thirty feet wide, is one of the most popular areas in Zion National Park. With your early start, you will be able to enjoy it with fewer hikers. Midway through your day, your guide will pick out a nice dry spot in the sun to pause to enjoy a deli style lunch on the rocks before you conclude your hike back to the starting point. You will be dropped at the doorstep of your hotel at the end of this awe-inspiring adventure.
Booked by scenset.
This evening, you have dinner at Spotted Dog Café.
The restaurant is a 5-minute walk from your hotel. Payable direct
Suggestion by Scenset.- to be paid locally.
1x Luxury Suite
Booked by someone.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Zion National Park on our exclusive e-bike tour! Self-transfer to the bike shop to get fitted, before your guide escorts you to Zion National Park, renowned for its awe-inspiring beauty, and there's no better way to experience it than an e-bike tour. The park's diverse terrain, from rugged mountains to lush forests, provides the perfect backdrop for your adventure.
You'll have the opportunity to witness iconic landmarks and breathtaking vistas, all while cruising on an eco-friendly e-bike.
At the end of the tour, bid farewell to your guide at the bike shop, and proceed to your hotel to enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.
Booked by Scenset.
Your evening is free to relax and recover.
1x Luxury Suite
Booked by someone.
In preparation for your drive to Bryce Canyon National Park, stock up on sundries in Springdale as resources are limited in Bryce. A supermarket is a great place for groceries and supplies while a café offers a variety of prepared meals to go. Depart from the stunning Zion National Park on a 2-hour drive to Bryce Canyon
National Park. This uniquely stunning park features the highest concentration of Hoodoos (irregular columns of rock) on earth! If you get a very early start, which is ideal to beat the crowds into the park,
drive through the famous Zion-Mount Carmel Tunnel and stop to hike the Canyon Overlook Trail. This easy-moderate 1-mile roundtrip hike offers stunning views of the park. Do exercise caution as there are a few exposed spots where a fall could be dangerous.
Bryce Canyon National Park, located in southern Utah, United States, is a breathtaking natural wonder famous for its unique geological formations called hoodoos - tall, thin spires of rock sculpted by erosion over millions of years, colored in shades of red, orange, and white. The park spans over 35,000 acres, offering visitors hiking trails, scenic drives, and viewpoints, including the stunning Bryce Amphitheater and the Rim Trail, which showcase the park's beauty. Bryce Canyon also boasts a diverse array of plant and animal life, thriving in its high-elevation ecosystem, making it an unforgettable destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
Upon arrival, meet your driver/guide at the designated meet up location to go on a private 3 to 4-hour sightseeing adventure in Bryce Canyon National Park! You'll hop in your guide's vehicle to set out on an exploration to experience the otherworldly magic of Bryce Canyon National Park by taking a scenic, educational walk along the rim or by hiking down to the bottom of the canyon floor to get a closer look!
Your tour will be customized to your level of fitness and interest and your guide will answer any questions you have about this astonishing national park. Bryce Canyon is made up of multiple natural amphitheaters or bowls, carved into the edge of a high plateau. Your guide will choose a scenic spot for a deli style picnic lunch. After your tour, self-drive to your hotel to check in and unwind.
Tonight, self-transfer to meet an astronomer at a private observatory to gaze into the dark night skies that surround Bryce Canyon using state-of-the-art, high definition telescopes during this 2 to 3-hour visual journey! Make sure to dress in layers as nights in the desert are often quite cool. Closed toe shoes are required to safely navigate uneven terrain in the dark. A headlamp with a red lamp is recommended. Stargazing can take place in multiple locations within this region and therefore can accommodate most physical abilities. The experience will start with a laser constellation tour where your astronomer guide will offer engaging commentary and explanations of what you are seeing and where to look. Have fun and engage in philosophical questions that arise through the humbling moments witnessing the breadth of deep space. Your guide is fully versed in the varying telescope technology and space exploration being undertaken and are delighted to answer any questions you have. Delight in viewing the moon, Milky Way, planets and bright stars which can be closely inspected looking through powerful telescopes. Combining clear dark skies and an advanced fleet of telescopes, this tour is truly a stunning highlight of the "canvas of our cosmos"!
Booked by someone.
This evening, you have a dinner reservation at Ebenezer's Barn & Grill.
The restaurant is a 17-minute drive from your hotel. Please consult the Front Desk at Stone Canyon Inn for a list of taxi services that can take you to and from the restaurant. Payable direct
Suggestion by Scenset.
Why we love it for you: Nestled among the towering ponderosa pines just moments from Bryce Canyon National Park, Under Canvas Bryce Canyon offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and luxury camping. This eco-friendly glamping resort provides an immersive natural experience without sacrificing comfort. Guests stay in spacious safari-style tents equipped with plush bedding, wood-burning stoves, and private decks, all while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The camp's proximity to the park allows easy access to Bryce's iconic hoodoos, hiking trails, and stargazing opportunities. With on-site dining options and curated activities, Under Canvas Bryce Canyon offers an unforgettable way to experience the raw beauty of Southern Utah, combining the thrill of the outdoors with the comforts of upscale accommodation.
1x Deluxe Tent
Booked by a guest.
This morning, get ready for an epic road trip through Utah's grand staircase of national treasures on your way to Moab.
We suggest making the connection between Tropic (Bryce) and Moab using Routes 12 and 24, which wind through Grand Staircase-Escalante as well as Capitol Reef. This detour will add an hour to the direct drive by getting you off the main road and deeper into nature. The drive offers wonderful, mesmerizing scenery that reflects the story of the Earth's natural history. We recommend stopping to enjoy both of the amazing parks en route to Moab:
Capitol Reef National Park and Goblin Valley State Park.
Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden treasure filled with cliffs, canyons, domes, and bridges in the Waterpocket Fold, a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) extending almost 100 miles. You can explore this quiet yet grand park on a self-guided hike or simply drive along the scenic road (paved and unpaved) stopping to take photos along the way. One of the best, yet strenuous hikes in the park is the Cassidy Arch Trail. Named after the famous Butch Cassidy, Cassidy Arch is large and spectacular, photogenic at almost any angle. It sits 400 feet above the Scenic Drive and the Grand Wash Trail, offering a pleasant diversion on any trip. The climb is steep, but worth the visit; 3.5-miles roundtrip.
For dining options, between Capitol Reef National Park and Goblin State Park in the town of Hanksville, you can stop and enjoy lunch at a restaurant located just before the junction to head north towards Moab.
Recommendation Only.
Goblin Valley State Park offers self-guided hikes through a unique Martian-like landscape of "goblins." Previously called Mushroom Valley, the park showcases Earth's geological history. Exposed cliffs show parallel rock layers eroded over time. The uneven sandstone hardness means some areas resist erosion better than others. Wind and water remove softer material, leaving thousands of distinct geological "goblins."
From Goblin Valley, Moab is less than two hours away. In Moab, consider visiting the family-friendly Moab Giants attraction, a dinosaur museum using cutting-edge technology, including a virtual underwater theater.
Moab, Utah, home to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, is surrounded by some of the most stunning red rock landscapes on Earth. Moab's unique combination of small resort town hospitality, beautiful scenery and the cool waters of the Colorado River has made it one of the most sought after destinations in the American Southwest.
While exploring the most unique scenery in the American Southwest, visitors can relax and experience the small town hospitality of Moab. Moab's perfect climate has made it a magnet for year round outdoor events and festivals, and the downtown business district has responded with a great collection of restaurants, microbreweries, shops, and galleries.
Moab's diverse cuisine will please any palate, from regional southwestern fare to world-class gourmet. Stroll through the downtown shops for a great selection of southwestern arts and jewelry, souvenirs, t-shirts, and much more.
This evening, we suggest enjoying dinner at Sunset Grill.
Address: 900 N Main St, Moab, UT 84532
Phone: (435) 259-7146
Hours: Open in the late afternoon and evening daily; Closed on Sundays
The restaurant is a short walk or drive from your hotel. The restaurant offers a shuttle and can pick you up from the hotel and bring you back at the end of dinner. A phone number will be provided to arrange this. No reservation is required.
Recommendation only.
Hoodoo Moab is a luxurious boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Moab, Utah, surrounded by the awe-inspiring red rock formations and stunning natural landscapes of the Colorado Plateau. This exquisite property offers guests a unique and unforgettable experience, blending modern amenities with the rustic charm of the American Southwest. From the elegantly appointed rooms and suites to the inviting outdoor pool, lounge areas and full-service spa, Hoodoo Moab provides the perfect retreat after a day of exploring the nearby national parks, such as Arches and Canyonlands.
1x One-Bedroom Suite with King Bed
Booked by a user.
This morning, a driver/guide will pick you up from your hotel to take you on a private sightseeing tour through Canyonlands National Park, including a calm water river cruise on the Colorado River. The tour will last approximately 7.5 to 8 hours.
Make sure to wear sun protection, layered clothing, and sturdy footwear. Bring a reusable water bottle and a day pack. A deli-style lunch and water refills will be provided.
The tour begins high atop the Island in the Sky mesa and descends via the steep switchbacks of the Shafer Trail. This trail offers incredible views of the Colorado River and surrounding natural landscapes. Evidence of the Ancestral Puebloans' lives can be seen in the canyons, including rock art.
Along this section of the river, there are no rapids; the river runs slow and easy, deep within majestic canyons.
A riverside picnic will be provided before exploring Meander Canyon, Dead Horse Point, the Grotto, and a petrified forest.
At the end of the tour, the guide will return you to your hotel.
Booked by Scenset.
Your evening is free to enjoy Moab.
This evening, have dinner at River Grill Restaurant.
The restaurant is about a 30-minute drive from your hotel. Please consult with the Front Desk for taxi options to get you to and from the restaurant. Payment will be handled locally.
Suggestion will be provided.
1x One-Bedroom Suite with King Bed
Booked by a guest.
Check out of your hotel as you are switching locations today.
Self Transfer 30 minutes to a hotel in the area.
This afternoon, your driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel for an exciting 4 to 5-hour sunset introduction to Arches National Park where you will discover iconic landforms of contrasting colors and textures unlike any other in the world during your private half-day tour!
Sit back and prepare to be awed as your guide navigates this incredible red rock wonderland featuring out-of-this-world sandstone formations.
Follow your guide to far reaches of the park, enjoying the raw beauty of Arches unseen by many. Based on your level of fitness, your guide will select a trail to give you a closer look at these natural wonders.
Traverse a trail that climbs a steep but short rock wall, cuts across a valley and meanders through sandstone fins and dunes. Along the way you will pass structures with names like the Marching Men, Tower Arch, and the Eye of the Whale. Your guide will uncover old wagon wheel trails and even dinosaur tracks during your customized tour!
At the end of your tour, your guide will return you to your hotel to enjoy the rest of your evening at leisure.
Why we love it for you: Situated on the outskirts of Moab, ULUM offers a luxurious desert retreat with unparalleled views of the iconic red rock landscapes. This upscale glamping resort provides a perfect balance of adventure and comfort, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of Utah's canyon country. The elegant canvas tents feature modern amenities and private terraces, offering a front-row seat to breathtaking sunrises and starlit nights. ULUM's prime location provides easy access to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, as well as the outdoor playground of Moab. Whether you're seeking thrilling mountain biking trails, scenic hikes, or serene moments in nature, ULUM serves as an ideal base for exploring the wonders of the American Southwest while indulging in refined desert luxury.
1x Suite Tent
Booked by someone.
Today, your driver/guide will pick you up at your hotel for a family-friendly 4-hour rafting adventure on the Colorado River.
This rafting excursion usually takes place on the small rapids of Fisher Towers when water levels are favorable. To make the most fun of your day, wear a swimsuit, sandals with straps/water shoes, sun protection and bring along a reusable water bottle. Upon arriving at the put in, your guide will review water safety and provide instruction before you board the boat and set out on your adventure. You will have the option in advance to select a raft paddled by your guide, to select a raft paddled by you or to go for more adventure (and a workout) by navigating small rapids in a single person inflatable kayak. If not selected in advance, your trip will default to a scenic float trip where your guide will power the raft with oars. Enjoy the excitement of riding down the river with an expert guide who will tell you about the region as you paddle down the river. Between a handful of Class I-III rapids, there will be time for picture taking and swim breaks to allow time to soak in the beauty of the region. On a hot summer day, this is the best experience in the desert! At the end of your tour, your guide will return you to your hotel where you can enjoy lunch at leisure.
Booked by a client.
After rafting, your evening is free to enjoy Moab and relax.
1x Suite Tent
Booked by someone.
Check out of your tent and make your way to Salt Lake City.
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and make your way to the Salt Lake City airport to begin your journey home. The drive takes about 4.5 hours.
Board your flight home, safe travels!
Booked Independently.
If you like what you read and are ready to pull the trigger on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure, then you may either complete the secure payment link or arrange a bank transfer as detailed below.
Once payment has been received, we will begin confirming the itinerary and let you know of next steps!
Please note that no elements of the itinerary are on hold and rates and availability are subject to change at any time until confirmed.
Should you wish to pay by wire, the total trip cost will be provided with a deposit due at time of booking.
Please use these details to send both domestic wires and ACH transfers to Scenset's Mercury account:
Beneficiary
Receiving Bank Details
Mercury uses Choice Financial Group as a banking partner.
During your trip, you will have 24-hour access to a support person for anything you might need.
Tips for your guides are included with your itinerary.
Please refer to our Terms & Conditions here.