Las Vegas, Zion National Park, Emerald Pools
We leave Las Vegas by 8am and trade neon for the soaring sandstone walls of Zion National Park. After checking into our hotel, we set out on our first hike together to Emerald Pools, an easygoing single-track trail that winds past tumbling waterfalls and pools of cool blue water beneath Zion's towering cliffs. In the evening we head into Springdale for dinner and a stroll past its galleries and shops. For anyone who wants more, we can tour an authentic 1800s ghost town with pioneer cabins and its own cemetery, or return to the park for a sunset hike.

Angels Landing, Bryce Canyon, Escalante
Today brings one of the most thrilling trails on earth, Angels Landing, included with luxury packages. We start at 6am to beat the crowds and the heat. The 2.4-mile climb begins at the Grotto, follows the Virgin River, and ascends switchbacks carved into the cliff face. Past Refrigerator Canyon you reach Walter's Wiggles, 21 tight switchbacks leading to Scout Lookout, then a final narrow half mile with chains to grip and unforgettable views. After lunch in Springdale we drive to Bryce Canyon National Park, where the rim opens onto a glowing sea of hoodoos, cliffs, and arches framed by pine. We wander the Queens Garden Trail at sunset past the Wall of Windows and The Cathedral, then settle into a cozy bed and breakfast in Escalante.

Grand Staircase-Escalante, Slot Canyons, Torrey
Get ready to squeeze through a true slot canyon. Heading down the Hole in the Rock road, we reach the playful pair known as Spooky and Peekaboo, sliding up one and down the other through narrow passages carved by wind and water over countless ages. A short drive brings us to the Calf Creek trail and a gentle walk to the beautiful Lower Calf Creek Falls, which even has its own little beach, passing a towering cliff face etched with some of the largest American Indian petroglyphs in the region. We then follow the scenic Hells Backbone road, pause for a late lunch, and cross Boulder Mountain into the charming town of Torrey.

Capitol Reef, Goblin Valley, Canyonlands, Moab
An early 6am start takes us into Capitol Reef National Park, past dramatic cliffs and the historic Gifford farmhouse and orchard, a late-1800s Mormon homestead. Our hike climbs from the Grand Wash trailhead to a bench above the canyon, then winds across slickrock to the impressive Cassidy Arch. On the way to Canyonlands we stop at Goblin Valley State Park to wander among its wonderfully strange rock formations and the ancient art of the Fremont, Paiute, and Ute peoples. We time our arrival at Canyonlands for a spectacular sunset at Mesa Arch, then enjoy a well-earned dinner in Moab.

Arches National Park, Delicate Arch
We begin in one of Utah's most iconic parks with a sunrise hike through Devils Garden, a roughly seven-mile, mostly flat loop full of hoodoos, cliffs, and hidden arches. Next we visit favorites like Double Arch and Balanced Rock before returning to Moab for dinner and time to explore the lively town. As the day winds down, we hike to the most famous sight in the entire Southwest, Delicate Arch, following cairns over red sandstone to a sweeping bowl with the arch towering above. If the skies are clear, we linger after sunset for a brilliant canopy of stars, far from any city lights.

Slick Rock Trail, Moab, Salt Lake City
Moab is Utah's adventure playground, so we climb into rental Jeeps or Razors and take on the famous Slick Rock Trail, a 15-mile sandstone roller coaster of steep climbs and drops. Then we cruise the Rim Trail for sweeping views along the edge of a deep canyon. After a late lunch we say goodbye to red rock country and drive to Salt Lake City.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: [Salt Lake City hotel for 12-day travelers, or departure for 7-day travelers]

A Free Day in Salt Lake City
Today the Salt Lake area is yours to explore. For nature, head to Antelope Island State Park and hike the Buffalo Point Trail for sweeping views of the Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the country, or take a dip at Bridger Bay Beach. History and culture lovers can visit Temple Square, the heart of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, while aviation fans will enjoy the Hill Aerospace Museum and its 100-plus aircraft, from early warplanes to sleek modern jets.

Salt Lake City, Twin Falls, Idaho Falls, Yellowstone
We point north into Idaho, stopping at Twin Falls to admire a thunderous curtain of water pouring over ancient volcanic rock, and at Idaho Falls with its waterfall along the Snake River. From there we continue to West Yellowstone and into the wonderland of Yellowstone National Park, catching our first glimpses of icons like Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone Lake, the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, Mammoth Hot Springs, and West Thumb Geyser Basin.

Yellowstone National Park
We dive deeper into Yellowstone and its famous wonders, including Norris Geyser Basin, West Thumb Geyser Basin, the colorful Midway Geyser Basin, and the gentle Madison River. Keep watch for the park's remarkable wildlife, from bison, moose, elk, and pronghorn to bears and dozens of other species.

Grand Teton, Jenny Lake, Jackson Hole
One last drive through Yellowstone leads us south to the breathtaking Grand Teton National Park, with its jagged peaks, crystal-clear water, and rich history. We cruise Jackson Lake beneath Mount Moran while learning about the area's history, geology, and folklore. After visiting Jenny Lake we roll into Jackson Hole, a classic western town tucked against the high Tetons and full of great food and things to do. For an unforgettable view, ride the gondola that climbs more than 2,700 feet above the valley floor.

Jackson Hole, Lava Hot Springs, Salt Lake City
After one last look around Jackson Hole, your guide leads the scenic three-hour drive to Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. Here you can sink into the world-famous natural hot springs, where the mineral-rich water ranges from a soothing 102 to 112 degrees and leaves your skin feeling great. From there we head south to Salt Lake City, rolling past the wide valleys and towering peaks of the Mountain West. At the end of the day your guide drops you at the airport or the hotel of your choosing, full of memories from an unforgettable journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: Departure