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The American Southwest

01

Begin your journey in Salt Lake City, Utah.  Rent a car or RV and travel to Moab, home of Arches National Park.  Arches National Park showcases a stunning geological wonderland sculpted by millions of years of erosion and geological processes. Its iconic sandstone arches, formed through a combination of erosion from water, ice, and gravity, stand as natural works of art against the backdrop of Utah's unique landscape.

Eye of the Whale formation at Arches National Park

Lower Antelope Canyon

Page, Arizona

Witness the park's breathtaking rock formations up close while exploring its rugged terrain and unique geological features. Hike one of the park's expert or beginner level trails or take a jeep tour in Arches National Park for a truly immersive experience. 

From Moab, travel south to Page, Arizona - the start of the Grand Canyon.  Page has incredible canyon views, plentiful hiking opportunities, the Glen Canyon Dam and Lake Powell.  Horseshoe Bend and Antelope Canyon captivate visitors with their awe-inspiring beauty through the graceful curve of the Colorado River and the intricate, light-filled slot canyons carved by millennia of geological forces.  They are absolute show-stoppers.

Page is only a few hours away from Grand Canyon Village in Grand Canyon National Park.  At first sight, the Grand Canyon offers a transformative experience, allowing you to traverse ancient geological layers spanning millions of years and witness the canyon's immense scale and beauty from various vantage points.

The canyon's geology reveals a story of Earth's history, showcasing exposed rock formations, fossil evidence, and the powerful forces of erosion that shaped this natural wonder over time. Additionally, the Grand Canyon is rich in cultural significance with archaeological sites that highlight the ancestral Pueblo and Native American heritage.

Begin your return north from the Grand Canyon and stop off at Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. Bryce Canyon National Park is renowned for its expanses filled by thousands of hoodoos, intricately shaped rock pillars created by erosion over millions of years. The park's unique geological formations, vibrant colors, and expansive vistas make it a captivating destination.  The park's viewpoints are easily accessible by car or descend into the amphitheater on one of the many trails that criss-cross the canyon.  ​Bryce Canyon is an easy drive back to Salt Lake City to complete your loop.

Inquire about this sample itinerary.  Let me do the leg work on timed entry permits, hiking routes, and your National Parks Pass.  The possibilities, and the opportunities for amazement are endless!  This itinerary is completely customizable for accessibility - no hiking required!

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Photo by Oleg Chrusin

Horseshoe Bend 

Page, Arizona

The Grand Canyon

South Rim

Not ready to go home?

 

​The possibilities for expansion off of this itinerary are endless.  From the Grand Canyon Village, travel south to Sedona, Arizona and take in its stunning scenic byways, vibrant arts community, and diverse food scene.  Or see the awesome force of our universe at Meteor Crater National Landmark near Flagstaff.  ​The American Southwest is a region of unparalleled wonder, where vast deserts meet towering mountains, ancient rock formations defy gravity, and vibrant cultures blend seamlessly with awe-inspiring landscapes. From the grandeur of the Grand Canyon to the mystical beauty of Monument Valley, the Southwest offers a tapestry of natural marvels that leave visitors in awe.​

Excelsior Travel Consulting

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