Utah - Mighty Five

Utah's Mighty 5 National Parks

Las Vegas, Grand Canyon Village, Lake Powell, Moab, Monument Valley, Kayenta, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park

Eight Days and Seven Nights

Emergency Contact

Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to call your Tour Director and leave a detailed message, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. If for any reason, you do not receive an answer in a timely matter, please call the company emergency line and leave a detailed message, so we may assist you.

Tour Director Name and Phone

Company Emergency Line

What's Included

* Roundtrip Domestic Airfare

*Motorcoach transportation

*Seven Nights in superior hotel accommodations

*15 Meals - 7 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 5 Dinners

*Welcome Reception in Las Vegas

* Route 66 Museum

* Grand Canyon National Park

*Cameron Trading Post of the Navajo Nation

*Vermillion Cliffs

*Antelope Canyon

*Cruise on Lake Powell

*4 Wheel Tour of Monument Valley

*Navajo Cookout

*Picnic Lunch at Dead Horse Point State Park

*Arches National Park

*Jet Boat Ride on the Colorado River

*BBQ Dinner on the banks of the Colorado River

*4x4 Jeep Tour of Canyonlands National Park

*Capitol Reef National Park, Green River, and San Rafael Swell

*Scenic Ride on Highway 12 through Grand Staircase - Escalante National Monument

*Bryce Canyon National Park

*Zion National Park

Highlights

Our tour kicks off with an exclusive welcome reception in Vegas that leaves us plenty of time to explore this city on our own. Departing Vegas we travel on iconic Rte. 66 to Grand Canyon National Park where we will be amazed by its wildlife and natural wonders. Next, we head to the Navajo Nation with a stop at an authentic trading post before heading to Antelope Canyon, one of the most spectacular attractions in the area. Today, we will take a scenic cruise on Lake Powell whose emerald blue water is contrasted by the red rock cliffs that surround us. Afterward, we meet our Navajo Guide and board a 4-wheel drive vehicle for an exhilarating guided tour of Monument Valley. We finish the day off in style at an authentic Navajo Cookout. Arches National Park is next on the itinerary and we will visit all the highlights, take a jet boat ride on the Colorado River, and cap off the day with a BBQ cowboy style on the banks of the river. A Jeep tour of Canyonlands National Park is the highlight of the morning and our afternoon is free to explore the delights of Moab. Next, we head for Capitol Reef National Park, where we will see ancient petroglyphs and beautiful rock formations on our way to a picnic lunch under towering cottonwood trees. Cruising down Highway 12 is an unforgettable experience as we pass the Grand Staircase and Escalante National Monument on our way for a tour of Bryce National Park. Our final excursion is to Utah's oldest and most famous National Park, Zion, where we might spot a mischievous spirit or two amid the stark beauty of this park's landscape.

Dossier Disclaimer 

The information in this trip details a document that has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However, it is subject to change and does not form part of the contract between the client and Tours of Distinction. The itinerary featured is correct at this time. Occasionally itineraries change as we make adjustments according to input from travelers, and our tour directors, as well as with lodging and other availability. Our goal is to give you the most rewarding travel experience that is seamless and fun.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days before travel, in case any changes affect your plans.

Itinerary Disclaimer

While it is our intention to adhere to the route as described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary. On occasion, it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. 

Itinerary 

Note: Accommodations and restaurants can vary per departure date until the tour start date, they are not final and should be considered as examples of better than or comparable hotels and restaurants. 

Day 1 - Arrive Las Vegas, NV
Upon our arrival in Las Vegas, we transfer to our hotel on the Las Vegas strip. This evening, there is a Tours of Distinction exclusive welcome reception with the remainder of the evening free to explore the vibrant nightlife that is Vegas.
*Transfer to the Hotel
*Check into the Tropicana
*Welcome Reception
*Dinner on your own

Day 2 - Grand Canyon Village, AZ
After breakfast, we depart Las Vegas and travel past Lake Mead and Hoover Dam as we enter Arizona. We stop in Kingman to tour the Route 66 Museum, which highlights the glory days of cross-country automobile travel. We travel Route 66 heading east through northern Arizona. This afternoon, we will see “One of the Wonders of the World,” Grand Canyon National Park. This 1.2 million-acre national park hosts a vast variety of wildlife and scenic wonders. We will learn about the geology and history of the canyon while taking in its breathtaking beauty at all the best viewpoints along the South Rim, including Grand Canyon Village. Our hotel is just outside the park. After we check in we will meet to have dinner.
*Breakfast
*Lunch on own
*Check into Best Western Premier Squire Inn Grand Canyon
*Dinner

Day 3 - Lake Powell, UT

After breakfast, we will make one more pass along the south rim of the Grand Canyon National Park to see the landscape in the morning light. We will make a brief stop at Desert View for scenic photos before exiting the park. Continuing our journey, we enter the Navajo Nation with a rest stop at Cameron Trading Post, established in 1916 with time to explore the amazing gift shop of traditional and contemporary Native American art, crafts, and jewelry. As we continue on we will pass the Vermillion Cliffs National Monument on our way to Page for an included lunch. The highlight of the day is our tour through Antelope Canyon, a geologic treasure. The mysterious and haunting beauty of Antelope Canyon awaits the adventurous traveler who seeks to discover one of the most spectacular attractions of the Lake Powell area. A tour of this awe-inspiring sculpture set in stone is a must for amateur and professional photographers alike. A short hike to Horseshoe Bend for a stunning view of the Colorado River is a suggested option. Arrive Lake Powell Resort with the evening free to explore and have dinner on your own.

*Breakfast

*Lunch

*Check-In to Lake Powell Resort

*Dinner on Your Own

Day 4 - Monument Valley
After breakfast, we will take a scenic cruise on Lake Powell. The contrast of the red rock walls and emerald blue waters is a stunning sight as we glide through the canyon. After, there is time for lunch, on your own. This afternoon, we depart Lake Powell and travel to the famed Monument Valley, a sacred place to the Navajo. We will be immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the ‘Dineh’ people. Their arts, music, and livelihood are all closely tied to the dramatic desert landscape that is their home. After checking in to our hotel, we meet our Navajo guide and board a 4-wheel drive vehicle for a scenic tour of Monument Valley; which has been a location for scores of famous western films, television programs, and commercials. As we travel through the valley and visit famous locations, such as John Ford Point, Artist Point, and The Totem Pole, we will also learn more about the Navajo traditions and their way of life. This evening, we experience Navajo culture, food, and entertainment at a Navajo Cookout. After a wonderful day, we settle into our hotel.

*Breakfast

*Lunch on own

*Navajo Cookout

*Check -In - Hampton Inn, Kayenta

Day 5 - Arches National Park
After breakfast, we depart Monument Valley and head north, arriving at Dead Horse Point State Park where we will enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the most spectacular settings in the southwest. A highlight here is the chance to see the vast expanse of Canyonlands National Park stretching to the south with stunning views of the mighty Colorado River 2,000 feet below. From here, we are off to nearby Arches National Park for sightseeing. The 18,000-square-foot visitor center (with over 2,000 named arches within its 73,000-acre boundary) will introduce us to the unique geologic forces that created the highest concentration of natural arches in the world. We visit all of the park’s highlights including Park Avenue, Balance Rock, The Windows, and Delicate Arch. In the late afternoon, we embark on a fabulous experience, as we take a boat ride on the mighty Colorado River through spectacular red rock canyons. As the sun dips in the west, the canyon colors come to life while we learn about the river’s ecosystem, geology, and history. The perfect conclusion to this scenic experience is a delicious BBQ dinner served on the banks of the Colorado River. Afterward, we check into our hotel and the rest of the evening is on your own.

*Breakfast

*Picnic Lunch @ Dead Horse Point State Park

*BBQ Dinner on the Banks of the Colorado River

*Hotel Hampton Inn, Kayenta is this correct?

Day 6 - Canyonlands National Park

Our day starts after breakfast by meeting our professional driver guide and board 4x4 vehicles for a Jeep Tour of Canyonlands National Park. The Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park is the focus of this outstanding tour. Set 2,000 feet above the canyon floor, we descend from the top of the mesa via the famous Shafer Trail. Using switchbacks, the tour will take us from atop the mesa to the meandering river corridor below. Throughout the tour, our guide will provide information on the Park and the scenery. What an exciting morning in Canyonlands! This afternoon, you will have free time to enjoy Moab, shop, sightsee, and have lunch and dinner on your own.

*Breakfast

*Best Western Greenwell Inn, Moab

*Lunch and Dinner on your own

Day 7 - Bryce Canyon National Park
After breakfast, we depart Moab for Capitol Reef National Park. We pass through the town of Green River and the San Rafael Swell. Along the way, we will see ancient petroglyphs, beautiful rock formations, and deep canyons. It is inspiring to imagine the difficult life the pioneers had as they navigated this vast, unknown, and yet beautiful landscape. We will stop for a picnic lunch under towering cottonwood trees and take in the scenery. A highlight of today's journey is the drive along scenic Highway 12, designated as an "All American Road." Along the way, we will pass the Grand Staircase and the Escalante National Monument, before arriving at Bryce Canyon National Park for sightseeing. Later, we check into our hotel for the evening. This evening is free to enjoy dinner, on own.

*Breakfast

*Picnic Lunch

*Check-In - Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel

*Dinner on your own

Day 8 - Zion National Park - Depart Las Vegas
We depart after breakfast on a short drive to see Utah’s oldest and most famous National Park, Zion National Park. The Paiutes believed mischievous spirits lived among the 2,000-foot high towers and would not enter the canyon alone or remain there after dark. There will be time for lunch on your own before crossing the desert and returning to the glitz and glam of Las Vegas. After an amazing trip through some of our nation’s greatest natural treasures, we will enjoy a farewell dinner with friends old and new and share memories of our wonderful holiday.

*Breakfast

*Lunch on Own

*Farewell Dinner

Notes

1. Our ground transportation for this trip is a motorcoach. It is a good idea to bring along your mobile phone, camera, charging devices, sunscreen, and any other necessities.

2. Since we will be moving almost every night from one hotel to another, it is best to pack light. Always put your most important belongings in the same spot so you don't forget them. You may want to make a checklist to make sure you have everything you need before you depart the hotel.

3. May and October are great times to visit Utah, especially if you want to avoid the summer heat but still enjoy the sunshine. In May there is up to 14 hours of sunlight per day and humidity levels are around 41%. A perk of visiting in the spring is that you may see wildflowers in bloom. May temperatures range from 80 F to 71 during the day with a low of 44 F in the evening. October weather is cool and dry, with the bonus being fewer crowds and dazzling fall colors. Temperatures range from the mid-60sF to a high of 72 during the day and a low of 40 at night.

4. Since temperatures vary and are cooler in the early morning and in the evening and warmer during the day. It is best to dress in layers, opt for long pants, long-sleeved breathable shirts, a warm jacket, and a rain poncho just in case.

5. Bring a refillable water bottle, desert air is dry so it is important to keep hydrated especially if you plan on hiking.

6. Wear sturdy hiking shoes that are supportive, waterproof, and breathable.

7. Sunscreen is a must! Wear a hat and make sure you protect your eyes with sunglasses.

8. The night sky in Utah is phenomenal. You will find some of the darkest skies in Utah’s National Parks where you will be able to see up to 15,000 stars in the desert in comparison to 500 in an urban sky! You might consider downloading a Star App on your mobile device to help you understand the night sky.

Group Leader Description

This Tours of Distinction tour is accompanied by one of our professional tour directors. This person is responsible for coordinating traveler's accommodations, attractions, meals, and luggage on the trip. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have general knowledge of the places we will be visiting. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues, and introduce you to our local tour guides who will have in-depth knowledge of the areas and attractions we are visiting. The Group Leader is also responsible for keeping the tour itinerary on time and for checking the attendance of all travelers to make sure no one is left behind. It is also the Group Tour Leader's responsibility to maintain appropriate traveler conduct while on the tour.

Transportation
If airfare is included in the cost of your tour, we will book the most convenient flights available within the budget allotted for this trip. For tours where no air is included, please contact Tours of Distinction for assistance.

For this trip, we will be using a large motorcoach from one of our trusted partners. We choose our partners with great care to ensure that your transportation throughout the trip is smooth and uneventful. However, we are not responsible if the motorcoach has mechanical issues and will work with the executives of the company to resolve any issues as quickly as possible.

We do not practice seat rotation due to COVID-19, especially on a trip where the motorcoach is in use for multiple days. The motorcoach has comfortable seating, a restroom, internet, plugs to power up devices, overhead bins for essentials, and video capability. There are some long rides on this trip and the motorcoach will be stopping every few hours for folks to use the facilities and to get a snack.

Solo Travelers
If you are a solo traveler and do not want to pay a single supplement and are open to sharing your accommodations with another traveler, Tours of Distinction will do their best to match you up with someone else. We cannot guarantee that we can find another traveler for you to room with and take no responsibility for any situations that may arise between roommates.

About Accommodations
Tours of Distinction uses Superior hotel accommodations on this trip that are centrally located within walking distance of downtown areas and close to park entrances. Our chosen hotels may vary in size, character, and amenities. All our rooms are booked and chosen because they offer double occupancy with private bathrooms. Sometimes lodging facilities are changed before departure. These changes are predicated on availability and on the advice of our clients and the tour director's past experiences. When a change is made, you will be placed in the same caliber of hotel or better.


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What to Take
You must be aware of your airline's baggage policy and weight restrictions. Tours of Distinction is not liable for your baggage charges. As a rule of thumb, our advice is to pack light and to bring clothes that coordinate well. During the day we recommend layers of medium-weight breathable fabrics and for the evenings, we recommend a jacket and sweater.

Packing List

To start with write down where you are going, what you are doing, what the temperatures will be, and how long you will be gone. Keeping this in mind will help you focus on the itinerary and help you define how much you need to bring. A general rule is to plan your outfits ahead of time and pack clothes that will go together. Many experts recommend up to five shirts/blouses, two pairs of pants, a lightweight to medium weight sweater or fleece, evening wear,  a scarf or tie, sleepwear, underclothes, and socks. As for the suitcase, it is always a good idea to be aware of airline luggage restrictions and to check carry-on size requirements to ensure that it will fit in the overhead bin on the plane and on the motorcoach. 

Travel Essentials in Carry-on or Travel Bag/Purse

Medicine

Driver's License

Credit cards/ATM cards

Cash

Glasses/sunglasses/contacts

Insurance cards 

House/Car keys

Cell phone and chargers

Travel Documents 

Emergency contacts

Credit card/bank contacts

Travel Pillow, Back pillow, earplugs

Water bottle 

Hand sanitizer

Tolitery bag and toiletries

Compression socks if flying

Chargers for Phones, Computers, Camera

Pens

Lip balm

Sunscreen

Bug Spray

Itinerary

General Packing List

Underwear, undershirts/bras

Socks

Sleepwear

Comfortable shoes

Hiking Boots

Long and short sleeve shirts/blouses

Turtlenecks or scoop-neck cotton shirts

Jeans

Jacket

Sweaters

Pants

Rain poncho/umbrella

Fold up tote bag

Toiletries

Sealable plastic baggies to hold packed liquids

Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss

Deodorant

Hair styling tools

Face cleanser and make-up, make-up remover

Shaving supplies

Bandages/antibiotic ointment

Asprin and Vitamins

Currency

It is always good to bring some cash on a trip. Some travelers spend more than others, so please consider your own spending habits when it comes to purchasing souvenirs, shopping, drinking, and tipping. It is also prudent to take along some emergency cash for circumstances out of our control. 

Currency Exchange 

Credit cards are accepted everywhere in the U.S. and ATMs are readily available on this trip. 

Tipping

On a TOD tour, all tipping is included for baggage handling, drivers, tour director, local guides, and meals. It is customary to tip your waiter,  waitress, or bartender when dining on your own. You may also want to tip your chambermaid at your hotel, the range is $2 to $5 per day. At the end of each trip, it is up to your discretion to tip the local guide (range is $2-$5 for the experience), tour director, and bus driver (guideline is $5-$10 a day), if you feel that they did an outstanding job. 

Unacceptable Behavior

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trip. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Lewd, drunken behavior is also unacceptable.

Travel Insurance 

Travel insurance isn’t just for trips overseas. It’s prudent to buy travel insurance for every trip because you never know what might happen when you’re far from home! We strongly recommend that the policy covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment,  accidents, medical evacuations, loss of luggage, and personal effects.

Feedback

Your constructive feedback is important to Tours of Distinction, we love hearing from you. It is so important to us that we will give you a 5% discount on your next Tours of Distinction trip. Your tour evaluation will be emailed to you upon your return home. If you don't receive it, please give us a call at 800-426-4324 so we can send it to you.

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Minimum Age

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a Tours of Distinction trip. For minors traveling with a guardian or parents, they must be 21 or older. The minimum age for group travel is 12.