Zion New Year's Adventure
Renewal Amid Desert Landscapes
-
- Activity Level: 3
- Days: 6
- Group Size: 4-12
- Member price: from $3,199
- Non-member price: from $3,490
Overview
The soaring landscapes of Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks are magnified during the winter months, when visitors are few and the air is shrouded in stillness and a sense of renewal. We spend our days hiking and snowshoeing across forested plateaus, breathtaking vistas and colorful canyons. We return each evening to the cozy comfort of a nearby lodge, enjoying good conversation over a savory meal.
We ring in the New Year on a high note, exploring along the rim of Bryce above a maze of fantastically-shaped hoodoos. Walk along the edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau and marvel at the wonders of magnificent Bryce Amphitheatre. On our final day, we emerge from the narrows at the Zion Tunnel. Hike the Canyon Overlook Trail for one last glimpse of the park before returning home energized by new friends and the New Year.
Trip highlights
- Ring in the New Year at beautiful Zion National Park
- Hike and snowshoe through quiet, stunning terrain in Zion and Bryce Canyon
- Visit the Narrows, Angel's Landing, Bryce Amphitheatre, and more
- Stay at a private lodge and celebrate with delicious meals and new friends
Activities
- Hiking
- Snowshoeing
Accommodations
Lodge, 5 nights
Itinerary
Arrive into Las Vegas, Nevada by 8am today. This adventure accommodates up to three separate groups, each with their own guides, support van and lodgings. Each group meets at a specified time, between 9am and 11 am, and then transfers to our lodgings just east of Zion National Park. En route you will stop for lunch (own expense). There is time to settle into your room before enjoying a home-cooked meal. An overview of the week aquaints us with the activities and daily schedules. Dinner included.
Driving: 4 hours.
After a very short van ride, we set out on snowshoes across the top of the White Cliffs (6,500'), a forested plateau high above Zion National Park. Within a few miles, breathtaking vistas of deep, colorful canyons appear as we make our way along a ridgeline perched above Parunuweap Canyon. On a typical winter day, the high plateau of the East Mesa is covered with up to three feet of snow, while the lower elevations of Zion remain relatively snow-free. All meals included.
Hiking / snowshoeing: 6 miles. Terrain: on-trail, 600’ climb.
After a hearty breakfast, we drive into Zion Canyon and the Court of the Patriarchs, where we stop for a short hike to a magnificent viewpoint. Then it's on to the Grotto, where we climb up Walter's Wiggles to a picturesque lunch spot with a breathtaking view into the Temple of Sinewava. All meals included.
Hiking: 5 miles. Terrain: on-trail, 1,600' elevation gain/loss.
Weather and road conditions permitting, we begin the day with an 80-minute drive to Bryce Canyon National Park. Our trailhead is at 7,800', high enough to provide us with reliable snow cover at this time of year. Our planned route takes us along the rim of Bryce above a maze of fantastically-shaped hoodoos. We'll walk along the edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau to Sunrise and Sunset Points and marvel at the wonders of magnificent Bryce Amphitheatre. Our snowshoe route allows us to view many of the scenic and geological highlights of this unique national park. We return to the ranch late this afternoon for dinner. All meals included.
Hiking / snowshoeing: 6 miles. Terrain: crosscountry over snow, 300' elevation gain.
We'll drive to the end of stunning Zion Canyon and the imposing Temple of Sinawava this morning and follow the Riverside Walk to the Virgin River Narrows. After a glimpse into the spectacular Narrows, we'll hike back along the river to the base of Angel's Landing, looking for ephemeral waterfalls that often tumble thousands of feet from the high canyon walls during the winter months. After lunch, a van transfer to the Zion Lodge leaves us at the trailhead leading to Emerald Pools, a lovely collection of ponds and waterfalls, the destination of our afternoon hike. Back at the lodge this evening, we'll enjoy one final dinner together and reflect on our adventure with a newfound appreciation for these wondrous national parks. All meals included.
Hiking: 5 miles. Terrain: On-trail, 400’ elevation gain.
A 20-minute drive brings us to the Zion tunnel where, conditions permitting, we begin an exploration of the twisted narrows of Clear Creek and Pine Creek. We emerge from the narrows at the Zion Tunnel where we hike the Canyon Overlook Trail for a last look at this awesome park before our drive back to Las Vegas. Towering walls of sandstone capped with pure white snow fill the view from the top of the Great Arch at trail's end. For those flying home today, please do not schedule a flight out of Las Vegas prior to 7 p.m. Breakfast, Lunch included.
Hiking: 2 miles. Terrain: rock scrambling off-trail in sandstone narrows, on-trail to Canyon Overlook, 100’ elevation gain.
Note on Itinerary
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including weather, snow, trail and road conditions.
What's included
Call 1-800-622-2236 to reserve this trip on the phone
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time
Price Includes
Accommodations based on double occupancy for five nights; all meals from dinner on Day 1 to lunch on Day 6; Day 1 group transfer from Las Vegas to Zion National Park and return on Day 6; vehicle support; expert guide leadership; park entrance fees; ice traction devices, snowshoes and trekking poles.
Not Included
Airfare to Las Vegas; airport transfers; insurance of any kind; excess baggage fees; optional guide gratuities; one lunch; alcoholic beverages or soft drinks; items of a personal nature.
Consider as you sign up
Airline tickets - Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip is confirmed with the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Travel insurance - To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Please contact us or see details.
REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits.
REI Co-op World Mastercard® - Earn 5% back on REI Adventures trips and all REI net purchases. Learn more.
Additional Information
Cancellation and Transfer Policy
A refundable deposit of $400 is required at time of booking to secure space. Full payment is required 60 days before departure date.
If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation:
91+ days prior to departure = $0
61 to 90 days = $400
31 to 60 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 30 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
If you instead transfer to another trip, the following fees are due at the time of the request:
61+ days prior to departure = $0
31 to 60 days = $400
0 to 30 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
To protect your investment, we recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
Weather
Winter in Zion Canyon can be mild, with sunny days. Daytime temperatures will vary and are usually 20-50°F depending on the elevation of each day's hike. Expect nighttime temperatures in the teens and 20s. Winter storms occasionally bring rain or light snow to Zion Canyon, with the possibility of heavy snow and colder temperatures at our lodgings, which are located at 6,500’.
Single Travelers
Single room space is very limited and single travelers of the same gender will be roomed together on sold out departures. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed.
General Information
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. Additional trip information will be provided upon sign up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Meet your guides
Jerry A.
Jerry began guiding with the renowned Yosemite Mountaineering School in 1970 and led many backpacking and climbing trips. In 2009 he began guiding in Utah's national parks. He loves helping people explore and enjoy areas they might not find on their own.
Meet your guides
Steve K.
An REI Top Guide award recipient, Steve has enthusiastically guided hiking and mountain biking adventures in the Southwest for the past 20 years. Teaching clients about the intricate natural history of Capitol Reef and the Escalante is his passion.
Adventure Expert
Heather
Close out the old and welcome in the new in two of our most beloved national parks! If I had my way I would celebrate all holidays in the outdoors. Hiking the narrows of Zion is how I would love to start every year.
Departure dates
Select a month to view departure dates. If there are no departures in a month, the month will not appear below.
Prices are per person, double occupancy.
2018
-
Dec 29 - Jan 3 Limited availability from $3,199Request space Error: Please select a departure date to book your trip. Error: Sold out. Please select another departure date.
Gear list
The key to staying comfortable while on an active trip is layering. To get maximum comfort with minimum weight, you need versatile layers that mix and match to create the right amount of insulation, ventilation and weather protection. Try to bring only what is necessary—this will help you and the field staff.
Provided by REI
- Group First Aid Kit
- Ice Traction Devices
- Snowshoes
- Trekking Poles With Baskets
Required
- Base Layer Tops and Bottoms (Midweight, Synthetic)
- Day Pack (21L-35L)
- Flashlight or Headlamp with Fresh Batteries
- Fleece/Wool Hat
- Fleece/Wool Jacket or Sweater
- Gloves (Waterproof and Insulating)
- Insulated Jacket
- Luggage (1 Piece)
- Rain Jacket (Hooded, Lightweight, Waterproof, Breathable)
- Shell Pants with Side Zippers (Waterproof, Breathable)
- Water Bottles (Two 1-Quart) or Hydration System
- Waterproof Hiking Boots
Recommended
- Bandana
- Casual Clothing for Travel and Town Wear (Lightweight, Easily Washable)
- Casual Shoes for Travel and Free Time
- Gaiters (Tall)
- Hiking Pants (Convertible, Quick-Dry, Lightweight)
- Hiking Socks (Synthetic or Wool)
- Liner Socks (Synthetic)
- Long Sleeve Shirts (Synthetic, Lightweight)
- Luggage Tags and Locks
- Personal Bathroom Kit: Toilet Paper, Ziplock Bags, Personal Wipes, Hand Cleaner
- Personal First Aid Kit/Medications (Lightweight)
- Sit Pad
- Sun Block and Lip Balm
- Sun Hat
- Sunglasses and Accessories
- Tee Shirts (Synthetic)
- Toiletries
Optional
Travel Documents
- Airline Tickets (Confirmation and Itinerary)
- Final Bulletin (Emailed Prior to Departure Date)
- Photo Identification
Contact Us
Feel free to give us a call at 1-800-622-2236 should you have any questions regarding the gear list. The staff at our stores and Direct Sales (1-800-426-4840) will also be happy to help you with gear questions. Or check out REI Expert Advice, which has great information to help you prepare for your trip.
.Itinerary
Print Itinerary Expand all days
Arrive into Las Vegas, Nevada by 8am today. This adventure accommodates up to three separate groups, each with their own guides, support van and lodgings. Each group meets at a specified time, between 9am and 11 am, and then transfers to our lodgings just east of Zion National Park. En route you will stop for lunch (own expense). There is time to settle into your room before enjoying a home-cooked meal. An overview of the week aquaints us with the activities and daily schedules. Dinner included.
Driving: 4 hours.
After a very short van ride, we set out on snowshoes across the top of the White Cliffs (6,500'), a forested plateau high above Zion National Park. Within a few miles, breathtaking vistas of deep, colorful canyons appear as we make our way along a ridgeline perched above Parunuweap Canyon. On a typical winter day, the high plateau of the East Mesa is covered with up to three feet of snow, while the lower elevations of Zion remain relatively snow-free. All meals included.
Hiking / snowshoeing: 6 miles. Terrain: on-trail, 600’ climb.
After a hearty breakfast, we drive into Zion Canyon and the Court of the Patriarchs, where we stop for a short hike to a magnificent viewpoint. Then it's on to the Grotto, where we climb up Walter's Wiggles to a picturesque lunch spot with a breathtaking view into the Temple of Sinewava. All meals included.
Hiking: 5 miles. Terrain: on-trail, 1,600' elevation gain/loss.
Weather and road conditions permitting, we begin the day with an 80-minute drive to Bryce Canyon National Park. Our trailhead is at 7,800', high enough to provide us with reliable snow cover at this time of year. Our planned route takes us along the rim of Bryce above a maze of fantastically-shaped hoodoos. We'll walk along the edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau to Sunrise and Sunset Points and marvel at the wonders of magnificent Bryce Amphitheatre. Our snowshoe route allows us to view many of the scenic and geological highlights of this unique national park. We return to the ranch late this afternoon for dinner. All meals included.
Hiking / snowshoeing: 6 miles. Terrain: crosscountry over snow, 300' elevation gain.
We'll drive to the end of stunning Zion Canyon and the imposing Temple of Sinawava this morning and follow the Riverside Walk to the Virgin River Narrows. After a glimpse into the spectacular Narrows, we'll hike back along the river to the base of Angel's Landing, looking for ephemeral waterfalls that often tumble thousands of feet from the high canyon walls during the winter months. After lunch, a van transfer to the Zion Lodge leaves us at the trailhead leading to Emerald Pools, a lovely collection of ponds and waterfalls, the destination of our afternoon hike. Back at the lodge this evening, we'll enjoy one final dinner together and reflect on our adventure with a newfound appreciation for these wondrous national parks. All meals included.
Hiking: 5 miles. Terrain: On-trail, 400’ elevation gain.
A 20-minute drive brings us to the Zion tunnel where, conditions permitting, we begin an exploration of the twisted narrows of Clear Creek and Pine Creek. We emerge from the narrows at the Zion Tunnel where we hike the Canyon Overlook Trail for a last look at this awesome park before our drive back to Las Vegas. Towering walls of sandstone capped with pure white snow fill the view from the top of the Great Arch at trail's end. For those flying home today, please do not schedule a flight out of Las Vegas prior to 7 p.m. Breakfast, Lunch included.
Hiking: 2 miles. Terrain: rock scrambling off-trail in sandstone narrows, on-trail to Canyon Overlook, 100’ elevation gain.
Note on Itinerary
Although we do our very best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control including weather, snow, trail and road conditions.
What's included
Call 1-800-622-2236 to reserve this trip on the phone
Monday-Friday, 7 AM to 5 PM Pacific Time
Price Includes
Accommodations based on double occupancy for five nights; all meals from dinner on Day 1 to lunch on Day 6; Day 1 group transfer from Las Vegas to Zion National Park and return on Day 6; vehicle support; expert guide leadership; park entrance fees; ice traction devices, snowshoes and trekking poles.
Not Included
Airfare to Las Vegas; airport transfers; insurance of any kind; excess baggage fees; optional guide gratuities; one lunch; alcoholic beverages or soft drinks; items of a personal nature.
Consider as you sign up
Airline tickets - Please check with us before purchasing your airline tickets to ensure your trip is confirmed with the minimum number of participants required to operate.
Travel insurance - To protect your travel investment, we highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance. Please contact us or see details.
REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits.
REI Co-op World Mastercard® - Earn 5% back on REI Adventures trips and all REI net purchases. Learn more.
Additional Information
Cancellation and Transfer Policy
A refundable deposit of $400 is required at time of booking to secure space. Full payment is required 60 days before departure date.
If you decide to cancel your trip, the following fees apply and are due when we receive notice of your cancellation:
91+ days prior to departure = $0
61 to 90 days = $400
31 to 60 days prior to departure = 50% of the total trip cost is non-refundable
0 to 30 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
If you instead transfer to another trip, the following fees are due at the time of the request:
61+ days prior to departure = $0
31 to 60 days = $400
0 to 30 days prior to departure = 100% of the trip cost is non-refundable
To protect your investment, we recommend that you purchase travel insurance.
Weather
Winter in Zion Canyon can be mild, with sunny days. Daytime temperatures will vary and are usually 20-50°F depending on the elevation of each day's hike. Expect nighttime temperatures in the teens and 20s. Winter storms occasionally bring rain or light snow to Zion Canyon, with the possibility of heavy snow and colder temperatures at our lodgings, which are located at 6,500’.
Single Travelers
Single room space is very limited and single travelers of the same gender will be roomed together on sold out departures. Single rooms cannot be guaranteed.
General Information
This trip is subject to the booking information set forth in the current REI Adventures Reservation Information. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. Additional trip information will be provided upon sign up. We highly recommend the purchase of travel insurance through REI Adventures. If coverage is purchased at the time of your initial reservation, the 'Pre-existing Conditions Exclusion' is waived (certain exclusions apply).
We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! Why wait? Space is limited, reserve your adventure today.
Meet your guides
Jerry A.
Jerry began guiding with the renowned Yosemite Mountaineering School in 1970 and led many backpacking and climbing trips. In 2009 he began guiding in Utah's national parks. He loves helping people explore and enjoy areas they might not find on their own.
Meet your guides
Steve K.
An REI Top Guide award recipient, Steve has enthusiastically guided hiking and mountain biking adventures in the Southwest for the past 20 years. Teaching clients about the intricate natural history of Capitol Reef and the Escalante is his passion.
Adventure Expert
Heather
Close out the old and welcome in the new in two of our most beloved national parks! If I had my way I would celebrate all holidays in the outdoors. Hiking the narrows of Zion is how I would love to start every year.