Utah with Rachel Pressley

Dates

Sep 14–19, 2024

Group Size

8–11 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Adventure

About This Trip

Get ready for an adventure-packed trip to some of Utah's most stunning national parks. You'll get to hike and explore Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, and Arches National Park and pass through Capitol Reef National Park for some iconic views. You'll have the chance to explore the canyons via horseback, or tackle rapids on the Colorado River. This trip will take you to some of the most beautiful places in Utah's National Parks and give you a great appreciation for the natural and amazing red rocks that make up this part of the United States. Please Note: This is a participatory camping, in which all travelers will be assisting in setting up camp and cooking meals. Guides will teach you the best methods for quick set up and take down of tents, and will lead the cooking, providing clear instructions and oversight. If you’ve never set up camp or cooked outdoors before, this is the perfect opportunity to learn under expert supervision!
$2,545USD
$2,645USD
Sep 14–19, 2024
6 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

Rachel Pressley
Rachel Pressley

Rachel is a 27 year old professional photographer, content creator, and avid traveler and outdoor adventurer living in Asheville, North Carolina. One of the things that brings her the most joy is traveling and spending time in new places surrounded by nature and friends. She can't wait to travel with you.

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Trip Activities

  • Hike Scout Lookout Trail via West Rim Trail

  • Hike Zion Canyon Overlook Trail

  • Hike Queen's Garden/Navajo Loop Combination Trail

  • Scenic Drive through Capitol Reef National Park

  • Hike Landscape Arch Trail

  • Hike Delicate Arch Trail

Optional Activities*

  • Optional Horseback Ride

*Add-ons available at checkout for an additional fee.

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in tents and triple occupancy in shared cabins

  • Local guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer on a group basis (Please arrive by 11am).

  • Departure airport transfer on a group basis (morning of last day). Please book your flights after 6pm.

Not Included

  • Flights (except as noted)

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and Travel Insurance

  • Airport Transfers Outside of Designated Times

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Welcome to Las Vegas! Your trip begins with TrovaTrip picking you up from the airport and transferring you to Zion National Park where you'll set up camp and cook your first dinner with the group. Plan to arrive by 11 am. Camping is part of this incredible experience; you will set up and pack up your tent and help prep all meals! Since you'll be out on adventures most days, lunch will be picnic-style or bagged lunches. If you've never camped before, no worries, your professional Guide will always be there to help. Stops for bathroom breaks will be made as needed along the way to the campground.

Arrival Airport Transfer

4 Hours

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer from Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) to the campground between 10:00 A.M. and 11:00 A.M. Please arrive by 11:00 A.M. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to your arrival based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own arrangements to meet the group at the campground.

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Camp dinners are typically American fare with meals like pastas, stews, burgers etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Zion Ponderosa Campground (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight near Zion National Park

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Day 2

Info

Today you'll get to experience the breathtaking beauty of Zion National Park, which is Utah's first national park. After breakfast at camp, you'll head into the park and embark on the first hike of the trip: the Scout Overlook Trail. Then you'll transfer to the trailhead of your second hike: the Zion Canyon Overlook Trail. On both hikes you'll be rewarded with gorgeous views of the reddish and tan-colored Navajo Sandstone that make up Zion's iconic canyon walls. After spending the day in Zion, you'll head back to camp for dinner and to discuss the day with your fellow travelers. Today you'll want to bring a day pack, water bottles, hiking boots, sun glasses, sunscreen, and some snacks.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Transfer to Scout Lookout Trailhead

1 Hour

Take a private transfer from the campground to the trailhead.

Hike Scout Lookout Trail via West Rim Trail

2 Hours

The strenuous West Rim Trail ascends over 1,000 ft to Scout Lookout, high above the canyon floor. Hikers cross the Virgin River and then ascend a series of steep switchbacks along the canyon wall. The trail flattens out as it enters Refrigerator Canyon, offering relief from the heat and elevation gain of the previous segment, but resumes the climb shortly afterward at Walter’s Wiggles: a series of 21 switchbacks that leads hikers to Scout Lookout, a relatively flat, sandy area with some shade. Distance: 3.6 miles out-and-back / Elevation gain: 1,115 ft / Duration: 2-3 hours / Difficulty: Strenuous

lunch

Included pack lunch while in Zion National Park. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc.

Hike Zion Canyon Overlook Trail

1 Hour

Transfer about 30 minutes to the Canyon Overlook Trailhead. This trail is a moderate, 1 mile trail on the East Side of Zion. The path begins with a series of sandstone steps with a metal handrail leading visitors over rocky terrain above a dark slot canyon. Near the end of the trail, the view opens up to an expanse of red and cream-colored slickrock. The end of the trail is marked by a fenced cliff edge facing the main Zion Canyon, with excellent views of the Towers of the Virgin. Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep along the trail! After your hike, you'll transfer back to the campground. Distance: 1 miles out-and-back / Elevation gain: 187 ft / Duration: 1 hour / Difficulty: Moderate

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Camp dinners are typically American fare with meals like pastas, stews, burgers etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Zion Ponderosa Campground (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight near Zion National Park

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Day 3

Info

Today we'll say goodbye to Zion and head to our next national park: Bryce Canyon. After breakfast, take a scenic drive from Zion to Bryce Canyon where you'll stretch your legs and hike the Queen's Garden/Navajo Loop trail. After lunch in the afternoon, for those that have signed up in advance, you'll have the option to go horseback riding. Depending on time, the guide may drop off the horseback riding participants first before heading back to the campground. Today you'll want to bring a day pack, water bottles, hiking boots, sun glasses, and sunscreen

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Transfer from Zion to Bryce Canyon National Park

2 Hours

Take a private transfer to Bryce Canyon National Park. Stops for bathrooms will be made along the way as needed.

Hike Queen's Garden/Navajo Loop Combination Trail

2 Hours

This hike is one of the most popular hikes in Bryce Canyon and for good reason! This moderate hike will take you to descend into the Bryce Canyon Amphitheater and walk amongst the hoodoos. The Queen's/Navajo Combination Loop combines the open views and unique hoodoos of the Queen's Garden Trail with the iconic switchbacks and towering canyon walls of the Navajo Loop Trail. Distance: 3 miles loop / Elevation gain: 649 ft / Duration: 2-3 hours / Difficulty: Moderate

lunch

Included pack lunch in Bryce Canyon. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc.

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Camp dinners are typically American fare with meals like pastas, stews, burgers etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Optional Horseback Ride (optional)

1 Hour 30 Mins

See all of Bryce’s breathtaking beauty from horseback! This 1.5 hour ride takes you into the Dixie National Forest and to the rim of Water Canyon Amphitheater, the first canyon in Bryce Canyon National Park. Leaving the rim, you'll climb Bristlecone Pine Ridge with standing 1,500 year old Bristlecone Pines (one of the oldest living things on the North American continent.) From this ridge, you will also see Boat Mesa and Sinking Ship Peak, some of the higher points in Fairyland Amphitheater. For this activity you'll want to wear durable pants, closed toed shoes, and bring a jacket (depending on the season). Helmets are provided but not required. Depending on the number of the TrovaTrip participants this activity may be a shared experienced with the public. *Weather permitting

Ruby's Campground (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight near Bryce Canyon National Park

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Day 4

Info

After breakfast, you'll pack up camp with the group and hit the road again to head to Arches National Park near Moab. On your way, you'll travel along the scenic Million Dollar Road and will make a stop at Capitol Reef National Park, where you'll have a chance to stretch your legs and take some photos. You'll also visit Gifford Homestead to have your lunch and for a chance to buy some fresh baked pies! Afterword, you'll continue onto Moab and will get your first glimpse of Arches National Park. You'll hike to Landscape arch and then you'll head to the campground and have dinner. Today you'll want to bring a day pack, water bottles, hiking boots, sun glasses, and sunscreen

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Transfer from Bryce Canyon to Moab

5 Hours 30 Mins

Take a private transfer to Moab. Stops for bathrooms will be made along the way as needed. About two hours into the trip, you'll stop off at Homestead Overlook Point to get some stunning vistas from Capitol Reef to Navajo Mountain. You'll also stop at Capitol Reef National Park Visitor's Center and Gifford's Homestead en route for lunch and photo stops. Then you'll continue the drive to Moab.

Scenic Drive through Capitol Reef National Park

2 Hours 30 Mins

After stopping at Homestead Point Overlook, you'll make your way to Capitol Reef National Park. Located in south-central Utah in the heart of red rock country, Capitol Reef National Park is a hidden treasure filled with cliffs, canyons, domes, and a geologic monocline (a wrinkle on the earth) extending almost 100 miles. You'll stop by the beautiful Panorama Point for a chance to get some more stunning views of the park, and also check out the Visitor Center. Then you will continue onto the Gifford Homestead. The Gifford Homestead and the 200 acre farm lies in the heart of the Fruita valley, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

lunch

Included pack lunch in Capitol Reef National Park. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc.

Hike Landscape Arch Trail

1 Hour 30 Mins

After passing through Capitol Reef National Park, you'll hit the road again and will continue to Moab. You'll finish the day hiking to Landscape Arch for some iconic views. During the hike in Arches National Park you'll see many natural stone arches (over 2,000), soaring pinnacles, massive rock fins, and giant balanced rocks. After the hike you'll head to the campground. Distance: 1.9 miles Out & Back / Elevation gain: 252 ft / Duration: ~1.5 hours / Difficulty: Moderate

dinner

Included dinner at the cabins. Dinners are typically American fare with meals like pastas, stews, burgers etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Sun Outdoors North Moab Shared Cabins (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight in Moab

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Day 5

Info

Today you'll have the whole day to explore the wonders of Moab. In the afternoon you'll head into Arches National Park again to explore the park as a group and also hike the Delicate Arch Trail. After time spent in the park, you'll head back to the cabins for one last farewell dinner and to reminisce over the memories made together. For the afternoon you'll want to bring a day pack, water bottles, hiking boots, sun glasses, sunscreen, and a light jacket.

breakfast

Breakfast at the cabins is included. Typically breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

lunch

Included pack lunch in Moab. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches, granola bars, chips, trail mix, etc.

Hike Delicate Arch Trail

2 Hours

After a 40 minute transfer to the trailhead you'll begin an epic hike to Delicate Arch known for its stunning views and iconic natural arch. The trail is a moderately challenging hike that winds through rugged terrain and offers breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding landscape. At the end you're finally rewarded with an up-close view of Delicate Arch, a 65-foot-tall freestanding natural arch that has become a symbol of the American West and one of Utah's most famous landmarks. Then hike out and head back to the campground for a final meal. Distance: 3.2 miles Out & Back / Elevation gain: 630 ft / Duration: ~2 hours / Difficulty: Moderate

dinner

Included dinner at the cabins. Dinners are typically American fare with meals like pastas, stews, burgers etc. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Sun Outdoors North Moab Shared Cabins (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight in Moab

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Day 6

Info

All good things must come to an end! After breakfast you'll transfer to Salt Lake City airport and bid farewell for now.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Departure Airport Transfer

4 Hours 30 Mins

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer from the cabins in Moab to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) on the last day. Please book your flights after 6:00 P.M. Travelers departing outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). Stops for bathroom breaks will be made as needed on the way to the airport.

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Physical Activity Level:Adventure

These trips are great if you want to get moving. These itineraries may include scenic hikes and/or exercise. A moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy these trips.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.