Bryce to Zion Family Trip

RIDING TYPE | ■︎ Intermediate
TRIP DURATION | 5-Days
SEASON | June – August
PRICE | $1,895 pp

Experience the ultimate Bryce to Zion family bike tour, where you’ll navigate the iron-rich hoodoos of the Clarion Formation and the ancient lava flows of the Markagunt Plateau. This fully supported Utah cycling adventure handles every logistical detail from the high-alpine meadows to the desert floor, allowing your family to focus on discovering the geologic wonders of Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park.

Logistics & Notes

We will be without vehicle support during many sections of the ride. Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety, and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventure. Road Surface: Dirt roads, double tracks, some singletrack and some pavement.

Overall Rating: Intermediate
Technical Difficulty: Moderate; some obstacles and rocky washes.
Physical Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous; some climbing and one or two long days.
Altitude: 4,000 - 9,000 feet
Bike Mileage: 17-26 miles per day.
Hiking Mileage: 2-3 mile hike on day 1 & 2 miles on day 5.
Packing for your trip

DAY 1: Bryce Canyon Hoodoos and Sunset Point

We’ll begin the trip in Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its colorful and strangely eroded cliffs. These unique layers are formed in the 43-million-year-old Clarion Formation—an iron-rich layer of limy sediment.
We will use the bike path to ride right into the park and make our way to Sunset Point. The view from here shows the fantastic transition between the forested mesa and the crazy rock formations of the canyon below.
From the trailhead, we’ll hike into the canyon with red rock hoodoos around every corner. This amazing hike is the quintessential Bryce Canyon experience, showcasing what makes this place so unique.
After our hike, we get back on our bikes to make our way to our camp for the night.
Total: 17 miles riding, 2-3 miles hiking

DAY 2: Red Canyon and the Markagunt Plateau

First, we will fuel up on a hearty breakfast before we begin to explore some of the back roads on top of the plateau. This will take us to Red Canyon, where we will have the chance to ride through some hoodoos similar to those we saw inside the park on Day 1.
After a quick stop at the Red Canyon visitor center to learn more about the fascinating geology of the area, we’ll break for lunch, then shuttle across the highway to our afternoon ride along the western section of the Markagunt Plateau.
This afternoon’s destination is Panguitch Lake, our camp for the night.
Total: 23 miles riding

DAY 3: Volcanic Geology and the Markagunt Slide

Today we will explore the Markagunt Plateau as our ride takes us to new heights with a climb up to 9,800 ft. This area experienced a fire years back, which opened things up for great sweeping views in all directions and a real opportunity to understand the geologic forces that created this place.
With its volcanic fields, cinder cones, and lava flows, the Plateau is home to the massive Markagunt gravity slide, one of the largest known terrestrial landslides on Earth. Scientists think the slide took place about 1,000 years ago, which in geologic time is crazy recent!
This "see-forever" ride will loop us around Shakespeare Hollow before taking us back down to Panguitch Lake for a quick swim before dinner.
Total: 21 miles riding

DAY 4: Ancient Lava Flows and Brian Head Vistas

Today geology will continue to astound us as we will see some of the most recent lava flows in the lower 48. We will ride out toward the town of Hatch and stop by some lava flows and cinder cones from 1050 AD.
After lunch and a quick shuttle, we will head up and over Sidney Peak for a ride high above Brian Head. This will give us a real bird's-eye view of the beauty and complex formations of this interesting region.
A fun descent will take us down to our camp for the night.
Total: 25 miles riding

DAY 5: The Zion Narrows or Observation Point

After a short pedal in the morning to check out an amazing canyon descent, we will head to Zion National Park. We will access the Park via the bike path and make our way to today’s hike.
Options include the East Mesa Trail to Observation Point (approx. 7 miles), or if water levels permit, we will visit the Zion Narrows—one of the Colorado Plateau’s most spectacular canyons. The Virgin River has cut through the sandstone for almost a million years, and in places, the river completely fills the canyon. Alternatively, we may head for Kolob Canyon to explore Taylor Creek. Either way, we will wrap up our trip with a great Zion experience.
Total: 26 miles riding

Meeting Place and Time

St. George, UT
This tour will begin at 7:30 AM MST at The Holiday Inn St. George Convention Center. 1808 Crosby way, St. George, Ut 84790. You will need to spend the night in St. George because none of the shuttle services from Las Vegas or Salt Lake run early enough. See more details below in “Lodging Before Your Trip”. Book your room at the Holiday Inn using this special booking link to enjoy a discounted rate.

ENDING TIME

We will return to St. George between 3:00-4:00 PM on the last day. You will have time to catch a shuttle back to Las Vegas, but not to Salt Lake.

Getting to St. George, UT

Driving
St. George is located 120 miles north of Las Vegas on Interstate 15. If you need to leave a car behind while you are on your trip, there is parking available at the hotel where we will be meeting.

Flying into St. George
Airport Code: SGU
The airport is far from town. Be sure to book your taxi ahead of time.

Flying into Las Vegas, NV
Airport Code: LAS
There are two options for getting from Las Vegas to St. George:
1) Take a shuttle with Salt Lake Express. When you reserve, it is very important that you tell them the following things:

1. Select the Door to Door option with the 84790 zip code and provide them with the hotel address where you will be staying.
2. If you are flying with your bike, you will need to reserve a spot on the shuttle for your bike, which will need to be boxed up. There is a surcharge each way.

Shuttles depart from the Las Vegas Airport and St. George eight times daily. Keep in mind that St. George is one hour ahead of Las Vegas. Call 208-656-8824 or visit www.saltlakeexpress.com for times and to make a reservation.

2) Rent a car in Las Vegas and park it at the hotel.

Flying into Salt Lake City, UT
Airport Code: SLC
There are two options for getting from Salt Lake City to St. George:

1) Take a shuttle with Salt Lake Express; shuttle time is about 5 hours. When you reserve, it is very important that you tell them the following things:

1. Select the Door to Door option with the 84790 zip code and provide them with the hotel address where you will be staying.
2. If you are flying with your bike, you will need to reserve a spot on the shuttle for your bike, which will need to be boxed up. There is a surcharge each way.

Call 208-656-8824 or visit www.saltlakeexpress.com for times and to make a reservation.

2) Rent a car in Salt Lake; it is a 5 hour drive.

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

Holiday Inn St. George Convention Center

435-628-8007

Book your room at the Holiday Inn using this special booking link to enjoy a discounted rate.

Tru by Hilton St. George

435-634-7768

Fairfield Inn St. George

435-673-6066

Hilton Garden Inn St. George

435-634-4100

TAXI SERVICE

Quality Cab: 435-656-5222
Taxi USA: 435-656-1500

Need more information about our bike trips? Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page, what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by subscribing to our newsletter.

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732

RIDING TYPE |■︎ Intermediate

TRIP DURATION | 5-Days

SEASON | June - August

A Spectacular Southern Utah Transition

This new Bryce to Zion Adventure Trip takes us through the spectacular transition of Southern Utah's landscapes. We blend the iconic beauty of Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks with the dramatic, high-altitude terrain of the Markagunt Plateau.

Prepare for incredible biking, fascinating geological discoveries, and the quintessential Utah canyon experience. From the iron-rich hoodoos of the Clarion Formation to the ancient lava flows of 1050 AD, this itinerary is designed for active travelers who want to see the geologic wonders of Southern Utah from the saddle of a bike and the soles of their hiking boots.

Why Families Choose the Bryce to Zion Adventure?

This Southern Utah multi-sport tour offers a unique perspective on the region's most famous geological wonders:

Dual National Park Immersion: Experience the best of both worlds with cycling and hiking in Bryce Canyon and a grand finale exploration of Zion National Park.

The Markagunt Plateau Highline: Ride into the clouds at 9,800 feet, traversing volcanic fields, cinder cones, and the site of the massive Markagunt gravity slide—one of the largest landslides on Earth.

Iconic Utah Hiking: Trade your pedals for boots to trek through red rock hoodoos and, water levels permitting, wade into the world-famous Zion Narrows.

Fully Supported Logistics: Our expert guides handle the camp, the kitchen, and the shuttles, giving you more time to soak in the "see-forever" vistas and high-alpine lakes.

ITINERARY

DAY 1: Bryce Canyon Hoodoos and Sunset Point

We’ll begin the trip in Bryce Canyon National Park, known for its colorful and strangely eroded cliffs. These unique layers are formed in the 43-million-year-old Clarion Formation—an iron-rich layer of limy sediment.
We will use the bike path to ride right into the park and make our way to Sunset Point. The view from here shows the fantastic transition between the forested mesa and the crazy rock formations of the canyon below.
From the trailhead, we’ll hike into the canyon with red rock hoodoos around every corner. This amazing hike is the quintessential Bryce Canyon experience, showcasing what makes this place so unique.
After our hike, we get back on our bikes to make our way to our camp for the night.
Total: 17 miles riding, 2-3 miles hiking

DAY 2: Red Canyon and the Markagunt Plateau

First, we will fuel up on a hearty breakfast before we begin to explore some of the back roads on top of the plateau. This will take us to Red Canyon, where we will have the chance to ride through some hoodoos similar to those we saw inside the park on Day 1.
After a quick stop at the Red Canyon visitor center to learn more about the fascinating geology of the area, we’ll break for lunch, then shuttle across the highway to our afternoon ride along the western section of the Markagunt Plateau.
This afternoon’s destination is Panguitch Lake, our camp for the night.
Total: 23 miles riding

DAY 3: Volcanic Geology and the Markagunt Slide

Today we will explore the Markagunt Plateau as our ride takes us to new heights with a climb up to 9,800 ft. This area experienced a fire years back, which opened things up for great sweeping views in all directions and a real opportunity to understand the geologic forces that created this place.
With its volcanic fields, cinder cones, and lava flows, the Plateau is home to the massive Markagunt gravity slide, one of the largest known terrestrial landslides on Earth. Scientists think the slide took place about 1,000 years ago, which in geologic time is crazy recent!
This "see-forever" ride will loop us around Shakespeare Hollow before taking us back down to Panguitch Lake for a quick swim before dinner.
Total: 21 miles riding

DAY 4: Ancient Lava Flows and Brian Head Vistas

Today geology will continue to astound us as we will see some of the most recent lava flows in the lower 48. We will ride out toward the town of Hatch and stop by some lava flows and cinder cones from 1050 AD.
After lunch and a quick shuttle, we will head up and over Sidney Peak for a ride high above Brian Head. This will give us a real bird's-eye view of the beauty and complex formations of this interesting region.
A fun descent will take us down to our camp for the night.
Total: 25 miles riding

DAY 5: The Zion Narrows or Observation Point

After a short pedal in the morning to check out an amazing canyon descent, we will head to Zion National Park. We will access the Park via the bike path and make our way to today’s hike.
Options include the East Mesa Trail to Observation Point (approx. 7 miles), or if water levels permit, we will visit the Zion Narrows—one of the Colorado Plateau’s most spectacular canyons. The Virgin River has cut through the sandstone for almost a million years, and in places, the river completely fills the canyon. Alternatively, we may head for Kolob Canyon to explore Taylor Creek. Either way, we will wrap up our trip with a great Zion experience.
Total: 26 miles riding

TRIP NOTES

We will be without vehicle support during many sections of the ride. Itineraries are subject to change due to weather, road conditions, rider safety, and other factors which may affect the logistics of the adventure. Road Surface: Dirt roads, double tracks, some singletrack and some pavement.

Overall Rating: Intermediate
Technical Difficulty: Moderate; some obstacles and rocky washes.
Physical Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous; some climbing and one or two long days.
Altitude: 4,000 - 9,000 feet
Bike Mileage: 17-26 miles per day.
Hiking Mileage: 2-3 mile hike on day 1 & 2 miles on day 5.

TRAVEL LOGISTICS

MEETING PLACE AND TIME

St. George, UT
This tour will begin at 7:30 AM MST at The Holiday Inn St. George Convention Center. 1808 Crosby way, St. George, Ut 84790. You will need to spend the night in St. George because none of the shuttle services from Las Vegas or Salt Lake run early enough. See more details below in “Lodging Before Your Trip”. Book your room at the Holiday Inn using this special booking link to enjoy a discounted rate.

ENDING TIME

We will return to St. George between 3:00-4:00 PM on the last day. You will have time to catch a shuttle back to Las Vegas, but not to Salt Lake.

GETTING TO ST. GEORGE, UT

Driving
St. George is located 120 miles north of Las Vegas on Interstate 15. If you need to leave a car behind while you are on your trip, there is parking available at the hotel where we will be meeting.

Flying into St. George
Airport Code: SGU
The airport is far from town. Be sure to book your taxi ahead of time.

Flying into Las Vegas, NV
Airport Code: LAS
There are two options for getting from Las Vegas to St. George:
1) Take a shuttle with Salt Lake Express. When you reserve, it is very important that you tell them the following things:

1. Select the Door to Door option with the 84790 zip code and provide them with the hotel address where you will be staying.
2. If you are flying with your bike, you will need to reserve a spot on the shuttle for your bike, which will need to be boxed up. There is a surcharge each way.

Shuttles depart from the Las Vegas Airport and St. George eight times daily. Keep in mind that St. George is one hour ahead of Las Vegas. Call 208-656-8824 or visit www.saltlakeexpress.com for times and to make a reservation.

2) Rent a car in Las Vegas and park it at the hotel.

Flying into Salt Lake City, UT
Airport Code: SLC
There are two options for getting from Salt Lake City to St. George:

1) Take a shuttle with Salt Lake Express; shuttle time is about 5 hours. When you reserve, it is very important that you tell them the following things:

1. Select the Door to Door option with the 84790 zip code and provide them with the hotel address where you will be staying.
2. If you are flying with your bike, you will need to reserve a spot on the shuttle for your bike, which will need to be boxed up. There is a surcharge each way.

Call 208-656-8824 or visit www.saltlakeexpress.com for times and to make a reservation.

2) Rent a car in Salt Lake; it is a 5 hour drive.

LODGING BEFORE YOUR TRIP

Holiday Inn St. George Convention Center

435-628-8007

Book your room at the Holiday Inn using this special booking link to enjoy a discounted rate.

Tru by Hilton St. George

435-634-7768

Fairfield Inn St. George

435-673-6066

Hilton Garden Inn St. George

435-634-4100

TAXI SERVICE

Quality Cab: 435-656-5222
Taxi USA: 435-656-1500

PACKING FOR YOUR TRIP

Be sure to bring everything on this list. We have carefully developed this list to ensure your comfort on the tour regardless of the weather. If you are prepared for extreme weather, it is an adventure. If you are not prepared it can be a serious problem.We recommend the layering system, including a wicking or long underwear layer, an insulating layer and a weather barrier for wind and rain. This list reflects that philosophy. Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable so be sure to bring all the warm clothing and rain gear listed!

HOW TO PACK: The bulk of your gear and clothing will ride in the Western Spirit support vehicle (preferably in a large duffle bag) and will not be accessible during the day.

For this trip, you will need a riding pack and optional day bag:

Your riding pack may be a hydration pack, but needs to carry 2-3 liters of water, rain gear, other warm clothing, and food for the day. You may be away from camp and the support vehicle all day and need to be self-sufficient.
A small day bag is optional and may be used to store things you’d rather not ride with, but would like to have access to during the day. This day-pack will remain with the support vehicle and may not be accessible, depending on the day.

WHAT WE PROVIDE:
✓ meals, snacks, water, electrolyte drinks, non-alcoholic drinks
✓ camp mugs, all kitchen and dining ware
✓ 1 cycling water bottle
✓ camp chairs
✓ solar showers
✓ sunscreen & bug spray
✓ bike stand and lube
✓ guides bring their own tools
✓ first aid kit with basic medications

BRINGING OR RENTING

o bike (Our rentals come with flat pedals. You are welcome to bring your own if you prefer.)
o helmet (gratis w/rental bike)
o tent
o sleeping bag
o sleeping pad

CYCLING CLOTHING

o cycling shoes
o 3 - 5 pair cycling shorts
o 3 - 5 cycling shirts
o long sleeve cycling shirt
o long sleeve cotton shirt or solar sleeves
o cycling socks
o windbreaker
o tights or leg warmers
o 2 pair cycling gloves (1 pair full length for warmth)
o rain jacket (Gore-Tex or similar)
o rain pants (Gore-Tex or similar)
o warm layer (lightweight synthetic puffy jacket or long sleeve fleece shirt)
o sunglasses or other eye protection

CAMP CLOTHING

o camp shorts
o shirts
o warm socks
o long underwear, top and bottom (wicking layer, not cotton)
o 2 pair warm long pants
o long sleeve fleece or sweater
o pile or down jacket (insulating layer)
o warm gloves and hat
o brimmed hat or visor
o bathing suit (for solar showers on the trip and at the hotel before/after your trip)
o hiking shoes
o sandals
o rain gear to wear in camp

PERSONAL

o toiletries
o medication (daily and emergency)
o towel
o biodegradable soap
o wet-wipes
o flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)
o sunglasses
o optional day bag
o stuff sacks or reusable grocery bags (or separate compartments for your dry bag)
o cash for tipping guides: your guides work as a team and share all of their gratuities. A tip of 10-20% of the price of your trip given to either one of your guides when you return to civilization is a great way to say thanks for a job well done.

OPTIONAL

o camera, extra batteries
o binoculars
o alcoholic or any of your favorite beverages (your guides will pack these)
o books or maps
o we encourage you to turn your devices off, but if you cannot, please bring a way to charge them. We recommend a portable USB charger with 1-2 charges. Also, putting your phone on airplane mode to save power is recommended.

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Need more information about our bike trips? Check out what a bike trip is all about by visiting our camping page, FAQ page, what to bring page or be the first to know about new trips, last minute trip openings and future discounts by subscribing to our newsletter.

Need even more details? Send us a message or call and talk to one of our trip specialists at (435) 259-8732

Bryce to Zion Family Trip

PRICE | $1,895 pp

Private Departures Available
Call 435-259-8732

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See what guests are saying - click here:

This was the most fun I have ever had on a trip. Everyday was an adventure and the memories I made will last a lifetime. I will definitely be repeat customer. I also want to highlight how awesome Claire and Garrett were. They were knowledgeable, attentive, hard working and this trip would have never have been as special as it was if they weren’t there. Major mention on the food as well. This was fine dining level food we were being served everyday 100% recommend. - Manny

That was a wonderful trip, brilliantly led by Anna and Chris. They were very friendly, supportive, prepared and knowledgeable--much more than I would have expected! Loved everything about the trip..in spite of struggling through the altitude. Great work by all. - Devendra

It’s been a week and I still can’t stop talking and thinking about what a wonderful time I had. Chris and Ben were the greatest! Such kind and hard working guys. They brought all of us riding together to be such a happy family. Making everyone feel important and special. The friends I made with everyone was awesome. Hope to keep in touch and plan reunion in the future. Ben and Chris made it such an amazing experience. Food was so good and healthy. Great way to reboot! - Debra

A Day With Western Spirit

Rise & Shine
How do you like to start your day? If you like waking up to hot coffee and unforgettable sunrises you’re in luck. Delicious cowboy coffee, fresh fruit salad, pancakes, bacon, granola, yogurt and more.

>>> Read More

Hit The Trail
Whether your trip includes: riding
the Rainbow Rim Trail; enjoying breathtaking views of the
Grand Canyon; leading your
friends on the White Rim Road in Canyonlands; or ripping down.

>>> Read More

Apres
We base our itineraries around the trails that we love to ride, but also around great camp locations. We love to find the perfect place next to rivers or lakes , or by vistas
and sunset spots.

>>> Read More

BIKE TRIP TESTIMONIALS

“I was worried riding and camping with a group… could I keep up?… would I “fit in”? I was able to keep up and push myself and was challenged by the terrain, I loved it! The group was great I had nothing to worry about, everyone was friendly and supportive.”

~ Robin

“Warmth, humor, seriously good people skills,professionalism, competence. They execute their very serious responsibilities with confidence-inspiring grace.”

~ David

Your guides are your ambassadors, they are fun, energetic and very knowledgeable. I would not do anything different.

~ Paul

“I was tired at the end of each day and to have everything taken care of as far as dinner and cleanup, it was so nice to have that not be my issue. The guides were amazing, simply amazing….the food was always excellent, their personalities are different but blended with everyone perfectly!”

~ Pam

“Normally I do self supported but having someone else make excellent food makes me want to do it again”

~ Christl

“To begin with the landscape and scenery was majestic and awesome. The guides were all instrumental in enhancing the experience with their knowledge, skills, and out of the goodness of their character.”

~ Edward

“This was our 3rd trip with Western Spirit, so we knew what to expect from the guides and the support they’d provide. The trip itself was spectacular – the scenery was unbeatable and the weather was perfect.”

~ Jennifer

Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!

~ Teri

“The trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life… the scenery, the views, the guides, and the food! I loved how great the meals were!!! The guides were unbelievable cooks! After biking all day, to be able to sit down and eat a great meal & drink a beer …man, it was great!”

~ Gary

“Great salads at lunch, a lot of variety, they guides had food specially prepared for those of us with food issues. Plus, they set up our chairs in the best spots!”

~ Teri

“Food was WAY better than I expected. I like to eat healthy and was worried about “camping food.” The guides prepared amazing food. The trip was a blast in general with gorgeous scenery and good campsites. Guides were very friendly, patient and helpful”

~ Erika

“It’s been a long time since I’ve been on any organized event and this one was simply amazing. My skill and fitness level were not up to those as others in the group but never once did I feel intimidated…”

~ Nick

“I had been to Canyonlands two years prior so knew scenery was outstanding but it takes on even more magnificence when seen from seat of bike. The guides were awesome and supportive. Food was better than in most restaurants and more than you could eat.”

~ Michael

The guides made the trip totally beyond awesome. They were fun, the food was WAY better than I expected, the rides could be were tailored, guiding was superb, trails were a blast, our campsite was sweet. I have zero complaints.

~ Wendy

The food was fantastic! I didn’t expect such meals. The guides were so friendly, helpful, and entertaining. They really worked well together. Also, they made sure that everyone in their various skill levels enjoyed the rides and that there was enough for everyone.

~ Nichole

“Very accommodating of me being vegan, very cheerful and nice.”

~ Jason

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