Utah: Arches & Canyonlands
Exploring National Parks
September 14 – 19, 2026
Embark on an enchanting 6-day journey with NRF through Utah’s Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, where the vivid colors and striking formations of the Colorado Plateau await. Explore the iconic rock formations of Arches National Park, including Delicate Arch and Landscape Arch, before venturing into the rugged canyons of Canyonlands. Experience the thrill of hiking through hidden slot canyons and towering spires, revealing the geological wonders of the region. Indulge in the region’s rich culinary scene in Moab, then retreat to cozy accommodations as the day winds down. Immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of these awe-inspiring parks, where each vista and trail tells a story millions of years in the making.
This trip is in partnership with Wilderness Inquiry.
Canyonland landscape by Roo Way/Wilderness Inquiry
Trip highlights
- Arches National Park. Discover the incredible landscapes of this national treasure. Explore the striking sandstone formations and natural arches that have been shaped by millions of years of wind and water.
- Colorado River. Embark on a guided rafting adventure down one of Utah’s iconic rivers, surrounded by dramatic canyon walls and colorful cliffs. Enjoy a short hike to a nearby waterfall.
- Canyonlands National Park. Venture into a landscape defined by sweeping mesas, dramatic overlooks, and winding canyons carved by time. Experience the panoramic views of the desert below.
- Travel with a small group. The maximum number of travelers is 11. We think the small-group atmosphere allows you to get closer to your guide, each other, and, most importantly, nature.
Arches National Park by Jirka Matousek/Flickr
Activity Level: 2 out of 5
Hiking routes will be primarily on established desert canyon trails. There are a wide variety of trails to choose from including relaxing strolls along smooth paths to strenuous hikes up steep inclines. Hikes may take you into narrow gorges, high-top cliffs, under natural arches, and much more. Temperatures in September range from 60 F to 85 F.
Accommodations
We will sleep in a variety of lodges and motels at night. Typically there are 2-3 people per room, matched by gender or requests to room together. In most rooms, solo travelers have single beds and couples share beds.
Colorado River by Roo Way/Wilderness Inquiry
Pricing and cancellation
The base cost is $2,700 per person. The price includes accommodations, meals, entrance fees, activities noted in itinerary, private vehicle transportation unless otherwise noted in itinerary, non-alcoholic beverages with meals, a full time guide, and part of your trip cost goes to support the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin.
A deposit of $540/person is required by March 30, 2026 to register and reserve a space on the program.
Cancellation Policy: 71 or more days before departure: Full refund minus the deposit. 35-70 days before departure: up to 50% of refund, minus the deposit. 0-35 days before departure: 100% trip fees forfeited.
Registration deadline is March 30, 2026
Collared Lizard by Philip Bouchard/Flickr
Kim Kreitinger
Field Trip Coordinator
(608) 409-3110
Kim.Kreitinger@WisConservation.org
Kim Kreitinger (she/her) supports the Foundation's Field Trip program, plans our domestic and international travel, and helps connect members with the Foundation.
Banner photo by Roo Way/Wilderness Inquiry