As my first event with Road Scholar I purposely tried to avoid expectations and let the days and nights come as they may. Now, I can say that the leaders, riders, and locations were excellent. I did not think 16 or so "strangers" could bond and be as supportive as they were. I loved the freedom the ride gave us but also the comfort of knowing caring hands were not far away should I need them. This ride was about people who enjoy life and each other. Yes, at times the weather and ride distance were challenging but that was exactly what I asked for, an adventure. I like to be challenged a little and this trip did that appropriately. The scenery was stunning and will never be forgotten. Thank You for this wonderful experience.

We are avid bicycle riders. Mountain and Plains Institute puts together great bike itineraries. This was our second M&PI bike trip and we would take either one again. M&PI provided excellently maintained 24 speed Specialized hybrid bikes. The Bryce & Zion National Park trip lived up to our expectations and featured superlative segments: highest elevation, longest descent, steepest ascent/descent, fastest speed, coldest temperature. Our Road Scholar guides have done this trip several times and chose the best routes to reach national parks and monuments via lightly trafficked paved roads and bike paths, noting scenic places along the way to hike and picnic, and including layover days for hiking/sight-seeing where merited. For example, we entered Zion National Park via the East Entrance with a remarkable 1500' descent through magnificent rock formations, mountain sheep,and overlooks, with an optional side trip up canyon (accessible only by shuttle or bicycle). We burned calories over approx 200 miles of cycling in this level 7 trip. We were rewarded with lovely restaurants (order off the menu) and most accommodations featuring swimming pools. Indeed, were we to try ourselves to book accommodations near these national parks for October, we would have been shutout. Dress for all kinds of weather and be prepared to take lots of photos.