Road Scholar : Home
Staircase to the Past: Utah’s Grand Circle of Parks and Monuments and the Grand Canyon’s North Rim

Program Number: 8727RJ
Start and End Dates:
6/3/2013 - 6/13/2013; 9/2/2013 - 9/12/2013; 9/9/2013 - 9/19/2013; 9/19/2013 - 9/29/2013; 9/23/2013 - 10/3/2013; 9/30/2013 - 10/10/2013; 10/3/2013 - 10/13/2013;
Duration: 10 nights
Location: St. George, Utah
Price starting at: $1,598.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type: National Parks; On the Road; Natural History
Meals: 27; 10 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 8 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Explore the world’s greatest concentration of national parks and monuments — Utah’s Grand Circle and the Grand Canyon’s North Rim. On a journey through Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands, Lake Powell, Grand Staircase-Escalante, Dead Horse Point, Monument Valley, Rainbow Bridge and Grand Canyon. Learn about the earth’s history through the common themes of sedimentary rocks, uplift and erosion.




Highlights

• Examine geological formations such as hoodoos, arches, mesas, buttes, towering cliffs, pinnacles and peaks.
• Take a study cruise on Lake Powell to Rainbow Bridge — one of the natural wonders of the world.
• Meet the Navajo to gain an understanding of their cultural traditions with story, songs, and dance.



Activity Particulars

Easy to moderate walks on groomed trails. Elevations of 2,500-9,000 feet.




Date Specific Information

6-3-2013, 9-2-2013, 9-9-2013, 9-19-2013, 9-23-2013, 9-30-2013, 10-3-2013

Enjoy the latest in hearing technology — listening devices — on this date.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival St. George, 2 nights; coach to Bryce Canyon, 1 night; coach to Torrey (Capitol Reef), 2 nights; coach to Moab (Arches and Canyonlands), 2 nights; coach to Page, Arizona (Lake Powell), 2 nights; coach to St. George, 1 night; departure.



Coordinated by Dixie State University.




Grand Canyon North Rim

Sitting atop the Kaibab Plateau 9,000 feet above sea level with lush green meadows surrounded by a mixed conifer forest sprinkled with aspen, the North Rim is an oasis in the desert. Although only ten miles as the crow flies from the South Rim, the North Rim offers solitude and awe-inspiring views.



St. George

The largest city in south-central Utah is at the center of the region's arches, mesas, pinnacles and buttes, in close proximity to Zion, Bryce, and Grand Canyon national parks, as well as Lake Powell and prehistoric archaeological sites.



Zion National Park

True to its name, which means "refuge" or "sanctuary" in ancient Hebrew, Zion is an oasis at the junction of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin and Mojave Desert provinces, encompassing sandstone canyons and colorful, high plateaus.



Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon, famous for its unique geology, consists of a series of horseshoe-shaped amphitheaters carved from the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau in southern Utah. Erosion and rainwater have shaped the colorful limestone rock into bizarre shapes including slot canyons, windows, fins and spires called "hoodoos."



Capitol Reef National Park

This geologically unique area was called the “Land of the Sleeping Rainbow” by the Navajo because of the brilliantly colored canyon walls, though a line of white, dome-shaped rocks informs the park’s official name.



Moab

Site of a busy Colorado River crossing before the construction of the railroads, the town of Moab grew into an important mining community with the discovery of potash, manganese, oil and gas deposits in the early 1900s. Today Moab is a gateway to Arches and Canyonlands national parks and a popular base for mountain bikers and off-roaders.



Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park preserves a colorful landscape of sedimentary sandstones eroded into countless canyons, mesas and buttes by the Colorado River and its tributaries.



Arches National Park

Arches National Park preserves over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, including the world-famous Delicate Arch, in addition to a variety of unique geological resources and formations. In some areas, faulting has exposed millions of years of geologic history, highlighted by a striking environment of contrasting colors, landforms and textures.



Lake Powell

Resulting from the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam in 1963, Lake Powell is a surrealist’s dream, as houseboat flotillas drift past curvaceous rock formations, hidden coves and red-rock cliffs. Crystal-clear water reflects the lake’s towering buttes.



Monument Valley

Embodying the open spaces of the Great American Southwest, Monument Valley’s vast landscape seems to stretch endlessly in all directions, occasionally interrupted by towering buttes of red and burgundy rock. The few native peoples who live here honor the place by living simply and respecting the natural forces that have shaped the land.
Accommodations
Clean, comfortable hotels and inns.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Darrell McMahon
Darrell McMahon has worked in natural resource management for more than three decades and has extensive experience as a wildlife biologist, entomologist and habitat biologist. In addition to teaching college courses in geology and natural history, Darrell has taught at Dixie State University and Southern Utah University the past seven years and has knowledge of natural history, forest ecology and wildlife.
 
Janice Hayden
Janice received her B.S. and M.S. degrees in geology from Brigham Young University, and was a petroleum geologist in Colorado before moving to St. George. Janice teaches geology for Dixie College, and also works for the Utah Geological Survey Society making geographical maps in the St. George area.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   College Inn
  St. George, Utah 2 nights
   Ruby's Inn
  Bryce Canyon National Park 1 night
   Red Sands Hotel
  Capitol Reef National Park 2 nights
   River Canyon Lodge
  Moab, Utah 2 nights
   Best Western At Lake Powell
  Page, AZ (Lake Powell) 2 nights
   College Inn
  St. George, Utah 1 night
 College Inn
Type: Inn
  Description: The College Inn is located in the heart of the historic district in St. George, six blocks from Dixie State University's campus. The historic district offers restored pioneer homes and buildings. This facility is used specifically for Road Scholar and other educational groups it is not used as housing for college students. St. George has beautiful red rock cliff and lava rock mesa as back drop with larger mountains and rock formations that can be seen in the distance. A lounge area with couches, DirecTV, a refrigerator, soda pop machine, guest laundry and microwave are available for your use. We also have a beautiful heated pool and hot tub for your enjoyment. The rooms do not have phones or televisions, but a public phone is available at the front desk.
  Contact info: 123 East 100 South
St. George, UT 84770 USA
phone: 435-634-2050
web: www.dixie.edu/roadscholar/Location.html
  Room amenities: Each room has two full size beds, private bath, free WiFi wireless Internet, hairdryer, soap & shampoo and individual heating and air-conditioning unit.
  Facility amenities: A lounge area with couches, DirecTV in lounge, free WiFi wireless Internet, a refrigerator, soda pop machine, guest laundry and microwave are available for your use. We also have a beautiful heated pool and hot tub for your enjoyment.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Additional nights prior: $35 If you want to arrive early or stay over following the program you can arrange to stay with us for $35 per room per night. Please call (435) 634-2050 at least one week in advance during regular business hours to make a reservation.
  Check in time: 3:00 PM
  Additional nights after: $35 If you want to arrive early or stay over following the program you can arrange to stay with us for $35 per room per night. Please call (435) 634-2050 at least one week in advance during regular business hours to make a reservation.
  Check out time: 11:30 AM

 Ruby's Inn
Type: Inn
  Description: Ruby's Inn is the closest accommodation to the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah and is the perfect base for exploring the scenic wonders found here. Ruby's has a wonderful history of serving travelers and area visitors for almost 100 years! Each year they have added and improved to give guests the best in amenities, recreational options and more.
  Contact info: 1000 South Highway 63
Bryce, UT 84764 USA
phone: 866-866-6616
web: www.rubysinn.com
  Room amenities: Color Satellite TV • Air Conditioning • Direct Dial Phone • In-room coffee/tea maker • Hair dryer, iron and ironing board
  Facility amenities: Spacious Guest Rooms • 2 Bedroom Suites • Non-Smoking Rooms • Indoor Swimming Pools and Spas • Color Satellite TV • Air Conditioning • Direct Dial Phone • In-room coffee/tea maker • Hair dryer, iron and ironing board • Laundromat • Post Office • Large General Store • ATM Machines • One Hour Photo • Foreign Currency Exchange • High-Speed wireless internet • Four Internet Kiosks • Tesoro Gas Station
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Red Sands Hotel
Type: Hotel
  Description: Lodging is near the Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long wrinkle in the earth's crust known as a monocline, extends from nearby Thousand Lakes Mountain to the Colorado River (now Lake Powell) and just minutes from Capitol Reef National Park. The Park was established to protect this grand and colorful geologic feature, as well as the unique historical and cultural history found in the area. This is the perfect location for easy access to the hiking trails. Where you will explore the multi-colored cliffs common to Capitol Reef National Park and this region. They inspired the Indians who once lived here to name it the Land of the Sleeping Rainbow. Located in Wayne County Utah, USA, it is comprised of 97% public lands with a wide range of scenic attractions: Capitol Reef National Park, Canyonlands National Park, two national forests and nearby Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument, Utah's only All American Road (Highway 12) three scenic byways, three scenic backways and numerous historic sites. All of this beckons your exploration and offers unique experience with each visit!
  Contact info: 600 East Highway 24
Torrey, UT 84775 USA
phone: 435-425-3688
web: www.redsandshotel.com
  Room amenities: Spacious rooms, free Wi-Fi internet, satellite TV, microwave, refrigerator, and hair dryers.
  Facility amenities: Just minutes away from Capitol Reef National Park. Indoor swimming pool and hot tub plus guest laundry services. Free WiFi internet access, free coffee 24 hours per day, and a delicious breakfast served daily in our breakfast room.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 River Canyon Lodge
Type: Hotel
  Description: Moab is a hub for outdoor recreation and offers easy access to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. The scenic beauty surrounds Moab and the motel. This hotel offers exquisite lodge style ambiance and comfort and it just 1/2 block off Main Street. Main street offers unique shops and restaurants.
  Contact info: 71 West 200 North
Moab, UT 84532 USA
phone: 866-486-6738
web: www.rivercanyonlodge.com/
  Room amenities: All rooms are comfortable and tastefully furnished in southwestern décor that embodies the surrounding red stone landscape. • Refrigerator & microwave • 25" Television • Extended cable (ESPN, HBO, Disney) • Window seat
  Facility amenities: Exquisite lodge style ambiance and comfort just 1/2 block off Main Street. * Large outdoors pool * 12-person hot tub * Key card locking system * Rollaway beds available * Secure mountain bikes parking * 24 hour front desk * Free local calls * Friendly and helpful staff
  Smoking allowed: No

 Best Western At Lake Powell
Type: Hotel
  Description: The Best Western at Lake Powell is your ideal lodging choice in the Page-Lake Powell area. The hotel is located just minutes from beautiful Lake Powell and the Glen Canyon Dam in Page, Arizona. The Best Western at Lake Powell offers the convenience of a central location in the heart of Page surrounded by shops, galleries, museums, and restaurants.
  Contact info: 208 North Lake Powell Blvd.
Page, AZ 86040 USA
phone: 928-645-5988
web: www.innatlakepowell.com
  Room amenities: Furnished in Southwestern decor, each room features wireless internet, in-room coffeemaker, iron with ironing board, 27" cable TV with premium channels (HBO, CNN, ESPN, Disney), Hairdryer, and AM/FM radio alarm clock.
  Facility amenities: Outdoor pool & spa, free high speed internet, fitness center, fax and copy services, safety deposit boxes, and 24-hour front desk service.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
3:00-5:00 PM at the Inn Lobby where you meet your Dixie State College Group Leader and check into your room. You will be staying at College Inn that night.
  End of Program:
Program ends after breakfast at 8:00AM. You will be staying at College Inn the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required.
  Parking availability:
Free secure parking behind the College Inn
Transportation
To Start of Program
  Location:  St. George, Utah
  Nearest city or town:  St. George, Utah
  Nearest highway: Intersate 15 comes right to St. George
  Nearest airport:  St. George for two airlines United Express and Skywest a Delta Connection from Salt Lake City. All airlines to Las Vegas, McCarron Airport.
  From End of Program
  Location: St. George, Utah
    (Additional transportation information same as above)
Travel Details
 

Las Vegas, NV

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
St. George Shuttle
phone: 800-933-8320 xor4356288320
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$35.00 one-way, $60.00 round trip (Subject to change)
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

2 hours 
 

Distance:

 

120 miles
   

When making reservations with St. George Shuttle (www.stgshuttle.com) inform them you are with Road Scholar and they will bring you right to our front door at the College Inn. There are 11 shuttles per day, seven days a week. At Las Vegas Airport meet shuttle on Zero Level.
 

Las Vegas, NV

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Commercial Van/Shuttle
St. George Shuttle
phone: 800-933-8320 xor4356288320
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$35.00 one-way, $60.00 round trip (Subject to change)
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

2 hours 
 

Distance:

 

120 miles
   

When making reservations with St. George Shuttle inform them you are with Road Scholar and they will pick you up right at our front door at the College Inn. Departures from the College Inn will pick up 30 minutes prior to published departure time. Check schedules and make reservations on their website: (http://www.stgshuttle.com/las_vegas_to_road_scholar_to_las_vegas.php)
 

St. George, UT

 

From Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Hotel Shuttle
Dixie State University Road Scholar
phone: 435-634-2050
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$15.00
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

20 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

17.5 miles
   

Please make reservation at least one week in advance.
 

St. George, UT

 

To Airport

 
 

Service:

 

Hotel Shuttle
Dixie State University Road Scholar
phone: 435-634-2050
Advanced Reservations Required

 

Per Person/One Way:

 

$15.00
Prices are subject to change.
 

Travel Time:

 

20 minutes 
 

Distance:

 

17.5 miles
   

Please make reservation at least one week in advance.
 
Driving Directions
  Las Vegas From Las Vegas travel north on I-15 approximately 120 miles (two hours) to St. George, Utah. Take the St. George exit number 6, Bluff Street. At the exit stop light turn left and travel northwest on Bluff Street for about 2 miles to 100 South Street, turn right. The College Inn is 123 East 100 South. Enter the parking lot on the east side of the building.
  Salt Lake City Travel South on I-15 about 300 miles to St. George. Exit at St. George Blvd. exit number 8. Turn right onto St. George Blvd. Travel west 9 blocks to 200 East Street. Turn left and travel two blocks. At 100 South turn right. Travel 1/2 block to College Inn. The address is 123 East 100 South. Enter the parking lot on the east side of the building.
Elevation Note: The highest elevation at about 9,000 feet. We will walk various trails and go to view points.

Equipment Requirements: We suggest you bring a day pack that you can put on your back or around your waist to carry your water bottle and other items. Walking shoes with good tread and hiking pole for the daily walking field study. We will provide an instructor and group leader for all outings.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Welcome and introductions in the College Inn Meeting room
(Thursday, September 19)
   
 Arrive To: 3:00 - 5:00 pm Arrive at the College Inn for check in. The College Inn is located at 123 East 100 South in St. George, Utah. It is about 6 blocks from the Dixie State College Campus.
 Dinner: 5:30 pm - Transfer to Dixie State College's Red Rock Cafe for a delicious banquet dinner.
 Evening: Following dinner have a brief welcome orientation and overview of our daily activities and itinerary.
   
Accommodations: College Inn
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2: Snow Canyon State Park
(Friday, September 20)
   
 Breakfast: 7:00 - 8:00 am - Enjoy a continental breakfast at the College Inn which includes hard boiled eggs, hot oatmeal, cereal, fruit, yogurt, pastries, toast, milk & juice.
 Morning: Geology class and field trip to Snow Canyon State Park for a welcome walk and introduction to area geology. Walk with instructor on the nature trails among the red sandstone formations. At Snow Canyon State Park you can explore the natural beauty with scenery of red rock cliffs, rolling mounds of petrified sand dunes and lava (basalt) rock formations. Enjoy the scenery while you are learning.
 Lunch: Lunch at Red Rock Cafe. Choose between food stations to include fresh salad bar, sandwich bar, home "cookin", pizza, Asian grill, and BBQ grill.
 Afternoon: Welcome to St. George with Dr. Alder He'll share area history and take you to restored pioneer buildings and homes.
 Dinner: 5:30-6:30 pm - Enjoy a Grand Buffet at Chuck-A-Rama. Choose from a variety of fresh salads, homemade dinner rolls, barbecue ribs, baked or fried chicken, roast beef, sliced turkey breast, mashed potatoes & gravy, peas, green beans, corn, scones, assorted beverages. Save room for dessert, apple pie, cakes, cobbler, brownies, and soft serve ice cream or yogurt.
 Evening: 7:00 pm - College Inn Classroom - Gather together for a overview of the amazing geology of Zion National Park.
   
Accommodations: College Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Zion National Park
(Saturday, September 21)
   
 Breakfast: 7:00 - 8:00 am - Enjoy a continental breakfast at the College Inn which includes hard boiled eggs, hot oatmeal, cereal, fruit, yogurt, pastries, toast, milk & juice.
 Morning: 8:15 am - Check-out and depart for Zion National Park. Geology instructor and group leader go with you as you walk among the rock canyons and formations. Incredible scenery of red rock cliffs, raparian areas and more. Enjoy the beauty while you are learning.
 Lunch: Box lunch on the trail.
 Afternoon: Continue walking and exploring Zion Canyon with our geology instructor. Travel to the east side of Zion through the tunnels, view Checkerboard Mesa and continue to Bryce. (Travel time from Zion to Bryce is about 1 hour 15 minutes.) Arrive Bryce, get checked into hotel and relax a little before dinner.
 Dinner: 6:00 - 7:00 pm - Buffet Dinner at Ruby's Cowboy Buffet & Steak Room including BBQ Beef & Pork Ribs, Baked Chicken, Asian Orange Chicken, Baked Pollock, Cornbread, Soup & Salad.
 Evening: 7:30 pm - Hotel Classroom - Learn about the geology of Bryce Canyon National Park. After class enjoy a relaxing evening!
   
Accommodations: Ruby's Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Awesome outings and hikes in Bryce!/Grand Staircase/Anasazi State Park.
(Sunday, September 22)
   
 Breakfast: 7:00 - 8:00 am - Breakfast at Ruby's Cowboy Buffet which includes fresh fruit, yogurt, assorted baked goods, cereal, scrambled eggs, french toast, oatmeal, smoked bacon, sausage, breakfast potatoes, coffee, and assorted teas, juice and milk.
 Morning: Get out and explore the unique formations Bryce is famous for! Hike among the hoodoos and formations along the Queens Garden and Navajo Loop Trail.
 Lunch: Have lunch at Ruby's, near the entrance to Bryce Canyon. Ruby's puts on a great buffet.
 Afternoon: Travel scenic Highway 12 through a portion of the Grand Staircase to Anasazi State Park where we will view native American Ruins and learn about the area human history. Continue on Hwy 12 to Torrey, Utah and check into the hotel. Hwy 12 offers incredible scenery and it has been said that this route contains the most interesting and greatest concentration of diverse geology in the world.
 Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Torrey, Utah.
 Evening: Free time.
   
Accommodations: Red Sands Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Capitol Reef National Park
(Monday, September 23)
   
 Breakfast: 7:00 - 8:00 am - Continental breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: 8:15 Depart for Capitol Reef National Park. A bold river flowing through a towering canyon, huge white domes topped by a brilliant blue sky, green beauty in a vast desert, seemingly mysterious formations carved by whimsical forces - all this is Capitol Reef! Enjoy discovering with the geologist the unique beauty of this park.
 Lunch: Box lunch on the trail.
 Afternoon: Continue exploring the Park with more hikes/walks to see the natural beauty, petroglyphs, cultural and human history of the area.
 Dinner: 6:00 - 7:00 pm - Dinner at the Rim Rock Restaurant. Choose between Utah Mountain Trout pan-seared in browned butter and topped with pine nuts, sage and regional herbs, or Rim Rock Chicken slow roasted with honey herb glaze, or Sergio Leone's Pesto Fettuccine with roma tomatoes, portobello mushrooms, and asparagus sautéed in pesto and white wine.
 Evening: Free Time
   
Accommodations: Red Sands Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Capitol Reef/John Wesley Powell Museum in Green River/Dead Horse Point State Park/Canyonlands National Park
(Tuesday, September 24)
   
 Breakfast: 7:00 - 8:00 am - Continental breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: Depart and travel through Capitol Reef. Arrive at the John Wesley Powell Museum in Green River. This is a wonderful museum that captures the spirit of this great and determined explorer. This is a fitting introduction as we approach the Colorado River area that he first mapped and explored in such an exciting and adventurous fashion. Imagine venturing into the unknown and traveling down the mighty Colorado River on boats unsure of what is around the next bend or if you are headed for great rapids or large waterfalls that would leave you plunging to your death. The names of places and the initial geologic mapping of the areas we travel were created by John Wesley Powell, his traveling companions and their explorations.
 Lunch: Lunch at the Tamarisk Restaurant in Green River. Sample their delicious soup and salad bar, fresh fruit, roasted chicken, fish, and enchiladas, topped off with homemade lemon or apple cobbler.
 Afternoon: Travel to Dead Horse Point State Park and Canyonlands National Park to view a variety of unusual rock formations along with deeply eroded canyons interspersed with sheer-sided mesas. You can see nearly 100 miles in any direction and the Colorado River below. Travel and check into the hotel in Moab.
 Dinner: Dinner on your own.
 Evening: Free time to relax or explore downtown Moab
   
Accommodations: River Canyon Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Geology excursion to Arches National Park
(Wednesday, September 25)
   
 Breakfast: 7:00 - 8:00 am - Continental breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: 8:15 am - Depart and travel to Arches National Park which contains more than 2,000 natural stone arches along with red rock canyons, spires, fins and balanced rocks!
 Lunch: Box lunch on the trail.
 Afternoon: Continue geology field trip and hikes as we explore this magnificent landscape!
 Dinner: Dinner on your own.
 Evening: Free time to relax or explore downtown Moab
   
Accommodations: River Canyon Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 8: Edge of the Cedars Museum/Monument Valley
(Thursday, September 26)
   
 Breakfast: 7:00 - 8:00 am - Continental breakfast at the hotel.
 Morning: 8:15 am - Check out of hotel and travel to Blanding and Edge of the Cedars Museum. This is ranked one of the best museums in the Southwest. Enjoy a docent led presentation and some time to browse and learn on your own about the Native American history with artifacts, pottery and ruins.
 Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Goulding’s Stagecoach Dining Room in Monument Valley which offers a spectacular, panoramic view of one of Mother Nature’s unique creations. Located at the site of many of the classic western movies, enjoy a meal overlooking the historic Goulding’s Trading Post and the same vista that John Wayne, John Ford and Henry Fonda made famous. The dining room is staffed by local Navajos (Dine’) so you'll have the chance to experience the grace and culture of this Southwestern Native American people while enjoying a choice of a traditional Navajo Taco with Navajo Fry Bread, Beef Stew, soup & salad bar, or Club Sandwich.
 Afternoon: The informational displays at the new Visitor Center allows park visitors to learn more about Navajo culture, tradition, language and history from the perspective of the Navajo people. The exhibit displays are a combination of pictorial information, interactive media and actual artifacts. Some of these displays include Navajo philosophy, the Treaty of 1868 "Long Walk” and a Navajo Code Talkers exhibit. Other exhibits will show the Navajo Nation Governmental structure, history of uranium mining and the legacy of films. Continue on to Lake Powell and check in at Best Western Lake Powell in Page, AZ.
 Dinner: Dinner at Butterfield Steakhouse, choose between Salmon or Teriyaki Grilled Chicken. Dinner also includes fresh salad, herb rice, vegetables, baked potato, homemade bread, and choice of coffee, tea, or ice tea. For dessert try the Rainbow Fruity Sherbet or Ice Cream.
 Evening: Free time.
   
Accommodations: Best Western At Lake Powell
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Cruise Lake Powell to Rainbow Bridge National Monument
(Friday, September 27)
   
 Breakfast: 6:00 - 6:45 am - Breakfast Buffet at Glen Canyon Steakhouse which includes fresh fruit, yogurt, pancakes, french toast, eggs, bacon, sausage, hashbrowns, cereal, assorted pastries, coffee, tea, and juice.
 Morning: 6:50 am - Board bus and transfer to Wahweap Marina. Anchors away, as we cruise to Rainbow Bridge National Monument, one of the Natural Wonders of the World! Cruise aboard a large boat with professional captain, an enclosed lower level with seating and large windows, bathrooms and an upper open air level with seating and areas to stand and enjoy the scenery.
 Lunch: Box lunch on board cruise.
 Afternoon: Return from Lake Powell Cruise and transfer back to Page, AZ for some free time. 5:00 pm - Depart for a Navajo Village special presentation! This is a fascinating glimpse into the Navajo culture and traditions. Presented by Navajo Tribe members.
 Dinner: 7:00 - 8:00 pm - Dinner buffet at Mandarin Gourmet. Delicious assortment of beef, chicken, prawns and vegetable dishes as well as fresh salad and dessert.
 Evening: Free Time
   
Accommodations: Best Western At Lake Powell
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Grand Canyon National Park, North Rim
(Saturday, September 28)
   
 Breakfast: 7:00 - 8:00 am - Breakfast Buffet at Glen Canyon Steakhouse which includes fresh fruit, yogurt, pancakes, french toast, eggs, bacon, sausage, hashbrowns, cereal, assorted pastries, coffee, tea, and juice.
 Morning: 8:15 am - Check out and travel to Grand Canyon National Park, North Rim. Upon arrival we'll take a short hike out to Bright Angel Point. The half mile round trip out the spine of the ridge to the point is paved and is a little steep in places, but worth it. From the point you'll be treated to impressive colorful views stretching well down into Roaring Springs and Bright Angel Canyons.
 Lunch: Lunch at the North Rim Lodge Dining Room. Dining in this historic Lodge is truly a memorable experience. They take pride in utilizing only the freshest and healthiest ingredients and offer organic products including delicious salad greens and pastas. The lunch buffet includes a full assortment of daily pastas with alfredo, marinara, or bolognese sauces, shredded parmesan cheese, fresh baked garlic rolls, chilled organic field greens and complementing salad toppings and dressing. Also your choice of organic-fair trade-shade grown coffee, tea or a fountain drink.
 Afternoon: Continue exploring the Grand Canyon's North Rim from various view points. Travel to St. George, Utah.
 Dinner: 6:30 - 7:30 pm - Enjoy a Grand Buffet at Chuck-A-Rama. Choose from a variety of fresh salads, homemade dinner rolls, barbecue ribs, baked or fried chicken, roast beef, sliced turkey breast, mashed potatoes & gravy, peas, green beans, corn, scones, assorted beverages. Save room for dessert, apple pie, cakes, cobbler, brownies, and soft serve ice cream or yogurt.
 Evening: Enjoy a closing dinner and recap the scenic beauty you were able to see and experience this week!
   
Accommodations: College Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Departures
(Sunday, September 29)
   
 Breakfast: 7:00 - 8:00 am - Enjoy a continental breakfast at the College Inn which includes hard boiled eggs, hot oatmeal, cereal, fruit, yogurt, pastries, toast, milk & juice.
 Morning: Depart following breakfast
   
Meals Included: Breakfast

Free Time Opportunities
  
  St. George, Utah General Information
**Please note: The amount of free time varies with each program. The free time options noted here may require spending additional time on your own to experience them. Check your program schedule to determine what is possible in the time available. For additional information, visit www.utahsdixie.com
  Grand Canyon North Rim General Overview of Grand Canyon North Rim
**Please note: The Grand Canyon North Rim is open MAY 15 - OCT 15 each year it is closed during the winter months. There is very little free time during this program. The free time options noted here are helpful if you plan to spend additional time on your own. For additional information, visit www.nps.gov/grca/
  Zion National Park General Information about Zion National Park
~~~Zion Canyon IMAX for more information visit the website www.zioncanyontheatre.com For additional information, visit www.nps.gov/zion
  Bryce Canyon National Park General Overview of Bryce Canyon National Park free time options
**PLEASE NOTE: There is very little free time during this program. The free time options noted here are helpful if you plan to spend additional time before or after the program. Shuttle runs from May 15 - September 30, from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm daily. For additional information, visit www.nps.gov/brca
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


Geology


Author: See list below


Description: Geology – a Golden Guide, by Frank H.T. Rhodes, 1991, St. Martin’s Press, N.Y., ISBN 1-58238-143-7. $6.95 Geology of Utah’s Parks and Monuments, Sprinkel et. al. Utah Geological Association , 2000. Contains geology papers on 25 parks and monuments of Utah (644 pages). Written for a geologist. Softbound $34.99 Utah‘s Spectacular Geology, Lehi Hintze, 2005 The geologic story of Utah’s landscapes and how they came to be. $29.95 The Colorado Plateau, Don Baars A comprehensive guide to the Colorado Plateau. $19.95 The Practical Geologist, Dougal Dixon, Raymond Bernor, 1992 This book is a great introductory guide to the basics of geology. Great diagrams, pictures and is well written. $16.00 Geology Underfoot in Southern Utah, R. Orndorff, R. Wieder, D. Futey, 2006 A hands on book about getting out among the rocks. Explores 33 sites in Southern Utah. Tells of ancient eruptions, deserts, seas, swamps and movements of massive rock units over eons. $18.00 Beyond the Visible Landscape, W. Kenneth Hamblin, 2004. A unique book that consists of a series of panoramic photographs taken from the air. Focuses on the fundamental features of the landscape. Contains excellent diagrams & descriptions of the geology in the photographs. Hardbound $65.00



Geology (specific)


Author: See list below


Description: Books about Geology (Specific) Shadows of Time: The Geology of Bryce Canyon National Park, Frank Decourten, 1994 A book with breathtaking photographs, well written on the geology of Bryce Canyon N. P. and surrounding high plateaus. $9.95 Water, Rock, & Time: The Geologic Story of Zion National Park, Robert Eves, 2005 This book is Zion’s newest masterpiece. It is well written. It is so nice you may want to leave it on the coffee table. $19.95 Zion National Park – Towers of Stone; by J.L. Crawford; Zion Natural History Association, Springdale, Utah, Fourth Edition 2002. ISBN 0-915630-00-1 $9.50 (Available online at www.zionpark.org) Carving Grand Canyon, Wayne Ranney. 2005. A synopsis of ideas and theories that geologists have developed over time about the carving of the Grand Canyon. This story is told in an engaging style that non-scientists will find inviting. $14.95 Canyonlands Country, Donald Baars, 1993. Geology of Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. $15.95



Paleontology


Author: See list below


Description: Books about Paleontology Life in Stone, Christa Sadeler, 2005. A book on time and fossils of the Colorado plateau. $11.95 Fossils, Smithsonian and Audubon Field Guides are both excellent choices. They offer a North American perspective to the fossil record. A good value. Compact and durable design. $20. Dinosaurs of Utah, Frank Decourten. 1998. Presents an amazing assortment of information on dinosaurs of Utah. Includes descriptions of the ecological environment and climatic conditions, fauna and flora. It offers the reader the best synopsis of Utah‘s renowned dinosaur localities. The artwork and dioramas are spectacular. Hardbound volume for the serious dinosaur lover. $25.00



Books about History


Author: See list below


Description: Books about History Heart of the Desert Wild, Greer Chesser. 2000. Award winning book about the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument (GSENM). It covers a variety of topics from geology to history. The photography and design of this book are outstanding and remains the definitive book on the GSENM. Softbound. $24.95 A Roadside History of Utah, Cynthia L. Bennett. 1999. Compelling stories of Utah’s exceptional people. $18.00 Utah’s History, Richard D. Poll. 1989. A more in-depth and statewide focus on history. Soft bound text heavy. Hole-in-the-Rock, David E. Miller. 1966. If you want to learn more about one of the epic pioneer journeys in American History this is the book. It is area related and is a good read for those interested in history. $16.00 Highway 12, Christian Probasco. 2005. Popular with travelers along Highway 12. It features a unique look at the history, people and their perspectives on this very special corridor. Softbound $16.95. Outlaw Tales of Utah, Michael Rutter. True stores of Utah’s most famous robbers, rustlers and bandits. $10.95



Books about History (more)


Author: see list below


Description: Books about History Basin and Range, John McPhee. 1980. A book of journeys through ancient terrains, always in juxtaposition with travels in the modern world---a history of vanished landscapes, enhanced by the histories of people who bring them to light. Includes a history of the geologic time scale. $14.95. The Dominguez- Escalante Journal, Ted J. Warner. 1995. Their expedition through Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona in 1776. $12.95 Over the Rim, The Parley P. Pratt Exploring Expedition to Southern Utah, 1849-50. William and Donna T. Smart. 1999. In the winter of 1849 fifty men set out from Salt Lake City on an arduous expedition to explore Southern Utah. $19.95 Echoes from the Cliffs of Capital Reef National Park, Max Robinson, Clay Robinson. 2004. Enlightening reminiscences of Capital Reef National Park. $6.95. Standing Up Country, Gregory Crampton. 1964. A lavishly illustrated history of the scenic beauty of Southern Utah. $16.95. The Exploration of the Colorado River and its Canyons, by J.W. Powell; Dover Publications, Inc., New York. This book combines two of J.W. Powell’s voyages into one epic adventure. $10.25 Beyond The Hundredth Meridian by Wallace Stegner; Penguin Books 1992. A penetrating and insightful study of the adventures of Maj. John Wesley Powell. $10.75



Books about Flora


Author: see list below


Description: Books about Flora Wildflowers of Southwestern Utah, Hayle Buchanan. 1992. Text covers flowers, shrubs and trees in their various life zones from Zion, Bryce and Cedar Breaks. $7.95 Canyon Country Wildflowers, Damian Fagan. 1998. A field guide to common wildflowers, shrubs and trees. $19.95 Sagebrush Country a Wildflower Sanctuary, Ronald Taylor. 1992. A field guide to common wildflowers, grasses and shrubs of the Great Basin. $14.00 Great Basin Wildflowers, Laird R. Blackwell. 2006. A guide to common wildflowers of the High Deserts of Nevada, Utah and Oregon. $22.95 Wild Plants and Native Peoples of the Four Corners, William Dunmire & Gail Tierney. 1997. A valuable book for anyone interested in plants, people, and cultures of the Colorado Plateau. $22.50 Wildflowers of the Mountain Southwest, . Meg Quinn 2000. A field guide to common upland wildflowers. $12.95 Wildflowers of the Desert Southwest, Meg Quinn. 2000. A field guide to common desert wildflowers. $9.95



General Reference


Author: see list below


Description: General Reference A Naturalists Guide to the Canyon Country, David B. Williams. 2000. A wonderful Falcon Guide that uses fine artwork and pictures to introduce the geology, flora, fauna and history of the Canyon Country. $22.95. Four Corners: History, Land and People of the Desert Southwest, Kenneth A. Brown. Great information about the region. $26.00 Desert Solitaire, Edward Abbey. 1968. A season in the wilderness is a celebration of the beauty of living in a harsh and hostile land. Edward Abbey was a seasonal Park ranger in Arches National Monument. $10.75 Cadillac Desert, Marc Reisner. 1986. The story of the American West is the story of a relentless quest for a precious resource: water. The definitive work on the West’s water crisis. $17.00



Education


Author: see list below


Description: Education The Redrock Canyon Explorer, Irene Brady and Geology Rocks, by Cindy Blobaum & Michael Kline. Two books that are a great starting place for grandparents and educators that would like to get a fun and creative educational tool for their grandchildren or students. $19.95 and $12.95 Last Child in the Woods, Richard Louv. 2005. An absolute must-read for parents if we are going to save our children from the Nature- Deficit Disorder. $13.95. Sharing Nature with Children, Joseph Cornell. 1989. A parents and teachers nature awareness guidebook. $9.95.



Books about Native American / Prehistory


Author: see list below


Description: Native American / Prehistory Sacred Images: A Vision of Native American Rock Art, by Leslie Kelen & David Sucec 1996. Publication that features rock art and ruins of the native cultures of the southwest. $18.00 Those Who Came Before, Robert and Florence Lister. 1993. Southwestern archeology in the National Parks. $17.00





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