Utah

Off the Beaten Path: Backcountry Hiking in Southwestern Utah

Program No. 23226RJ
Take on challenging hikes off the beaten path through the backcountry of Utah with a small group of fellow adventurers, learning about geological and human history of the region.

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At a Glance

Are you ready for a challenge? Rock scramble and hike your way along the red rock backcountry of southwest Utah for a scenic learning adventure with your expert group leaders. Hike little-known paths to learn about the geological history of the swirling patterned Navajo sandstone, slot canyons, hoodoos, lava tubes and petrified forests and sand dunes, and investigate the human history of the area at Anasazi Ridge.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Challenging
Strenuous hiking up to 12 miles daily with bouldering, rock scrambles, slick-rock climbs and elevation gains up to 2300 feet. Agility, balance and stamina required. Terrain includes deep sand, loose rocks, very steep inclines and declines and some small vertical cliff faces. Elevation up to 6500 feet.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

What You'll Learn

  • Enjoy challenging, small-group hikes off the beaten path with expert instruction from your group leaders about geological formations, flora, fauna and human history.
  • Hike Ancestral Puebloan sites to learn about petroglyphs dating back 4,000 years, and search for ancient pottery pieces along the Santa Clara River.
  • Hike Zion's West Rim trail and climb switchbacks with sheer drop-offs to Scout Lookout.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Sherry Breitenbach
Sherry Breitenbach moved to the St. George area in 2006 and quickly became a hiking enthusiast. Following her passion for the outdoors and exploring, she signed on as a hiking instructor for two local businesses. Sherry now shares her passion of this part of the country with Road Scholar programs through Dixie State University. Before moving to St. George, Sherry worked in the field of laboratory testing for 26 years, and managed a now-consolidated branch laboratory of 14 employees.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Sherry Breitenbach
Sherry Breitenbach View biography
Sherry Breitenbach moved to the St. George area in 2006 and quickly became a hiking enthusiast. Following her passion for the outdoors and exploring, she signed on as a hiking instructor for two local businesses. Sherry now shares her passion of this part of the country with Road Scholar programs through Dixie State University. Before moving to St. George, Sherry worked in the field of laboratory testing for 26 years, and managed a now-consolidated branch laboratory of 14 employees.





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