Arizona

Hiking Arizona’s Marble Canyon and Vermilion Cliffs: Off the Beaten Path

Program No. 6113RJ
In remote and beautiful Marble Canyon, enjoy challenging hikes in a geologic wonderland of slot canyons, red rock vistas and the awe-inspiring waters of the Colorado River.

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7 days
6 nights
17 meals
6B 5L 6D
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At a Glance

In remote and beautiful Marble Canyon, enjoy varied hiking opportunities in a geologic wonderland. While on foot in this challenging terrain, be rewarded with infinite views as well as the hushed space of a twisting slot canyon. Hike hidden trails and explore off-the-beaten-path locations known only to local experts. Spend time on the Colorado River while connecting with nature and history in this storied landscape.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Challenging
Hike six miles daily, largely off-trail, over uneven terrain, high steps and desert vegetation with elevation changes of 1,600 feet. Must have good balance and use of hands to navigate some rocky sections. Elevations of 3,000-5,000 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

  • Hike to the Colorado River via sinuous Cathedral Wash canyon.
  • Explore the Chocolate Cliffs, revealing outcrops of rare petrified wood and ancient rock art.
  • Hear from naturalists as they share their knowledge of the canyon and interpret its geologic, natural and human histories.

General Notes

Due to the nature of this program, listening devices are not available.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Karlyn Bunting
Karlyn Bunting grew up in Page, Arizona, after the construction of Glen Canyon Dam – at the heart of what is commonly called the Grand Circle. He loves to hike and explore the many natural wonders of the region, and is deeply interested those who traveled this region prior to our modern day — from the Ancestral Puebloans to the Mormon migrations. Karlyn is also an avid photographer and storyteller, and enjoys sharing his unique and multi-faceted perspective of the Colorado Plateau.

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

Profile Image of Karlyn Bunting
Karlyn Bunting View biography
Karlyn Bunting grew up in Page, Arizona, after the construction of Glen Canyon Dam – at the heart of what is commonly called the Grand Circle. He loves to hike and explore the many natural wonders of the region, and is deeply interested those who traveled this region prior to our modern day — from the Ancestral Puebloans to the Mormon migrations. Karlyn is also an avid photographer and storyteller, and enjoys sharing his unique and multi-faceted perspective of the Colorado Plateau.
Profile Image of Mike Young
Mike Young View biography
Mike Young has lived in Arizona for 40 years, and taught math and geology at Yavapai College prior to his work with Road Scholar. To convey the Arizona landscape, Mike uses a broad range of topics including botany, natural history, and geomorphology. He has worked as a commercial boatman, designed and constructed his own home, and conducted field exercises throughout the intermountain West. He is an accomplished hike leader who inspires hikers of all skill levels.
Profile Image of Joel Kane
Joel Kane View biography
Joel Kane grew up roaming Appalachian Pennsylvania but has called the Southwest home for years. After serving in the Navy, he earned a bachelor's degree in geology from the University of California/Los Angeles. He later worked as an interpretive park ranger for the National Park Service at Fossil Butte National Monument in Wyoming, Zion National Park in Utah, Oregon Caves National Monument in Oregon, and the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. He is pursuing his master's degree in geology at Northern Arizona University/Flagstaff.
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