Cycling in the National Parks of Utah

by BikeTours.com
Region
Utah
Duration
6 days
Guided Status
Guided
Difficulty
Recreational
D-Score™
N/A - Unknown

Overview

Explore the unrivaled natural beauty of the colossal Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks. This guided bike tour brings you right to the heart of both parks for unmissable views, incredible insights, and unforgettable experiences. Prepare to cycle through spectacular sandstone landscapes of towering hoodoos, colossal bolders, and intricate slot canyon labyrinths, discovering the fascinating desert flora every pedal of the way. This breathtaking bicycle tour is designed to offer an intimate encounter with the unmissable canyonlands of Utah. Hiking is also possible. The tour includes cycling through Dixie National Forest, visiting Cedar Breaks National Monument, riding past the glorious aspens and beautiful pines, and exploring the characterful town of Panguitch. The ride continues past the incredible rock formations of Red Canyon, leading to Bryce Canyon National Park. The optional last 15 miles +1,200 ft climb into Bryce Canyon can be undertaken. Day 2 involves a hiking trip into Bryce Canyon, surrounded by awe-inspiring natural architecture, including hoodoos. In the afternoon, there's a choice between a 17-mile downhill bike ride from Rainbow Point or a ride there and back. Day 3 includes an exquisite sunrise hike to the Bryce Canyon Overlook, followed by cycling along the Sevier and Virgin Rivers into Zion National Park. The tour features a descent down the spectacular east side of the colossal canyon and 6 miles of cycling along the flat valley floor. Day 4 involves winding your way up 'Walter’s Wiggles' to 'Scout Lookout' for a panoramic vista point. Alternatives include a leisurely stroll to a waterfall or challenging cycling inside Zion National Park (with van support) or along the park's border (without van support). The Park Service offers free and frequent shuttles. Day 5 offers the opportunity to walk the Virgin River Narrows, a scenic slot canyon with 1,000 ft walls. This involves wading in and out of ankle-deep water, with walking sticks and wading boots provided. Day 6 includes a final ride through Zion Canyon, followed by a westward route along the Virgin River, discovering more spectacular scenery before lunch. A 45-minute shuttle then returns participants to St. George. The tour utilizes Standard touring bikes (Giant FastRoad SL 1 or Liv Thrive 1 Disc) with ALUXX aluminum frames, 700c wheels, and disc brakes. Road bike options include Giant Defy Advanced 3 or Liv Avail Advanced 3/2. Electrically-assisted bikes include Liv Rove E+ or Giant Roam E+ STA/GTS, all featuring SyncDrive Core Motor and EnergyPak batteries. All bikes come equipped with frame bags, GPS-based Wahoo computers, two water bottles, and regular flat pedals, toe clips, or straps. Guests can bring their own saddle and/or clipless pedals. Helmets are provided, but personal helmets are recommended. Included services comprise 5 nights of accommodation, 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 4 dinners, post-ride beverages, water, fruit juices, soft drinks, energy bars, fruit, and snacks during cycling days. Standard or road bike rental, a tour guide and van support, and excursions as mentioned in the itinerary are also included. Travelers can reach the tour start via McCarran Airport in Las Vegas (LAS) or St. George Airport (SGU). A public shuttle is available between Las Vegas and St. George. On Day 1, transfers are offered from SGU, Hilton Garden Inn, and Hyatt Place Hotel. Tour end drop-off is at SGU, with return shuttles to Las Vegas also possible.

Daily Ride Schedule

Day 1: St. George - Bryce Canyon City

56 km 2148 m

N/A

St. George - Bryce Canyon City

Day 2: Rainbow Point loop ride, Navajo/Queen's Garden hiking loop

21 km 926 m

N/A

Rainbow Point loop ride, Navajo/Queen's Garden hiking loop

Day 3: Bryce Canyon Overlook hike, Zion National Park ride

35 km 2038 m

N/A

Bryce Canyon Overlook hike, Zion National Park ride

Day 4: Walter's Wiggles - Scouts Lookout Hike

3 km 1115 m

N/A

Walter's Wiggles - Scouts Lookout Hike

Day 5: Hike in Virgin River Narrows

5 km 0 m

N/A

Hike in Virgin River Narrows

Day 6: Zion Canyon ride and departure

32 km 1549 m

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Zion Canyon ride and departure

Accommodation & Services

Accommodation

Hotel

What's Included

Airport transfers
Catering services
Accommodation arrangements
Bike rental
Mechanical support
Support vehicle following all rides

About the Utah

A dedicated guide for this region is not available yet.