Cornell Alumni Association Travel Program
Southwest National Parks program
Pricing: $3995 per person double occupancy; $4995
single occupancy
Reservations: Call Orbidge at 866-639-0079
Program Description(s):
Join us on a 10-day journey through a spectacular series of natural wonders in the
American Southwest. At Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley, Zion National Park, and the
Grand Canyon, admire otherworldly formations famously photographed by Ansel
Adams—they are even more sublime in person. Go river rafting along Glen Canyon with
a visit to a petroglyph site, admire the beauty of light striking Antelope Canyon’s narrow
sandstone walls, and marvel at the scenic vistas of Capitol Reef and Arches National
Parks. Share a peaceful evening with Navajo storytelling, and refresh in atmospheric
hotels and lodges. Joined by an expert Orbridge Expedition Leader and traveling in the
comfort of a private motor coach, there is no better way to visit our national parks.
Program Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive Las Vegas, NV
Day 2: Zion National Park, UT
Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park
Day 4: Bryce Canyon / Moab
Day 5: Moab / Monument Valley
Day 6: Monument Valley / Lake Powell
Day 7: Lake Powell
Day 8: Lake Powell / Grand Canyon Nat'l Park, AZ
Day 9: Grand Canyon Nat'l Park / Scottsdale
Day 10: Depart Scottsdale
Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas, NV
Welcome to Las Vegas! This evening, meet your traveling companions and Orbridge
Expedition Leaders for a welcome drink and preparation for your upcoming adventure.
Overnight: Las Vegas Marriott (R)
Day 2: Zion National Park, UT
Travel from the big city to big open spaces as you leave Las Vegas behind. After your
arrival to Zion National Park, perhaps hike to the Emerald Pools, stroll along the
Riverside Walk, or take a ranger-led program or one of many ranger talks at the Zion
Human History Museum. Tonight, share your experiences with your travel companions
over dinner.
Overnight: Zion Park Lodge (B,D)
Day 3: Bryce Canyon National Park
View the slow erosion of ages in Bryce Canyon National Park. Resembling castle
towers and cathedral spires, the unique rock formations are something you will not
forget. Watch the natural amphitheaters and canyons glow as you wander the rim.
Enjoy some free time to explore the authentic Southwestern Indian arts and crafts at the
general store near your hotel.
Overnight: Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Hotel (B)
Day 4: Bryce Canyon / Moab
Today's route through Capitol Reef National Park and Grand Staircase Escalante
National Monument is one of the most spectacular, yet unknown, scenic drives in the
United States. The majesty of Capitol Reef will intrigue you with its twisting canyons,
massive domes, monoliths, and spires of sandstone. Arrive late afternoon in the resort
town of Moab for a stay at a resort perched on the bank of the Colorado River. Enjoy a
wine tasting at the resort's winery followed by dinner.
Overnight: Red Cliffs Lodge (B,L,D)
Day 5: Moab / Monument Valley
This morning observe the unusual rock formations in Arches National Park—featuring
more than 2,000 natural sandstone arches—including Balanced Rock and the world
famous Delicate Arch.
Afterward, continue to Monument Valley to the secluded Goulding’s Lodge, famous for
its role in dozens of Old West movies, trade, and Navajo territory culture. Settle in and
explore the collection of movie memorabilia and Indian artifacts in the Goulding’s
Museum and Trading Post. Tonight, retreat to an authentic Navajo cookout and
storytelling presentation focused on Navajo legend, songs, and history.
Overnight: Goulding’s Lodge (B,D)
Day 6: Monument Valley / Lake Powell
Today enjoy an excursion aboard a 4x4 open-air vehicle through magnificent Monument
Valley alongside your Navajo guide, viewing and listening to stories about the unique
sandstone formations. After lunch at Goulding's Lodge, continue through Navajo country
and stop at Navajo National Monument, located within the northwest portion of the
Navajo Nation territory in northern Arizona.
Then travel to the shores of Lake Powell. Enjoy views over the lake as you settle into
your room. Perhaps join the optional Lake Powell cruise or choose to relax at the resort,
followed by dinner with your traveling companions.
Overnight: Lake Powell Resort (B,L,D)
Day 7: Lake Powell
This morning, embark upon a raft trip down the Colorado River through nearby Glen
Canyon, gazing at the 700- to 1,400-foot red rock cliffs overhead and watching for the
California Condor. Stop to view 6,000-year-old petroglyphs, believed to have been
carved by Ancestral Puebloans. Finish the float trip at historic Lees Ferry, gateway to
the Grand Canyon. Enjoy a scenic ride back to Lake Powell, where the rest of the day is
at your leisure.
Overnight: Lake Powell Resort (B,L)
Day 8: Lake Powell / Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
Enjoy an early morning guided tour of spectacular Antelope Canyon. Created by wind
and water erosion, the canyon walls appear like "flowing rocks" that reflect light in
remarkable ways.
Later, journey to the Grand Canyon to marvel at the dramatic views of this Natural
Wonder of the World. Wander along the Canyon rim, join a ranger-led program, or
simply watch the sunset.
Overnight: Grand Canyon National Park Lodges (B,D)
Day 9: Grand Canyon / Scottsdale
Enjoy a leisurely morning or take a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fly over the heart of
the Grand Canyon during an optional helicopter flightseeing excursion.
This afternoon arrive at Sedona, also known as "Arizona's Scenic Sensation." Explore
the breathtakingly picturesque town and enjoy lunch on your own at one of many local
restaurants. Later, travel south amid the cactus-studded landscape, ending your day in
charming Scottsdale. This evening enjoy a special farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Westin Kierland Resort and Spa (B,D)
Day 10: Depart Scottsdale
After breakfast, take your complimentary transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)
Reservations: Call Orbidge at 866-639-0079