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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260930
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SUMMARY:Southwest National Parks
DESCRIPTION:Venture with alumni and friends from September 30 to October 8\, 2026 and travel through the iconic landscapes of America’s Southwest. Led by a premier guide from Orbridge’s Expedition Leader team— many of whom have served as U.S. National Park Rangers—and supported by experienced local guides\, their expertise will bring the landscapes\, wildlife and history of this region to life. This comprehensive tour blends breathtaking scenery with rich narratives\, offering a deep connection to the land\, its people and its past. \nUnveil the mesmerizing geological marvels tucked within our treasured national parks—including the Grand Canyon\, Bryce Canyon and Zion—where the intricate dance of uplift and erosion has etched an extraordinary tapestry across the Southwest plateau. Delve into a world where hoodoos\, slot canyons\, arches\, buttes and mesas stretch across the horizon in a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry. Immerse yourself not just in the land’s grandeur\, but also in the stories of the resilient Americans who helped shape the history of “Red Rock Country.” \nThis customized itinerary extends far beyond the surface featuring exclusive opportunities to engage with Native American history through music\, storytelling\, and meaningful discussions that bring the region’s heritage to life. \nPLUS: Join the optional post-tour—Salt Lake City to Denver aboard Canyon Spirit— to take advantage of additional guided touring at Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park. Enjoy nature’s wondrous scenery in comfort and style during two days of rail travel in premium SilverLeaf class. \nShared with participants from cosponsoring associations\, space is sure to fill quickly. Request a reservation today\, or please contact the Georgetown Travel Society at 866-525-8664 or GeorgetownTravelSociety@Georgetown.edu for more details. \nPlease Click for e-Brochure\nDates & Rates \nTrip Dates: September 30 – October 8\, 2026 \nRates: $5\,695 per person based upon double occupancy. A limited number of places are offered for single travelers at $7\,3695 per person. Please contact us regarding single space availability prior to sending in a reservation. \nTrip Status: Open for reservations. Reserve My Spot \nItinerary \n\n\n Day 1: Arrive in Phoenix\, AZ | Scottsdale  (D) \nUpon arrival to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hotel. Take time to refresh before joining the group in the lobby to depart for Desert Botanical Garden for a special welcome dinner. \nOvernight: Scottsdale Marriott at McDowell Mountains \n\n\n Day 2: Scottsdale | Sedona | Grand Canyon National Park (B) \nAfter breakfast travel north through the cactus-studded Sonoran Desert arriving at Sedona’s stunning Bell Rock Loop. Take advantage of photography opportunities of the magnificent landscape before boarding the motor coach to head into Sedona for lunch on your own. Sedona is an enchanting Southwestern town with a bohemian vibe. Vast red rock formations provide a serene backdrop for various eclectic boutiques\, cafés and art galleries. Continue to Grand Canyon National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a natural wonder that showcases the raw beauty of geological forces over millions of years. After checking into the hotel enjoy the remainder of the day for independent park exploration and dinner on your own. \nOvernight: Kachina Lodge \n\n\n Day 3: Grand Canyon National Park (B) \nThis morning enjoy time at leisure to explore the park independently or opt for an unforgettable helicopter flightseeing tour over the Grand Canyon’s North\, South\, and East Rims—including the confluence of the Little Colorado River. Soar deep into the canyon for breathtaking views of towering buttes\, majestic temples and dramatic side canyons. This extraordinary experience offers a low-impact way to appreciate the grandeur of this natural wonder while remaining mindful of its environmental sensitivity. Aboard a top-tier\, eco-friendly EC130 aircraft—featuring forward-facing stadium seating and expansive 180º views—witness the awe-inspiring eastern gorge\, the forested North Rim and the striking Dragon Corridor. (This optional excursion can be purchased in advance from our Guest Services team. Space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.) \nAfterward gather with the group for optional guided Grand Canyon touring to Mather Point and the Visitor Center. \nMather Point is a popular and easily accessible viewpoint on the South Rim. This location offers stunning panoramic views and showcases the canyon’s incredible depth and scale. Guests may wish to enjoy a picnic lunch and leisure time at Grandview\, a favored spot for anyone seeking a bit of solitude amid the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. This was once the site of the Grandview Hotel\, a popular destination in the late 19th century that quickly fell into disuse with few traces remaining today. Alternatively return to the lodge and enjoy the on-site dining options. \nThe remainder of the day and evening are open for various activities. Take a guided program that explains the geologic and human history of the canyon or walk the rim at sunset. Other options include strolling the Trail of Time\, learning about the history and formation of the Grand Canyon at the Yavapai Museum of Geology\, and/or visiting the historic Kolb Studio to learn about the art of the Grand Canyon. \nOvernight: Kachina Lodge \n\n\n Day 4: Grand Canyon National Park | Page | Lake Powell (B\,D) \nDeparting the Grand Canyon stop at Desert View to see the iconic Watchtower and nearby trading post. Continuing to Page\, lunch is on your own followed by guided touring at Antelope Canyon. Antelope Canyon’s narrow passages and distinctive swirling rock formations are the result of water erosion and wind over thousands of years. The mesmerizing interplay of light against the rock formations makes this site a haven for photographers—shifting colors and textures create a dynamic visual experience unseen anywhere else. This evening gather together for a relaxing dinner and time to unwind at the property. \nOvernight: Lake Powell Resort \n\n\n Day 5: Lake Powell | Bryce Canyon National Park\, UT  (B\,L\,D) \nAfter breakfast set out on an exciting adventure in Glen Canyon—a rafting float trip down the calm waters of the Colorado River. As you drift along the river admire various geological features including ancient petroglyphs\, rock formations and the unique striations in the canyon walls. This float trip also provides excellent wildlife spotting opportunities—keep an eye peeled for eagles and California Condors. Arriving to Lees Ferry there will be time for a picnic lunch before departing for Bryce Canyon. This evening settle into your accommodations then rejoin the group for dinner. \nOvernight: The Lodge at Bryce Canyon \n\n\n Day 6: Bryce Canyon National Park | Zion National Park  (B) \nToday experience Bryce Canyon\, a surreal and captivating landscape of intricately carved hoodoos\, towering spires and vibrant rock formations. One of the must-visit viewpoints within the park is Bryce Point where the magic of Bryce Canyon truly unfolds. Bryce Point’s expansive panorama offers uninterrupted views of Bryce Amphitheater\, a vast bowl-shaped area filled with a labyrinth of massive hoodoos. Continue on to Sunset and Sunrise Points\, each displaying striking geological structures carved over millions of years. This afternoon following leisure time for lunch depart for Zion National Park. \nOvernight: Zion Park Lodge \n\n\n Day 7: Zion National Park  (B\,D) \nAfter breakfast board an open-air tram for a leisurely ride to see and learn about some of the most treasured spots in Zion Canyon. Your expert guide will offer local knowledge and deep insight about the park. The remainder of the day is open for independent touring of Zion National Park where your activity options are plentiful. Perhaps hike to the Emerald Pools\, stroll along the Riverside Walk or take a ranger-led program. Visit the Human History Museum\, which provides insights into the indigenous peoples\, early pioneers and the park’s natural history through exhibits and interactive displays. Tonight gather with fellow travel companions for dinner. \nOvernight: Zion Park Lodge \n\n\n Day 8: Zion National Park | Las Vegas\, NV  (B\,R) \nVenture into Zion for a final morning of exploration. This afternoon depart for Las Vegas with time to refresh before a special farewell reception to celebrate your memorable time discovering America’s Southwest. The evening is at leisure to stroll The Strip or to take advantage of the amenities and dining options at the hotel. \nOvernight: The Westin Las Vegas Hotel & Spa \n\n\n Day 9: Depart Las Vegas  (B) \nAfter breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take a complimentary transfer to Harry Reid International Airport for flights home (or to Salt Lake City for guests joining the optional post-tour). \n\n\n(Itinerary subject to change.) \n  \nB = Breakfast\, L = Lunch \, D = Dinner\, R = Reception \nActivity Level: Moderate\nThe majority of the program’s activities will take place outdoors\, and a fair amount of walking on varying terrain is to be expected. Many of the parks have dirt trails—but they are usually fairly smooth for walking—and some do have paved pathways and boardwalks. It is our expectation that guests on this program are able to walk up and down a flight of stairs\, and get in and out of a motor coach without assistance. If you are able to walk a mile at a moderate pace\, you will be able to enjoy all of the excursions. Also keep in mind that you will experience varying altitudes\, rising up to 9\,000 feet\, to which you may not be accustomed. Guests should also have the ability to embark and disembark a scenic raft\, have proper fit into a life jacket\, and be able to remain seated and balanced in the craft. \nWhat’s Included: \n◦ 8 nights accommodations\n◦ A welcome and farewell reception\, 8 breakfasts\, 1 lunch\, and 4 dinners\n◦ Full guiding services of a professional Expedition Leader as well as expert local guides\n◦ Admission and park fees throughout\n◦ All activities as described in the 9-day itinerary\, unless noted otherwise\n◦ Private deluxe motor coach with air conditioning and comfortable seating\n◦ Luggage porterage\n◦ Gratuities to  Expedition Leader\, local guides\, drivers\, and porters\n◦ Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times \nWhat’s not included:\nTaxes; passport\, visas and associated fees; personal expenses such as laundry and telephone calls; accident/sickness\, trip cancellation\, and baggage insurance;  baggage charges on aircraft;  airfare\, transfers and baggage handling to/from hotel on day of arrival and/or departure i if you are arriving earlier or later than and/or departing earlier or later than the scheduled group transfer(s); any overnight on land due to flight schedule(s); meals\, alcoholic or other beverages and all other services not specifically mentioned in the “Included Features” section of the program brochure. \n  \nAccommodations: \nScottsdale Marriott at McDowell Mountains\nDelight in the well-appointed comforts of this modern hotel\, featuring breathtaking mountain views. Cool off in the outdoor pool\, take advantage of the fitness center\, or relax outside on the picturesque patio. Room Amenities: Individual climate control\, sofa\, writing desk\, flat-screen cable/satellite TV\, Wi-Fi (additional fee)\, phone\, clock\, coffee and tea maker\, minibar\, mini-fridge\, robes\, iron and ironing board\, and marble bathroom with sundries and hair dryer. \nGrand Canyon National Park Lodging\nConfirmed by the National Park Service\, you’ll stay at one of the following Grand Canyon properties: Maswik Lodge\, Kachina Lodge\, or Thunderbird Lodge. Each offers comfortable lodging and modern amenities. \nGoulding’s Lodge\nRelax and savor the spectacular views of Monument Valley at Goulding’s Lodge\, a popular locale for Old West movies. Be sure to check out Goulding’s Trading Post Museum\, showcasing artifacts\, artwork\, and film memorabilia. Note: The lodge does not have an elevator. Room Amenities: Individual climate control\, flat screen television with satellite\, complimentary Wi-Fi (in most areas)\, mini-fridge\, coffee maker\, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer. \nLake Powell Resort\nLocated in Page\, Arizona\, the Lake Powell Resort offers comfortable lodging and first-rate dining. The property’s lake-view rooms with Native American flair are an ideal retreat after a day full of adventurous fun. Sit back and take in views of Wahweap Bay\, Lone Rock\, Castle Rock\, and breathtaking sunsets. Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in the lobby or lounge.\nRoom Amenities: Individual climate control\, cable TV\, phone\, mini-fridge\, coffee and tea maker\, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer. \nRuby’s Inn\nRuby’s Inn at Bryce Canyon has been serving guests since 1916. The closest lodging to Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah\, it is in an ideal location to base exploration of a beautiful area. An indoor swimming pool\, business center\, and gym are available\, as well as a large gift shop and general store.\nRoom Amenities: Individual climate control\, writing desk and chair\, cable/satellite television\, complimentary high-speed wireless internet\, alarm clock\, phone\, coffee and tea maker\, refrigerator\, microwave\, iron and ironing board\, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer. \nZion Park Lodge\nThe only in-park lodging at Zion National Park\, the Zion Park Lodge is serenely nestled among towering red rock cliffs. Each guest room provides a warm\, comfortable atmosphere\, ensuring a memorable stay. Room Amenities: Individual climate control\, complimentary Wi-Fi\, phone\, radio/MP3 compatible alarm clock\, coffee maker\, iron and ironing board\, and en suite bathroom with shower gel\, shampoo\, conditioner and hair dryer. (Guest rooms do not include a TV.) \nThe Westin Las Vegas Hotel & Spa\nWelcome to the City of Lights! This stylish hotel —just off the Las Vegas Strip—features a non-smoking environment\, modern guest rooms\, outdoor heated pool\, fitness studio\, lobby lounge\, and 24-hour bistro. Room Amenities: Individual climate control\, Heavenly® Bed\, 42″ flat-screen LCD cable TV\, complimentary Wi-Fi\, phone\, coffee maker\, safe\, and en suite bathroom with deluxe Heavenly® Bath sundries and hair dryer. \n 
URL:https://alumni.georgetown.edu/event/southwest-national-parks-2/
LOCATION:phoenix\, Phoenix\, AZ\, United States
CATEGORIES:Travel Society
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ORGANIZER;CN="GUAA Travel Society":MAILTO:georgetowntravelsociety@georgetown.edu
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