Know Before You Go
Important Information to Know While Preparing for Your Adventures!
Driving to the locations
Most of the tours require several hours of traveling round trip. Many do have very comfortable 4 wheel drive vehicles with Air conditioning and Heaters to keep our clients comfortable during the drives, but be sure to inquire.
Some areas require driving off road for several miles and can be very bumpy and require guides to engage the 4 wheel drive to get through deep sand and dirt roads with deep ruts, mud, and obstacles.
Food & Drinks
Tours usually include energy type snacks and extra water, so it is important to bring any type of drinks you would like other than water. Most carry coolers in the vehicles. Alcohol is NOT allowed on many hikes, but feel free to ask the tour company.
Water is vital on such adventures. Most people will require about 1 gallon of water during the hot summer months.
Lunch
Stops are commonplace before tours, at the local sandwich shops and such – for you to purchase a sandwich or salad to take on our day tours, or you can bring your own lunch. Coolers are normally provided to keep them cold and fresh.
If you have dietary needs, always speak with your tour guide company so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Weather
This area of southern Utah and Northern Arizona is known to have several types of weather conditions, including extremely hot days with temperatures above 100 degrees (37 degrees Celsius) during summer months.
The area also gets rain storms that can appear quickly (Micro Bursts) and create some dangerous flash flooding conditions. Usually, the guides will keep an eye on these conditions and will always keep safety in mind and may have to alter the hikes according to weather. Fall and winter conditions can vary from sunshine to snow and blizzards.
Southern Utah and northern Arizona hold some of the most photogenic landscapes in the American Southwest, from the towering sandstone walls of Zion National Park to the hoodoo spires of Bryce Canyon and the immense gorge of the Grand Canyon. Guided tours through these parks let travelers experience the geological formations, historic film locations, and ancient Indigenous heritage of the region without the stress of planning every detail themselves. Brian Head adds a quieter mountain escape with alpine air and year-round recreation. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning road tripper, a guided itinerary offers a comfortable way to see canyon landmarks with local insight and a well-paced schedule.
Weather in this region changes quickly, and understanding it helps you pack and plan with confidence. Summer can bring extreme heat well above a hundred degrees, making shaded slot canyons and early morning hikes far more comfortable than midday trails. Sudden thunderstorms sometimes roll in fast and can produce dangerous flash flooding in narrow canyons and gulches, which is why experienced guides watch the sky closely and adjust routes when conditions shift. Fall and winter swing between brilliant sunshine and snow or blizzard conditions, so layers, sturdy footwear, and a flexible mindset make the difference between a memorable trip and an uncomfortable one.
Choosing a tour operator means looking for clear pricing, trusted recommendations, and guides who prioritize safety on every outing. Reputable operators build their itineraries around real conditions, offering lodging options, exclusive deal pricing on lodging and resorts, and customer reviews that speak to the quality of the experience. They will also point out the best times to avoid crowds, recommend photography stops at iconic overlooks, and suggest shorter alternatives for families or anyone wanting a gentler pace. With a welcoming local base and a range of tour styles, you can find the right balance of adventure and comfort for your visit.
Backpacks
It is important to bring a good Day Pack for all hiking activities. A hydration type pack (Camelback) is always an ideal way to carry extra water, snacks, and clothing.
It’s not uncommon to request a stop at the local outdoor retail store before the hike if you would like to purchase one.
Clothing
Be sure to be prepared with the right type of clothing. Extra layers of clothing with moisture-wicking first layers, some gloves, and a winter type hat are a great idea during the cooler months, and light-colored breathable clothing is recommended for the hot summer months.
Some good hiking boots or shoes with a nonskid type sole. Sunscreen is also a great idea, with a large-brimmed hat and some good sunglasses for the summer sun.