Itinerary

Planning a 6-day adventure that starts with a stop at The Wave in Arizona and includes Arches National Park, along with other nearby national parks, sounds like an incredible journey! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances exploration, relaxation, and fun for both adults and kids.

## Day 1: Arrival at The Wave, Arizona

Morning:

• Start Early: Depart for The Wave. Make sure you have your permits secured in advance, as they are required to visit this stunning sandstone formation.
• Hike The Wave: Enjoy the breathtaking views and unique rock formations. The hike is about 3 miles round trip, so pack plenty of water and snacks!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Have a picnic lunch at a nearby spot or head to a local café in Page, AZ.
• Explore Page: If time allows, check out Horseshoe Bend, which is just a short drive away. It’s a quick walk to the viewpoint, and the kids will love the stunning views!

Evening:

• Accommodation: Head to a vacation rental in Page or Kanab, UT. Look for a spacious home that can accommodate all 6 adults and 3 kids comfortably. Websites like Airbnb or Vrbo can be great for finding family-friendly options.
• Dinner: Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant or cook together in your rental.

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## Day 2: Zion National Park

Morning:

• Drive to Zion: After breakfast, head to Zion National Park (about a 2-hour drive from Page).
• Zion Canyon Scenic Drive: Take the shuttle (if in season) or drive through the scenic route to soak in the views.

Afternoon:

• Hike the Riverside Walk: This is an easy, kid-friendly hike that leads to the entrance of The Narrows. It’s about 2 miles round trip and offers beautiful views along the Virgin River.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park’s picnic areas.

Evening:

• Accommodation: Stay in Springdale, UT, just outside Zion. Look for a vacation rental that can accommodate your group.
• Dinner: Try a local eatery in Springdale for some delicious food after a day of adventure.

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## Day 3: More of Zion and Drive to Arches National Park

Morning:

• Angels Landing (Optional): If the adults are up for it, consider an early morning hike to Angels Landing. It’s a challenging hike, so make sure the kids are comfortable with a shorter hike or stay back at the visitor center.
• Explore the Lower Emerald Pools: A great family-friendly hike that’s about 1.2 miles round trip.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Grab lunch in Springdale before heading out.
• Drive to Arches National Park: It’s about a 5-hour drive to Moab, UT. Enjoy the scenic views along the way!

Evening:

• Accommodation: Check into a vacation rental in Moab that fits your group size. There are plenty of options with kitchens and outdoor spaces.
• Dinner: Cook together or explore local dining options in Moab.

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## Day 4: Arches National Park

Morning:

• Delicate Arch Hike: Start your day with the iconic Delicate Arch hike. It’s about 3 miles round trip and offers stunning views. The kids will love the adventure!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Have a picnic at the park or head back to Moab for a bite.
• Fiery Furnace: If you can, book a ranger-led tour of the Fiery Furnace. It’s a maze of narrow canyons and towering rock formations that’s fun for the whole family.

Evening:

• Relax: Head back to your rental for some downtime. Enjoy a family game night or stargazing if the skies are clear!

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## Day 5: Canyonlands National Park

Morning:

• Drive to Canyonlands: After breakfast, head to Canyonlands National Park (about a 30-minute drive).
• Island in the Sky: Start at the visitor center and take the scenic drive to various viewpoints like Mesa Arch and Grand View Point.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks.
• Short Hikes: Consider the easy hike to Mesa Arch, which is about 0.5 miles round trip. The views are spectacular!

Evening:

• Return to Moab: Head back to your rental for dinner. You could also explore a local restaurant for a change of pace.

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## Day 6: Relax and Explore Moab

Morning:

• Explore Moab: Spend your last day exploring the charming town of Moab. Visit local shops, art galleries, or the Moab Museum.
• Optional Activities: If the group is up for it, consider a family-friendly activity like a guided river rafting trip on the Colorado River or a scenic drive through the La Sal Mountains.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Enjoy a leisurely lunch in town.
• Relaxation: Spend the afternoon at your rental, perhaps enjoying the pool or outdoor space.

Evening:

• Final Dinner: Celebrate your adventure with a special dinner at a nice restaurant in Moab. Reflect on the amazing memories you’ve created together!

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Tips for Your Trip:

• Permits: Ensure you have all necessary permits for The Wave and any other activities.
• Pack Smart: Bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and hats for the kids.
• Flexibility: Be flexible with your plans; sometimes the best memories come from spontaneous adventures!

I hope this itinerary helps you create an unforgettable experience for your family! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🌄✨