MaryRay

We are interested in doing a driving trip through the Grand Circle of Utah-Arizona-Colorado for 2 - 3 weeks. Are there any suggestions of possible driving routes? We've already seen Bryce, Zion, and Grand Canyon so we plan on skipping them this trip.

Also, what time of year is most comfortable (not too hot, not too cold) ??

Many Thanks

utahtea

Late spring or early fall is a good time to miss the heat.

You didn't mention where you are starting this trip so I'll just name off places to visit in a modified circle since you have already done three of the biggies already.

Starting in Moab, Utah going clock wise:

Arches National Park, Canyonlands Island in the Sky district, Dead Horse State Park, a side trip down to Canyonlands Needles Distric, take Scenic Hwy 128 out towards Colorado.

Colorado National Monument, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, the Million Dollar highway between Ouray, Silverton,& Durango. Mesa Verde National Park.

Canyon de Chelly (make sure you take a Navajo guided trip into the canyon) Monument Valley, Natural Bridges National Monument, Hites Crossing at Lake Powell, Capitol Reef National Park, Goblins State Park and back to Moab would be a circle.

Utahtea

MaryRay

Thanks for your reply Utahtea!!

We are from Toronto so we will basically start our drive from whatever city we can get the cheapest flight to.

You mention a Navajo guided trip into Canyon de Chelly ..is this easy to arrange??

Also, how long will this driving route take...is 2 weeks enough?

utahtea

We did our trip into Canyon de Chelly over Memorial Day weekend and we made the arrangements the night before. I don't know if it get's busier in the summer months or not. If you know a few days in advance I would contact them to make the reservations.

We used the guides at the Thunderbird Lodge and really enjoyed it. We only did the half day but I wish we had done the all day trip.

http://www.tbirdlodge.com/Tours.htm

Two weeks would be pushing it to do all the places I mentioned but 18 days would be enought to really enjoy the trip. There are places that could be left out if you only wanted to spend two weeks.

Utahtea

MaryRay

Thanks for all your help...we're still checking our options, but when I get some more questions I'll ask again.

MaryRay

karenabs

Definitely do the Indian led trips into Monument Valley and Canyon de Chelly...both arranged prior by phone or after you arrive at your hotel...I strongly recommend Goulding's Lodge in MV and Thunderbird Lodge in CC...most convenient to park entrances and guides pick you up at the motel...one of the best things you will ever do.