bailey123

Don't under estimate the effects of altitude, Many parts of No. AZ, UT and CO range from 7,000 to over 14,000. You may be better off sticking to walks rather than hikes.

fmpden

I don't think you are going to see much 14,000 feet unless you are climbing some mountains. Most of the mountain passes on the road will be in the 11 to 12,000. Most of the areas you will be in will be closer to 8 and 9000 feet and sometimes lower.

newtraveler17

Thanks again. I will post a trip report upon our return.

emalloy

Have a great trip newtraveler and remember to drink water even when you don't feel thirsty.

aliced

Well, rather than thinking of it as a "hike," how far can/do you walk? Both on an incline and on flat roads. If you can't or don't regularly walk at least a mile, I'd stick to scenic tours frankly. No reason to punish yourself on vacation. The tours will state how far the paths are and at what degree, "mildly active", "strenuous,". But a firm soled hiking shoe is not a super-soft-foamy Skecher shoe is important, you need firm support in Merrell, NorthFace, and the like. The trails frequenly are not even or paved. But hope you have a fabulous time. You can always go back.

mlgb

Most if not all of the National Parks have at least one paved, "accessible" trail. For sure you will find them in the Grand Canyon and Zion. I didn't recommend you hike down into Bryce Canyon or into Grand Canyon due to both the elevation and the need to climb back out but you certainly could take the shuttle and walk to several of the view points or along the rims.

You do not need expensive special hiking boots, but something with good support and tread that fits your particular foot. The walking paths or "TRAILS" in the southwest are likely to be dry and sandy or rocky rather than wet. A lot of people wear sport sandals but I don't especially like them because the grit and small pebbles seem to get inside.

Acminvan

You don't even need to start a formal training program. What I've learned from the Southwest is that there is all types of walks from long day hikes, to 1 mile hikes to short little paths a few feet from your car to a lookout. There's everything for all types. Even short trails that still give you an amazing viewpoint, or great experience. Nothing should stop you from seeing this amazing area.

cmstraf

I agree with much of the above: start walking now, even 30 minutes a day, then after 3-4 days add another 15 minutes etc. Yes about being hydrated. Also these parks are crowded. It helps in a million ways to start EARLY as in 6:3ish.
We just got 2 17yo to do this in Yosemite last weekend, made all the difference in the world.

Finally, take a watch. Walk 20 min, rest 5. Also even walking 1/2 hour into a trail, that's one hour round trip, the world changes, esp with Zion which is magic and Grand Canyon where the road can leave you with the post card effect.

You'll have a wonderful time. Don't worry too much, but do plan.

p.s. I was thin most of my life, but am now 190 and a month ago (with pain) did a steep 8 mile loop with 3000 altitude gain in Yosemite in 10 hours. I know this trail well, it put the Ghost of the Christmas Future fear to see myself so slowed down, but I did it with no ill effects and as usual saw beauty that was amazing. (yosemite in spring)