Mountain

Sample Itinerary

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High Peaks and Desert Valleys

Distance (One-Way): ~185 miles

Theme: “Exploring Mountains, Rivers, and Desert Ecosystems”

 

Stops:

Grand Canyon Visitor Center (Arizona) - Panoramic views, geology exhibits, and short accessible trails.

• Learning Spark: Imagine being a rock: What changes would they see over millions of years as the river carved the canyon?

 

Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona) - Fossilized trees, Painted Desert vistas, and Native American history.

• Learning Spark: Spot differences between real trees and petrified ones. Why do some parts turn to stone and others decay?

 

Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado) - Cliff dwellings built by Ancestral Puebloans.

• Content for the Road: “Build Your Own Cliff Home” (See Below)

 

Arches National Park (Utah) - Iconic sandstone arches, short hikes, and desert landscape.

• Learning Spark: How does wind and water shape the arches over time? What forces work faster than humans can see?

 

Great Sand Dunes National Park (Colorado,) - Tall sand dunes, Medano Creek, and wildlife viewing.

• Campsite Content: “Dune Explorer Challenge” (See Below)

 

Zion National Park (Utah) - Narrow canyons, rivers, and towering cliffs.

• Learning Spark: Spot layers in canyon walls. What story might each layer tell about ancient environments?

 

Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah) - Hoodoos (rock spires), amphitheater views, and short family-friendly trails.

• Learning Spark: Compare Bryce Canyon’s formations to Arches or the Grand Canyon. How are they similar or different?