List your propertySupportTrips
Learn about Expedia Rewards
Members save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide when you’re signed in
Self Guided Audio Tours at Zion, Bryce, and Capitol Reef
By Shaka Guide Apps
Free cancellation available
per traveler*
*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults
Features
- Free cancellation available
- 3d
- Mobile voucher
- Instant confirmation
Overview
Immerse yourself in the otherworldly beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park with our engaging audio tour! Wander among the park's stunning hoodoos, vibrant red rock formations, and scenic overlooks while our guides share fascinating stories and fun facts about the area's geology, history, and wildlife. Learn about the forces that shaped these unique landscapes and the Native American legends surrounding them. Perfect for families, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts, our tour provides an enriching experience as you explore at your own pace. Simply download, plug in your headphones, and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the mesmerizing Bryce Canyon National Park!
Download the Shaka Guide app to access the purchased tours
Activity location
- Virgin
- Virgin, Utah, United States
Meeting/Redemption Point
- Utah
- Utah, Utah, United States
Check availability
Self Guided Audio Tours at Zion, Bryce, and Capitol Reef in English
- 3d
- Opening hours: Tue 0:00-23:30
- English
Language options: English
Price details
P 1,747.73 x 1 TravelerP 1,747.73
Total
*Get lower prices by selecting more than 2 adults
What's included, what's not
- Tours NEVER expire
- Freedom to explore at your own pace
- Offline map (no wifi or data needed)
- Turn-by-turn directions using GPS
- Hours of audio narration with stories, travel tips and music
- Audio narration that plays automatically as you drive
- Private transportation
- Meals & Refreshments
- Entrance Fees
- Parking Fees
Know before you book
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Zion Starting Points: The tour has two starting points - both on Highway 191, one south of the park’s entrance and the other north - so no matter where you’re coming from, you won’t have to go out of your way to begin the tour.
- Bryce Starting Point: The tour starts in Bryce Canyon City.
- Capitol Reef Starting Points: Torrey and Hanksville
- Get Started Easily: • Book Your Tour: Receive a confirmation and easy instructions via email. • Download the App: Follow the simple steps in your email. • Redeem the Tour: Use the redeem code in your email to redeem the tour in the app. • Prepare Ahead: Download the tour using strong Wi-Fi.
- Begin Your Journey: • Select Your Tour: Go to the My Stuff tab in the Shaka Guide app to launch the tour. • Start the Tour: Select the tour starting point and follow the GPS instructions. • Follow Shaka Guide: Stick to the suggested route and speed for the best experience.
- Why Choose Our Audio Tour: • Cost-Efficient: One tour for the entire vehicle—no per-person fees! • Ultimate Flexibility: Start, pause, and resume on your schedule. • Convenience: Use the tour any day, over multiple days if needed.
- Top Features: • Hands-Free: The tour works automatically - GPS-activated stories, directions, and music play as you drive for a seamless experience. • Works Offline: No need for continuous wifi or data. • Reliable Support: Get help via call, chat, or email.
- Private and Personalized: • Crowd-Free: Enjoy a private tour with just your group. • Customizable Stops: Pick the stops you want and skip the ones you don’t!
- The Ultimate Guided Tour: • Detailed Itinerary: Includes travel tips and recommendations. • Engaging Narration: Captivating stories and history.
- What Our Users Say: • “A fantastic way to explore! Easy to use and very informative.” • “Loved the flexibility to stop and go as we pleased. Highly recommend!”
Activity itinerary
Day 1: Zion National Park
- 19 stops
- Meals: Not included
- Accommodation: Not included
Virgin
- 5m
If it’s before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m., most shops in the tiny town of Virgin will be closed. If you’re here midday, Virgin does feature a few unique places to stop and grab some sweet treats or a hot meal. Check out the highlights for more information.
Grafton Cemetary
- 40m
Explore the most photographed ghost town in the West! This abandoned Mormon settlement still has several cabins, houses, and a town hall to explore. This well-preserved window to the past was the filming location for the Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid’s famous bike scene. Be sure to take lots of selfies and share them with us on social media!
Springdale
- 20m
There’s no shortage of things to see and do in Springdale, but what you’ll definitely want to do first is grab your gear! If you want hiking sticks or waterproof clothing, swing by one of the adventure shops to rent some equipment. Need a bite before hitting the trails? Springdale has several scrumptious breakfast cafes to choose from.
Zion National Park
- 2h
- Admission ticket not included
Zion National Park is the third most visited park in the United States—and for good reason! Mesas and mountains, cliffs and canyons, Zion’s beauty draws in visitors from all over the world. We’ll take you on an epic adventure from La Verkin up through famous Zion Canyon, and exit out of East Zion—a little over 50 miles on an unforgettable journey. Along the way, we’ll stop at inspiring overlooks, abandoned ghost-towns, slot canyons, ancient pictographs, and more!
Shaka Guide gives you the freedom to choose where and how we explore Zion.
Zion Canyon Visitor Center
- 20m
We made it to Zion Canyon! Here at our first park stop, take a moment to talk to the rangers, grab a map, use the restroom, and fill up your water bottles. If you need a wilderness permit, this is where you’ll pick one up. Be sure to check the schedule for any ranger talks or walks you might be interested in. There is also a bookstore and gift shop, but it’s probably best to save all that for after your hikes. When you’re ready, get in line for the shuttle (if it's shuttle season) and get ready for adventure!
Zion Human History Museum
- 10m
If you pull into the Zion Human History Museum, you can make your way over to the back patio of the Human History Museum to enjoy a highly-recommended ranger talk. Even if you stop by when no talk is being held, the view of the Towers of The Virgin formation is truly amazing and well worth the visit.
Court of the Patriarchs
- 10m
Your next viewpoint is the Court of the Patriarchs formation. From left to right, visitors can find Abraham Isaac, and Jacob— the patriarchs of Judaism. Take a moment to hop out and get a better view.
Emerald Pools
- 1h
Your first must-see trail is the Lower Emerald Pools. This 2-mile hike features water drizzling from sandstone cliffs, glittering hanging gardens, and bright emerald pools. This trail is family-friendly and can be accessed across the street from the Zion Lodge.
Angel's Landing
- 2h
Exit at The Grotto to begin your epic ascent up to Angel’s Landing—a thrilling chain-assisted climb up a narrow precipice! When you reach the top, you’ll earn both bragging rights and an incredible view. If you aren’t feeling up to the climb, simply stop at Scout’s Lookout for an equally stunning vista. If you go all the way up to Angel’s Landing it’s about 5-miles round-trip. Though Angel’s Landing itself is only an extra half-mile each way, crowding and difficulty can add a great deal of time.
Please note: Angel's Landing now requires a permit. Permits are not included with entry to the park or purchase of the tour.
Temple of Sinawava Trail
The Temple of Sinawava is the final stop along the canyon, and it’s here that you’ll disembark and undertake The Narrows.
The Narrows
- 2h
Make your way through narrow shaded canyons, hiking your way up the scenic riverbed as far as you like.
Riverside Walk
- 1h
If fighting a chilly river upstream isn’t your idea of fun, stop after you finish Riverside Walk—a paved 2-mile trail that follows beside the river.
Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway
- 5m
In 1929, Zion had one tiny problem standing in the way of connecting it to the Grand Canyon and the rest of the world. Namely, Mt.Carmel. But to let a little thing like a mountain stand in the way? Pshht...never! Today, visitors can appreciate the wondrous feat of engineering that is the Mt. Carmel Tunnel. Drive through this narrow depression-era tunnel and emerge into East Zion!
Canyon Overlook Trail
- 30m
Canyon Overlook Trail is a short, 1-mile hike overlooking East Zion’s rugged landscape. It’s a great option for those who want to enjoy a high-elevation viewpoint, but would rather not undertake a high-elevation climb. And the views? Absolutely amazing!
Checkerboard Mesa
- 10m
The Checkerboard Mesa bears stunning criss-cross markings across its face—the result of years of expansion and weathering. At farther viewpoints, the checkerboard pattern becomes more obvious. Pull over on your left before passing the Ranger Station for the best view of this awesome feature.
Kolob Canyons
The entrance to Kolob Canyons is located off of I-15, about 20 minutes north of La Verkin or 15 minutes south of Cedar City. This less-crowded area of Zion National Park offers about a 15-minute scenic drive with several unique hikes to enjoy. If visitors are driving South from Cedar City and have not yet picked up their park passes, there is a visitor center where you can purchase your pass. Be aware that Kolob Canyons may close during snow events.
Taylor Creek
The first trail you’ll pass will be Taylor Creek Trail, a 5-mile round-trip hike with several unique sights. The Fife and Larson cabins—the first homes built in Kolob Canyons—can be found here, as well as a double arch.
Timber Creek Overlook Trail
- 30m
This short, easy trail leads to a panoramic overlook of Kolob Canyons, the Pine Valley Mountains, and Red Butte. If you only have time for one short hike while in Kolob Canyons, be sure to do this one!
Kolob Terrace Road
- 45m
Even if you choose not to do any hikes, the scenic drive will take about 45 minutes each way and can be a great way to take in the sights, even if you never leave the car. Be aware that Kolob Terrace may close during snow events.
Day 2: Bryce Canyon National Park
- 21 stops
- Meals: Not included
- Accommodation: Not included
Bryce Canyon City
- 15m
esrweThis is the main road into Bryce Canyon National Park, and there’s no lack of activities here!
Ruby's Inn
- 15m
Ruby’s has several properties, a general store, three restaurants, and an “old town” mini-mall with gift shops, an ice cream parlor, and a working gem mine! They also offer many unique ways to see the park: horseback riding tours, guided ATV tours, bike rentals, and even helicopter rides.
Bryce Canyon National Park
- 2h
Make stops throughout the park in both the Bryce Amphitheater and Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive.
Fairyland Point
- 10m
Here you’ll get a first look at the famous hoodoos of Bryce Canyon. You’ll learn how they’re formed, how they got their name, and the important role they play in the conservation efforts of the national park system.
Bryce Canyon Visitor Center
- 15m
After you pass through the front gate, be sure to check out the Bryce Canyon Visitor’s Center. Here you’ll have the opportunity to explore the small museum and learn more about the geology and cultural heritage of Bryce. Be sure to check out the award winning 20-minute film “Shadows Through Time” and the large gift shop! On your way out, check in with the friendly park ranger staff about the many educational talks and tours they offer daily
Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive
- 2h
This is a wildly popular way to see everything that Bryce Canyon has to offer. The scenic drive will take you 18 miles to Rainbow and Yovimpa Points; the southernmost but highest points of Bryce Canyon. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to hear more stories of the people who discovered Bryce Canyon and championed it to become a National Park. On the way back, we’ll stop at the other 7 viewpoints: Black Birch Canyon, Ponderosa Point, Agua Canyon Viewpoint, Natural Bridge Viewpoint, Farview Point, Piracy Point, and Swamp Canyon. From these viewpoints, you’ll not only see hoodoos but also other unique rock formations in brilliant colors, flora and fauna that make up the rest of Bryce Canyon. The Scenic Drive is a nature-lover’s dream!
Rainbow Point
- 5m
Rainbow Point is actually the highest point in the park at 9,100 feet above sea level. You’ll be able to see most of Bryce Canyon from here, and on a clear day, you might be able to see all the way to the Grand Canyon, which is over 300 miles away!
Yovimpa Point
- 5m
After taking in the breathtaking views from Rainbow Point, take a very short, paved walk over to Yovimpa Point to see even more layers of the Grand Staircase.
Bristlecone Loop
- 30m
Bristlecone Loop Trail is one-mile long and will take you through a forest of Bristlecone Pine trees, which are some of the oldest trees in the entire world.
Black Birch Canyon
- 10m
Stop by Black Birch Canyon Viewpoint to get a look at the spectacular Ponderosa Pine trees and the Navajo Mountains looming in the distance.
Ponderosa Canyon
- 5m
Another great viewpoint of the forest areas of Bryce Canyon and the large, hulking Ponderosa Pine trees.
Agua Canyon
- 10m
You’ll get a great view of some of the more well-known hoodoos at Bryce Canyon from here. Keep your eyes peeled for the Backpacker and the Rabbit, and see what other shapes your brain can come up with! This is also a great viewpoint to take photos of Thor’s Hammer, the most famous hoodoo.
Farview Point
- 15m
At Farview Point, the air quality is so pure that you’ll be able to see clear into Arizona! Keep an eye out for the colorful rock formations and breathtaking views of the far-off Navajo Mountain.
Piracy Point
- 15m
Then take an enchanted walk through the path to Piracy Point, which is unofficially known as the Hansel and Gretel trail. Weave through sun-dappled Ponderosa and Bristlecone Pines, and keep an eye out for squirrels and songbirds! Once you get to Piracy Point, take a look into the distance and see if you can spot the cliff formation that looks just like Blackbeard’s ship!
Swamp Canyon
- 10m
Swing by Swamp Canyon and take a look at one of the only viewpoints in the park that has its own natural water source. Because of this, the vegetation is green and lush all around the hoodoo formations here. If you’re an experienced hiker, you may want to try out the Swamp Canyon Loop Trail here; it’s a 4.5-mile hike that descends into Swamp Canyon and connects to the Under-the-Rim Trail before looping back around. If you’re not prepared to take such a strenuous hike, hang out at the top of Swamp Canyon and keep an eye out for California Condors overhead.
Bryce Amphitheater
The most-visited part of the park is the Bryce Amphitheater. There are 5 viewpoints that make up the Bryce Amphitheater: Sunrise, Sunset, Bryce, Inspiration Points and Paria View. The largest concentration of hoodoos can be found here, and some of the most popular into-the-canyon hikes are located here. Photography buffs, star-gazers and hikers of all skill levels love everything that the Bryce Amphitheater has to offer!
Bryce Point
- 15m
The first two points that make up the famous Bryce Amphitheater. Bryce Point was the favorite spot of Ebenezer Bryce, and it may just become yours, too. Here you’ll be able to see a large maze of hoodoos. For the advanced hikers, Bryce Point is the trailhead for the Peek-a-Boo Loop trail, a 5.5 mile loop trail that will take you all the way down into the canyon floor, past the Wall of Windows and around the Three Wise Men hoodoos.
Paria View
- 10m
Paria View is a fantastic place to watch for Peregrine Falcons! Keep your eyes peeled for large birds that look like they’re wearing gray pajama pants. If you’re an active cross-country skier, Paria View is also home to the challenging Paria Loop, which is popular with winter sports enthusiasts and only open to visitors during snowfall (usually December-February).
Inspiration Point
- 10m
Inspiration Point is often called “The Silent City,” because the rows and rows of hoodoos look like people frozen in time. There are three smaller viewpoints at Inspiration Point; the lower, mid, and high points. You have to hike up a moderate but rocky incline to get to the highest point, but beautiful views can be seen from any of the points. Take a half hour or so to hike the easy-to-moderate Rim Trail that takes you to Sunset Point.
Sunset Point
- 10m
Some of the most iconic and photographed views are here at Sunset Point. Take a look out into the canyon and get another glimpse of the famous Thor’s Hammer and the rich reds and pinks of the iron oxide that gives the hoodoos their vibrant color. Sunset Point is the main trailhead of one of the most popular hikes at Bryce Canyon--the Navajo Loop Trail. This one is a quick 1.4 miles and is easy-to-moderate with a few slight elevation changes. This will follow some switchbacks down the canyon and into the hoodoos.
Mossy Cave Trail
- 30m
The last official stop on the tour, this is one of the most peaceful hikes at Bryce Canyon, but it’s technically outside of the park gates. Mossy Cave Trail gives you the opportunity to walk on the canyon floor without the steep descent. This is a quick 1-mile, round-trip walk that ends at Mossy Cave; a grotto that boasts a waterfall!
Day 3: Capitol Reef
- 19 stops
- Meals: Not included
- Accommodation: Not included
Torrey
- 20m
It’s a good idea to make sure you’ve got all the supplies you need for the tour before you leave town. Torrey has the last gas stations you’ll see until you reach Hanksville. There are also several picnic opportunities inside the park so now’s the time to stock up on food and water.
Chimney Rock Trail
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
Chimney Rock is the first rock formation on the tour as well as the first hiking opportunity. Chimney Rock Loop Trail is a strenuous 3.6 mile hike that climbs 590 feet in elevation. But at the top, you’re rewarded with a stunning panoramic view from atop the Mummy Cliffs. There’s no need to wear yourself out right away, though. There will be plenty of hiking opportunities throughout the day. Consider coming back and doing this one later as the views get even better at sunset.
Panorama Point
- 20m
If you don’t plan on doing any serious hiking today, don’t fret! There are several great viewpoints that don’t require miles of walking to enjoy. Panorama Point offers a great view just a few feet from your car.
Goosenecks Overlook
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
The views just don’t stop coming! A short and easy 600-foot walk from your car will take you to Goosenecks Overlook with views over Sulphur Creek and beyond. Just try to imagine a time when the creek was at the same elevation as you before it eroded the rock and dug down some 600 feet to where it is today. Once you’ve soaked in that view, there’s a second vantage point just a little further away called Sunset Point. As the name might suggest, views here at sunset are simply incredible.
Capitol Reef National Park Visitor Center
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
You’ll pass two more named rock formations on the way to the Visitor Center. Feel free to stop in the turnouts near each for photos or drive directly to the Visitor Center. Here you can view the exhibits and watch a brief film about the park. Don’t miss this opportunity to speak with a park ranger. Ask about any ranger-led activities for the day like a geology lesson or night sky presentation.
Ripple Rock Nature Center
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
As you leave the Visitor Center, you’ll find yourself driving through the historic Fruita Orchards. Planted well over 100 years ago by Mormon settlers, the orchards are still producing fruit which you can pick and eat today! Please be sure to follow the orchard rules and regulations. An easy place to park to enjoy the orchards is the Ripple Rock Nature Center. If you have kids and you’re visiting during the summer, the Nature Center has programs and activities your children are sure to enjoy.
Gifford House & Museum Store
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
The Gifford home offers exhibits detailing what life was like in historic Fruita. They also serve up some fresh pies, made from fruit harvested in the Fruita orchards.
Scenic Drive
- 1h
- Admission ticket not included
The Scenic Drive is a 7.9 mile road showcasing fantastic sights. There are also two unpaved spur roads that branch off into canyons. Don’t worry, normal passenger cars will do just fine—unless the park has closed the roads due to weather. Flash floods are a real danger. If you see storm clouds, think twice before entering any canyons. Be mindful of the speed limit and take your time on these roads. Entry to the Scenic Drive costs $20 per car.
Grand Wash Road
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
The spur roads at Capitol Reef offer the chance to see some spectacular geology by car and on foot. Grand Wash spur road ends at the trailhead for Grand Wash trail and Cassidy Arch trail. Grand Wash is an easy hike over flat ground that passes through narrow canyon walls. Cassidy Arch is a strenuous hike that rises over 400 feet up to the top of Cassidy Arch, named for Butch Cassidy himself. A turnout along the road also offers a view of Cassidy Arch. There are additional stops at abandoned uranium mines and Echo Cliff where, you guessed it, you can hear your echo!
Capitol Gorge Trail
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
The Scenic Drive ends at the entrance to Capitol Gorge. This is a much longer and winding spur road than Grand Wash. Once again there will be hiking opportunities at the end and I highly recommend you take Capitol Gorge trail, at least a little ways in. A 5-10 minute walk will take you to ancient petroglyphs left by the Fremont culture who lived in the area hundreds of years ago. Another 10-15 minutes further and you can see the Pioneer Register where pioneers and settlers carved their names into the rocks. From there you can continue to The Tanks - large divots in the sandstone that collect water and create micro-ecosystems. You can also hike to a viewpoint of Golden Throne, an impressive mountain peak just north of the gorge.
Fruita Schoolhouse
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
A visit to Fruita isn’t complete without a stop at the Fruita schoolhouse. Peak inside while looking back in time to when a 12 year old girl was the first and only school teacher in the village!
Fremont Petroglyphs
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
Right down the road from the schoolhouse are more petroglyphs. These are in much better shape than the ones in Capitol Gorge. Walk the two short wooden walkways to see the images etched into stone. You can see human figures, animals, and geometric patterns. What kinds of animals can you make out?
Capitol Dome View Area
- 20m
These stops are really piling up on top of each other, aren’t they? Pull into a small parking lot here for views of Capitol Dome, where half of the name Capitol Reef comes from. The other half, the “reef,”comes from the raised portion of the waterpocket fold which reminded early pioneers of impassable reefs in the ocean. From this parking lot you can also take several hikes, including Rim Overlook, Navajo Knobs, and Hickman Bridge which gives you views of two more natural arches.
Behunin Cabin
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
The Behunin cabin is a small sandstone structure that once housed a family of 15. Most of the children had to sleep outside - the girls in the wagon and the boys in a sandstone alcove behind the cabin. Talk about roughing it!
Waterpocket Fold
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
From atop a hill near some primitive camping sites, this is a terrific view of the Waterpocket Fold from the east. From here, you can really see the steep angle at which the land rose. At times, the rock layers are nearly 45 degrees to the horizon. This is a must-see view as we head east and leave the Waterpocket Fold behind.
Notom
- 20m
This is an optional stop but recommended if you have time. There isn’t all that much left to see on the way to Hanksville but we’ve got plenty of fascinating stories to share if you’re interested. The town of Notom, now not much more than a ghost town, used to be a thriving community much like Fruita. Here you can visit a rather curious and unique historical marker as well as the grave of yet another of the Behunin children.
Mesa Farm Market
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
If you didn’t have a picnic lunch at the park, you might be pretty hungry by this point! If you started your tour at 8:00 am and you’re here on the right day, consider stopping for a bite to eat at Mesa Farm Market. It’s local and organic!
Factory Butte
- 20m
- Admission ticket not included
Factory Butte stands solitary and beautiful. Don’t miss this awesome viewpoint! If you’re feeling adventurous and you’re driving an appropriate vehicle, consider driving a little further north for Moonscape Overlook. But, a word of warning: plan ahead if leaving the recommended route as many of the roads in the area, even inside the park, require high clearance 4-wheel-drive vehicles.
Hanksville
- 20m
Many prospectors staked claims for gold, silver, copper, and more in this area. Few were as ambitious as Ewin T. Wolverton who built his mill in 1921. The Wolverton Mill, located just a half-mile of route 24, is unique in the area both for its design and its multifunction as a lumber mill and gold ore processor.
Location
Activity location
- Virgin
- Virgin, Utah, United States
Meeting/Redemption Point
- Utah
- Utah, Utah, United States
Best Deals on Things to Do
Experience the wonders of the world up close with great deals on things to do near and far. Expedia offers one-of-a-kind activities that allow you to explore Virgin your way. Whether you love nature, culture, food, or a bit of adventure, we have the perfect activity for you.
Top Experiences in Virgin
With so many things to do in Virgin, planning the perfect day out may seem like a daunting task. Expedia is here to take the hassle out of finding the best attractions, tours, and activities in Virgin. Families, couples, and business travelers can all find the perfect activity in Virgin to create life-long memories with the help of Expedia.