Join us on a 7-day photo tour in the enchanting Southwest. We will be photographing several incredible places including three world-renowned photo locations: Zion, and Bryce National Parks, and Valley of Fire State Park. The fall colors will be peaking during this time in Zion National Park.

Zion National Park encompasses some of the most scenic canyon country in the United States. The word “Zion” translates to the Promised Land and is one of the most popular National Parks in the United States. During the height of autumn foliage, we will capture breathtaking images of world-renowned canyons that have been sculpted over time by the forces of water and nature.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a series of natural amphitheaters sunk into pink cliffs and filled with delicate red rock called "hoodoos." With the rising and setting of the sun, the park’s vibrant colors burst into life, showcasing their brilliance. Witness a mesmerizing collection of crimson-hued natural marvels captured within a photographic gallery. Capture delicate fins, towering spires, graceful arches, and intricate mazes.

Valley of Fire State Park is just as mystical as its name suggests. This ancient wonder is a haven for photographers. It is filled with vibrant color, unique rock formations and world-class petroglyphs. Sprinkled with unusual sandstone formations, Nevada's oldest state park features rich copper rock and Indian petroglyphs that are 3,000 years old. You will be amazed by the gravity defying shapes, sweeping plateaus, ancient passageways, and contours of the petrified sand dunes and the astonishing scenery of the Mojave Desert.

This is the perfect time to be in the Southwest. Expect to shoot thousands of landscapes. Since we will be shooting a high volume of pictures, please bring several memory/flash cards. We recommend you bring a portable external hard drive to back up your images.

When:
November 3- 9, 2024 (2 spaces left)

Itinerary:
The itinerary will be dependent on the weather. Each day is paced to maximize photo opportunities. The schedule will be flexible to maximize getting the best light.

Day 1: We will pick you up at the hotel near the airport. At 10 am, we will have a quick group meeting and introductions, then pack up and drive to world famous Zion National Park. We will check into the hotel and photograph until sunset. The hotel has an incredible view of Zion National Park with several restaurants and shops within walking distance.

Day 2-3: We will spend our time at Zion and the surrounding areas. This is a landscape photographers paradise. We also will visit a nearby ghost town.

Optional:
One day, we will have two leaders with two choices.

Choice 1:
One leader will take the group to photograph the world-famous Zion Narrows. This is one of the most popular hikes in Zion National Park and one of the best slot canyon hikes in the United States.

The trail is the Virgin River. The canyon is so narrow, the river covers the bottom in many spots, which means you have to walk through the water. Water levels vary dramatically throughout the year but we go during dry season. Hikers can anticipate encountering water levels knee-deep or shallower approximately half of the time, while the other half will lead them along dry river banks adjacent to the water. We will rent specialized footwear and dry gear from a local store.

Choice 2:
The alternate leader will visit other rivers where you will not get wet.

Day 4: After another sunrise at Zion, we will check out of the hotel and drive to Bryce Canyon. We will photograph some incredible landscapes on the way to Bryce. The adventure continues as we photograph sunset at Bryce Canyon.

Day 5: We will photograph sunrise at Bryce Canyon and return to the hotel to pack up and drive to the incredible Valley of Fire.

Day 6: We will be photographing the awe-inspiring Valley of Fire, an extraordinary destination renowned for its captivating landscapes, making it an ideal haven for capturing stunning photographs.

Day 7: We will be photographing sunrise at Valley of Fire and then head back to the hotel in time for check out and afternoon flights. We plan to arrive at Las Vegas Airport around 2 pm.

Group Size:
Our group size is limited to eight people with two leaders. That is a 4-to-1 ratio between participants and leaders which provides more personal one-on-one instruction.

Skill and Fitness Level Requirements:
Anyone with an interest in photography from a beginner to professional.

The participants should have a love of nature and enjoy the company of other people in a small group setting.

This trip will involve some short, easy and moderate hikes (optional). Most of the walks are within 1-4 miles round trip over uneven terrain. We will also have some elevation changes.

During our exploration of Zion, there will be a hike that entails walking through a shallow river. This particular trail is hailed as one of the most exquisite in the United States, yet it is deemed moderately challenging due to the need to walk against the current amidst potentially slippery terrain. It's important to note that participation in this hike is optional, as we have two leaders available to accommodate varying preferences.

Participants should be in good health and self sufficient.

This trip involves more hiking than my other photo tours. Each day will involve some beautiful hikes.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is the park crowded?
Yes, but not in November. During this time, the canyon showcases peak fall foliage, making it a hidden gem. The temperatures are cool, and it’s much less crowded.

Are the hikes on this trip difficult?
No, most of them are short, flat walks. For the longer hikes, we will have two leaders and offer two different routes to choose from.

Is the Narrows a difficult hike?
The Narrows is one of the most beautiful hikes in the USA. Picture walking through a slow-moving river amidst stunning fall foliage in a beautiful canyon. Most of the hike involves shallow water, and if it gets deeper, we will either go around it or turn back. In November, water levels are much lower. We always check the latest weather reports to ensure safety. Since we have two leaders, this hike is optional. There are many other great locations to explore in Zion.

Getting There:
The closest major airport is Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS)

Price Includes:

• Six nights lodging (3 nights in Zion, 1-night Bryce, 2-nights Valley of Fire). Lodging is double occupancy. If you prefer your own room (single occupancy) it is an additional $300.

• All permits, admission and entrance fees.

• Ground transportation. The hotel has a free shuttle from the Las Vegas Airport. We will drop you off at the airport at the end of the tour. There is no need to rent a car.

• Professional instruction on nature photography.

Not Included:

• Food and drinks. We will eat at local restaurants.

• All flights

• Any hotels before or after tour (the six nights during the tour are covered)

Price: $3995 + $300 Single Occupancy
Deposit: The deposit is $1000 per person. You can pay in full or leave a deposit.
Balance Due: Six months before start date of trip.

Payment:
Payment can be made by check to Slonina Photography. We also accept credit cards through our online shopping cart at the bottom of this page.

Cancellation Policy:

Testimonials:

Tour Guides:
John Slonina (leader)

A professional nature photographer who has been photographing for several decades. During the workshop, you will receive information on photography techniques and the natural world. Understanding the natural world not only increases your appreciation of nature but also helps you become a better nature photographer.