2024 Empty Nester Travel Bender

Utah & Arizona National Parks

a 360 VR gallery by
ROB ANDRES

9 Days | 8 National Parks | 100s of Memories

Our 2024 Empty Nester Travel Bender took us through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the American Southwest. Throughout this incredible adventure, we quickly realized that flat photos simply don’t do justice to the magnitude and grandeur of these landscapes. The towering cliffs, expansive vistas, and intricate rock formations beg to be experienced in person.

That’s why we captured 360-degree images along the way, which can be viewed in VR, allowing others to immerse themselves in these awe-inspiring locations. From the dizzying heights of Angels Landing to the surreal beauty of The Wave and the vastness of the Grand Canyon, our VR experiences let viewers step into the scene and feel as if they are right there with us, exploring the wonders of nature firsthand.

Days 1-3

Zion National Park

We began with three days in Zion, where we hiked The Narrows, wading through the Virgin River as towering canyon walls surrounded us, and ascended the dramatic switchbacks of Angels Landing, rewarded with panoramic views.

Day 1

The Narrows

17 VR PHOTOS

Day 2

Around Zion

12 VR PHOTOS

Day 3

Angel’s Landing

10 VR PHOTOS

Days 3-4

Bryce Canyon

We moved on to Bryce Canyon, where exploring offers an awe-inspiring experience of towering red rock formations and striking natural amphitheaters. The Navajo Loop Trail, one of the park’s most popular hikes, takes adventurers on a journey through iconic hoodoos like Thor’s Hammer and Wall Street. Steep switchbacks lead hikers down into the canyon, where the narrow corridors and towering spires create a surreal, otherworldly atmosphere. With breathtaking views at every turn, the Navajo Loop Trail provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and physical challenge for those looking to experience Bryce Canyon up close.

Day 3

Exploring the Rim

4 VR PHOTOS

Day 4

Navajo Loop Trail

20 VR PHOTOS

Days 4-5

Arches National Park

The next two days were filled with jaw-dropping sights at Arches National Park, where we marveled at natural wonders like Double Arch, Delicate Arch, Landscape Arch, and Balanced Rock before heading out to be awed the iconic Monument Valley.

Day 4

Double Arch

3 VR PHOTOS

Day 4

Delicate Arch

5 VR PHOTOS

Day 5

Landscape Arch

9 VR PHOTOS

Day 5

Monument Valley

A destination that stirs the soul of any seasoned traveler. Its towering sandstone buttes and sweeping desert landscapes are breathtaking, offering an unforgettable adventure through one of the most iconic regions of the American Southwest. Driving through the valley’s rugged paths, you’re immersed in a world where nature’s artistry is on full display—red rock formations stretching toward the sky, casting dramatic shadows, and evoking a sense of awe at every turn.

Whether exploring at dawn or dusk, the vibrant hues of the landscape come alive, creating a captivating experience that promises to leave a lasting impression on anyone with a love for discovery and the outdoors.

Day 5

Monument Valley

19 VR PHOTOS

Day 6

Upper Antelope Canyon

A visit to Upper Antelope Canyon is an experience that resonates with travelers seeking hidden beauty and natural wonder. As you step into the narrow sandstone passageways, you’re immediately enveloped in a world of shifting light and shadow, where the sun’s rays pierce through the canyon’s narrow openings. The vibrant hues of orange, red, and gold seem to dance along the canyon walls, creating a serene and almost mystical atmosphere. It’s a journey through nature’s art gallery, offering a sense of wonder and tranquility that will captivate the seasoned traveler’s adventurous spirit.

Day 6

Slot Canyon

18 VR PHOTOS

Day 7

The Wave

Before sunrise, we set out with Andrea from Dreamland Tours to explore the Coyote Buttes North area, straddling the Utah-Arizona border in Vermilion Cliffs National Monument. Our 6-mile hike to The Wave was a journey into a landscape that feels almost otherworldly. As we reached The Wave, its smooth, undulating sandstone formations, with striations of red, orange, and yellow, seemed to ripple like frozen waves in a sea of rock. The intricate patterns and vibrant colors were breathtaking, and the surreal beauty made the effort more than worthwhile. Our guide was worth every penny, navigating us through the rugged terrain with expertise. After soaking in the awe-inspiring scenery, we headed off to the Grand Canyon, completing an unforgettable day for any passionate traveler.

Day 7

The Wave

14 VR PHOTOS

Days 7-8

The Grand Canyon

Our firsts views of The Grand Canyon were dramatic as we witnessed a dense cloud rapidly descending down the canyon walls at dusk. In the morning, we headed to the South Kaibab Trail where we hiked just under four miles (roundtrip) to Ooh Aah Point and Cedar Ridge.

Day 8

South Kaibab Trail

18 VR PHOTOS