20-22 September 2024

Travel Dates

3/5

Challenge Grade

$3,000

Fundraising Target

The Difference You'll Make

By joining ShelterBox USA's Zion adventure, you're not just embarking on a trek through stunning landscapes—you're also making a profound difference in the lives of families worldwide. Your support enables ShelterBox to deliver emergency shelter and vital aid to those affected by disaster and conflict, providing them with the safety, warmth, and dignity they desperately need in their darkest hours.

With each step you take through Zion Base Camp, you're helping to ensure that families facing unimaginable challenges receive the shelter, tools, and support necessary to rebuild their lives. Your participation directly contributes to the resilience and hope of communities around the globe, offering a beacon of light in times of crisis.

Together, we can make a tangible impact and offer a lifeline to those in need. Join us on this meaningful adventure and be part of something truly extraordinary—because every step forward brings us closer to a world where no one is left without shelter or hope.

Shelterbox USA charity image featuring branded tee shirts in Yosemite

the families you’ll help

Shelterbox USA families you'll help image

Meet Nurgül. At 52 years old, she, along with her husband Imam, faced the devastating loss of their home in the Kahraman Maras region of Türkiye during the earthquakes. She recalled "I shouted to my husband. I said, ‘Run, it’s an earthquake,’ and we came out as the house was falling on us.” Their once-hopeful life crumbled before them in an instant, leaving them with nowhere to live.

Since the earthquakes, Nurgül and her husband have been living in a temporary tent settlement, where your support provided them with a ShelterBox tent and essential household items. Nurgül expressed profound gratitude for the shelter, saying, “After all this pain, a tent made me very happy. It is very beautiful and keeps us warm. Whoever has made it, made it well. I thank you for making this our home.”

The tent and other items like a solar light, blankets, and a cooking set have significantly impacted Nurgül’s life. She finds solace in her ShelterBox tent, a place she now calls home, where even a simple cup of coffee carries the taste of normalcy and comfort. She shared “Because every corner of [the tent] belongs to me, it feels special. When there is no tent, the coffee I drink is not coffee. But here, in my tent, my coffee tastes like coffee.”

How it works

Make a difference

Commit to raising the minimum fundraising target and make a positive difference to worthwhile causes.

You'll be supported by our team of fundraising experts to reach and exceed your fundraising goals.

Be part of a team

Join like-minded travellers, and representatives from the charity, all united in their adventurous spirit and commitment to making a positive impact in the world. Make lifelong friends during a shared challenge experience.

Trip notes

Day 0: Thursday 19 September 2024

Day 0: Thursday 19 September 2024

Our trek will begin on the morning of Friday, September 20th. Therefore, you should plan to arrive in Las Vegas or St. George by September 19th. If you are coming from Las Vegas, you can book this shuttle through St. George Shuttle, which offers multiple daily departures.

Please note that accommodation on the night of September 19th is not included, and you will need to book this on your own. We can recommend the Best Western Coral Hills hotel, however you are free to choose any hotel in central St. George that suits your preferences.

Tonight, you'll meet your guides who will brief you and the exciting few days ahead.

Day 1: Friday 20 September 2024 Snow Canyon

Day 1: Friday 20 September 2024
Snow Canyon

The adventure of a lifetime begins! We start in St. George, Utah where we’ll shuttle to Snow Canyon State Park. Like a mini Zion, Snow Canyon is in the same Navajo Sandstone layer as Zion, and cuts impressive walls from the lava-covered country above the rim through the slickrock country below. Along the way, we’ll have stunning views and visit young lava tubes, and get a great introduction to canyon country. We’ll have lunch on the trail and complete our loop. From here, we’ll transfer to Zion where we’ll set up camp and cook dinner.

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 6 miles

Transfer time: Approx. 1 hour

Meals: B L D

Day 2: Saturday 21 September 2024 Virgin River Narrows

Day 2: Saturday 21 September 2024
Virgin River Narrows

Our second day’s trek is arguably the most iconographic in Zion — the Virgin River Narrows. Firstly, we’ll make a stop to rent the appropriate gear for today’s conditions then begin our trek with a stroll down the paved Riverside Walk. Buttressed by water on our left and a 3,000-foot cliff face on the right, the River Trail gives us an up-close appreciation for the powerful hydrological forces that carved this incredible canyon. After a mile of walking along hanging gardens and under the dappled shade of majestic cottonwoods, the sidewalk ends. We’ll enter the river and take time to get our “stream legs” before walking another 1.5 miles upriver to our turnaround point at Orderville Canyon. Before descending back downstream, we’ll be certain to bask in the Narrows’ majestic beauty and, of course, stop-off for a relaxing shoreline lunch before returning to the trailhead. Once we’re back at camp, we’ll have time to relax before enjoying dinner, a possible evening walk and a good night’s sleep.

Accommodation: Camping

Trekking distance: 5 miles

Meals: B L D

Day 3: Sunday 22 September 2024 Zion Canyon

Day 3: Sunday 22 September 2024
Zion Canyon

After breakfast and breaking down camp this morning, we’ll embark on an exciting exploration of Zion Canyon. Beginning near the Park Visitors Center, we’ll enjoy the start of the morning in relative solitude with a lesser-traveled trek through the lower canyon. After a quick break, we’ll board the Zion shuttle bus and travel up-canyon to our next trailhead. Here, we’ll hike up to Scout Lookout where we’ll relish in dramatic views of the surrounding canyon system. From our vantage point above the canyon floor, we’ll traverse along the canyon walls on well maintained trails to the Emerald Pools complex where we’ll see at the majestic desert oasis pools before descending to the lawn of the historic Zion Lodge for a late picnic lunch. Our bellies content and our spirits filled, we’ll head back to St. George, where we’ll say our goodbyes and head off home. You can expect to arrive back to St. George around 5pm.

Trekking distance: 7.5 miles

Transfer time: Approx. 1 hour

Meals: B L

Includes: Transfers as per itinerary • Accommodation at campsites in tents based on twin-share • Meals as per itinerary • Water on trekking days • Local guide • Tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag and day pack • Gear rental for Virgin River Narrows trek - can include canyoneering shoes, neoprene socks, dry suit pants, dry bibs or a full dry suit • Entrance fees as per itinerary

Excludes: Airfares • Airport Transfers • Travel insurance (highly recommended for US citizens, compulsory for non-US citizens) • Visas • Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages • Personal expenses • Tips and gratuities

Why you'll love this adventure

Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of Snow Canyon and experience the wonder of Navajo Sandstone cliffs.
Trek through the iconic Virgin River Narrows, wading through crystal-clear waters and surrounded by towering cliffs.
Explore the lesser-traveled trails of Zion Canyon, offering panoramic views and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Trek knowing that you’re providing essential tools to help rebuild lives after disaster.

Frequently asked questions

Can't find the answer to your question? Get in touch via email (info@inspiredadventure.com.au). We’re always here to help!

About the adventure

How challenging is this adventure?

This adventure is ranked 3/5. While no extensive trekking experience is required prior to registering, our adventures are specifically designed for people who are relatively fit and willing to train. The Zion Base Camp trek is a physical challenge, involving trekking approximately 18.5 miles over three days. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy the experience.

You will be well supported on the adventure, with the guides and your team all cheering you on. You are free to move at your own pace and we will take frequent breaks.

How many people will be on my adventure?

We advocate for the benefits of small group travel, seeing it as not only environmentally friendly but also personally enriching. With just 15 spots available, each journey is an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals dedicated to making a positive impact on the world.

Who is Inspired Adventures?

ShelterBox USA has partnered with Inspired Adventures to bring you this adventure of a lifetime. Over the last 19 years, Inspired Adventures has taken over 8,000 people, just like you, on adventures all around the world, raising over $47 million for important causes. When you choose to travel with Inspired Adventures and ShelterBox USA, you can be confident you’re in the best hands.

Fitness and training

How do I train for this adventure?

We will provide you with information on how to prepare for your adventure when you register. In addition, we recommend that you consult your GP and a personal trainer to develop a training plan that will prepare you for the challenge.

As part of your training, we recommend making use of your free time to complete several day hikes. You should aim to be able to walk in hilly terrain for 6-8 hours comfortably and get up and do it again the next day.

It is sensible to start training as early as possible before you go on your trek.

Do I need to carry my luggage on trekking days?

You will need to carry a day pack with personal items such as water, snacks, medications and spare clothing. The rest of your luggage will stay at our campsite.

Accommodation

What is the accommodation like?

Accommodation on this adventure is twin-share in comfortable campsites. The campground will have cold and hot drinks, campfires (where/when allowed), camp chairs, access to showers, fresh food, roomy tents, comfortable sleeping pads, comfy sleeping bags, camp pillows and more!

The campsites may be national park, state park, or private vehicle-accessible campgrounds. They may vary by trip date depending on availability and seasonality.

Will I be sharing accommodation?

Accommodation on this adventure is based on twin-share. You will be paired with a teammate of the same gender and, whenever possible, age group. Single tents can be requested but are subject to availability, so please ensure you ask early on.

What to expect

What is the food like?

Basecamp trips include meals for the duration of the tours beginning with breakfast the first day through lunch the final day. Meals are prepared by your guide(s) using fresh ingredients, exclusive recipes, and we adhere to all department of health outdoor cooking codes.

I have dietary requirements, will I be catered for?

Of course, we will happily arrange for any dietary requirements you’ve noted during booking to be catered for. Please advise your local guide on Day 1 as well. You will be fed very well while you’re on the adventure, but if you have a very specific dietary requirement or severe allergies, often it’s best to pack some extra things as back-up.

What happens if there is a medical emergency?

Providing the safest possible environment is our highest priority and we have an outstanding safety record. All Inspired Adventures guides are first aid trained and well-equipped to handle any medical emergencies.

Fundraising

How do I fundraise?

Never fundraised before? Not sure where to start? No worries, we don’t expect you to do it alone. You will have regular support from the Inspired Adventures fundraising team, who will help you make a fundraising plan to meet your target. Alongside personalised coaching, we will also send you lots of ideas and resources on how to fundraise. From online fundraising to trivia nights, to bake sales and out-of-the-box ideas, we have years and years of tried and tested tips to make your fundraising a success.

What happens if I don’t meet my fundraising target?

It’s normal to worry you won’t meet your fundraising target, but we know you can do it. In fact, with the support of Inspired Adventures, almost everyone goes on to raise far more than they imagined.

By registering for the adventure, you agree to raise the minimum fundraising amount specified. Like you, we are looking to make a significant impact for our charity partners, so the goal is for each person to have met their fundraising target before departure. If you fail to raise the minimum fundraising target by this time, we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.

I’m joining with a friend, can we fundraise together?

Absolutely! Fundraising with a friend is a great idea. Just remember the fundraising target is per person, so you will each need to meet the minimum fundraising goal to participate. We know you can do it.

Are donations to my page tax-deductible?

The funds raised for ShelterBox USA are tax-deductible (conditions apply).

Travel insurance and visas

Do I need to have insurance?

Travel insurance is to cover cancellation, hospital, emergency evacuation and lost luggage and is recommended, but not compulsory. We do recommend purchasing your policy as soon as possible if you choose to take one out. It is up to you to ensure you have fully comprehensive travel insurance and you will need to share these details with our team before departure. For more information, please visit www.inspiredadventures.com.au/travel-insurance-information.

All information is subject to change and will be confirmed upon your registration.

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