Rockies and Rail from Denver

Embark on an unforgettable 9nt adventure through stunning landscapes and rich heritage. From exploring the Rocky Mountains and iconic national parks to experiencing the Rocky Mountaineer train

Embark on a captivating 9-night tour departing from Denver, where your adventure begins with an immersive city tour of the 'Mile High City.' The journey then takes you into the breathtaking embrace of the Rocky Mountains, allowing you to discover the magnificence of the Rocky Mountain National Park. Brace yourself for the awe-inspiring Trail Ridge Road, aptly nicknamed the 'Highway to the Sky,' as it treats you to unparalleled vistas stretching in all directions. Venturing through the picturesque Black Hills of South Dakota, you'll encounter the iconic Mount Rushmore, a remarkable testament to both artistic prowess and America's profound heritage. Transitioning to the untouched beauty of Bighorn National Forest, you'll traverse landscapes dominated by rolling hills, alpine lakes, rugged cliffs, and thick pine forests, all under the commanding presence of the Bighorn Mountains.

The tour continues with a visit to the iconic Yellowstone National Park, where nature and wildlife take centre stage. Explore Salt Lake City, renowned for its vibrant Mormon community, and soak in the contrasting colours, unique landforms, and captivating textures at Arches National Park. A highlight of the journey lies in a two-day exploration via the Rocky Mountaineer, traversing the landscapes between Moab, Utah, and Denver, Colorado. This extraordinary rail experience offers a front-row seat to vast canyons, inspiring deserts, natural archways, and enchanting hoodoos. This comprehensive journey offers a tapestry of natural wonders and cultural landmarks that will undoubtedly leave you with lasting memories.

Itinerary

Day 1:  Denver - Arrival
Welcome to Denver! With the impressive Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, Denver effortlessly blends the city’s Old West heritage with today’s modern skyscrapers and urban energy. Upon arrival at Denver International Airport, transfer independently to your hotel where you will meet your Tour Director

Welcome to Denver! Set against the stunning Rocky Mountains, the city seamlessly fuses its rich Old West legacy with contemporary skyscrapers and vibrant urban vitality. After landing at Denver International Airport, make your way to your hotel on your own. There, you'll have the opportunity to meet with your Tour Director and embark on your journey.

Day 2: Denver - Cheyenne 
Begin your day with a brief city exploration of the ‘Mile High City’. This includes a tour of the State Capitol, crowned with a dazzling gold dome. Interestingly, the 13th step on the western side of the building sits precisely at an elevation of 5,280 feet above sea level – an exact mile high. Venture a short distance from Denver to enter Rocky Mountain National Park, an area that truly makes you feel like you're perched at the pinnacle of the world. Encompassing 415 square miles, this park acts as a sanctuary safeguarding the splendour of mountain landscapes. And if you found the journey to the park awe-inspiring, brace yourself for the marvels of Trail Ridge Road. Aptly named the ‘Highway to the Sky’, this route treats you to unparalleled vistas in every direction. As you wind your way past numerous peaks and traverse tundra expanses that stretch above the tree line, you'll also cross the Continental Divide at an elevation of 12,183 feet. 

Next, continue your voyage to Cheyenne, the capital city of Wyoming, where the essence of the Old West thrives. Regarded as the nation's hub of railways, Cheyenne boasts an impressive collection of steam engines. Among these is Old Number 4004, the world's largest steam locomotive, and one of the cherished eight Big Boys that are showcased across the country.

Day 3: Cheyenne - Rapid City
Embark on your expedition today by exploring Fort Laramie National Historic Site. Initially founded as a private fort for fur trading, this remarkable establishment transformed into the most significant and renowned military post on the Northern Plains. It bore witness to the complete, sweeping narrative of America's westward expansion, characterized by the grandeur of the ROCKIES & RAILS. Journey onward through the awe-inspiring magnificence of South Dakota's Black Hills, leading you to Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Here, you'll directly encounter the visages of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln – emblematic figures that epitomize America's abundant heritage.

Day 4: Rapid City - Cody 
Today, as you cross the border back into Wyoming on your way to Cody, your path will traverse through the Bighorn National Forest. This expansive landscape features untouched rolling hills, pristine alpine lakes, rugged cliffs, dense pine forests, and the commanding presence of the Bighorn Mountains. Upon reaching Cody, your destination, you'll have the opportunity to explore the Buffalo Bill Museum. This museum is a tribute to the ethos of the American West, showcasing the vibrant culture and art that breathe life into Wyoming's heritage. Central to its narrative is the legacy of William F. ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody, the town's founder, and an enduring icon. As night falls, you can relish various entertainments that capture the essence of the region, including rodeo events, dramatic gunfight reenactments, and the evocative tunes of cowboy music (available during specific seasons).

Day 5: Cody - Yellowstone 
Embark on an unforgettable expedition today as you delve into the United States' inaugural national park and the marvels of nature – Yellowstone National Park. Within this realm, the Earth's dynamic forces are on full display, showcased through geysers, mountain ranges, coursing rivers, cascading waterfalls, and ancient volcanic landscapes. While you may have encountered images of iconic sites like Old Faithful and Yellowstone Canyon in photographs, witnessing them in person is a profoundly humbling encounter. These sites not only meet the lofty expectations you've held but surpass them, leaving an indelible impression. Amidst this rugged mountain expanse, you'll also encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including eagles, grizzly and black bears, bison, elk, and a wealth of other creatures. The presence of wildlife is a constant companion on your journey, enriching every step you take within this untamed wilderness.

Day 6: Yellowstone - Salt Lake City 
On today's expedition, you'll traverse the picturesque landscapes of Southern Idaho en route to Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah and its most populous metropolis, renowned for its Mormon community. As you arrive, you'll be treated to vistas of the State Capitol Building and the charming historic expanse of Temple Square in the downtown area. This square is home to the iconic 6-spired Salt Lake Temple and the dome-crowned Tabernacle, which hosts the world-renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Your journey culminates at your hotel, where you can settle in. For a remarkable evening experience, we suggest indulging in a meal at The Roof Restaurant. Here, an opulent buffet awaits, complemented by awe-inspiring views that stretch across the Salt Lake Valley and encompass Temple Square, creating an ambience that's both exquisite and inspiring.

Day 7: Salt Lake City - Canyonlands National Park - Dead Horse State Park - Moab
Embarking on a southern route this morning, your path will take you through Provo, a city housing Brigham Young University, as you journey towards Canyonlands National Park. During today's expedition, you'll be immersed in a vast expanse of untamed canyons and strikingly shaped buttes that have been sculpted by the Colorado River and its tributaries. These natural features create a mesmerizing landscape that stretches before you. The park is divided into four distinct districts: the Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the rivers themselves. On this leg of your journey, we'll explore some of the most breathtaking viewpoints within the Island in the Sky Mesa. This elevated plateau rests on sheer sandstone cliffs, soaring over 1,000 feet above the surrounding terrain, offering awe-inspiring panoramas. Continuing onward, your path leads to Moab, where you'll spend the night and find a haven for your exploration and relaxation.

Day 8:  Moab - Arches NAtional Park - Moab
Our itinerary for today takes us to Arches National Park, an integral part of Utah's renowned Mighty 5. Upon entering the park, you'll be introduced to a terrain characterized by a mesmerizing interplay of hues, geological features, and textures that are unparalleled anywhere else on the planet. Within this natural sanctuary, you'll encounter a collection of more than 2,000 natural stone arches, alongside numerous towering pinnacles, and colossal balanced rocks. The captivating spectacle of these formations, carved from red rock, will undoubtedly leave you awestruck. This otherworldly landscape stands as a testament to nature's artistry and is sure to ignite your imagination with its truly distinctive scenery. 

Day 9:  Moab - Glenwood Springs ( On board the Rocky Mountaineer ) 
Today marks the commencement of an extraordinary adventure as you step aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train for a remarkable 2-day voyage between Moab, Utah, and Glenwood Springs, Colorado. Over the course of this journey, you'll be treated to a breathtaking display of landscapes that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. The splendour of vast canyons, awe-inspiring deserts, mesmerizing natural arches, and captivating hoodoos will unfold before your eyes. Settle into the plush comfort of your seat as you bid farewell to Moab, embarking on this memorable passage to Glenwood Springs. As you peer through your window, the vistas of the remarkable American Southwest will unfold, capturing your senses with their sheer beauty. Prior to your arrival in the charming resort town of Glenwood Springs, make sure to pause and take in the panoramic grandeur of Mount Garfield and the vivid Ruby Canyon, their majestic presence etching a stunning impression on your journey.

Day 10: Glenwood Springs ( On board the Rocky Mountaineer ) - Denver - Departure
Depart from the picturesque Glenwood Springs, reinvigorated, as you resume your eastward journey toward Denver for another day of unparalleled vistas. Start your day with a hearty breakfast, all while witnessing the morning sun dance upon the rugged canyons as the train gracefully follows the course of the Colorado River. Engage with knowledgeable hosts who will regale you with captivating tales of the region, adding depth to your experience as you soak in the picturesque canyons that unfold before you. As your journey continues, you'll gradually approach the majestic Colorado Rockies. Traverse the awe-inspiring Continental Divide, a pivotal point in the geography of the land, all the while passing through the Moffat Tunnel—a fascinating engineering marvel that cuts through the mountains, symbolizing the triumph of human ingenuity.

This Offer Includes: 

- One night at Doubletree by Hilton Denver Cherry Creek, Denver (or similar)
- One night at Best Western Plus Frontier Inn, Cheyenne (or similar)
- One night at Best Western Ramkota Hotel and Conference Centre, Rapid City (or similar)
- One night at Buffalo Bill, Cody (or similar)
- One night at Gray Wolf Inn & Suites, Yellowstone (or similar)
- One night at Crystal Inn, Salt Lake City (or similar)
- Two nights at MainStay Suites Moab near Arches National Park, Moab (or similar)
- One night at Hotel Denver, Glenwood Springs 
- 1 dinner, 1 breakfast, and 1 lunch onboard Rocky Mountaineer 
- A Rocky Mountaineer Silver Leaf Service, with luggage Handling and rail station transfers in Glenwood Springs
- Return flights are included from your selected airport to Denver International Airport, Colorado
- Small hand luggage (and a 23kg hold luggage allowance) per person is included
- Flights are also available from London Gatwick, Manchester, and Glasgow. Please call for more information.
- Enjoy an extra 2 nights in Iceland, absolutely FREE!