Day 1
Denver
Begin your grand American adventure by touching down in Denver, Colorado’s vibrant ‘Mile High City’. Spend two delightful days soaking up the captivating urban atmosphere set against the majestic backdrop of the Rocky Mountains. Explore historic architecture, leafy botanical gardens, and world-class cultural institutions. Take time to sample fine local cuisine and artisan microbreweries before preparing for your iconic train journey into the heart of the majestic western wilderness.
Overnight: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver or similar
Day 2
Denver
This morning, make your way to the Canyon Spirit Guest Centre to pick up all your documents and information for your luxury train ahead of time. Giving you the rest of the day discovering the city’s rich culture and vibrant arts scene.
Begin with a tranquil morning amidst the exotic flora at Denver Botanic Gardens, before exploring world-class Indigenous and Western collections at the iconic Denver Art Museum. In the afternoon, admire colourful murals across the trendy River North Art District. As dusk approaches, stroll through historic Larimer Square for fine dining, before capping off your evening with a craft cocktail in the bustling, Beaux-Arts Great Hall of Union Station.
Overnight: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver or similar
Day 3
Denver – Glenwood Springs aboard Canyon Spirit
Board the celebrated Canyon Spirit train from Denver, winding through dramatic mountain canyons and pristine alpine valleys. Arrive in Glenwood Springs for a relaxing overnight stay.
Immerse yourself in the rejuvenating thermal waters of world-famous hot springs, surrounded by soaring cliffs and picturesque scenery. Enjoy a soothing evening in this historic spa town, recharging your spirit amidst Colorado’s natural beauty before continuing your unforgettable rail journey westward.
Overnight: Glenwood Springs Hotel provided by Canyon Spirit. Breakfast and lunch included
Day 4
Glenwood Springs – Moab aboard Canyon Spirit
Reboard the train and journey onwards through red-rock country, overnighting in the adventure hub of Moab. Surrounded by otherworldly sandstone arches, sweeping canyon vistas, and the winding Colorado River, Moab provides an astonishing natural spectacle. Marvel at the dramatic desert landscape as twilight paints the sandstone in fiery hues of crimson and gold, offering a true taste of Utah’s legendary red-rock country before heading towards the state capital.
Overnight: Moab Hotel provided by Canyon Spirit. Breakfast and lunch included
Day 5
Moab – Salt Lake City
Conclude your luxury rail journey as you arrive in Salt Lake City. Arrive in the evening and spend your time discovering the impressive architecture of Temple Square, exploring vibrant downtown neighbourhoods, and enjoying views of the Wasatch Mountains.
Overnight: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City or similar. Breakfast and lunch included
Day 6
Salt Lake City – Capitol Reef National Park (218 miles)
This morning, collect your rental car and prepare for the road trip of a lifetime. Drive south towards the peaceful village of Torrey, the gateway to Capitol Reef National Park. Journey along scenic highways framed by towering monoliths, hidden orchards, and dramatic rock pockets. Torrey offers a tranquil rural sanctuary surrounded by dark sky reserves, making it an extraordinary location for evening stargazing. Delight in farm-to-table dining, marvel at the vibrant crimson cliffs at sunset, and rest comfortably before venturing deeper into Utah’s enchanting southern landscapes.
Overnight: Capitol Reef Resort or similar
Day 7
Capitol Reef National Park – Monument Valley (195 miles)
Head southeast into the iconic Navajo Nation territory to experience the timeless grandeur of Monument Valley. Instantly recognisable from classic western films, this legendary landscape features towering sandstone spires and vast desert plains.
Experience a breath taking sunset as shadows stretch across the valley floor, then wake early to witness a golden sunrise casting an ethereal glow over the majestic sandstone formations during your unforgettable overnight stay in this sacred landscape.
Overnight: Goulding's Trading Post and Lodge or similar
Day 8
Monument Valley – Page (136 miles)
Cross into Arizona to spend a night in Page, an oasis surrounded by extraordinary geological wonders. Visit the world-famous Horseshoe Bend to watch the emerald Colorado River meander dramatically around a towering sandstone escarpment.
Explore the swirling, sculpted walls of nearby slot canyons, where sunlight creates a spellbinding display of light and shadow. A must do whilst you’re here is touring the Antelope Canyons, slot canyons with stunning gradient layers and streaks of light from above. Make sure you book in advance as these tours book up fast!
Overnight: Home2 Suites by Hilton Page Lake Powell or similar
Day 9 – Day 10
Page – Springdale, Zion National Park (117 miles)
Travel northwest into the stunning sanctuary of Zion National Park for an immersive two-night stay. Gaze up at towering sheer monoliths, lush canyon floors, and cascading waterfalls. Take advantage of your full day to hike famous trails, wade through pristine rivers, or simply admire the colossal sandstone cliffs from the scenic shuttle route. Zion offers an awe-inspiring wilderness experience, blending thrilling outdoor adventure with serene natural splendour.
Staying in Zion National Park, there is a variety of accommodation styles to choose from, if there was a place to indulge in a highlighted stay, it would be here. Stay in the chic Hotel De Novo Springdale, or how about the beautiful The Red Cliffs Lodge Zion, another option is to stay at Zion Mountain Ranch with its authentic western cabins.
Overnight: Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites or similar.
Day 11
Zion National Park – Bryce Canyon National Park (85 miles)
Journey to the higher elevations of Bryce Canyon for a night amidst the world’s largest collection of hoodoos. Wander along the rim to behold vast natural amphitheatres packed with bizarre, needle-like rock spires in dazzling shades of orange, red, and white. Catch an incredible sunset over the amphitheatre, and gaze at brilliantly clear night skies before watching the morning sun illuminate the hoodoos in a dazzling display of brilliant colour.
Overnight: Best Western Ruby's Inn or similar
Day 12
Bryce Canyon – Las Vegas (248 miles)
Descend from the quiet desert wilderness into the dazzling neon glow of Las Vegas for your final overnight stay. Experience the thrilling contrast of world-renowned entertainment, opulent resorts, spectacular dining, and iconic attractions along the famous Strip.
Overnight: Excalibur Hotel & Casino or similar
Day 13
Fly home
Celebrate the conclusion of your extraordinary American Southwest road trip in high style before returning your vehicle at the airport and boarding your flight home, filled with unforgettable memories.
