Western Frontiers with Rocky Mountaineer Silverleaf

Embark on an epic encounter with the American Frontier. This evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception and then soar 550 feet above the center of the Las Vegas Strip on the High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel. With sweeping 360-degree views of the Las Vegas Valley and The Strip you'll take in all the glitz and glamour.

We leave the shimmering Sin City skyline behind as we journey to the canyons and towering cliffs of Zion National Park, following the footsteps of brave pioneers and first nation settlers. Then it's onward to the enchanting landscapes of Bryce Canyon. Admire its rusty red limestone spires that rise up surreally from the desert floor to meet Utah’s skies.

Travel north to Utah’s capital to see its Mormon center – Temple Square in Salt Lake City. Learn about the basic beliefs and history of the Mormon pioneers which brought about the building of the temple and the Tabernacle, home of the Tabernacle Choir. Explore the city on your own to find local cuisine all surrounded by picturesque mountains.

Travel from Salt Lake City and arrive in scenic Jackson. Admire the spectacular scenery at the foot of the icy peaks of the Grand Tetons as you spend an evening at leisure.

Journey through the alpine terrain of Grand Teton National Park en route to the UNESCO-listed Yellowstone National Park. (When the south entrance is closed due to weather conditions, the itinerary will travel west from Jackson via Idaho and enter Yellowstone National Park through the west entrance.) We spend two nights in the world’s oldest national park at one of its cozy lodges, each with their own unique setting and atmosphere.

Explore the rusting walls of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, keeping a keen eye out for bison and elk, before joining your Travel Director for an exploration of the park’s bubbling hot springs and mud paint pots. Old Faithful puts on an spectacular show as its water arcs impressively up into the air. And there amidst the geothermal wonderland, we enjoy a relaxed evening under the canopy of Yellowstone’s stars.

Tip your Stetson in tribute to "Buffalo Bill" whose hometown of Cody is our next stop on this pioneer sightseeing trail. Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West museum complex to gain a deeper understanding of the "Spirit of the American West." Then it's on to Big Sky Country where we'll enjoy a Be My Guest dinner at the historic Billings Depot. Built in 1903 and visited by presidents, governors, Hollywood celebrities and even royalty, you’ll reflect on the past while hearing local tales from a historian and enjoying a delicious three-course meal prepared by local chef.  Chef Jordan has created a menu featuring four unique entree choices along with a decadent dessert to finish off the evening.

Our day begins with a visit to Little Bighorn, the infamous battlefield of Sioux and Cheyenne warriors. Venture into the Black Hills of South Dakota as you make your way to the base of Crazy Horse Memorial. Admire the colossal carved face of the famed Lakota war chief and learn about preserving Native American Culture before continuing to Rapid City.

Visit Mount Rushmore to view the faces of former American presidents etched into the granite rock-face, then choose to venture into Badlands National Park. This evening Dive Into Culture with Stephen Yellowhawk who will regale you with stories of his tribe’s history during a festive Farewell dinner.

Our foray through the American Frontier at its end, we say farewell to newfound friends and traverse some of the West's most beautiful terrain as you travel through Wyoming's expansive grasslands to Denver, the Mile High City. On arrival check into your downtown hotel for your overnight stay and prepare for your exciting rail journey through the Rockies.

Rise early this morning and make your way independently to Union Station where you will check in and board a coach for a quick transfer to the Rocky Mountaineer train. Hop on and get comfortable in the reclining leather seats as you are greeted and welcomed with a beverage. Today you will wave goodbye to Denver and cross the Continental Divide as you take in the spectacular views of rugged canyons and the Colorado River through panoramic windows. Enjoy the staff’s commentary and comradery of your newfound friends while indulging in the menu and service. Perhaps you’ll even choose to step out onto the vestibule to get a breath of fresh air and experience the many tunnels that have been carved into the mountains before arriving at the resort town of Glenwood Springs where you will disembark and enjoy an overnight stay.

Return to the Rocky Mountaineer this morning and leave charming Glenwood Springs behind. Another day of awe-inspiring sights awaits as you make your way across the Colorado-Utah border. Stunning mountain views, red sandstone landscapes and even occasional wildlife such as pronghorn emerge as you approach Moab, the gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Part ways with the charming rail staff this afternoon and transfer to your Moab hotel. The rest of the day is yours to do as you please.

Your adventure with Rocky Mountaineer comes to a close as you transfer from Moab to Salt Lake City via motorcoach.  You will arrive at Salt Lake City International Airport at approximately 3 pm, please be aware when booking your return flights.