Marvel at the contrasts of free-flowing red sandstone landscapes and fresh blue skies, arid deserts, and verdant coniferous forests in Utah. There is little uniformity in the terrain of this naturally beautiful state, lending to a sense of excitement that is difficult to capture in other destinations. Utah vacations use this to their advantage and present travelers with myriad opportunities to get out and explore.
Select from escorted rail tours that feature multiple geographic locations or independent packages that home in on one specific city or region. Embark on a Utah family vacation to the Mighty 5 for a first-hand look at the sheer majesty of nature. This deserving nickname highlights the Utah national parks for what they are: mighty, incredible, and not easily forgotten. In Bryce Canyon National Park, twisting scarlet-red hoodoos give an otherworldly feel to the terrain. Soaring naturally formed archways and amazing rock formations are hallmarks of Arches National Park. Zion National Park's pink and red slot canyons and sheer sandstone cliffs are a breathtaking reminder of nature's prowess. Vast sandstone mesas, towering rocks that look as though they were sculpted by hand, and plunging canyons are hallmarks of Canyonlands National Park. The final of the Mighty 5, Capitol Reef National Park, is perhaps the least known, but what it lacks in instant recognition, it makes up for in astounding views. From white domes to stunning arches and the Waterpocket Fold, there is much to discover in this hidden gem. Visits to Utah's protected parklands can be combined with time in the history-filled capital, Salt Lake City, or in Moab, the gateway to wild parklands, for a well-rounded expedition in the state where adventure is as bountiful as the scenery.
(113 reviews)
Discover the beauty of the Southwest in autumn on this memorable vacation featuring national parks, historic rail journeys and the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque. Travel on the iconic California Zephyr to Grand Junction and view the breathtaking landscapes of Arches and Mesa Verde National Parks, before riding the...
(124 reviews)Embark on an 11-day escorted tour of the Old West's rugged frontier towns, majestic landscapes and renowned national historic sites. Journey across America's Western frontier on Amtrak's legendary California Zephyr from Chicago to Provo, Utah. Cross the Rocky Mountains, discovering hidden landscapes where the region's beauty comes to life...
(220 reviews)Discover five beloved national parks on this 13-day escorted tour through the West. Start with a classic overnight rail journey aboard the Empire Builder, following the pioneer route into Big Sky Country. Experience a float trip down a winding river, drive through Glacier National Park on an open-top Red Jammer bus and cruise across a sparkling...
(95 reviews)Discover the natural wonders and rugged wilderness of the Southwest on this scenic rail tour. Journey west on the California Zephyr to Arches National Park and enjoy a jetboat ride down the Colorado River. Visit the unique Capitol Reef National Park, the vast Bryce Canyon National Park, and the historic Zion National Park. Take in the panoramas...
(98 reviews)Set your sights on the stunning landscapes of America's West with visits to six of the country's national parks. Travel aboard Amtrak's Empire Builder across the Northern Prairies to Whitefish, experiencing Glacier National Park's breathtaking beauty with a journey along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. Continue south to Yellowstone's geysers,...
(7 reviews)
America's only luxury train, Canyon Spirit, is your chariot for this unforgettable rail adventure. Follow its new route from Salt Lake City, through the deserts of Moab, into the peaks surrounding Glenwood Springs, and finally, to Colorado's dynamic capital city, Denver. Enjoy time to explore Salt Lake City ahead of the journey and ...
(93 reviews)From mountains to sandstone arches and all the varied terrain between, this week-long journey is a showcase of nature. Admire the craggy peaks of the Wasatch Mountains surrounding Salt Lake City before boarding Canyon Spirit, a train that combines luxury and adventure. Following its brand-new route, travel from Salt Lake City into the...
A route of natural beauty and the raw spirit of adventure lies ahead with Canyon Spirit. America's answer to luxury rail travel brought to you by the same name that founded Canada's Rocky Mountaineer, this train weaves along its flagship route from Moab, Utah, to Denver, Colorado, traveling by daylight only to provide once-in-a-lifetime...
Experience the world-famous International Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque on this memorable fall vacation, revealing the beauty of the Southwest from its national parks to historic railroads. Board Amtrak's Southwest Chief for an overnight journey to Albuquerque, where colorful celebrations await. Marvel as hundreds of balloons ascend into the New...
Follow the lead of the explorers of years past and head west for a grand adventure to the "City by the Bay," San Francisco. This six-day rail vacation shows the contrasts between two American cities and the nature that surrounds them. Spend a day wrapped in the rugged beauty of the Colorado Rockies while based in Denver, and then board...
May 22, 2026 · By Ian Holt
Aboard Canyon Spirit’s new three-day route from Salt Lake City to Denver, Great Rail Journeys writer Ian discovers the Southwest’s beauty in relaxed luxury.
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Jul 24, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
Whether in America’s national parks, the Canadian Rockies or traveling from coast to coast, discover the top destinations to visit in North America in 2026.
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May 06, 2025 · By Great Rail Journeys
Spend the remaining months of the year ticking off your travel bucket list while traveling to top last-minute destinations for 2025 from the U.S. to Europe.
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Jun 08, 2023 · By Great Rail Journeys
This year, discover fall destinations that benefit from the changing weather and gorgeous colors of the season throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe.
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