Overview
America’s National Parks with Denver and Canyon Spirit Rail Journey
Discover the legendary landscapes, rich history, and untamed beauty of the American West on this unforgettable journey through South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, and Utah. From soaring mountain peaks and geothermal wonders to iconic monuments and frontier towns, this National Parks vacation showcases some of the country's most awe-inspiring scenery and storied destinations. Stand before the monumental faces of Mount Rushmore and experience the powerful tribute of Crazy Horse Memorial. Venture into Yellowstone National Park, where erupting geysers, colorful hot springs, thundering waterfalls, and abundant wildlife create one of the world's most extraordinary natural landscapes. Continue to Grand Teton National Park, where jagged peaks rise above alpine lakes and sweeping valleys.Along the way, uncover the stories of America's frontier past in historic towns like Cody, Jackson, and Deadwood, where tales of gold rush fortunes, legendary outlaws, and Wild West saloons still linger. Reflect on pivotal moments in American history at Little Bighorn Battlefield and experience the contrast of modern Western culture with time in Salt Lake City.Begin your adventure in Denver, Colorado's vibrant capital city, where museums, music, breweries, and Rocky Mountain views set the stage for the remarkable landscapes ahead. Then cap off your journey aboard the Canyon Spirit, traveling in comfort through dramatic canyons, rugged mountain scenery, and red-rock landscapes on one of the West's most scenic rail routes.PLUS, this tour includes your choice of excursions in Jackson so you can plan your day your way.
Highlights of America’s National Parks with Denver and Canyon Spirit Rail Journey
City Highlights
Price Details US
Transportation
Notes
This vacation visits national parks and other remote locations where some facilities may not meet the first-class standard you expect from Globus. Some lodges within the parks do not feature televisions and other routinely expected amenities. Routes and areas visited in Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park are subject to favorable weather conditions. Order of sightseeing is subject to change.Maximum elevation is 9,033 ft (2,753 m).Enjoy spectacular fall colors on our Fall Foliage departures: September 13-October 4 (Mother Nature permitting).
Travelers Notes
Special features included in this tour:• Visit to Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Crazy Horse Memorial, two of the Black Hills' most iconic monuments honoring American history and Native heritage• Orientation tour of Rapid City and guided sightseeing in Deadwood, the legendary gold-rush town known for its Wild West history• Visit to Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, site of one of the most significant conflicts of the American Indian Wars• Visit to Buffalo Bill Center of the West in Cody, Wyoming, a renowned complex of museums dedicated to Western art, history, and culture• Guided sightseeing in Yellowstone National Park, including Mammoth Hot Springs, Fountain Paint Pot, Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and Old Faithful • Guided visit to Grand Teton National Park, including a lakeside walk at Jenny Lake beneath the park's dramatic mountain peaks• Globus Choice excursions in Jackson: choose one -- chuckwagon cookout dinner and Wild West show at Cache Creek Canyon or dinner and theater performance at Jackson Hole Playhouse• Guided sightseeing tour of Salt Lake City, including historic monuments and landmarks associated with the city’s pioneer heritage• Canyon Spirit rail journey from Denver to Salt Lake City with overnight stays in Glenwood Springs and Moab, showcasing the dramatic canyons, red-rock landscapes, and mountain scenery of the American WestEnjoy spectacular fall colors on our Fall Foliage departures: September 15-October 5 (Mother Nature permitting).
Vacation Type
y
Product Group
America's National Parks
Meals
14 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 5 Dinners
Itineraries
Day 1
DENVER, COLORADO Welcome to Denver! Enjoy free time in the Mile-High City this evening.TOUR HIGHLIGHT At 5,280 feet above sea level, Denver is called the Mile-High City for a reason. This gateway to the Rocky Mountains is the perfect place to kick back with a view of the sunset over Mount Blue Sky while enjoying a local IPA brew or fresh-brewed coffee after dinner. Explore the best eateries in LoDo Lower Downtown) and discover the many other exciting venues this vibrant city has to offer.
Day 2
DENVER–RAPID CITY, SOUTH DAKOTA The City of Presidents Meet your Tour Director this morning and enjoy a scenic drive across the High Plains of eastern Wyoming and western South Dakota en route to Rapid City. At 6:00 p.m., join your Tour Director and fellow travel companions for a welcome drink. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT From a distance, the Black Hills of South Dakota cut a dark figure rising above the plains, giving it the Lakota name of Paha Sapa (black hills). Upon closer inspection, this region is overflowing with western wildlife and natural wonders that go on as far as the eye can see. Watch for deer and antelope, as well as herds of bison that roam the rolling hills.
Day 3
RAPID CITY. EXCURSION TO CRAZY HORSE & MOUNT RUSHMORE MEMORIALS Stone-Faced Patriots Begin the day with an orientation tour of Rapid City before continuing into the heart of the Black Hills. Visit the awe-inspiring Crazy Horse Memorial, a monumental tribute to the renowned Lakota leader and a powerful symbol of Native American heritage and resilience. Then travel to Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where the iconic faces of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt are carved into the granite mountainside in striking detail. Take time to walk the Presidential Trail for closer views of this remarkable monument and visit the Information Center to learn more about its history, craftsmanship, and significance. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Black Hills, Crazy Horse Memorial honors the legacy of a fearless Lakota leader best known for his role in the Battle of the Little Bighorn. Nearby, Mount Rushmore stands as one of America’s most recognized landmarks—an enduring tribute to four presidents who helped shape the nation’s history. Together, these powerful sites offer a moving perspective on leadership, legacy, and the stories that define the American experience.
Day 4
RAPID CITY–DEADWOOD–SHERIDAN, WYOMING Sheriffs & Sharpshooters This morning, travel through the scenic beauty of Black Hills National Forest, where rolling hills, pine-covered landscapes, and winding roads set the stage for a journey rich in both nature and history. Continue to the legendary town of Deadwood for a guided tour, where the spirit of the Wild West still lingers in its historic streets and frontier-era architecture. Then journey onward through the Black Hills to Sheridan, a classic cattle town nestled at the base of the Bighorn Mountains. This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and experience genuine Rocky Mountain hospitality. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT Step back in time in Deadwood, where gold rush dreams and frontier justice shaped one of the most colorful chapters of the American West. Hear captivating stories of legendary figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane as you explore the very streets where miners, lawmen, and outlaws once crossed paths. From saloons to historic storefronts, Deadwood brings the drama and lore of the Wild West vividly to life.
Day 5
SHERIDAN–LITTLE BIGHORN BATTLEFIELD NATIONAL MONUMENT–CODY Buffalo Bill & Brave Warriors Journey this morning into Southern Montana to visit Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument. Continue your scenic drive through the landscapes of northern Wyoming, arriving in Cody – named for legendary showman and frontier scout, Buffalo Bill Cody. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT Visit Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, the site commemorating one of America’s most famous battles. Tour the battlegrounds where Custer was defeated by approximately 7,000 Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho warriors, and visit the museum.
Day 6
CODY–YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK Legend of the West Cody, Wyoming captures the spirit of the American West with its rugged landscapes, frontier history, and deep connection to legendary showman Buffalo Bill Cody. A visit to the Buffalo Bill Center of the West brings that heritage to life through world-class exhibits on Western art, Plains Indian cultures, natural history, firearms, and Buffalo Bill’s lasting legacy. Depart Cody and travel west through the Shoshone National Forest to the world’s first national park, Yellowstone National Park. Enjoy several photo stops along the way to your hotel. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT Cavalry scout, Pony Express rider, ranch hand, wagon train driver, city planner, railroad contractor, bison hunter, fur trapper, gold prospector, Native American advocate, feminist, and pioneer of modern live entertainment, William Cody’s legend rides on as a symbol of the unbridled possibilities of the early American West. “Buffalo Bill” Cody’s horsemanship and sharpshooting skills gained notice by the U.S. Army, and his Wild West shows endeared him to the elite audiences of Europe.
Day 7
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK The Living Earth Spend a full day exploring the incredible natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Travel the scenic Grand Loop Road and witness the park’s remarkable geothermal features, beginning at Fountain Paint Pot, where bubbling mud and steaming vents showcase the earth’s raw energy. Continue to the iconic Old Faithful Geyser, where predictable eruptions draw visitors from around the world, then on to the breathtaking Grand Canyon of Yellowstone for sweeping views of the canyon and the powerful Lower Falls—nearly twice the height of Niagara Falls. End the day at Mammoth Hot Springs, where a short boardwalk trail winds through striking limestone terraces formed by centuries of thermal activity. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT Established in 1872 by President Ulysses S. Grant as the world’s first national park, Yellowstone remains one of the planet’s most extraordinary, protected landscapes. Spanning more than 2.2 million acres, it is a living showcase of geothermal wonders, abundant wildlife, and dramatic scenery. From erupting geysers and steaming hot springs to roaming bison and distant grizzlies, Yellowstone offers an experience that continues to inspire awe and leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Day 8
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK–GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK–JACKSON Spend Your Evening Your Way in Jackson Journey south into breathtaking Grand Teton National Park. Visit beautiful glacier-fed Jenny Lake at the foot of the rugged Teton peaks for a delightful walk along the shore. Continue to the all-Western town of Jackson for a 2-night stay. Tonight, explore Jackson with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions. (B,D)
Day 9
JACKSON Peak Experiences Spend a full free day exploring this spectacular Rocky Mountain town beneath the Grand Tetons. Enjoy freshly made [LF] huckleberry ice cream from a local shop during your leisure time while enjoying the beautiful surroundings today. (B)LOCAL FAVORITEHuckleberries grow wild in the mountains around Jackson, Wyoming, especially in forested areas at higher elevations. The berries typically ripen from mid- to late summer, drawing both wildlife and foragers who prize their sweet-tart flavor. Because they’re not widely cultivated, huckleberries in this area remain a seasonal, mostly wild-harvested treat often found in local jams, pies, and desserts. Ranching—especially cattle and hay production—is the dominant form of agriculture, with many historic ranches in the Jackson Hole Valley.ENHANCED FREE TIMEExplore more in Jackson with an optional float trip along the Snake River, stroll along the downtown boardwalks to enjoy a drink at one of the local saloons or explore one of the many galleries that call Jackson home.
Day 10
JACKSON–SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH This is the Place! Today’s journey continues through the sweeping mountain landscapes of Wyoming before descending into the striking scenery of Utah. Arrive in Salt Lake City, a vibrant capital set against the backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains, and enjoy a guided sightseeing tour featuring the city’s most notable landmarks and historic sites. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers as your Tour Director hosts a memorable farewell dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating the highlights of your journey through the American West. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTVisit the impressive Temple Square, the spiritual heart of the city, along with stately government buildings, broad tree-lined streets, and beautifully maintained public spaces that reflect the city’s unique heritage and design. Learn how Salt Lake City has grown from its pioneer roots into a modern, thriving hub of culture, commerce, and outdoor adventure.
Day 11
SALT LAKE CITY Say goodbye to your Tour Director and driver and enjoy a free day to explore Salt Lake City. (B)
Day 12
SALT LAKE CITY-EMBARK CANYON SPIRIT RAIL (formerly Rocky Mountaineer)-MOAB Ridin’ the Rails Depart Salt Lake City in the morning aboard the Canyon Spirit train, where you’ll indulge in breakfast and lunch, as well as a selection of included snacks and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Travel past Provo, through the historic Thistle Tunnels, cross Soldier Summit, and descend the steep and scenic Price River Canyon. Enjoy sweeping views of majestic rock formations of the Book Cliffs as you make your way into Thompson Springs. Disembark the train and visit Canyonlands National Park on an included tour. Discover the stunning vistas of the Island in the Sky District—featuring Shafer Canyon, Grand View Point, and Green River Overlook. Later, arrive in the adventurous town of Moab with time to enjoy the sunset or dinner at a local restaurant. (B,L) TOUR HIGHLIGHTEstablished in 1964, Canyonlands National Park preserves extraordinary terrain carved over millions of years by the Colorado and Green Rivers, creating a dramatic tapestry of deep canyons, towering mesas, and rugged buttes. Rich in human history, the region has been home to Indigenous people for thousands of years, whose presence is still felt through ancient rock art and cultural sites tucked within the canyon walls.
Day 13
MOAB-CANYON SPIRIT RAIL (formerly Rocky Mountaineer)-GLENWOOD SPRINGS Colorful Colorado Explore the breathtaking beauty of Arches National Park on an included scenic tour this morning. Or enjoy free time in Moab with a leisurely start to the day. This afternoon, depart Moab on the Canyon Spirit train and travel east crossing the Utah-Colorado border. Continue through the Colorado Canyons National Conservation Area with views of Parachute Creek and Mount Logan, while following the picturesque Colorado River. Take in the beautiful red rock formations, desert cliffs of Ruby Canyon, and the mountain vistas. Overnight in historic Glenwood Springs, Colorado. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTVisit Arches National Park for a striking red rock landscape and more than 2,000 natural stone arches, including the famous Delicate Arch. The area has a long human history stretching back thousands of years, when early hunter-gatherers, the Ancestral Puebloans, and later the Ute and Paiute, used the region for hunting, travel, and seasonal living, leaving behind rock art and other artifacts.
Day 14
GLENWOOD SPRINGS-CANYON SPIRIT RAIL (formerly Rocky Mountaineer)-DENVER Mile High City Depart Glenwood Springs and travel onboard Canyon Spirit, with sweeping views of rugged canyons and the Colorado River as you cross the Continental Divide en route to Denver. Soon, you’ll arrive in the Mile High City. Transfer to the hotel for the evening. (B,L)
Day 15
DENVER Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Want to explore more of Denver on your own? Extra nights are available for purchase. (B)
Departures
Hotels
| # | Name | Description | City | Address | Rating |
| 1 | Embassy Suites Denver Downtown | Conveniently located across the street from The Colorado Convention Center. Explore the vibrant 16th Street Mall and its free MallRide shuttle to Union Station just a five-minute walk away. Catch ball games at Pepsi Center and Coors Field, both within a mile. | Denver | 1420 Stout St | Superior First-Class |
| 2 | The Rushmore Hotel | The Rushmore Hotel Rapid City is a great place to rest after spending a busy day in Rapid City exploring everything the city offers. The hotel is an eco-friendly hotel representing sustainability in South Dakota. The rooms have a fun decor showcasing the beauty and flavor of South Dakota. | Rapid City | 445 Mt. Rushmore Road | First-Class |
| 3 | Best Western Sheridan Center | The hotel is located at the base of the astonishing Big Horn Mountain Range in historic downtown Sheridan. It is convenient to many local area attractions as well as shopping and dining. The hotel has a restaurant, lounge, indoor pool, hot tub, guest laundry, business center, and high-speed Internet access. | Sheridan | 612 N. Main Street | Moderate First-Class |
| 4 | Holiday Inn Buffalo Bill Village - Cody | Located downtown, the Holiday Inn Cody is minutes away from local shops, restaurants, and attractions. Amenities at the hotel include an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a gift shop, and 189 guestrooms. | Cody | 1701 Sheridan Avenue | First-Class |
| 5 | Yellowstone National Park Lodges | Each Yellowstone National Park Lodge has its own unique setting and atmosphere. The specific lodge for your vacation will be confirmed closer to departure. Lodges featured in Yellowstone National Park are the Old Faithful Inn, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, Grant Village, Canyon Lodge, and Old Faithful Snow Lodge. | Yellowstone National Park | Yellowstone National Park | National Park |
| 6 | Rustic Inn at Jackson Hole Creekside | The Rustic Inn Creekside Resort & Spa welcomes guests with warm Western hospitality. Outdoor enthusiasts and hedonists alike indulge in the lavishly appointed historic lodging accommodations and luxury log cabins. | Jackson | 475 North Cache Street | First-Class |
| 7 | Radisson Hotel Downtown Salt Lake City | The Radisson is located in downtown Salt Lake City near ample shopping, dining, and attractions. The hotel has concierge service, indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, guest laundry, gift shop, business center, restaurant, lounge, and room service. | Salt Lake City | 215 West South Temple | First-Class |
