This itinerary was created with two of my greatest passions in mind: trains and road trips. It's ideal for those who want to explore some of the most spectacular places in the United States. This adventure begins on a luxury train but evolves into an ever-expanding journey on the road. You'll discover the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, taste the exclusive wines of Idaho along with its lunar landscapes, and cross through the Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
DAY 1: DENVER
Denver is the gateway to many itineraries and the Great American West region. Founded during the gold rush in 1858, it's located at an altitude of 1609 m, exactly one mile high, hence its nickname Mile High City. This altitude gives the city its unique blue sky and intense sunlight. Art, nightlife, breweries, shopping are just some of the experiences Denver offers, not to mention the easily accessible outdoor excursions, even on a short stay. The city is rich in historical landmarks, like Buffalo Bill’s museum and grave. Spend the day and night here to start your adventure aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train the next day!
Overnight at: The Oxford Hotel
DAY 2: DENVER - GLENWOOD SPRINGS
Departure from Denver aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train. The Rocky Mountaineer is more than just a train; it's an experience thanks to:
- Glass-domed coaches designed to offer panoramic views;
- Locally inspired cuisine made exclusively with local ingredients and flavors;
- Exceptional hospitality. From refilling your wine glass to sharing stories, the onboard staff is dedicated to making your experience as memorable as the scenery outside.
- Daytime travel. Enjoy the sights during the day and sleep in hotels at night. With Rocky Mountaineer, you get the best of both worlds: maximum views and maximum comfort. No sleeper cars here!
As you traverse spectacular landscapes, through the large windows of this train, you'll enjoy views of the canyons and the Colorado River. You'll also cross the Continental Divide, the watershed dividing rivers that flow into the Atlantic from those that flow into the Pacific. You’ll arrive at Glenwood Springs, one of Colorado's most exclusive spa destinations. Here, you'll spend the night before continuing the journey by train the next day.
Overnight at: Glenwood Springs Accommodation
DAY 3: GLENWOOD SPRINGS - MOAB
We continue aboard the Rocky Mountaineer heading west. You'll cross the border into Utah, where the mountains will accompany you until the red sandstone rocks welcome you to Moab, the gateway to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.
Overnight at: Hyatt Place Moab Hotel
DAY 4: MOAB - SALT LAKE CITY
Our train journey ends, and we take a private transfer from Moab to Salt Lake City, a trip of about 4 hours offering endless open spaces and landscapes you've only seen in movies. Salt Lake City is the capital and largest city of Utah. It sits at an altitude of nearly 1,300 meters and has about 200,000 inhabitants. It’s also the headquarters of the Mormon Church, housed within its majestic temple.
Overnight at: Little America Hotel
DAY 5: SALT LAKE CITY - TWIN FALLS
After visiting Salt Lake City, we are ready to start our road adventure. Pick up your car in the city center and drive north, destination Idaho. Although known primarily for its potato farming, Idaho is actually a fascinating and diverse region, rich in history, culture, art, and fine wine. Our first stop in this state will be Twin Falls, a strategic point for discovering the Shoshone Falls and experiencing the moon-like landscape of Craters of the Moon.
Overnight at: TownePlace Suites by Marriott Twin Falls or similar
DAY 6: TWIN FALLS - SHOSHONE FALLS - CRATERS OF THE MOON - BOISE
Get ready for a day immersed in Idaho’s nature and natural wonders. Start by visiting the nearby Shoshone Falls on the Snake River. Named after the Shoshone people, these falls were created by the flooding of Lake Bonneville during the Pleistocene ice age around 14,000 years ago. Also known as the “Niagara of the West,” they are less touristy and completely surrounded by nature, an area of incredible importance to Native Americans. Then head north for just over an hour to reach Craters of the Moon. This national monument and preserve offers a spectacular landscape, the result of a volcanic eruption with over 25 cinder cones surrounded by black earth, representing one of the best-preserved volcanic areas in the continental United States. After visiting Craters of the Moon, your destination is the state capital: Boise.
Overnight at: Courtyard Boise Downtown or similar
DAY 7 - 9: WEST YELLOWSTONE
Head south to the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Here, you’ll stay at a ranch that offers a full American West experience. Close to the park entrance, it will be easy to organize visits to explore Yellowstone at your own pace over the next three days.
Overnight at: Parade Guest Ranch
DAY 10 - 13: WEST YELLOWSTONE - TETON
Crossing Yellowstone, you will arrive at another famous and spectacular national park: Grand Teton National Park. With a completely different landscape from Yellowstone, Grand Teton dramatically drops from the mountains to the plains, in a wild and pristine nature waiting to be explored.
Overnight at: Triangle X Ranch
DAY 14: TETON - SALT LAKE CITY
Return to Salt Lake City and drop off the car.
© Itinerary designed, realized, and experienced by Paolo Aloe (Il Coccodrillo)
