The rugged beauty of the American West, with its towering red rock formations and stunning national parks, has always been a dream destination for many travellers. I had the incredible opportunity to embark on the Rocky Mountaineer; Rockies to the Red Rocks, and tour Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks, an adventure that took me through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in North America. This journey, meticulously detailed on my Polarsteps trip
Rocky Mountaineer Red Rocks and Utah Big 5, provided an unforgettable exploration of nature's grandeur.
Day 1: Denver to Glenwood Springs
Our journey began in the vibrant city of Denver, Colorado, where the early spring weather brought a refreshing coolness to the air. While Denver itself was free of snow, the surrounding mountains still glistened with the remnants of winter. After exploring Denver's cultural landmarks and enjoying the budding spring blossoms, we boarded the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train. The journey to Glenwood Springs was a feast for the eyes, offering panoramic views of the snow-capped Rocky Mountains. The glass-domed coaches of Silver-leaf Plus allowed us to soak in the scenery as we passed through dramatic canyons, verdant forests and alongside the flowing Colorado River. Glenwood Springs, famous for its hot springs, provided a perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of travel. The hot springs were especially inviting, offering a warm escape amid the cool spring air.
Day 2: Glenwood Springs to Moab and Canyonlands National Park
The next leg of our train journey took us from Glenwood Springs to the adventure hub of Moab, Utah. As we ventured further west, the landscape gradually transformed from lush greenery to striking red rock formations. The scenic ride offered plenty of photo opportunities, with each turn revealing a new and stunning vista. Arriving in Moab, we were greeted by a town buzzing with outdoor enthusiasts ready to explore the surrounding natural wonders.
Our exploration of Utah's Mighty 5 National Parks began in the afternoon with Canyonlands National Park, which offered a dramatic contrast to the lush landscapes we'd seen earlier. This park is divided into three distinct districts, each with its own unique landscape. We explored the Island in the Sky district, where we stood on towering cliffs that offered expansive views of the canyons carved by the Colorado and Green Rivers. The sheer scale of the park was humbling, and every viewpoint provided a new perspective on the rugged beauty of the American Southwest.
Day 3: Arches National Park, Goblin Valley State Park and Capitol Reef National Park
Continuing our journey, we visited Arches National Park, famous for its over 2,000 natural stone arches. The park is a geologic wonderland. We hiked to the viewpoint of the iconic Delicate Arch, a symbol of Utah, and were mesmerised by the beauty of this natural formation. The landscape, with its vibrant red rocks set against the deep blue sky, was a photographer's dream.
After exploring Arches, we took a scenic bus ride to Goblin Valley State Park. This unique park is filled with thousands of mushroom-shaped rock formations, known as hoodoos, which create an otherworldly landscape. Wandering through Goblin Valley felt like stepping onto another planet, with its whimsical and eerie rock formations providing endless photo opportunities and a sense of childlike wonder.
From Goblin Valley, we continued our journey to Capitol Reef National Park. This less-visited gem features a rich history and diverse landscapes, from fruit orchards to colourful sandstone cliffs. We hiked through part of the park's famous Waterpocket Fold, a nearly 100-mile-long warp in the Earth's crust. The varied terrain and stunning rock formations made Capitol Reef a highlight of the trip.
Day 4: Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park greeted us with its otherworldly landscape of hoodoos, which are tall, thin spires of rock that rise from the canyon floor. We took the Navajo Loop Trail, descending into the heart of the Bryce Amphitheatre. Walking among the towering hoodoos, we felt as though we were in a fantasy realm. The vibrant colours and unique shapes of the rocks were truly awe-inspiring, with one notable formation casting an abstract likeness of Queen Victoria.
That evening, we watched the Bryce Canyon Wranglers show at Ebenezer’s Barn & Grill. This lively performance featured classic Western music and cowboy poetry, providing a perfect end to our day. The rustic ambiance of the venue, combined with the toe-tapping tunes and delicious barbecue dinner, made for a memorable night.
Day 5: Bryce Canyon Sunrise and Zion National Park
We started the day bright and early to watch the sunrise over Bryce Canyon. The sight of the first light hitting the hoodoos, casting long shadows and illuminating the vibrant reds and oranges of the rock formations, was a breathtaking experience. After soaking in the beauty of the sunrise, we continued our journey to Zion National Park.
Zion National Park, with its towering sandstone cliffs and lush valleys, offered a different yet equally captivating landscape. We hiked the famous Angels Landing trail, known for its thrilling heights and breathtaking views. Standing atop Angels Landing, with the Virgin River winding through the valley below, was a triumphant and exhilarating experience. Zion's dramatic landscapes and serene beauty provided a perfect conclusion to our journey through Utah's national parks.
Conclusion
The Rocky Mountaineer Rockies to the Red Rocks and Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks tour was the journey of a lifetime, filled with stunning landscapes, thrilling hikes and unforgettable experiences. From the comfort of the Rocky Mountaineer to the rugged trails of Utah's national parks, every moment was a testament to the natural beauty and grandeur of the American West. For a detailed account of this incredible adventure, including photos and highlights, follow my trip on Polarsteps:
Rocky Mountaineer Red Rocks and Utah Big 5.