Canyonlands Tours (Visit The Spectacular American Canyons)
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Home  >  United States  >  Western USA  >  11 Day America’s Spectacular Canyonlands with Rocky Mountaineer

11 DAY AMERICA’S SPECTACULAR CANYONLANDS WITH ROCKY MOUNTAINEER

CODE
ACRM
STARTING FROM
$7,490 USD
PLACES VISITED
Las Vegas, Springdale, Bryce Canyon City,...
CANYONLANDS TOUR
An incredible tour starting from the glittering city of Las Vegas and then travelling through the highlights of Utah’s Canyonlands visiting Zion, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands and Arches National Parks, as well as Grand Staircase Escalante, Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley. We will learn about the incredible geology and the cultural history of the Navajo peoples closely associated with this land from ancient times. These magnificent parks will enable us to see unique geological formations in Southern Utah, neighbouring Arizona and Colorado by road, foot and from the comfort of the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer 2-day train journey. Spend 11 magical days exploring cascading petrified sand dunes, vibrant pine forests, and sunset-red deserts in the national parks of the American Southwest.
Start Location: Las Vegas End Location: Denver
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
  • Spectacular 2-day Rocky Mountaineer Rail Journey
  • Canyonlands National Park
  • Mesa Arch
  • Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
  • Zion National Park
  • Arches National Park
  • Petroglyph Panels
  • Antelope Canyon
  • Bryce Canyon National Park
  • Kanab
  • Navajo cultural experience
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive Las Vegas

Depending upon our arrival time, we will have some free time to explore this glittering city before joining our Tour Director and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner.
Overnight: Las Vegas
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Las Vegas – Springdale (Zion National Park)

With stops along the way to photograph the scrub desert landscape, we head out from Las Vegas and the bright lights to a landscape of natural masterpieces. With a brief break in the town of St. George in southern Utah, we travel to Springdale, gateway to the Zion National Park. We will spend some time in the newly opened Zion Visitor Centre. Knowledgeable park experts are here daily to provide a wealth of information about Zion National Park, and the other surrounding parks and attractions. The new facility offers an extensive retail store with apparel, hiking gear, gifts, books, maps, and more. There will be some free time this evening before dinner.
Overnight: Springdale
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3: Zion National Park

Located in the southwest corner of Utah, the Zion area is a destination that offers more than 2,400 square miles of adventure and inspiration. With over 229 square-miles, more three dozen hiking trails, cliffs towering more than 2,000 feet above the canyon floor, and more species of plants than the Hawaiian Islands, Zion National Park is a pretty incredible place. Zion was the state’s first federally designated park in 1919, and it shows off the oldest geologic layers this side of the Grand Canyon ~150 million years old. With so much to explore in this dramatic landscape, we have a day here to see and also to spend some time in solitude taking photographs and marvelling at the grandeur and uniqueness of the landscape.
Overnight: Springdale
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Springdale – Bryce Canyon City

Exiting from the east entrance of Zion National Park, we see the top layers of the largest sand dunes that have ever existed and may see bighorn sheep climbing the area, ponderosa pine trees growing out of the side of sheer cliffs, and the individual layers of sand shaped and altered over millions of years.After a brief stop at Checkerboard Mesa and a few other prime photo stops, we will have the opportunity to hike up to Canyon Overlook and look 2500 feet down to the bottom of Pine Creek and Zion Canyon. After driving through the historic 1.1-mile long tunnel and down into the canyon, enter the main canyon and continue to see why this landscape was sacred to the Native Americans who lived here for thousands of years. We will explore sites like the Great White Throne, Angel's Landing, the Court of the Patriarchs, and the Narrows. We will enjoy the scenic drive through Zion Hwy 9 and HWY 89 and travel through historic towns and beautiful Red Canyon. We then head north for the town of Panguitch, one of the great historic towns of the west and the entrance to Bryce Canyon. After a break, we will travel further to Bryce Canyon National Park and Bryce Canyon City.
Overnight: Bryce Canyon City
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: Bryce Canyon National Park and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument

Today we will explore the beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park. Wind, water and time have eroded the park's sandstone cliffs into otherworldly characters plucked from the unconscious of a mad Viking. Rows of humanoid pillars crosshatched by rock strata look almost intentional but perfectly surreal. Geologically, Bryce is not actually a canyon at all. We will spend the day walking in this stunning area, relaxing, or simply viewing the amazing colours. We will also visit the famous Kodachrome Basin located with the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. This evening in Bryce Ampitheater, we visit some of the scenic overlooks. For sunset, we will aim to visit Inspiration Point, Paria View or Sunset Point, and plan to arrive one-and-a-half hours before sunset for the best lighting.
Overnight: Bryce Canyon City
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6: Bryce Canyon City – Kanab - Monument Valley

We will start the day with a drive to Kanab, that has lured filmmakers to Utah for nearly 80 years. The buildings all over town have plenty of movie posters and autographed photos to support Kanab's self-proclaimed title, "Little Hollywood," while abandoned film sets near town have become tourist attractions without becoming tourist traps. We continue onwards to the mysterious and haunting beauty of Antelope Canyon, also known as "Corkscrew Canyon". We will travel to the Upper Antelope Canyon in a 4WD tour truck with a Navajo guide and step into the desert, an amazing fantasy world of stone which has been carved over many years with wind and water. The colours are rich and deep in the morning and afternoon. Our guide will explain some of the interesting geology, culture and history of this stunning region. Finally arriving in Monument Valley, we’ll spend the evening seeing the best of this region. Our tour will begin as our Navajo guide leads us on a journey into the spectacular backcountry of the Valley, exploring the natural and historic landmarks like sprawling rock arches, bridges and petroglyph rock art. Along the way, our guide will perform a Navajo cultural demonstration as we make our way to the Rain God Mesa area. Here we’ll watch the beautiful colors of sunset over the landscape as we eat a dinner of Navajo tacos and steaks. After dinner, we’ll be treated to a one-of-a-kind campfire, with Native American dancing, flute playing, drumming, chanting, and storytelling.
Overnight: Monument Valley
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7: Monument Valley – Moab

In some ways, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park is the definitive West. We’ll explore more of the park this morning in the area known as Mystery Valley. Imagine unveiling the secrets of the old legacy of the Ancestral Pueblo indigenous peoples. Like strands of early-morning mist, the mystic legends of these Ancient Ones float through and pervade the area. Born and raised in Monument Valley, our Navajo guide will lead us to authentic rock arts where their sacred grounds still remain. As we drive alongside the painted walls and age-old dwellings, we’ll begin to discover and imagine the lives of these ancient forefathers. Following the prehistoric trails, we also discover the majestic natural bridges, arching across the desert floor, delicately connecting the massive sandstone rocks. After time in Monument Valley, we trace our steps as we drive north to the town of Moab. Time permitting, we will explore the other side of Moab with a short drive along the Colorado River to the fantastic Petroglyph Panels, Dinosaur Tracks, and other geological formations found just outside the park.
Overnight: Moab
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: Moab - Canyonlands National Park – Arches National Park - Moab

Canyonlands National Park is home to many different types of landscapes, including one of the West's most photographed landforms, Mesa Arch. The park has four separate districts, each with its own characteristic landscape. We visit the second district of Canyonlands National Park: Island in the Sky. We begin in a 4x4 vehicle down in the Colorado River corridor. As we drive through the park, we’ll stop to take in the sights and the red rock desert rarely seen by other visitors. Our knowledgeable guides will share information on Canyonlands and its natural history. The Ancestral Puebloean people left evidence of their ancient culture in the canyons and we’ll stop to explore their mysterious and beautiful rock art. We’ll also visit the famous Gooseneck overlook of the Colorado River, and travel part of the White Rim to Musselman Arch. We’ll finish by climbing the Shafer Trail’s switchbacks to the top of Island in the Sky. Driving to Arches National Park, we visit Delicate Arch and later travel further into the park to explore Landscape Arch, Double O Arch, and other outstanding natural formations. From sun up to sun down, this park offers opportunities to immerse ourself in a landscape like nowhere else on earth.
Overnight: Moab
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9: Moab – Glenwood Springs on board the Rocky Mountaineer

Experience the Canyonlands onboard the Rocky Mountaineer’s newest route, Rockies to the Red Rocks. From vast canyons and chromatic deserts, to red sandstone landscapes that twist through the bright blue sky, this stunning rail route is filled with highlights best seen from their expansive glass-dome coaches. The breathtaking scenery is complemented by vibrant storytelling, regionally-inspired cuisine and impeccable service. Get the sense of adventure with the exceptional service on this journey of a lifetime. We depart Moab in the afternoon and travel onboard Rocky Mountaineer for the first day of our two-day journey. We will cross the Utah-Colorado border with stunning mountain views in the background before arriving in the resort town of Glenwood Springs. Overnight: Glenwood Springs
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: Glenwood Springs – Denver on board the Rocky Mountaineer

All aboard the Rocky Mountaineer this morning as we depart Glenwood Springs on day two of our spectacular day train adventure. Enjoy a hot breakfast as we begin our journey through the rugged canyons of the Colorado River. Watch for white water rafters and relive some of the area’s history as we pass through old mining towns and iconic Alpine resorts. After a delicious lunch we cross the Continental Divide and carefully make our way through the rugged terrane before finally arriving in the Mile-High city of Denver. This is an outdoor city known for its world-class cultural attractions, craft breweries, dining and music scene. We have some free time this evening to explore the city at your leisure. View world class exhibitions at the Denver Art Museum, stroll the pedestrian promenade of 16th Street Mall, or discover one of the city’s most iconic historic landmarks, Denver Union Station. Tonight, we’ll gather with our group for a farewell dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Depart Denver

After breakfast we transfer to Denver International Airport to begin the journey home.
Meals: Breakfast
DATES & PRICES
We accept
AVAILABILITY
START DATE
END DATE
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
DEPOSIT
BOOK
AVAILABLE
Sun, 01 Oct 2023
Wed, 11 Oct 2023
$7,490 USD
$1,700 USD
$500 USD
*Pricing in USD (taxes included)

Note: Please book flights to arrive in Salt Lake City by 1:00pm on first day.
Flights can be booked to depart any time on last day.

Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
  • 10 nights of accommodation (3-4 star)
  • Professional Tour Leader
  • Guided sightseeing with local specialist guides
  • Transportation on deluxe motorcoach
  • 21 meals: 10 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 10 dinners
  • Taxes as applicable
EXCLUSIONS
  • Gratuities to driver (Recommend $3-$4 per person per day)
  • Gratuities to guide (Recommend $5-$7 per person per day)
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Meals not listed
  • Attractions not listed
  • Credit card payment fees, where applicable
  • Airfare — domestic and international (Unless Specified)
  • Travel insurance (Strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)

Why Take An Anderson Tour?

Seasoned Tour Guides Get a deeper understanding with storytelling tailored to your interests.
Space To Breathe We never max out buses even if we use the same size bus as the competition.
All Inclusive No hidden expenses along the way. Competitors offer activities as an extra - we don't

ACTA
Our guide training manual is accredited by ACTA/CITC Canadian Educational Standard Inc. Now used as the standard in educational college programs.
Can't find what you're looking for? Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
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OR CALL 1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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Tour Questions

What is the maximum number of travellers in a group?

Anderson Vacations specializes in Small Group Fully Escorted tours. If the tour is classified as a ‘Classic Tour’ up to 24 persons may join the tour although tours commonly travel with anywhere between 18 to 24 travellers. If the tour is classified as a 'Tour of Distinction’ only up to 18 persons may join the tour and many 'Tours of Distinction' travel with 12 to 18 travellers.

What are Guaranteed Departures?

After dreaming about travel to an exciting destination, arranging for time off work, booking your flights the last thing you need is for your trip to be cancelled. Anderson vacation's pre-Guaranteed tours take the uncertainty away from planning your travel and give you peace of mind to book our tours. Pre-Guaranteed Tours are group tours that we have already confirmed as certain to travel on the specified date. All 'Guaranteed Tours' will travel except in the event of a natural disaster or a catastrophic event that is beyond our control. They may already have the minimum number of people booked or else are tours that are known to be popular. Only select departures of tours are 'pre-Guaranteed'.

What happens if I book on a tour that is not Guaranteed?

We pride ourselves on providing “a small shared group experience.” In the event that we have fewer than ten participants on a tour we will offer a “small-group surcharge” to ensure that the tour runs as scheduled. This fee, which is up to 15% of the “land” portion of the tour, will be offered to you as an option to continue with the trip. This fee will cover the costs associated with handling a smaller group.

What is the average age of passengers for this tour?

Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+.

How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?

Some tours are mainly coach based and may not be physically demanding while others may require walking inclines or on rough surfaces to access interesting locations. Please check with us and your booking agent carefully and discuss your mobility restrictions before completing any tour booking to ensure this style of travel is right for you.

Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?

Yes, we do accommodate dietary restrictions (within reason) such as, food allergies, vegan, vegetarian, etc. There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices.
Booking & Flight Questions

Do you arrange airport transfers?

Yes, we can assist you with airport transfers for you in most locations at a reasonable extra cost. Several tours have airport transfers already included. Please contact us for more details.

Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?

Yes, we can certainly assist with booking additional nights of hotel accommodation for you before and after your fully escorted tour. This is available upon request and subject to availability. Please inquire for further information and prices.

How much luggage should I bring?

Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for baggage is 20 kilograms or about 40 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages but there may be places where you will be required to wheel in your bags for quicker access. Be sure to advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of a coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations guidelines.

I am a solo traveller. Is there a single surcharge?

There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo travellers can choose to pay a Single Supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share with a co-traveller of the same gender, we have a Twin Share option that is offered for most tours where you share a hotel room with another same gender traveller. In this case, you will not be charged for Single Supplement.

Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?

Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire or contact us regarding this option, as prices and availability vary from tour to tour.

Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?

Yes, you can! Anderson Vacations works with many private groups and helps to customize a tour to traveller’s needs. Please contact us for more details.

Are gratuities included in the tour cost?

For convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals that are specified in the itinerary are included in the tour price. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 10-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Coach Driver (where appropriate) and Tour Director are entirely at your discretion. We recommend about CDN $5.00 per person, per day, for your Driver and CDN$7.00 per person, per day for your Tour Leader.

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Ready? Have More Questions? Over 25 years offering custom trips and small group tours.
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS TRIP
OR CALL 1.866.814.7378
Seasoned Tour Guides Get a deeper understanding with storytelling tailored to your interests.
Space To Breathe We never max out buses even if we use the same size bus as the competition.
All Inclusive No hidden expenses along the way. Competitors offer activities as an extra - we don't
CLASSIC TOURS

The style our travellers have enjoyed for over 20 years, these tours feature inclusive itineraries to popular destinations including the 'must see' sites and attractions. Led by an expert Tour Leader, you will enjoy comfortable accommodation, and coach transport throughout the journey.

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TOURS OF DISTINCTION

These tours are defined by their incomparably unique itineraries, featuring 'off the beaten path' destinations and immersive experiences. An intimate group size allows us to stay in smaller, centrally located, unique and boutique style inns, lodges and hotels, utilize traditional local transportation and dive deep into each destination's local culture and traditions.

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INDEPENDENT TRAVEL

These travel experiences are fully customizable to better fit your needs. Every itinerary is created based on your comfort level, accommodation choices, and personal interests. Whether you are looking for a rail adventure, self drive holiday, unique experiences, or a short city stay our team will work with you on combining accommodation, transportation, and activities based on your preferences to create the perfect itinerary for you.

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INDEPENDENT TRIPS

These travel experiences are fully customizable to better fit your needs. Every itinerary is created based on your comfort level, accommodation choices, and personal interests. Whether you are looking for a rail adventure, self drive holiday, unique experiences, or a short city stay our team will work with you on combining accommodation, transportation, and activities based on your preferences to create the perfect itinerary for you.

Click Icon to Read More.